PREFACE. 'HE following pages were mainly prepared when TH the writer's indisposition compelled him to seek a warmer climate than his native place afforded, and he lays them before the public in the hope that they may be found not altogether without interest. Meanwhile, the author takes this opportunity of returning his thanks to Spencer Lucy, Esq., of Charlecote Hall; W. Oakes Hunt, Esq., of Stratford-onAvon, and John Taylor, Esq., of the Bristol Library, for the kindness and courtesy he has experienced at their hands. He also desires to express his obligations to J. Orchard Halliwell, Esq., the greatest living Shakespearian authority, and to record anew the admiration which the writer has for the magnificent folio edition of Shakespeare which Mr. Halliwell has issued. March, 1871. |