The facts and statements here presented are soon written, and as shortly read; but they are the result of years of persevering research and study. Had space permitted they might have been greatly extended; yet they submit to the reader a brief resumé, and to the Bewick Collector a useful Manual, of Bewick's most noticeable works; while the Illustrations evidence the progressive development of his talents, from his earliest efforts to his most finished productions. And may the Editor be permitted here humbly but confidently to suggest, that this result could only have been due to an intense admiration for Bewick and the fruits of his genius, almost akin to idolatry; which had stimulated him to explore every nook and corner of the land within his reach, in an indefatigable search for any available specimens of Bewick's productions, whether written or engraved and in quest of anything, indeed, pictorial or literary, which might cast light on the Early Juvenile Literature of Great Britain. His success

has in effect enriched some of the most notable Collectors of Bewick rarities with many of their choicest and most valued specimens. While his enthusiasm (if he may be pardoned the seeming egotism), has stimulated the zeal of many others in the same pursuit; and has contributed to inspire, extend, and foster a just appreciation of this incomparable Master of the wood-engraving art.

The Editor has expressed an opinion, that Goldsmith had some indirect connection with the edition of this work now reprinted. A few words more on this subject may be interesting. The 1776 Newcastle edition was evidently copied from "Dodsley's" and other editions of "Select Fables of Æsop" published in London prior to this period. In the meantime, J. Newbery and others, for whom Goldsmith wrote prefaces and arranged and edited books, had published new editions, so that when Saint went to press with "A New Edition Improved" (with a new set of cuts by the Bewicks), evidently the book was remodelled and extended from one that Goldsmith had just edited. In Dodsley's Preface to his Fables, he says "he has been assisted in it by gentlemen of the most distinguished abilities; and that several, both of the old and the new Fables, are not written by himself, but by authors with whom it is an honour to be connected." Dodsley also refers to the Life of Æsop, &c., as being written by "a learned and ingenious friend." Doubtless Dr. Johnson and Goldsmith were the "authors," and Goldsmith the "friend," here referred to. Be that as it may, the present work