PREFACE. HE completion of the first volume of the BIBLIOGRAPHER offers THE a favourable opportunity for considering how far we have been able to carry out the promises of our original prospectus; and we trust that our readers, after the experience of six months, will be of opinion that these promises have been more than fulfilled. The three great objects of a journal such as this appear to be-firstly, the production of fresh information in a convenient and easily accessible form; secondly, the giving an account of what is passing in the bibliographical world; and thirdly, the formation of a medium of communication between those interested in old books. The field is a vast one, and we can only cultivate it satisfactorily by receiving the continued support of those who have already given such valued assistance. Many tastes have to be catered for; and those who care only for the solid matters will, we hope, bear with us while we supply also a somewhat lighter food for others. And those who look more for the curiosities and byways of literature will, we hope, on their part be satisfied that some lists and drier matter are supplied. We trust that during the short time the BIBLIOGRAPHER has been in existence we have shown 325078 |