This book in its progress has recalled often to my memory a man withwhose friendship we were once honoured, to whom no region of Englishliterature was unfamiliar, and who, whilst rich in all the noble giftsof nature, was most eminently distinguished by the noblest and therarest,—just judgment and high-hearted patriotism. It would have beenhence a peculiar pleasure and pride to dedicate what I have endeavouredto make a true national Anthology of three centuries to Henry Hallam.But he is beyond the reach of any human tokens of love and reverence;and I desire therefore to place before it a name united with his byassociations which, whilst Poetry retains her hold on the minds ofEnglishmen, are not likely to be forgotten.
Your encouragement, given while traversing the wild scenery of TrerynDinas, led me to begin the work; and it has been completed under youradvice and assistance. For the favour now asked I have thus a secondreason: and to this I may add, the homage which is your right as Poet,and the gratitude due to a Friend, whose regard I rate at no commonvalue.
Permit me then to inscribe to yourself a book which, I hope, may befound by many a lifelong fountain of innocent and exalted pleasure; asource of animation to friends when they meet; and able to sweetensolitude itself with best society,—with the companionship of the wiseand the good, with the beauty which the eye cannot see, and the musiconly heard in silence. If this Collection proves a store-house ofdelight to Labour and to Poverty,—if it teaches those indifferent tothe Poets to love them, and those who love them to love them more, theaim and the desire entertained in framing it will be fully accomplished.
F.T.P.May, 1861.
This little Collection differs, it is believed, from others in theattempt made to include in it all the best original Lyrical pieces andSongs in our language, by writers not living,—and none beside the best.Many familiar verses will hence be met with; many also which should befamiliar:—the Editor will regard as his fittest readers th