CONTENTS. [The Articles thus marked, * as well as the Plates which they PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION. ALTHOUGH a Preface, when an Introduction is given, may appear too much like going on to "more last words," yet an apology may be found in an author's anxiety to acquit himself on every ground connected with the nature and character of his publication: in the course of which many things may arise that require explanation. There are hopes, fears, and wishes to be expressed; but in doing this, it is no easy task to steer between the extremes of presumption and servility. Few writers could now be found to approach the tribunal of an intelligent and discerning public in the following strain : |