A book of English poetry; ed. by T. Shorter

PREFACE.

IT is hoped that the title-page of this work will suffi-

ciently indicate ita general character, and render

a lengthened preface unnecessary. The Editor trusts

that while it may be found specially adapted for

Sclwol8 1 as a Reading Book in EngliSh Poetry for the

more advanced pupils, it may also be a welcome gnest

in the family and social circle; in winter, a cosy friend

when aitting otherwise lonely in the chimney-corner;

and one with whom, in the more genial seaso!lll of the

year, we may hold pleasant converse by the breezy ·

hill-side or on the sea-shore ; and thus be alike useful

as a school-book, a presentation-volume, or a pocket-

coJDpanion ;-that it may in some degree deepen the

love of Nature, give a pure and healthful stimulus to

the Imagination and Fancy, minister to habits of

elevated Reflection and Sentiment, strengthen thl'l

Social and Domestic Affections, favour the love of

rntiona.l Freedom, and the growth of true P11triotism,

and through a.ll these lead the mind and heart onwa~ci

and upw!l.l'd to Religion, which, pure and undefiled, is

the perfect flower-the consummate and crowning

excellence of human oharl\cter.