PREFACE.

the lovers of the beautiful in Literature and Art this volume is

presented with some degree of confidence; as it is believed the book will be found not unworthy of the title which has been chosen for it. The pieces of which it is composed are taken exclusively from Authors of established, if not classical standing; and the illustrations have been executed by Artists who, it is thought, have ably caught the brilliant ideas of these Masters in Literature.

While many familiar and favourite extracts have been included in the selection, it may also with safety be said, that a number of passages will be found, which, though equally deserving, are nevertheless not quite so well known as they should be. For the general favourites we need have no concern their admirers are always pleased to meet with them, and more particularly when sent forth in elegant form. And as in the other cases the Authors' names will be sufficient to prepare a welcome for them, the book, as a whole, will, it is hoped, be considered a most interesting "Treasury."

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