PREFACE. It has been thought desirable to conclude the first Volume of the Miscellany with the year in which it commenced, according to the established custom of periodical publications. A few observations may consequently be necessary and appropriate, with regard both to our past efforts and our future attempts. One object which the Editor had in view in the original construction of this work, has been but very partially answered. He has received but little assistance from others, either in the Town where he resides, or its Neighbourhood; the original part of the Miscellany, is, on this account, the production of one pen, with a very few exceptions. The labour and care attendant on even such a diminitive Magazine, has by this circumstance been much increased. As it cannot be supposed that there is any peculiar deficiency of writers in this Vicinity, the Editor hopes that in future he shall receive that aid which will both lighten his labours, and promote the end primarily intended. In order to make the Miscellany more extensively useful, it is proposed that in future it shall be of a more popular character. But while it will thus adapt itself to the humbler classes of Society, its object will be to cultivate their minds and improve their tastes. The Editor is anxious to be distinctly understood as contemplating one design in his undertaking;-the diffusion of knowledge for the promotion of these ends. As it has been inferred from the title, that the Miscellany is strictly a local organ of information, it will be called in future "THE COUNTRY MISCELLANY;" the contents will be no more applicable to the circumstances of particular towns, than the communications of correspondents may make them. LUTON, DEC. 1, 1836. |