XVI 



o-ree, as to the identity of a large portion of the Linnscan 

 Teftacea: in order, therefore, to obviate thefe embarafs- 

 ments, authors have too frequently been induced to fol- 

 low each other. Under thefe difficulties we have en- 

 deavoured to clear the way, as well as the nature of cir- 

 cumflances would admit, 



Whenever we have pointed out the errors of others, 

 it has been wholly with a view to elucidate the fubje£t. 

 without the leafl intention of difparagement to fuch 

 works; and we trull it will be found, that none of our 

 illuftrative remarks carry with it inveflive. 



We, in our turn, expeft fimilar remarks by others, 

 who may hereafter treat on the fubjeft, when time and 

 opportunity may have encreafed the catalogue of en- 

 o-lifh fhells: till then, we hope our endeavours will be 

 rewarded by the approbation of the fcientific reader, (at 

 lead for the good intention,) with whom it remains to 

 determine, whether we have fallen fliort, or not, of the 

 general plan. 



GEORGE MONTAGU, 



Knowk, Se^. 1, 1803. 



