ADVERTISEMENT TO ORIGINAL EDITION. 
readers to pay a more ready attention to the wonders of the 
Creation, too frequently overlooked as common occurrences ; or 
if he should by any means, through his researches, have lent an 
helping hand towards the enlargement of the boundaries of 
historical and topographical knowledge ; or if he should have 
thrown some small light upon ancient customs and manners, and 
especially on those that were monastic ; his purpose will be fully 
answered. But if he should not have been successful in any of 
these his intentions, yet there remains this consolation behind — 
that these his pursuits, by keeping the body and mind employed, 
have, under Providence, contributed to much health and cheer- 
fulness of spirits, even to old age : and, what still adds to his 
happiness, have led him to the knowledge of a circle of gentle- 
men whose intelligent communications, as they have afforded 
him much pleasing information,, so, could he flatter himself with 
a continuation of them, would they ever be deemed a matter of 
singular satisfaction and improvement. 
Selborne, 
January 1st, 178S. 
