( V ) 
PREFACE. 
A S I am quite fenfible that fomething will 
be expected by way of Preface to the 
following Sheets, I will not, by omitting it, dis¬ 
appoint any of my Readers. 
Curiofity aimed univerfaily prevails: Many 
therefore will, in all Probability, want to know 
my Reafons for this Publication ; why I 
have not been more full in my Defcriptions, 
and more fydematical in my Manner. Of 
thefe, as well as many other Particulars, the 
Reader Shall be informed; but I muft fird be- 
fpeak his Patience, till fomething is faid of the 
Mufeum itfelf. 
It is difficult to determine, whether this Ex¬ 
cellent Foundation reflects more Honour on his 
late Majefty, who was pleafed to bellow on it 
a large and valuable Library, collected by his 
Royal Predecefiors; on Sir Hans Shane , who 
with great Knowledge, Expence, and Trouble, 
procured the moil curious Part of what is here 
depollted; or on the Briiijh Parliament, who 
. made it a lading Monument of Glory to the 
Nation. Certain it is, the Public is greatly in¬ 
debted to them all, as well as to the Right 
Honourable and Honourable the Trudees, and 
the Officers of the Houfe, by whole Superin- 
A tendance 
