Classics of Scotland have their own characteristics, and a sufficient claim to a distinctive notice. Meanwhile, and in bringing the work thus near its completion, the Editor gratefully acknowledges the good offices of those friends who have helped and encouraged him in his pleasant toil. To the choice and recherché libraries of T. Taylor, Esq., and W. Bonar, Esq., he has been indebted for many a rare and precious volume; and, besides similar obligations of no common kind, from B. C. Pierce Seaman, Esq., he has received so many valuable suggestions and so much information as have given to many portions of the work any value they possess. His labours have also been essentially lightened by the kindness of Messrs Nelson and Mr Kennedy of Edinburgh. For the "Select Puritans" of the former the Editor had written biographical sketches of Bunyan and Matthew Henry, and to "The North British Review," of which Mr Kennedy is proprietor, he had contributed articles on Owen, Watts, Doddridge, and Simeon; and, as soon as he expressed a desire to include the materials in the present work, permission was granted in the most liberal and handsome manner. To these generous friends, as well as to several esteemed correspondents, the compiler returns his heartfelt thanks. LONDON, June 1, 1858. |