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INTRODUCTION
ling novelty in the way of origin. At the same time I would like to draw consideration to a useful collection of " Manx National Songs," edited by W. H. Gill, and published in 1896. I should also like to direct attention to that monumental work in eight volumes, " English Minstrelsie," edited by the Rev. S. Baring-Gould, as being the most comprehensive collection of English songs ever published.
That I could have extended this volume into many without going beyond my originally con-ceived scheme, will be patent to all who know anything of the existence of the unexplored and half explored mines of literary and antiquarian wealth of this fascinating subject. I trust I have at least succeeded in drawing a larger attention to the principal gems than can possibly be secured by more learned and exclusive publica-tions devoted to the entertaining themes of songs and music. " My true intent is all for your delight."
Chaucer gives a character to the Knight in the " Canterbury Tales" by saying : " He could songes make, and wel indite;" and that arch rascal, Falstaff, exclaims: " I had rather than forty shillings I had my Book of Songs and Sonnets here/' for the pleasures of a sweet song have no end. And though many poets " learn
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