THE production of this Volume of topographical illustration, has been attended with considerable expense, having cost the Publisher more than SIX THOUSAND POUNDS. It was an attempt to advance the liberal arts, by giving an extensive circulation to a selection of interesting views of Great Britain, which, by comparison, will be found not inferior to similar subjects, published only a few years ago, at six, or eight times the price. To account for its extraordinary cheapness, it may be mentioned, that if the Views had been engraved on copper instead of steel, it would have required a sale of all the impressions three plates could furnish, to defray the expense incurred in preparing one. The descriptions accompanying the Views have been compiled with care, and are introduced to convey some idea of the character of the scenery, as well as of the history and antiquities, so far as the limits would allow. It was seldom necessary to enter into minute de tail, and the reader may be assured, that nothing is advanced upon those subjects, which will not be found to rest on competent authority. The work embraces an extensive range of subjects, many of which have particularly engaged the public attention, as connected with the present flourishing state of art, literature, and commerce. This volume being now brought to a close, it becomes the duty of all engaged in its production, to return their sincere thanks for the very liberal support afforded to their exertions during its progress, and to express their hope, that universal satisfaction has been given to its numerous patrons. 86, Fleet Street, October 9, 1830. |