The arrangement of the poems is as follows. In the first place, the songs and other lyrics have been separated from the sonnets, which cannot strictly be described as lyrical in character; whilst the foreign forms have been gathered together in Book III., according to an order which enables them to be read in easy connection with Mr. Dobson's "Note." Further, in placing the poems in Books I. and II., care has been exercised in bringing together pieces which illustrate one another, either in the way of similarity or contrast in idea or form. A few Notes have been added, and will be found, it is hoped, useful and suggestive; they have obviously no pretensions to the character of exhaustive criticisms. The Editor has, in conclusion, to express his gratitude to the poets who have so generously placed their poems at his disposal, notably to those who have permitted him to publish several hitherto unprinted pieces (Nos. 182, 183, 206, 208, 210, 211, 213, 217, 219, 222). He has also to thank those publishers who have in like manner courteously waived their copyright in regard to certain of the poems quoted. W. DAVENPORT ADAMS. |