PREFACE ΤΟ THE SECOND EDITION. THE Notes to this edition have been carefully revised, and several inaccuracies corrected. In making these improvements I have had the advantage of consulting Prof. Masson's three-volume edition of Milton's Poetical Works (1874) and Prof. Hales' Longer English Poems, which latter work, though published while my first edition was in progress, I had not then seen. One note (on Lycidas 163) has been entirely recast, a mature reconsideration of the passage having convinced me that the view I had previously taken is untenable. I have only to add, that the favourable opinions I have received, both publicly and privately, from many eminent English authorities induce me to hope that my book, in its emended form, may be welcomed by all students of Milton as a real contribution to this department of our literature. WINDLESHAM: June 1881. C. S. J. |