PREFACE TO THE SEVENTH EDITION.

TWO years sufficed to exhaust the sixth edition (the first shilling one) of my "Elementary Instruction on Illuminating," in opposition, too, of a rival author; who was, however, more fortunate—for he was enabled to illuminate the world, with seven consecutive editions in as many months, and left the world for two years after in as much darkness as ever.—Far from envying him this inordinate success, I rest secure on my laurels, humble though they be.—Ten years were needed to bring forth my seventh edition, and here it is—as unpretending as ever—but fully understood, and understandable—no new theories erudite in print and bad in practice—no old ones, filched from musty manuscripts, alike impracticable as complicated, and displayed with learning and research, to bolster up repute and attach importance to very questionable utility; wholly unimportant to those who seek information. I address the few and the few only, who will take practical hints, from a practical man, clothed in the plainest English. I do not trade on other men's brains, but endeavour to live by my own. Those who encourage the empiric in art must buy experience, and be contented with their shillings worth.(?) I have added only some additional matter on colours and composition, as applied to illumination, which I hope the public may find useful—in other respects the seventh edition is like its predecessors—a claimant to public favour.

D. L.