Note 3 — Chapter I

Wentzel Hollar (or Hollard), a native of Prague, was sent to Tangier in 1669 by the king to take views of the town and its fortifications, which he afterwards engraved. Being one of the most distinguished engravers of the time, he settled in England, and executed some 2,400 prints, chiefly etchings, which are remarkable for their spirit, freedom, lightness, and finish. Hollar was one of the most conscientious of men; he worked for the booksellers at the rate of 4d. an hour, and always with an hour-glass on his table, which he invariably laid on its side, to prevent the sand from running, when not actually at work with his pencil or graving tool, and even when conversing on his business with his employers. He is said to have died in great poverty, with an execution in his house and a prison in prospect.