in every body's hands, or which it is the Publishers' special interest to make
known through the usual channels: besides, there is reason to expect a special
American Bibliography ere long, in which the genius and industry of the New
World may be favourably exhibited in contrast with that of the Old.
We are not without the hope that this compilation may exert a favourable
influence in the Republic of Letters. The Student, through its aid, will be
enabled to observe the extent of the subject of his inquiry, and the authors
most worthy of his notice. The Man of Letters will be enabled to ascertain
the comparative richness and poverty of the literature of his native tongue,
and to enlarge the sphere of his labours, either by translation or the production
of original works calculated to supply the deficiencies that exist in many
branches of literature; while the Publisher will be enabled to recognize many
important works with which he can enrich his stock of publications. Those
engaged in the formation of libraries, we feel assured, will welcome the aid
these pages can afford them. By the publication of an annual Supplement, in
which all new works of permanent value shall find a place, as well as the
more important omissions in the body of the work, it is intended it shall occupy
a permanent place in the Library.
To have added critical opinions or analyses of the contents of the various
works enumerated, would, we are aware, have increased the value of this
Manual; yet it could not have been done without increasing its bulk to an
undue extent.
In conclusion, the Publishers feel the present a fit occasion to return to
their many friends and countrymen their warmest acknowledgments; and
while they do not desire to exert any undue influence by this publication, to
the prejudice of others in the trade, yet believing it to be an important con-
tribution to the cause of human knowledge, and considering the great expense
they have incurred in its preparation, they trust that their peculiar facilities for
obtaining books from all parts of Europe, and their large stock, will induce the
personal application of their friends. As this publication, from its peculiar
plan, will develope new riches and corresponding desires on the part of the
student, it is proper to state that any books found in this compilation may be
obtained in the space of a few weeks, and at the lowest prices, through their
agencies abroad. The steam communication now established between France
and Germany enables them to execute orders with as great facility from the
Continent, as formerly from England.