ROBY'S TRADITIONS OF LANCASHIRE.*
THIS work is adorned by some very elaborate engravings of an- tiquities and scenery in Lancashire, from the burin of Mr. FINDEN: we conceive this to be a strong proof that at least pains have nor been spared in its construction. The letterpress is a singulat mixture of tale and truth, antiquity and modern invention : its plan, however, will be understood, when we say that it does for county history what the series of publications called the Ro- mance of History has done, or proposes to do, for history in general, and at least equal talent is bestowed upon the subject. We will not profess to have derived any very great degree of pleasure from the publication ; but we are certainly of opinion, that it will be relished in that part of England to which it re- lates. It is not every body that can animate the dry bones of antiquity, and pour in the living light upon events and cha- racters long wrapt in thick darkness. If, however, such publi- cations communicate information, and propagate a desire for.ob- taining more profound knowledge, we hail them as useful auxilia- ries in the great business of education. We perceive that this is the second edition of the book, and thence conclude that it as found favour: we are glad of it, for the fact at least shows a tata for something beyond the "ignorant present."
* Traditions of Lancashire. By J. Roby, 111.11.S.L. London. MO.
The two volumes contain a great number of tales, each founded upon a Lancashire tradition. Many of the stories are accom- panied by views of the present state of the country, or scene in which the tradition is located ; and most of them are adorned by head and tail pieces in wood, executed with spirit.
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