Chapter I: 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.