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xiv Preface.
research and speculation for which the theme afforded ample scope were supported by a profusion of illustration, attesting the wide range of Chorley's experience as a student of the art. My regret that a work so characteristic of him should remain in manuscript being shared by his legal representative, that gentleman has kindly placed it in my hands for publication.
The knowledge that in offering these essays to the world I am giving effect to the wish of my deceased friend, removes the uneasiness which one who is responsible for the publication of a posthumous work may naturally feel, lest the established reputation of its author should thereby suffer. During the years which have elapsed since Chorley's death I have seen no reason to believe that he has lost aught of his legitimate authority as a musical critic. By the circle which his living influence swayed, his judgment is still cited and approved. If the public taste has declared itself in favour of certain canons of art which he rejected, and one or two composers with whom he had imperfect sympathy, it has adhered in the main to the principles which he advocated, and endorsed the verdicts which he pro- |
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