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PREFACE.

THIS little work originated in a wish expressed by the Duke of Richmond to possess a descriptive Catalogue of the Pictures in Goodwood House for the use of himself and his friends. At the suggestion, however, of many visitors and strangers, to whom the collection is at all times open, and by whom the want of such a publication as is here attempted has been often felt and acknowledged, it has assumed its present form.

That the opportunity of describing so extensive and valuable a collection had not fallen to some one, whose greater experience and critical knowlege would have better qualified him for the task, is to be regretted; the apology which the Author offers for having undertaken it is simply, that but for him it would probably not have been done at all:-however imperfectly it

may have been executed, he can only say that he has done his best.

To the portraits, brief biographical notices of the individuals they represent have been attached, which can hardly fail to render them more interesting. Similar sketches of the different masters have also been added, with a view of affording to those, who may not have had the opportunity of devoting much attention to the study of pictures, a general idea of the characteristics of the Artist at the moment when one of the productions of his pencil is before them. For these, Walpole, Bryan, and Pilkington have been the principal authorities consulted.

The Author is bound most gratefully to acknowledge his obligations to the Duke of Richmond, who, with uniform kindness, has rendered him most valuable assistance, and by whose liberality he has had access to many essential documents relating to the House and Family.

Chichester, June 28th., 1839.

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