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 PREFACE.

following sketch is largely a reprint, with some modifications and additions, of certain papers which appeared in the Catholic Magazine of 1834-5, giving a short history of the English College at Lisbon, and which were written by the Rev., D.D., of Lichfield. This account, however, has been supplemented and is now brought down to the present time. The period thus covered, embraces some seventy years, viz., from 1828, the date at which became President.

In deciding to publish in a more permanent form the History of Lisbon College, I was influenced by a desire to make more widely known, the no small share which it took in the maintenance and defence of the Catholic Faith in England during the times of persecution.

From Lisbon came forth some of the most prominent and remarkable men who, during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, vindicated by their writings Catholic teaching against the attacks and misrepresentations of the keenest and most learned advocates of Protestantism ever produced by the Anglican Establishment. Moreover, for well nigh three centuries, Lisbon College has contributed to the Mission a succession of laborious and devoted priests, who have taken their share in building up again the fabric of the Church in this country.

It is not unreasonable, then, to conclude that the History of one of the Ancient Missionary Colleges will not be entirely devoid of interest to others besides those who have been prepared for and received the Priesthood within its venerable walls.

A list of the Alumni of the College from its foundation has been appended, taken from the College Register kindly