Page:The Poetical Works of Sir Walter Scott, Bart.djvu/18

xii and one in particular, in the market-place of Selkirk, bearing this inscription: —

Sir Walter Scott is undoubtedly the most remarkable writer that figures in the literary annals of the nineteenth century. As a poet, historian, novelist, and critic, he achieved a lofty reputation; and if his productions in each department are not superior to those of all his contemporaries, they possess merits that entitle them to a high rank. In romantic fiction he is altogether without even a rival. Sir Walter is the true successor of Fielding and Smollett, and to their knowledge of character and deep insight into the human heart, he added a power of describing the magnificent scenery of his native land, and an aptness for historical illustration, peculiarly his own. In this volume are enshrined those poems which first introduced him to the public, and upon which the pillars of his fame may be said to rest. These exquisite pictures of the manners and customs of a past age, freely interspersed with glowing descriptions of the bold romantic scenery of Scotland, enriched by traditions that still cling to many a noted spot or ruin, rank amongst the choicest treasures of English literature. The lapse of nearly half a century has confirmed the favourable verdict with which they were at first received; and amid changes of taste and new systems of poesy, these charming productions maintain their superiority, and are still sought for and studied by all classes of the community.

G. H. T.

London, May 30, 1857.