Page:The record interpreter- a collection of abbreviations.djvu/16

x is hoped that it will be found useful, although the information contained in it is given in a rather abrupt form.

This second edition contains a number of words not included in the first, which have been noticed since that edition was printed.

Many words have been found in printed editions of records and other MSS., where I have been unable to consult the originals, and though the meaning of the word may be clear, it does not follow that the spelling is correct; in fact, in many cases I feel certain that the editor has made a mistake in copying, though I cannot suggest the right reading with any certainty.

In the case of words used in classical as well as mediœval literature, the classical meaning is not usually given, as it may be assumed that any one using this book would know it. It must not, however, be taken as excluded. For instance, galea is inserted as meaning " galley," but it is also used with the older meaning of "helmet." Similarly ala means " wing " as often as " aisle." It will be noticed that sometimes the meanings given for Latin words are almost inconsistent, but it must be remembered that the period covered by the glossary is several centuries. Words already current were used for new inventions, especially when what they once signified had become obsolete.

The list of Latin names of places in England contains most of the names which a student of history is likely to require, but of course it might be very much enlarged by adding the Latin names of a great many villages and hamlets which are merely formed from the English names.