Page:Willich, A. F. M. - The Domestic Encyclopædia (Vol. 1, 1802).djvu/12

vi pre-eminently termed, "A Dictionary of the Arts and Sciences," their library, however deficient, at length becomes complete. But those who are only in a slight degree acquainted with the gradual, though daily, advancement both of the abstruse and practical Sciences, will not be disposed to harbour a notion alike contracted, and fraught with consequences highly detrimental to the acquisition of knowledge. Nay, it may with equal truth be asserted, that the earlier impressions of books, which have progressively received additions and improvements, will answer the purpose as well as the latest publications; because they are comparatively cheaper, and rill a similar space on the shelves.—Such arguments may satisfy the Antiquarian Collector, but they are inconsistent with the conviction of intelligent minds.

On the other hand, it cannot be denied, that many attempts have been made to supply the Public with works professedly commenced on a more economical plan; by abridging the labours of others. Without presuming to decide on their merits, we shall quote a passage occurring in the Preface to the illustrious 's Dictionary, when he compressed his bulky folios, or quartos, into an oclavo form:—"For these purposes (says that energetic writer), many dictionaries have been written by different authors, and with different degrees of skill; but none of them have yet fallen into my hands, by which even the lowest expectations could be satisfied. Some of their authors wanted industry, and others literature: some knew not their own defects, and others were too idle to supply them."

In regard to the composition, and arrangement, of the, many circumstances might be pleaded, by way of apology, for occasional inaccuracies and omis-