When reminded by the Publisher that a dozen or so lines of Preface were needful in introducing "British Dogs " to the public, the following questions were forcibly presented to my mind: First, whether the book should have been written; and, secondly (given the necessity for it) whether I should have undertaken the work.

Both these questions I propose handing over to the reader for solution, as I fear I might not be altogether an unprejudiced judge; and in doing so I trust to his good nature to treat leniently all faults, and to his good sense to assimilate whatever may be found worthy.

The object aimed at has been to give, as far as obtainable, a sketch of the origin of each breed, and an accurate description of the points of excellence of each variety as demanded by modern taste.

Only the initiated know the minute distinctions between breeds and individual dogs, patent to the subtle discrimination of the present-day philo-kuon.

My fitness, if fitness there be, to convey this class of information-much sought after nowadays - has been acquired as canine critic for The Field, as kennel editor of The Country, and as a judge at shows, in which capacities I have visited many of the great exhibitions of the canine species in France, Germany, and America, as well as all the principal ones in the United Kingdom, where I have had exceptional opportunities of enlarging a knowledge of my favourite animals, which I had all my life been accumulating.

There are parts of the book I can refer to with unqualified pleasure and unstinted praise, namely, the chapters contributed by the friends who have so kindly and ably assisted me. These contributions are in all cases accredited to the individual authors, and the views expressed must command, as they well deserve, the respect which the great experience of the writers' merits.

The illustrations are from life, celebrated "Dogs of the Day" having been selected, and the artists have, in most instances, succeeded in giving very correct delineations, showing the distinguishing characteristics of each breed.

"CORSINCON."