For the rest, my method will, I think, need little elucidation. I have endeavoured to make each example, with its explanation, derivation, synonyms, and illustrative quotations, as far as possible, complete in itself. Over and above this, however, the cross-references will be found of considerable value for the purpose of comparison, and will, I hope, be acceptable. I may also add that, wherever possible, I have given a reference indicating where synonymous or analogous words may be found. The arrangement of these synonyms has been a matter of considerable thought; first, as to the most fitting place for inclusion; and second, so to distribute them throughout the dictionary as to present a piece of work evenly balanced, and ready of reference.
There are certain sources of information of which I must make special acknowledgment. Among books, first and foremost, comes that invaluable store-house, Notes and Queries. I have freely drawn for information upon this inestimable periodical from its very first issue, invariably making a note of my indebtedness, and to whom, in the text. The New English Dictionary has also been of service in supplying, at times, earlier examples of the use of a slang word or phrase than those of which I was already possessed. It is not, however, without a certain amount of perhaps pardonable satisfaction that I, working single-handed, am often able to give much earlier illustrations of the slang side and usage of our mother tongue, than occurs elsewhere.
As regards French Argot, Francisque Michel, Lorédan Larchey, and A. Barrère, respectively, are the chief authorities to whom I wish to render due acknowledg-
