viii
PREFACE.
to quote opinions or descriptions which, though
genuine, were mistaken.
I take this opportunity heartily to thank Doctor Duncker, Librarian of the Ständische Landesbibliothek at Cassel, and the secretary, Herr Schultheiss; Doctor Könnecke, Keeper of the Archives at Marburg, and his assistants; and Doctor Speyer, Court Librarian to his Most Serene Highness the Prince of Waldeck, through whose kindness I have obtained copies of manuscripts in their respective keeping. A part of the contents of this volume appeared in the form of letters to the New York Times in the winter of 1880-1881.