IN presenting to my readers the fourth volume of this translation — corresponding to the third volume of Professor Mommsen's work, and embracing the period from the death of Sulla to the battle of Thapsus, beyond which Dr. Mommsen has not as yet proceeded — I have to express my regret that so long a delay has taken place in its pre paration. Important duties of another kind, to which I was called after completing the third volume, rendered it necessary that I should defer for a time the further proseou tion of the work, and occasioned much interruption to its progress after I had resumed it. But I considered it due to those who had so favourably received the earlier volumes of my translation that I should endeavour personally to com plete it and I can only cast myself on their indulgence if I have somewhat unduly taxed their patience.