This volume is designed for instruction rather than mere amusement I shall have failed to accomplish my wish, if what I have written should be read as a mere tale or novel, the object of which is to beguile a few hours; and shall certainly not proceed in a similar course of labor. But if those whose opinion I value should judge that it is calculated to convey a just and faithful picture of an important part of English history, in such a manner that the reader's mind may be informed and improved, I shall then hope for opportunity to illustrate other periods of our history in a similar manner.