INTRODUCTION viii of which cannot easily be over-rated . Mr. Gillow's place as a Catholic historian and genealogist is too well known to our members to need recapitulation , but here he is in his own particular domain , and his vast stores of information have enabled him to produce what is practically a complete Catholic history of one of the most Catholic parts of England , and a very full record of the lives of those devoted clergy who laboured so strenuously in this district. J. P. SMITH.
Members will like to know that Mr. J. P. Smith is presenting to the Society Volumes XV and XVI, bearing the whole of the expense of transcribing six of the nine registers, the preparation of the index and map, together with all the collation of proofs, printing , binding, etc. In addition, he has obtained subscriptions towards other registers. The result of his generosity and labour is that the Society will be in a position to issue two volumes yearly for some time. Further, he has devoted his marked business ability and energy to organising the system of obtaining further transcripts of Lancashire registers, so that a fine collection is completed, and is being increased. Being behind the scenes, I have knowledge of many journeys taken by him, large correspondence , and all that devotion and diplomacy necessary to secure such results, and the confidence of those in authority. So I decline to be silent. THE HON. SECRETARY .
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