In covering so wide a field in so small a volume, much has had to be omitted. There are many volumes on old English silver plate, but in regard to research, the work of Mr. C. J. Jackson, “English Goldsmiths and their Marks,” with over eleven thousand marks, stands alone and supplants all other volumes. Every collector must regard this work as the bible of silver-plate collecting. I have given sufficient space to marks in the present volume to indicate those used by the London and other assay offices. Some marks are given which do not appear elsewhere, and the arrangement of the tables should enable the beginner to come to a definite conclusion as to the date of his silver. In especial, the Table of variations in the shapes of shields in the hall-mark and standard-mark employed at the London Assay Office from the accession of Queen Elizabeth to the present day, is a feature not before given in so concise a form in any other volume. The marks on silver are stamped, the design thus appears in relief, while the edges of the shield on which it appears are sunk. The reproduction of this has offered a difficulty in illustration in all volumes on old silver. To print black letters or designs on a white background, although easy, is unsatisfactory. On the contrary, to print the raised design in white on a dead black background is not a realistic presentation of the mark as it appears to the eye. After many experiments I have reproduced the marks in a manner more closely approaching their actual appearance, and less suggestive of black-and-white designs on paper. I have to express my thanks for the kind assistance I have received in regard to photographs and wax casts and drawings of marks, and for permission to include them in this volume as illustrations, to the following: the authorities of the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum, and the Royal Scottish Museum, Edinburgh. By the courtesy of the Worshipful Company of Clothworkers and the Worshipful Company of Mercers I am enabled to reproduce some fine examples from their Halls. To Lord Dillon I am indebted for his courtesy in allowing the inclusion of an interesting example in his possession. Messrs. Crichton Brothers have afforded me access to their records, including the use of copyright photographs of specimens which have passed through their hands, and courteous assistance in reproducing examples in their possession. Messrs. Elkington & Co., and Messrs. Garrard & Co., have similarly extended to me their practical aid; Messrs. John Ellett Lake & Son, of Exeter, have enabled me to do justice to the art of the Exeter silversmith, and Messrs. Harris and Sinclair, of Dublin, have enriched my chapter on Irish silver. I have also to acknowledge the kindness of Messrs. Carrington & Co. for the _Frontispiece_ and for the fine design of an Irish Dish Ring shown on the cover. Mr. A. E. Smith, my photographer, has given exceptional care in obtaining good results.