To His Royal Highness

George Augustus Frederick, Prince of Wales.

Sir,

These ancient remains original: "Remains"; here referring to surviving fragments or works of literature and music of the Welsh Bards, which I take the liberty of presenting to Your Royal Highness, are, I hope, not unworthy of such distinguished patronage.

In the country from which you derive your majestic title, music has always been counted among its favored entertainments; and, when joined with poetry, it provided a form of luxury that was both innocent and educational.

There was a time when the Princes of Wales claimed it as their right original: "prerogative" to preside over the Congress of the Bards A reference to the Eisteddfod, a traditional Welsh festival of competitive music and poetry. They did not consider it beneath their status to personally award those prizes that were decreed for merit during that famous ceremony. The title of "Bard" was revered by royalty itself; the number and skill of a prince's poets brought dignity to his throne and lasting fame to his name.

Many of the following compositions often rang out during festivals in the halls of your illustrious predecessors. I am confident that Your Royal Highness will feel an interest in bringing back to public attention works that have received such honorable endorsement. I hope you will deign to confirm with your approval these venerable remains of music and poetry, which come down to you as your hereditary right.

The ease with which Your Royal Highness has graciously agreed to become the patron of this work is noble proof of an early devotion to the interests of refined literature, and a promising sign original: "presage" for its future and lasting success.

Whatever the success of this attempt to save these remaining traces of the Bards from being forgotten, it will serve as a memorial of the sincere devotion I shall always hold for Your Royal Highness and your noble protection of the arts. I have the honor to remain,