In 1 vol. 8vo. 1772.
_Although we cannot, with justice, compare Elias Ashmole to that
excellent Antiquary John Leland, or William Lilly to the learned and
indefatigable Thomas Hearne; yet I think we may fairly rank them with
such writers as honest Anthony Wood, whose_ Diary _greatly resembles
that of his cotemporary, and intimate friend, Elias Ashmole._
_Some anecdotes, connected with affairs of state; many particulars
relating to illustrious persons, and antient and noble families; several
occurrences in which the Public is interested, and other matters of a
more private nature, can only be found in works of this kind. History
cannot stoop to the meanness of examining the materials of which_
Memoirs _are generally composed._
_And yet the pleasure and benefit resulting from such books are manifest
to every reader._
_I hope the admirers of the very laborious Thomas Hearne will pardon me,
if I should venture to give it as my opinion, and with much deference to
their judgment, that William Lilly's_ Life and Death of Charles the
first _contains more useful matter of instruction, as well as more
splendid and striking occurrences, than are to be found in several of
those monkish volumes published by that learned Oxonian.
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