PREFACE.

IN a Reading Book of this size, written for children, only the main points of the story can be set forth. Many things interesting and important in themselves are therefore of necessity omitted. Thus, though the Norman Conquest of England must be told of, the Norman Conquest of South Italy and Sicily must be passed over. Where so much might be said, the chief difficulty has been to choose what to say. Teachers who care to work up this period of history (one which is well adapted for viva voce lessons, dictation, and the like) may find the Map of Normandy and Note on Books useful. They will be able to supplement what is here said with further information from the original authorities upon which this little book is based.