PUBLISHERS' NOTICE. The first Book of Nonsense was published in 1846. Three other volumes,-- Nonsense Songs, Stories, etc., published in 1871; More Nonsense Pictures, etc., in 1872; and Laughable Lyrics: A Fresh Book of Nonsense, etc., in 1877,--comprise all the "Nonsense Books" written by Mr. Lear.

"Surely the most beneficent and innocent of all books yet produced is the Book of Nonsense, with its corollary carols, inimitable and refreshing, and perfect in rhythm. I really don't know any author to whom I am half so grateful for my idle self as Edward Lear. I shall put him first of my hundred authors."