In Mr. Bedford's design for the cover of this edition certain Elian
symbolism will be found. The upper coat of arms is that of Christ's
Hospital, where Lamb was at school; the lower is that of the Inner
Temple, where he was born and spent many years. The figures at the
bells are those which once stood out from the façade of St. Dunstan's
Church in Fleet Street, and are now in Lord Londesborough's garden in
Regent's Park. Lamb shed tears when they were removed. The tricksy
sprite and the candles (brought by Betty) need no explanatory words of
mine.

E.V.L.




CONTENTS


TALES FROM SHAKESPEAR

PAGE
Preface 1
The Tempest 3
A Midsummer Night's Dream 13
The Winter's Tale 23
Much Ado About Nothing 33
As You Like It 44
The Two Gentlemen of Verona 58
The Merchant of Venice 69
Cymbeline 81