Of the authenticity of the documents above-mentioned there can be
no doubt, since they consist of the identical deeds and records that
were removed to the College from the Priory at the time of its
dissolution; and, being carefully copied on the spot, may be
depended on as genuine; and, never having been made public
before, may gratify the curiosity of the antiquary, as well as
establish the credit of the history.

If the writer should at all appear to have induced any of his leaders
to pay a more ready attention to the wonders of the Creation, too
frequently overlooked as common occurrences; or if he should by
any means, through his researches, have lent an helping hand
towards the enlargement of the boundaries of historical and
topographical knowledge; or if he should have thrown some small
light upon ancient customs and manners, and especially on those
that were monastic, his purpose will be fully answered. But if he
should not have been successful in any of these his intentions, yet
there remains this consolation behind--that these his pursuits, by
keeping the body and mind employed, have, under Providence,
contributed to much health and cheerfulness of spirits, even to old
age:--and, what still adds to his happiness, have led him to the
knowledge of a circle of gentlemen whose intelligent
communications, as they have afforded him much pleasing
information, so, could he flatter himself with a continuation of
them, would they ever be deemed a matter of singular satisfaction
and improvement.

Gil. White.
Selborne, January 1st, 1788.