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To the Reader. (Book Roger L'Estrange)
I Came with great willingness (though under the Obligation likewise of a Duty) to the reading of this Book; out of a Respect both to the Author, and to the Subject of it: the One being my Familiar Friend, and the Other, my Singular Entertaynment, and De∣light. Having now thoroughly, and carefully perused it, I should reckon my self a little wanting to the Publique, if I acquainted not the world, that in so doing I have re∣ceived much Benefit and Satisfaction. It bears for Title, THE DIVISION VIOL; or, The Art of Playing Extem∣pore upon a Ground; and it does certainly answer That pretence, both for Matter and Method, to the highest point of reasonable Expectation. And yet I cannot so properly call it the Best, as (indeed,) the only Trea∣tise I find extant upon this Argument; which without doubt renders it the more valuable, in that it is brought upon the first essay so near to perfection: for it is a piece so Instructive, and of such a Latitude, that it meets all Capacities, and finds no man either too wise, or too weak to be the better for it. Briefly; As to the Command, and Mastery of the Viol, (in that point which is the Excellency of That Instrument) either for Hand, or Skill, I will take upon me to aver, that whoever has This Book by him, has one of the best Tutors in the world at his Elbow. And let me add, that although it be Calculated especially (as appears by the Title) for the Division Viol, yet when you come to the Descant, and Directions for Diminution upon a Ground, you will find it a work of exceeding use in all sorts of Musick whatsoever.
Roger L'Estrange.