Publisher's Note.

ccorded a favourable reception on its first appearance in 1861, Peace's Orkney and Shetland Almanac and County Directory has had an increasingly complimentary recognition every new issue, until, finding a place in almost every family, it has come to be regarded as one of the institutions of the County. The return duo by us for favours so exceptional is to endeavour to make the work as complete and perfect as possible. This we aim at accomplishing, and it will be observed that in the present issue the local information has been considerably extended, and a variety of important topics introduced, such as must greatly add to its value and general utility.

Much care has been taken to secure accuracy, and though from the extent and variety of the contents this may not have been altogether attained, yet it is hoped any errors which may have crept in will be found to be few and unimportant. The Publisher, however, will at all times be glad to have such pointed out to him, so as to prevent their repetition in subsequent editions.

Some curious traditions, and other information relating to the county, have been received too late to be of any use in the present issue; but next year selections will be made from these with the view of preserving some interesting scraps of folk-lore.