ugh the medium of a
translation from a previous French version, as is the case with the
well-known 'Nutcracker,'--and in this process of double dilution the
Author's name has sometimes disappeared altogether.

The most important attempt to present this writer to English readers
is the recent publication of two volumes entitled 'Hoffmann's Weird
Stories,' which contain eleven tales seven being from the
_Serapions-Brueder_, two from the _Nachtstuecke_, and two from other parts
of his works. These stories are all separated from the setting in which,
as in the present volume, they for the most part appeared, and the
translator has not aimed at any completeness or method in their selection.
The first attempt to give English readers a satisfactory idea of
Hoffmann's work in its completeness is inaugurated by the present volume,
which will be followed by the remaining portion of the _Serapion
Brethren_, and in due course it is hoped by other portions of his works.

Musicians will be interested by the fulness with which the Author's
views on musical subjects so much in advance of his age, and so just
and accurate are developed in many places, such as the dialogue called
"The Poet and the Composer," and the conversation which precedes the
tale "Master Martin." It would be of much interest could any of
Hoffmann's numerous musical compositions be brought to light at the
present day; they appear to have been considerably in advance of their
period, although Weber's critique on one of Hoffmann's operas is full
of high praise.

A. E.

_Taunton_, _September_, 1886.

CONTENTS.

SECTION I.

PAGE

THE STORY OF SERAPION 10
THE STORY OF KRESPEL 24
AN INTERRUPTED CADENCE 54
THE POET AND THE COMPOSER 76

SECTION II.

A FRAGMENT OF THE LIVES OF THREE FRIENDS 105
THE ARTUS HOF 152
THE MINES OF FALUN 182
NUTCRACKER AND THE KING OF MICE 211

SECTION III.

THE SINGERS' CONTEST