"This work was compiled from the extensive research of the late Dr Charles William Wilson. Charles did not see the work to a draft book stage. He researched many topics, often from several different sources and he wrote for several different purposes, not always intending a book as the outcome. As a result, his notes sometimes contained conflicting or ambiguous information. The editor has attempted to correct errors and omissions where apparent, but cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions." --Title page verso.