The Book of Halloween

PREFACE


This book is intended to give the reader an account of the origin
and history of Hallowe'en, how it absorbed some customs belonging
to other days in the year,--such as May Day, Midsummer, and
Christmas. The context is illustrated by selections from ancient
and modern poetry and prose, related to Hallowe'en ideas.

Those who wish suggestions for readings, recitations, plays, and
parties, will find the lists in the appendix useful, in addition to
the books on entertainments and games to be found in any public
library.

Special acknowledgment is made to Messrs. E. P. Dutton & Company
for permission to use the poem entitled "Hallowe'en" from "The
Spires of Oxford and Other Poems," by W. M. Letts; to Messrs.
Longmans, Green & Company for the poem "Pomona," by William Morris;
and to the Editors of _The Independent_ for the use of five poems.