James Lillywhiite's Cricketers' Annual 1874

E T T A W& E D C O P R E F A C ER E ъ л т ш а л Onthe eve of the third publication of the Annual, it behoves us to say something , if only by way of acknowledgement to the thousands who have supported us heartily and honestly since our first appear-- a n c e. In our preface to the first Annualwe boasted that we had chosen a special line for ourselves , disdaining the dull routine that had marked the ordinary run of yearly works on cricket . In this course we have been cheered by the earnest co-operation of cricketers of every grade , and if voluntary testimonials be a tangible proof of success , we have been successful beyond measure . Nor are we inclined to remain quiescent while events march on and each year gives rise to fresh improvements and to newideas . W ehave this time ventured to introduce a feature never attempted in a Cricket Annual before , a portrait of one of the most notable cricketers in each of the two great sections , amateur and professional , and if this step meet with general approval we intend to continue the series in future years . W eare not too prejudiced to take advice , and we solicit suggestions from every cricketer , high or low . It is our earnest desire to aid cricket in every way, to make the Annual invaluable as a work of reference , and to facilitate the publication of every item of intelligence that can interest or amuse the great body of cricketers . Weonly ask a continuance of the confidence that has been placed in us hitherto , and we will pledge ourselves still to deserveit. 4, Newington Causeway, London, S.E. , 1st December , 1873 .