But now for thy further instruction, to vnderstand the course of these
my labours. First concerning the historie of England, as I haue
collected the same out of manie and sundrie authors, in whome what
contrarietie, negligence, and rashnesse sometime is found in their
reports; I leaue to the discretion of those that haue perused their
works: for my part, I haue in things doubtfull rather chosen to shew the
diuersitie of their writings, than by ouer-ruling them, and vsing a
peremptorie censure, to frame them to agree to my liking: leauing it
neuerthelesse to each mans iudgement, to controll them as he seeth
cause. If some-where I shew my fansie what I thinke, and that the same
dislike them; I craue pardon, speciallie if by probable reasons or
plainer matter to be produced, they can shew mine errour; vpon
knowledge whereof I shall be readie to reforme it accordinglie. Where I
doo begin the historic from the first inhabitation of this Ile, I looke
not to content ech mans opinion concerning the originall of them that
first peopled it, and no maruell: for in matters so vncerteine, if I
cannot sufficientlie content my selfe (as in deed I cannot) I know not
how I should satisfie others. That which seemeth to me most likelie, I
haue noted, beseeching the learned (as I trust they will) in such points
of doubtfull antiquities to beare with my skill: sith for ought I know,
the matter is not yet decided among the learned, but still they are in
controuersie about it, and as yet Sub iudice lis est.
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