LONDON SOCIETY.

JANUARY, 1871.

EDITORIAL.

IT is a good old saying that there are times in the lives of

human creatures when they would do well to stand aside for a moment to make a fresh start in the world; when, like knights of old, they may rub up their armour-repairing the damages they have received, and, if possible, some of those they have committed.

The process of physical renovation in the human frame occurs naturally, we are told, once in seven years; but changes in the lives of magazines come about most unnaturally, and are subject to mysterious laws. Thus it happens that in the tenth year of the existence of LONDON SOCIETY certain changes and improvements are contemplated; and thus it becomes necessary to offer a few words of explanation to our readers.

In a magazine which reflects so readily and gaily the topics of the time-whose plates are so sensitive to social and political changes-whose camera is perpetually turned upon some new object, it would be obviously difficult (even if it were wise) to put forward a complete programme for the new year; and, as a matter of taste, it is better to avoid promises, half of which might remain unfulfilled when the new year had grown 'old.' But it is due to our old friends and subscribers to state distinctly at the outset that the original plan and constitution of this magazine will remain unaltered, that its light and amusing character will be preserved-brightened, it may be, by a little more wit, and chastened by a little more grace.

LONDON SOCIETY being possessed of a most vigorous constitution, and of a circulation which, its guardians are happy to

VOL. XIX.-NO. CIX.

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