OPINIONS OF WRITERS ON ENGLISH HISTORY, NO. 1

"Oh, do not read history, for that I *know* must be false." --SIR ROBERT WALPOLE. Sir,--I have, from time to time, made a few *notes* on our historical writers--rather I should say the conflicting opinions of critical writers on their relative value, and the dependence to be placed on them as historical guides. They are so opposite, as would in a great measure confirm the opinion of the celebrated statesman above quoted. I send, as a specimen, the opinions upon Burnet, and should its insertion in your "NOTES AND QUERIES" be deemed advisable, I will from time to time send others which I have in…