The History of Don Quixote de la Mancha

The History of Don Quixote de la Mancha is given as from the Spanish of Cervantes, revised for general reading, with a sketch of the life and writings of the author prefixed. The contents list a chapter on the quality and way of living of Don Quixote, one which treats of Don Quixote's first sally, and one on the pleasant and curious scrutiny which the Curate and the Barber made of the library of our ingenious gentleman. The text reports that Sir William Temple quotes the saying of a worthy Spaniard, that the History of Don Quixote had ruined the Spanish monarchy, because men had grown ashamed of honour and love.

The text argues that surely the downfall of Spain may be traced to other causes. Sancho cries that he sees the scoundrel has left Dapple and gone his way, and the text says Dapple turned back to his rightful owner. A speaker says Don Quixote can bear witness that they have often lived day after day, a whole week together, upon a handful of acorns or hazel nuts.