The lines originally laid down for this Dictionary were, to prepare a revised edition of Johnsons enlargement of Wilkins-Richardsons Persian, Arabic, and English Dictionary, by reducing the Arabic element and increasing the Persian, so as to produce a volume specially adapted to the wants of the English students. However, it was found that the mere reduction of the Arabic portion would not suffice to answer the purpose intended. At the same time it was soon felt that the fresh matter to be introduced in the Persian part exceeded the limits contemplated, and necessitated in this respect a considerable extension of the primary plan. It is hoped that this Dictionary will justify its claim to comprehensiveness.
