428
CHAP.
LXXI.
THE DECLINE AND FALL, &c.
pire ; the state and revolutions of Rome in themiddle age. The historian may applaud theimportance and variety of his subject; but,while he is conscious of his own imperfections,he must often accuse the deficiency of his mate-rials. It was among the ruins of the capitol,that I first conceived the idea of a work whichhas amused and exercised near twenty yearsof my life, and which, however inadequate tomy own wishes, I finally deliver to the curiosityand candour of the public.