But if in any wise any profit shall accrue to
the keepers, it shall not be applied to any purpose but
the repair and maintenance of the books."[1]
[1] R. de B., ed. Thomas, pp. 246-48.
It will be seen that had De Bury's aim been consummated,
a small public lending library would have been
founded in Oxford, from which at first only a few duplicates
would be issued, but which might, in time, have become
an important institution.
CHAPTER IX. THE USE OF BOOKS TOWARDS THE END OF THE MANUSCRIPT
PERIOD
Section I
The cheapening of books has brought many pleasures,
but has been the cause of our losing--or almost
losing--one pleasant social custom,--the pastime
of reciting tales by the fireside or at festivities, which was
popular until the end of the manuscript age.
"Men lykyn jestis for to here
And romans rede in divers manere."
At their games and feasts and over their ale men were
wont to hear tales and verses.[1] The tale-tellers were
usually professional wayfaring entertainers: "japers and
mynstralles' that sell glee,' " as the scald sang his lays
before King Hygelac and roused Beowulf to slay
Grendel--
"Gestiours, that tellen tales
Bothe of weping and of game.
Pages:
250
251
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274