_The Book of Jasher_ (Vol. v., p. 415.).--I have a translation of a work
thus named. It was published by Noah and Gould, 144. Nassau Street, New
York, 1840. The publisher's preface mentions Illive's work as "a miserable
fabrication;" claims, as the original of his own, a book "said to have been
discovered in Jerusalem at its capture by Titus," and preserved at Venice,
1613. It also speaks of the "owner and translator" as resident in England.
I have a vague idea that I heard from New York, at the time I received my
volume, that the Duke of Sussex had possessed a copy of the Book of Jasher,
and that some steps had been taken towards the translation by order of His
Royal Highness. I mention this merely to lead inquiry: I cannot trust my
memory as to the verbal expression of a friend so many years ago.
I have long wished the Book of Jasher to obtain a fair hearing, and a more
critical examination than I am qualified to make; and I shall be happy to
lend it to your correspondent L. L. L. in furtherance of what I think an
act of justice.