PREFACE

IT must be confessed that students of the Councils of the Church experience a relaxation of interest when they have passed the great Council of Chalcedon. Those, however, who persevere in their studies will certainly confess that they are amply rewarded for their pains. It is not merely that the history of the Church is continuous, and that the whole can be understood only as we understand the parts; but there is a living interest in the questions and problems which were perpetually coming up for solution in the Church; and the principal controversy handled in the present volume, that of the Three Chapters, is full of instruction in many ways.

In regard to the translation, it may be remarked that no attempt has been made to render the names of ancient places and persons in a uniform manner. Such an attempt would not only savour of pedantry, but would also be inconvenient to the reader. Those forms have been adopted which are generally understood, and, for the sake of clearness, sometimes two forms have been given.

It is hoped that this volume will be found to be as accurate as its predecessors. Every care has been taken to avoid mistakes. If any remain, the Editor will be grateful for corrections. He must add that his special thanks are due to an accomplished friend who has kindly compiled the Index.

A fifth volume will bring the work to the close of the seventh Council, the last acknowledged as œcumenical by the whole Church. The publication of this final volume of the English translation must depend upon the demand for that which is now issued.

W. R. C.

Advent, 1894.