The Editor cannot conclude this addrefs, without mentioning his obligations to Mr. RAWORTH'S useful and interesting publication, the "Cambridge Univerfity Calendar ;" which has spared him an infinite deal of labour, and afforded him an appropriate and amufing Introduction. THE NEW CAMBRIDGE GUIDE, &c. &c. ORIGIN OF THE UNIVERSITY. THE origin of this celebrated feat of learning has been much difputed; and is fo enveloped in the obfcurity of the times, that the moft diligent researches have never been able to afcertain it indifputably. Without relating therefore, the numerous accounts which have been recorded concerning it; many of which are manifeftly fabulous, and many of doubtful authority; we fhall merely relate the most popular opinions. The fupporters of its antiquity have affirmed that it was founded by Cantaber, a Spaniard, 375 years before the birth of Chrift; but it appears the honour of founding the Univerfity is due to Sigebert, King of the Eaft-Angles, 630 years after Chrift; who inftituted à School for the inftruction of Youth, which moft Authors have agreed to place at Cambridge; but the tumultuous fpirit of the times prevented its peaceful continuance, for it is faid to have been several times demolified and revived again by lucceeding generations: though the principal merit of reftoring it belongs to Edward the Elder, who appointed Profeffors, &c. and after the Norman conqueft, we find it had attained fo much celebrity, that Henry I was educated here; and, on account of his proficiency, obtained the name of Beauclerc, or the learned ftudent. Originally, as in the fifter Univerfity, the ftudents hired Halls or Hotels for performing their exercises, and boarded with the townfmen. There is an ancient structure of this kind ftill remaining, called Pythagoras's School, fituated Weft of the river; and, though it is now used only as a barn, is the only relick of the old Univerfity. In procefs of time Colleges were founded and endowed, and the method of study rendered more comfortable and eafy. The firft College appears to have been erected in the Reign of Henry III. B |