From the preface to the present edition:
"The vulgar notion that the Templars were as wicked as they were fearless and brave, has not yet been entirely exploded ; but it is hoped that the copious account of the proceedings against the order in this country, given in the ninth and tenth chapters of the ensuing volume, will tend to dispel many unfounded prejudices still entertained against the fraternity, and excite emotions of admiration for their constancy and courage, and of pity for their unmerited and cruel fate."

"Vita Ælfredi regis Angul Saxonum". Edited by Dr. J.A. Giles. Originally composed in Latin, possibly sometime around 888 A.D. by Asser who is said to have been Bishop of St. David's, of Sherborne or of Exeter, in the time of king Alfred. This chronicle also known as "The Life of Alfred the Great" and describes the events of English history from A..D. 849 TO A.D. 887.
From editor's preface to the present edition:
Though most of the public events recorded in this book are to be found in the Saxon Chronicle, yet for many interesting circumstances in the life of our great Saxon king we are indebted to this biography alone. As the work has been edited by Petrie, so has it been here translated, and the reader, taking it upon its own merits, will find therein much of interest about our glorious king, concerning whom he will lament with me that all we know is so little, so unsatisfying.