It was not the author's purpose in this volume to attempt a general history of magic and alchemy, or a scientific inquiry into their psychological aspects. He confined himself to a sketch of their progress in England and to a narrative of the lives of our principal magicians. It is also devoted to a historical review of witchcraft in Great Britain, and an examination into the most remarkable witch trials. (Excerpt from Goodreads)
William Henry Davenport Adams (1828–1891), was an English writer and journalist of the 19th century, notable for a number of his publications.