"National Rhymes of the Nursery" by Various is a collection of nursery rhymes and children's verses likely compiled in the late 19th century. This anthology gathers an array of beloved verses ranging from whimsical tales and playful jingles to moral lessons and traditional lore, appealing to both young readers and those nostalgic for childhood. The opening of the collection features an introduction by George Saintsbury, who reflects on the timeless charm of nursery rhymes as an art form that marries sound with meaning. Saintsbury discusses the historical context and artistic value of these verses, exploring their evolution from original narratives to their more nonsensical forms today. Throughout the introduction, he emphasizes the enduring appeal of sound and rhythm in children's poetry, setting the stage for the many delightful rhymes that follow, which celebrate imagination and play. (This is an automatically generated summary.)