These were, first, because of the fear lest, if it were allowed to remain in manuscript, it might at some future time suffer from well-meant attempts at revision; and, secondly, because of the chance that it might be put forward, after the death of those who knew its history, in a way which would seem to make unwarranted pretensions for it, or would give rise to doubts as to its authenticity.

In a word, it was felt that its immediate publication would obviate any possible misconception at some future time as to its true relation to MacDowell's artistic evolution.

It was, therefore, published in October, 1908, twenty years after its composition, with a dedication to Mr.Henry T.Finck.
In "Die Sarazenen" and "Die Schoene Alda," two "fragments" for orchestra after the "Song of Roland," numbered op.

30, a graver note is sounded.

These "fragments," originally intended to form part of a "Roland" symphony, were published in 1891 in their present form, the plan for a symphony having been definitely abandoned.