TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE LI O NE EARL OF DORSET AND MIDDLESEX, IT looks like no great compliment to your Lordship, that I prefix your name to this epistle; when, in the Preface, I declare the book is published almost against my inclination. But, in all cafes, my Lord, you have an hereditary right to whatever may be called mine, Many of the following pieces were written by the mand of your excellent father; and most of the reft, under his protection and patronage. com The particular felicity of your birth, my Lord; the natural endowments of your mind, which, without sufpicion of flattery, I may tell you, are very great; the good education with which these parts have been improved; and your coming into the world, and feeing men very early; make us expect from your Lordship all the good, which our hopes can form in favour of a young nobleman. "Tu Marcellus eris" Our eyes and our hearts are turned on you. You must be a judge and mafter of polite learning; a friend and patron to men of letters and merit; a faithful and able counfellor to your prince; a true patriot to your country; VOL. I. B an |