which have been written in illustration of a subject, the right comprehension of which is as deeply interesting to the highest and most eminent in the land, as it is to the lowliest and most obscure. In handling his subject, the Author's chief solicitude has been to point to nobler sources of delight, and to higher modifications of virtue, than this vain world has to offer. By doing this, he humbly conceives he has rendered the portraiture which has been drawn consistent, at the same time that nothing has been stated-the whole subject being considered-which ought to wound the very finest sensibilities of humanity. Although the literary merit of the work may not be commensurate with the vastness of the matters discussed, or to which allusion is madeand fall short of what the public in such a publication might desire; yet the very grandeur of the general theme may go far to palliate minor imperfections-if not to excuse absolute defects. Regarded under this latter aspect, and coupling therewith the circumstance of the treatise appearing under such influential-not to say flattering auspices and high authority-the Author would even hope that at some future day an enlarged edition may be called for. Should it be his good fortune to be so noticed, his assiduous endeavour will be to cull further beauties from the only source whence perennial blossoms are to be gathered-to give to them all the sublimity and force to which his humble powers are adequate and in all respects to make the volume more generally attractive, and consequently worthier of such distinguished patronage. That your Majesty may be favoured with uninterrupted health and prosperity in this world, and so continue to be an ornament to your sex, and to the illustrious circle amid which you move; and that hereafter you may attain to those Immortal Joys which have herein been feebly and imperfectly described; is the devout prayer of Your Majesty's Most obedient and humble servant, THE AUTHOR. London, Jan. 24, 1840. |