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The PRESENT STATE
the reason why so many writers at present, are apt to appeal from the tribunal of criticism to that of the people.
From a desire in the critic of grafting the spirit of ancient languages upon the English, has proceeded of late several disagreeable instances of pedantry. Among the number, I think we may reckon blank verse. Nothing but the greatest sublimity of subject can render such a measure pleasing; however, we now see it used upon the most trivial occasions; it has particularly found way into our didactic poetry, and is likely to bring that species of composition into disrepute, for which the English are deservedly famous.
Those who are acquainted with writing, know that our language runs almostnatu-
