Introduction.
5
diſtinguiſhed the Engliſhman has not ſuffered more on the ſide of firmneſs and integrity, than it has gained on that of politeneſs and elegance, by ſacrificing the rough ſports of the Field to the ſofter amuſements of the Aſſembly and Card Table.
I know the laws which are in force to preſerve thoſe Animals which are the objects of this diverſion, are ſeverely attacked by the ſentimental Novel Writers of the preſent time: writers who, without invention, humour, or real knowledge of mankind, dreſs up ſome improbable tale with affected maxims of fine feeling, and exquiſite ſenſibility, and endeavour to weaken the hearts, enflame the paſſions, and miſlead the underſtandings of the riſing generation. Theſe abound with horrid ſtories of the
B3
young
