junior midshipman on board the Deptford man of war, in which ship the Timekeeper was taken out to Jamaica on the first trial. This incident led to an acquaintance, and to sentiments of kindness between his Lordship and the younger Harrison, which were retained during life; and it precluded the Author from resorting to any other Patron, as it became, in his apprehension, a sort of profanation to withhold from the shade of that lamented Nobleman what had been addressed to his accomplished mind before the mortal scene closed on him in the fulness of a forensic reputation, and a consequence so immeasurably contrasted with his outset in pursuit of fame and fortune.—It may be proper to add, that the patronage sought had no reference to Lord Erskine's opinions as a statesman, politics being wholly excluded from these pages,—to the end that the Work may be acceptable to all parties,—to devotees of every political creed, except the republican.
