suffer his impartial Reflexions to appear in the English World under the Patronage of so great a Name.
I might here run out into high and just Encomiums upon your late extraordinary Performance; but there is no need for it, since the Work loudly speaks forth its own Praises: and I should rather seem unjust in saying too little, than be thought guilty of Flattery for saying too much in its Commendation.
I have, Sir, in the Preface, ventur'd to make some few Reflexions on your Poem, and hope you have Candour enough to excuse the Freedom I have taken therein. If I have offended, or committed any Mistake, I here declare my self willing and ready to retract upon due Conviction; and shall be always forward to submit my self to the Sentence of better Judgments.
All I have more to say, is, to beg Pardon for my Presumption, in desiring to prefix your Name before my weak Performance; which Favour I hope you will grant to,
Honoured Sir,
Your very Oblig'd and
Humble Servant,
(though unknown)
W. J.
THE
