University of Virginia Library

PREFACE.

THE Author of the following Poem, or as perhaps it may be better styled Poetical Oration, may seem to have been rather unhappy in the choice of his subject, which being a good deal historical, did not admit of much poetic dress or ornament, nor gave much scope to fancy or imagination to exert itself, that in which the great strength of a poet lies. With respect to this he would beg leave to observe, that the subject was chosen perhaps happily enough, as the foundation of an Exercise in an institution under the patronage of gentlemen distinguished as friends to Revelation, and on an occasion when the greater number of them were convened.

In the second place it may be objected, that an imitation of the poet Milton may be traced through the whole of the performance, though the Author has not been able to attain to any thing

of the spirit of that immortal bard. To this he has only to reply, that an imitation of great originals is placed by Longinus among the sources of good writing. He therefore conceives himself free from censure on account of any imitation of the poet Milton, which may be seen in his performance, though he is sensible of his unhappiness in not having been able to attain to any degree of his excellent spirit. This however is a misfortune common to him with many honest writers, and for which he throws himself on the candour of the Public.