University of Virginia Library

This Tragedy is submitted to the publick with the most grateful sense of the kindness with which it has been honoured. It was originally intended to be published as sent to the Theatre; but the omissions and changes consequent on its being performed, were numerous, The reader will now find it in every respect a copy from the prompt book. The imperfect lines which sometimes occur in the verse have arisen from the determination to make the conformity complete.

Seven plays upon the subject of Brutus are before the publick. Only two have been thought capable of representation, and those two did not long retain possession of the stage. In the present play I have had no hesitation in adopting the conceptions and language of my predecessors wherever they seemed likely to strengthen the plan which I had prescribed, This has been so done as to allow of no injury to personal feelings or private property. Such obligations to be culpable must be secret; but it may be observed that no assistance of other writers can be

available without an effort almost, if not altogether, as laborious as original composition.

I am reluctant to select peculiar objects of praise, when I found zeal and politeness so universal,—But I must be permitted to add my gratitude to the publick admiration of Mr. Kean's most masterly and splendid performance of the principal character.— Mrs. Glover, too, has claims on me which must not be forgotten.—The play was introduced by her to the Theatre, and its share of publick favour must be largely attributed to the critical taste of this very amiable and intelligent woman.

To the Sub-Committee and the Manager, I also beg to return my grateful thanks.