University of Virginia Library

TO THE CANDID READER.

A small part of this Subject, many years since had drop'd from my pen: But looking at some opportunities upon the Argument, I thought some things more considerable might be deduced; and applying my self further, at times of recess, I felt it grow and multiply under my imagination: Nor left I it then (the matter being so pregnant in it self) till I form'd it into such limbs and proportions as you now see it. Modesty after this, invited me to cover it, and to cut off many impertinences, and purge some humour, that sate, I confess, unhandsomely upon it.

What is now presented, I hope will appear a genuine and unforc'd Moral, which though drest in Drammatique Ornament, may not displease, in the reading, persons of ingenuity, such whose nature is not to create prejudice, where they intend a recreation. And in the confidence of that, I do not repent the superstructures I have made, my pains, nor expences that have attended to bring it to this. It is now publique to satisfie the importunity of friends, I will onely adde, it is like to be the last, for in my resolve, nothing of this nature shall after this, engage either my pen or invention.

The reason why I make no particular Dedication to any Friend, is, because I aim my general respect to all, whose favours and civilities have oblig'd me. At this none will be offended, where

none hath the precedence: And to conclude with the most serious truth, I know not any, that love me so little, whom the payment of my so mean addresses would satisfie, as to clear me upon the account of his friendship. Let this suffice at present from him, that is