University of Virginia Library

PREFACE.

THE following Poems were
written originally for the amusement
of the author, as they were
the products of her leisure moments.
She had no intention ever
to have published them; nor would
they now have made their appearance,
but at the importunity of
many of her best, and most generous
friends; to whom she considers
herself, as under the greatest
obligations.

As her attempts in poetry are
now sent into the world, it is hoped
the critic will not severely censure
their defects; and we presume

they have too much merit to
be cast aside with contempt, as
worthless and trifling effusions.

As to the disadvantages she has
laboured under, with regard to
learning, nothing needs to be offered,
as her master's letter in the
following page will sufficiently
shew the difficulties in this respect
she had to encounter.

With all their imperfections,
the Poems are now humbly submitted
to the perusal of the public.