as possible to perfection. Part of his plan for continuing the poem, will be found in the Notes.

[Pg xiii]

The smaller pieces are selected from a large number of original compositions; they are not chosen as his favourites, but as what he esteems most faultless. This appeared the safer method; since it is impossible that "the flimsy productions of a youth of seventeen," as Kirke White expresses it, should be free from considerable errors; and we are apt to think our most irregular flights, our most vigorous ones. On these[Pg xiv] pieces, however, he places little stress; his principal reliance is on "Gustavus Vasa." The Latin Poems have been honoured by the approbation of different Masters at Eton.

[Pg xiv]

The Author may be accused of arrogance in saying too much of himself. But he felt strongly that early publication, and the design of writing a long epic poem, would naturally be censured by many well-meaning persons; he thought it his duty to state his motives; and was less solicitous to avoid the possible charge of self-conceit, than the certain one of folly and presumption.

Any resemblance to former writers, which[Pg xv] may occur in the course of the work, are generally unintentional. Thus the lines—

[Pg xv]

"Touch'd the abyss, and, lest his eyes might view

The abandon'd shore, into its depths withdrew,"

were written before the author had seen Persius's description of a totally abandoned man:

—nescit quid perdat, et, alto

Demersus, summâ rursus non bullit in undâ.

[Pg xvi]

[Pg xvi]

The Author has to express his sincere gratitude for a numerous and respectable list of Subscribers. It is far beyond his expectations; and it encourages his hope, that the reception of the present volume will authorize his continuing in the same pursuit.

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