in the private commerce of the world, to ward off that littleness of
soul which leads, by steps imperceptible, to all the base train of
the inferior passions, and by which the too timid mind is betrayed
into a servility derogatory to the dignity of human nature! yet is
it a virtue of no necessity in a situation such as mine; a situation
which removes, even from cowardice itself, the sting of ignominy;-for
surely that courage may easily be dispensed with, which would rather
excite disgust than admiration! Indeed, it is the peculiar privilege
of an author, to rob terror of contempt, and pusillanimity of reproach.

Here let me rest- and snatch myself, while I yet am able, from the
fascination of EGOTISM:-a monster who has more votaries than ever
did homage to the most popular deity of antiquity; and whose singular
quality is, that while he excites a blind and involuntary adoration in
almost every individual, his influence is universally disallowed, his
power universally contemned, and his worship, even by his followers,
never mentioned but with abhorence.

In addressing you jointly, I mean but to mark the generous sentiments
by which liberal criticism, to the utter annihilation of envy,
jealousy, and all selfish views, ought to be distinguished.

I have the honour to be,
GENTLEMEN,
Your most obedient
Humble Servant,
*** ****


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