When the Roman empire had arrived at its highest pitch of grandeur, and literature illuminated the world with a ray which has enlightened the present age, Augustus would not have been displeased at receiving an address similar to this, from any of the cotemporaries of Horace.—A custom so ancient will apologize for this intrusion.

The Muses, said Socrates, follow Liberty—and I think his assertion was somewhat prophetic, for, if I may be permitted to judge, from the productions that have already appeared in this free empire, a considerable portion of their influence is already felt in America. I should be glad to see the refinements of Art, going hand in hand with the refinements of Government, and the citizens of the United States become more famed as a nation, while they become more accomplished as men.

If in these little pieces you should meet with any passage worthy your perusal, it will Contribute not a little to my satisfaction. But I can gain little by submitting them to your judgment; though at the same time, I am persuaded that few will perceive a beauty with so much generous satisfaction, or forgive a fault with more liberality.

The respect I entertain for you as a Philosopher—a Man—and a Patriot, induced me to embellish my little effort with your name.—I wish that it could have been more worthy your acceptance, and then it would have been more expressive of my esteem; but such as it is, I beg you will accept it with sincerity, from Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient, Humble servant,