Reclass, 1-31-36 A.V.M. DEDICATION. ΤΟ JOHN HORNE TOOKE. SIR, THE intrinfic merits of a book are unquestionably its best recommendation to the attention of the public:-If it can derive any additional advantage from the fanction of HIS name to whom it is inscribed, that advantage must arise from the supposition that he is capable of judging of the subject, and that he has in fact exercised his judgment. THE man whose public conduct, for a series of years, has proved that he poffeffes the most profound and accurate knowledge of the whole of the the English conftitution, must be allowed to be a pretty competent judge of the merits of a performance which profeffes to treat of the law relating to a part of its inftitutions. So far, therefore, as an advantage can arise from a supposed capacity of judging, the public will readily admit that I have chosen well, when I have chosen to dedicate my book to you :-But from that fituation in which thofe who direct the councils of the nation have, in their wisdom, thought proper that you and I should at present be placed (a), I am deprived of that advantage which would inevitably refult from the public fuppofing, that you had actually exercised your judgment on the work, and given me your permiffion to fend it into the world under the fanc tion of your name. I have not the opportunity of communicating to you my intention fo to do; but if by chance this circumftance fhould be conveyed to your knowledge, I am not without hopes that you will learn it without displeasure. (a) Both being, at this time, prifoners in the Tower of London, under warrants of commitment for high treason. Two Two motives influence my conduct on this occfiaon; a defire to pay a public tribute of gratitude for the honour of your friendship; and an ambition to have my name hereafter mentioned in company with yours as a scholar, as it will most probably be as a citizen, engaged in the fame public cause. I HAVE the honour to be, with the highest affection and esteem, TOWER, August 20, 1794. DEAR SIR, Your moft obedient and devoted humble fervant, STEWART KYD. |