fome pearls and diamonds that have not been exposed in this manner to public view. The Editor thinks that not above fifty lines in this collection have been, as yet, applied to any body; and these few, for the most part, are given to different perfons. It is impoffible to perufe a work of this nature, without profit and delight. A great writer has told us, indeed, that Shakespeare wrote his plays without any moral intention; this is poffible, but furely not very probable, when we reflect that every page of his works breathes morality fupported by example. The Gentlemen who furnished the feveral portraits and applications, have certainly certainly proved themselves to be unattached to any party or faction. Whereever they found beauty or deformity, virtue or vice, they have honeftly transferred them to their proper owners. It was thought neceffary to beftow a few notes and observations on some striking or remarkable characters; which it is to be hoped, are written without flattery or malignity. MODERN CHARACTERS. B Y SHAKESPEARE. The KING. H place and greatnefs! millions of false eyes Are stuck upon thee; volumes of report Run with thefe falfe and moft contrarious quests Make thee the father of their idle dreams And rack thee in their fancies. That you would love yourself, and in that love Not unconfider'd leave your honour, nor The dignity of your office, is the point Of my petition. The TIMES. Henry VIII England now is left To tugg and scramble, and to part by the teeth, Now for the bare pick'd bone of Majefty Now pow'rs from home and discontent at home, (As doth a raven on a fick-fall'n beaft) Now happy he whofe cloak and cincture can King John. MARQUIS to the MARCHIONESS of G-BY. Silence is the perfecteft herald of joy. I were but little happy if I could fay how much, Lady as you you are mine, I am yours; I give away myself and doat on the exchange. Much Ado, &c POL K-N-DY, Little have you to fay, When you depart from him, but soft and low; Remember now my brotber. Measure for Measure. Mr. HT. Doft thou but think, What 'tis to cram a maw, or cloath a back So ftinkingly depending ?-Go mend, mend. Meafure for Meafur. Lord N- H. Promifing is the air of the times, it opens the eyes of expectation; performance is ever the Lord Nh is the moft incomprehenfible and extraordinary minifter that ever managed the B 2 affaire |