THE SPECTATOR. VOLUME the EIGHTH. BIBLIOTHEQUE S.). Los Fontaines GE. EDINBURGH: Printed for JOHN BELL, MDCCLXXVI. THE HE seven former volumes of the Spectator having been dedicated to some of the most celebrated persons of the age, I take leave to infcribe this eighth and last to you, as to a gentleman who hath ever been ambitious of appearing in the best company. You are now wholly retired from the busy part of mankind, and at leisure to reflect upon your paft achievements; for which reason I look opon you as a perfon very well qualified for a Dedication. I MAY poffibly disappoint'my readers, and yourself too, if I do not endeavour on this occafion to make the world acquainted with your virtues. And here, Sir, I shall not compliment you upon your birth, person, or fortune ;- nor any other the like perfections, which you poffefs whether you will or no : But shall only touch upon those which are of your own acquiring, and in which every one must allow you have a real merit. VOL. VIII. YOUR A. 2 |