The Adventures of Ferdinand Count Fathom

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nd I think we generally agreed that the task was altogether impracticable.- Indeed, this was one of the few subjects on which we have always thought in the same manner. For, notwithstanding that deference and regard whi

d in the enumeration of the patron's good qualities, the whole address is construed into an aff

aggerate, and produce no more than the genuine effusions of his heart, the world will make no allowance f

d confusion of face. Such was the fate of a late ingenious author [the Author of the "Seasons"], who was so often put to the blush for the undeserved incense he had offered in the heat of an enthusiastic disposition, misled by popular applause, t

or disappointment; because I know you are too well convinced of my affection and sincerity to repine at what I shall say touching your charact

nd. There are certain foibles which can only be cured by shame and mortification; and whether or not your

hed at the weakness of your conversation, and trembled at the errors of your conduct - yet, as I own you possess certain good qualities, which overbalance these defects, and distinguish you on this occasion as a person for whom I have the most perfect attachment and esteem, you have no cause to complain of the indelicacy with

my duty to my friends, but also discharge the debt I owe to my own interest. We live in a censorious age; and an author can

subsequent performance, that I may not be condemned upon partial evidence; and to whom can I with more propriety

niform plan, and general occurrence, to which every individual figure is subservient. But this plan cannot be executed with propriety, probability, or success, witho

be the repose of extraordinary desert.- Yet the same principle by which we rejoice at the remuneration of merit, will teach us to relish the disgrace and discomfiture of vice, which is always an example of extensive us

our detestation and abhorrence; and we are as well pleased to see the wicked schemes of a Richard b

ry; and for one that is allured to virtue, by the contemplation of that peace and happiness which it bestows, a hundred are det

the benefit of the unexperienced and unwary, who, from the perusal of these memoirs, may learn to avoid the manifold snares with which they are continually surrounded in the path

tion with occasional incidents of a different nature; and raised up a virtuous character, in opposition to the adventurer, with a view to amuse

on; to rouse the spirit of mirth, wake the soul of compassion, and touch the secret springs that move the heart; I have, at least, adorned virtue with honour and applause, branded iniquity with reproach and sha

ry affectionate f

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