does he
other than exceed Malice it self? or that the more prudent deserts of
that Peer were to be so impeach'd before hand by his impious Poem, as
that he might be granted more emphatically condign of the Hangman's Ax;
And which his Muse does in effect take upon her to hasten.

And if the season be well observ'd, when this Adulterate Poem was
spread, it will be found purposely divulg'd near the time when this
Lord, with his other Noble Partner, were to be brought to their Tryals.
And I suppose this Poet thought himself enough assur'd of their
condemnation; at least, that his _Genius_ had not otherwise ventur'd
to have trampled on persons of such eminent Abilities, and Interest in
the Nation. A consideration, I confess, incited my Pen (its preceding
respect being paid to the Duke of _Monmouth_) to vindicate their
Reputations where I thought it due.

And some are not a little mistaken in their judgments of persons, if any
Kingdom has at this time Two men of their Dignity, of more extraordinary
Understandings: Which may (if well consider'd) be some inducement to
their future preservation and esteem. As I have endeavour'd chiefly to
clear their abuse, so I have pass'd divers considerable persons, under
as malign inclinations of this Author's; conceiving, that what I have
said for the Principals, may remove such smaller prejudices as are on
the value of others on the same concern.

His most select and pecuniary Favourites, I have but barely touch'd,
in respect his praise includes a concomitant reprehension, if well
apprehended. Besides, I was unwilling to discourage any, that for the
future may desire to be admir'd by him according to their liberality.
A method, that perhaps may in time set up some Merchants of _Parnassus_,
where the _Indies_ of Fame seem lately discover'd, and may be purchas'd
_per Centum_, according to modern example.

As to the Character of _Amiel_, I confess my Lines are something
pointed, the one reason being, that it alludes much to a manner of
expression of this Writer's, as may be seen by the marginal Notes; and a
second will be soon allowed. The figure of _Amiel_ has been so squeez'd
into Paint, that his soul is seen in spite of the Varnish.

And none will deny, but it is as easie to send Truth backward, as it is
to spur Falsities egregiously forward, and might have caus'd any Asse,
as knowing as _Balaam_'s, to have rebuk'd such a Poet as will needs
prophecy against the sense of Heaven and Me