Plus Ultra

Dedicatory.

stolary praises are mostly intended for little, and go for nothing; for flattery and poetic youth have strained them to such a ridiculous height that wise men judge of them by the same measures as they do the courtships of common amours. I dare not, therefore, offer your gravity and wisdom such vulgar and obnoxious trifles; but instead of those fooleries, I give your Lordship the serious assurance of my affectionate duty, with the most grateful acknowledgment of your favours. And that your aged