LITERARY MEMOIRS OF LIVING AUTHORS OF GREAT BRITAIN, ARRANGED ACCORDING TO An ALPHABETICAL CATALOGUE of their NAMES. AND INCLUDING A LIST of heir WORKS, With OCCASIONAL OPINIONS upon their LITERARY CHARACTER.
—et Phoebo digna locuti,
Quique sui memores alios fecere merendo:
Omnibus his niveâ cinguntur tempora vittâ.
VIRG.
IN TWO VOLUMES.
VOL. II.
LONDON: PRINTED FOR R. FAULDER, NEW BOND STREET. SOLD ALSO BY T. EGERTON, WHITEHALL; AND W. RICHARDSON, ROYAL EXCHANGE. 1798.
LITERARY MEMOIRS OF LIVING AUTHORS OF GREAT BRITAIN,
&c. &c.
M
MACARTHUR, JOHN, ESQ.
SECRETARY to the Right Hon. Admiral Lord Hood, and formerly officiating Judge Advocate in North America. He published, in the year 1792, a very complete and useful Treatise on the Principles and Practice of Naval Courts Martial, in an octavo volume. Previous to this, we believe,
he
had written a treatise on the theory and practice of Fencing, entitled, "The Army and Navy Gentleman's Companion," and published in a quarto volume, in 1780.
MACAULAY, REV. ANGUS, F.A.S.
Curate of Claybrook, in Leicestershire. He published, in 1791, "The History and Antiquities at Claybrook," an octavo volume. Since that time, beside two occasional single Sermons, he has written, "Rudiments of Political Science, Part I." a work of very considerable merit, published in an octavo volume, in 1796.
MACAULAY, JOHN, ESQ. M.R.I.A.
An occasional Poetaster of some merit. He wrote, in 1780, "Unanimity," a poem; and has, since that time▪ produced "The Genius of Ireland," a masque; and a Monody on the Death of Lady Arabella Denny.
MACCULLOCH, REV. ROBERT.
Minister of the Gospel at Dairsie, and author of "Lectures on the Prophecies of Isaiah," in two octavo volumes, of which the first was published in 1791, and the second in 1794. These Lectures are perfectly orthodox, but perhaps, too much of a popular complexion.
MACDONALD, REV. DONALD.
A Clergyman of the Church of Scotland. He published, in 1761, a burlesque on Fingal, entitled, "Three Beautiful and Important Passages omitted by the Translator of Fingal," in which he mocks the stile of Ossian with a crude species of humour. Mr. Macdonald has also written the Independent a novel, in two duodecimo volumes, and Velina a poetical fragment, published in 1782.
MACDONALD, THOMAS, ESQ.
Of the Inner Temple, Barrister at Law. This gentleman is author of a valuable Treatise on Civil Imprisonment in England, published in an octavo volume, in 1791; and also of "Thoughts on the Public Duties of Private Life," an elegant pamphlet, published in 1795.
MACFARLAN, ROBERT, ESQ.
The Author of an History of the Reign of George III. King of Great Britain, in four octavo volumes, of which the first was published in 1770, and the fourth in 1796. This publication, though certainly not without the merit of utility, cannot, on many accounts, be said to entitle Mr. Macfarlan to first-rate distinction as an Historian. We believe this gentleman formerly attempted a Translation of Ossian's Poems into Latin Hexameters, of which he published the first book of "Temora," by way of specimen, in 1796. Those who are acquainted with the characteristic genius and style of Ossian, as well as with those of the Roman classics, will wonder at such an undertaking. The specimen, produced upon this occasion, was a very indifferent one.
MACFARLAN, REV. JOHN, D.D.F. R.S.S.
A Clergyman of the Church of Scotland. He has been, for some time, one of the Ministers of Canongate, Edinburgh, and has written a Defence of the Clergy of the Church of Scotland, who appeared in Opposition to the Intention of an unlimited Repeal of the Penal Laws against Roman Catholics; an octavo volume of "Inquiries concerning the Poor," published in 1783; and Tracts on Subjects of National Importance, published three years afterward.
MACGREGOR, JOHN.
A Teacher of the Mathematics in Edinburgh, and author of "A complete Treatise on Practical Mathematics," an octavo volume, published in 1794, and "An Introduction to Mensuration," both of which are respectable performances.
MACKAY, ANDREW, L.L.D. F.R.S.E.
Of Aberdeen. The author of a treatise on "The Theory and Practice of finding the Longitude at Sea or Land," in two thin octavo volumes published in 1793, a valuable work, in which he displays a most extensive and accurate acquaintance with his subject. Mr. Mackay also wrote the articles, Navigation, Parallax, Pendulum, Projection of the Sphere, Ship-Building, and Naval Tactics, in the Encyclopaedia Britannica; and is about to present the world with a Treatise on the Theory and Practice of Navigation, and another, in three volumes, on the Theory and Practice of Astronomy.
MACKENZIE, HENRY, ESQ.
A native of Scotland, and a gentleman, whose elegance as a writer have justly entitled him to the name of the Addison of the North. The first character which he assumed as an author, was that of a sentimental and pathetic writer, in which he met with considerable success. "The Man of Feeling," a novel, his first publication, made its appearance in 1771, and was very favourably received. In the same year he published, "The Pursuits of Happiness," a poem; and two years afterward, "The Man of the World," a novel, in two duodecimo volumes. The Novel of Julia de Rubignè, in two volumes, duodecimo, is also, we believe, to be attributed to his pen. In the dramatic line of composition, he has produced the Prince of Tunis, a tragedy, acted at Edinburgh, in 1773, and, we believe he altered the Fatal Curiosity of Lillo, as it was represented at the Hay Market Theatre. Mr. Mackenzie edited, in 1793, a quarto volume of "Poems by the late Rev. Dr. Thomas Blacklock, together, with an Essay on the Education of the Blind," to which he prefixed a most interesting and elegant Account of the Author's Life and Writings. He announced, at the same time, the intended publication of some Sermons and other prose works, by Dr. Blacklock, which, we belive, have not yet appeared. In the year 1779, when a society of literary gentlemen at Edinburgh, came to the resolution of publishing a Periodical Paper, Mr. Mackenzie, then of the Exchequer in that City, was entrusted with the conduct of the work. His numerous Papers in the Mirror, the first production of that Society, have been particularly distinguished for their elegance and neatness. To the Lounger, a periodical paper, afterward published by the same Society, he likewise contributed some very distinguished Essays. Indeed, we are of opinion, that without the attraction of Mr. Mackenzie's performances, neither of these publications would have ranked very highly in the class of Periodical Papers. But possessed of these, they may boast a saving principle, and a sterling excellence in their conformation, which gives them a durable value and will insure them a lasting estimation among the works of taste.
The following is a sentence which was passed upon Mr. Mackenzie, by a reviewer of the day, upon the appearance of his Man of Feeling.
It is probably a first work; and from the specimen it affords of the talents of its author, we should not be disposed to think that he will ever attain to any great eminence in literature. He may amuse himself at the foot of Parnassus; but to ascend the steeps of the mountain must be the task of those, on whom their benignant stars have bestowed the rare gifts of true genius.
!!
MACKENZIE, RODERICK, ESQ.
An Officer, of a character no less honourable in the literary than in the military world. He published, in 1787, Strictures on Lieutenant Colonel Tarleton's History of the Campaigns in North America, in 1780 and 1781. Mr. Mackenzie was personally concerned, as well as Col. Tarleton, in some of the most considerable actions of these campaigns, and he animadverts with the greatest severity upon the Colonel's "History." His publication seems to have been undertaken from a motive of great generosity and friendly zeal, viz. to vindicate the fame of Lord Cornwallis, whose military conduct had suffered certain disrepectful insinuations from Colonel Tarleton, and whose distance from home deprived him of an opportunity of defending himself. Mr. Mackenzie has, since that time, published a "Sketch of the War with Tippoo Sultaun," in two quarto volumes, which were printed at Calcutta, in 1793 and 1794. This work contains much excellent and circumstantial information, related in a strain of impartiality, and in an honest unassuming manner, which cannot fail to gratify every reader.
MACKENZIE, ANNA MARIA.
This lady has produced several Novels, at the Leadenhall-Street Press dedicated to the Goddess of Wisdom. Among them are, "Monmouth," "Danish Massacre," "Mysteries Elucidated," and "the Neapolitan." They are frequently voluminous, and, sometimes, of a species somewhat superior to the generality of the fungous productions of that literary hot-bed.
MACKINTOSH, JAMES, ESQ.
This gentleman published, in 1791,
Vindiciae Gallicae,
a Defence of the French Revolution and its English Admirers, against the Accusations of Mr. Burke, which has been almost universally allowed to be one of the best written pamphlets ever produced in our language. We believe Mr. Mackintosh is also the author of two octavo volumes of Travels in Europe, Asia, and Africa, published anonimously in 1782. They consist of a series of familiar well-written Letters, abounding in Oriental Politics, and are particularly severe upon Governor Hastings. They gave offence to some of our East indian Nabobs, and were answered in a strain of Welch asperity by Captain Joseph Price, who had complained of personal ill-treatment from Mr. Francis, and who now attributed these Travels to an agent employed by him, to traduce the character of Governor Hastings.
MACKNIGHT, REV. JAMES, D.D.
An eminent Clergyman of the Church of Scotland, who is celebrated for his learned and useful labours in illustration and defence of the New Testament. He published, in 1755, his celebrated "Harmony of the four Gospels," in a quarto volume; and, in 1764, "The Truth of the Gospel History shewed," in a quarto volume. Both of these works have experienced the success to which such laborious and masterly performances are entitled. In 1786, Dr. Macknight published, in quarto, "A new literal Translation, from the original Greek, of the Apostle Paul's first and second Epistles to the Thessalonians," which was intended as a specimen of a literal Translation of all the Apostolic Epistles, with Commentaries, Notes, and Essays, about which he had for many years been employed. This complete work did not make its appearance till 1795, when it was published, in four volumes, quarto, and added a new laurel to the brow of this, respectable veteran in biblical literature.
MACLAINE, REV. ARCHIBALD, D.D.
A native of Scotland, and late Minister of the English Church at the Hague. He published, so long ago as the year 1752, a single Sermon on the Death of the Prince of Orange. In 1765, his masterly Translation of Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History made its first appearance, in two volumes, quarto. It experienced a most favourable reception, and was soon reprinted, in six volumes, octavo, which is the form in which all the subsequent editions have been published. A Supplement to the quarto edition, containing the corrections, additional notes and dissertations which had been added to the octavo edition, was published by Dr. Maclaine, in quarto, in 1768. Few publications, upon their first appearance, have been more generally read than Mr. Soame Jenyns' View of the internal Evidence of Christianity. Upon the occasion of this publication, Dr. Maclaine addressed a Series of Letters to that gentleman, published in a duodecimo volume, in 1777. These Letters were written to serve the best purposes of Christianity, upon a due consideration of the distinguished eminence of Mr. Jenyns as a writer, of the singular mixture of piety, wit, error, wisdom, and paradox, exhibited in his publication, and of his defence of Christianity, upon principles which would lead men to enthusiasm, or to scepticism, according to their different dispositions. His only publications, since this time, have been two Fast Sermons, preached in 1793 and 1797.
MACLEOD, HUGH, D.D.
Professor of History in the University of Glasgow, and author of
Casus Principis
; or, an Essay toward a History of the Principality of Scotland, published in a quarto volume in 1792.
MACLEOD, A.
The author of "A warm Reply to Mr. Burke's Letter," published in 1796, for which, were there a Bedlam for raving authors, as well as for common lunaticks, he would undoubtedly deserve confinement. He has also written a Series of incoherent letters, entitled, "The Bishop of Landaff's Apology for the Bible examined."
MACNALLY, LEONARD, ESQ.
A native of Ireland, educated for the profession of the Law. He distinguished himself by his Speeches at the Shakspeare Tavern, in favour of the Coalition, in 1783, was, for some years, Editor of the Public Ledger, and has, since that time, we believe, been concerned in other Newspapers. In 1782, he wrote a sensible pamphlet, entitled, "The Claims of Ireland;" but he has been chiefly distinguished as a dramatic writer. His first piece, "Retaliation," a farce, was acted at Covent Garden, in 1782, and received with uncommon applause. Tristram Shandy, a piece, in two acts, was favourably received in the following year; and, in the years 1785 and 1786, he produced, Fashionable Levities, a comedy, and the April Fool, a farce. Mr. Macnally displayed considerable ability in translating from the French of M. Sedaine, the historical Romance of
Richard Coeur de Lion.
It was brought out at Drury Lane, in 1786, and greatly preferred to a piece of the same name, which had been represented at the other house.
MACNAYR, JAMES.
Writer, and author of a System of English Conveyancing adapted to Scotland, which was published in quarto, in 1789; as also, of an Essay to demonstrate that contingent Debts cannot, by law, be ranked on Estates sequestered in Terms of the Statute, 23 George III. Cap. 18.
MACNEILL, HECTOR, ESQ.
This gentleman published in 1788, a sensible pamphlet, entitled, "Observations on the Treatment of the Negroes in Jamaica." He has, since that time, written, '"The Harp," a legendary tale, which gave occasion to the Scotch proverb, "I'll never burn my harp for a woman," and which, in the dress he has given it, is a beautiful piece of sentimental poetry; "Scotland's Skaith," a most elegant tale in verse; and "The Waes of War," a very beautiful sequel of that tale.
MACNEILLY, REV. J.
A Dissenting Minister, and author of an Appeal to the Legislature, on the frequent Execution of Criminals, a single Sermon, and two volumes of Discourses on various subjects.
MACPHERSON, DAVID.
The author of "Geographical Illustrations of Scottish History," in one volume, quarto, published in 1796.
MACREADY, WILLIAM.
Comedian of Covent Garden Theatre. He is a native of Dublin, and pleased the late Mr. Macklin so much, by representing Egerton in his "Man of the World," at that city, that he exerted himself in his favour with the Covent Garden Manager, and obtained for him his present engagement. Mr. Macready has, of late, become Play-mender, as well as Actor, and has written, "The Irishman In London," a farce, and the Bank Note, a comedy, which were produced in 1793 and 1795, and are both very indifferent performances.
MADAN, RIGHT REV. SPENCER, D.D.
Lord Bishop of Peterborough, Rector of West Harlton, and Vicar of Haxay, Lincolnshire. His Lordship was formerly of Trinity College, Cambridge, and, previously to his taking orders, published (in 1782) a Translation into English of Hugo Grotius on the Truth of Christianity. This performance may boast the characteristics of familiarity, perspicuity, and elegance. About the same time, Dr. Madan gained the Seatonian Prize, for a poetical Essay on the Call of the Gentiles. His Lordship obtained the Bishopric of Bristol, in 1792, and was translated to Peterborough two years afterward.
MAHON, LORD VISCOUNT,—See Stanhope.
MAINWARING, REV. JOHN.
Lady Margaret's Professor in Divinity, and late Fellow of St. John's College, Cambridge. A gentleman highly esteemed for his classical knowledge and taste. He published, in 1780, a volume of Sermons on Several Occasions, preached before the University, most of which had appeared before singly. These Discourses, and the elegant prefixed Dissertation on that species of composition, have been highly admired as polished specimens in their kind, and place the genius and judgement of their author in a most respectable point of view. Mr. Mainwaring has also published a few occasional single Sermons since the above date; and was engaged in a controversy with the late Bishop Hallifax about the proper way of quoting passages of Scripture.
MAITLAND, JAMES, EARL OF LAUDERDALE IN THE KINGDOM OF SCOTLAND.
This nobleman, although an eye-witness to the horrors which attended the popular commotions in France, has persevered in avowing himself the champion of democracy. He published, in 1794, "Letters to the Peers of Scotland," in an octavo volume, a work too much of an inflammatory cast; and his Lordship was not returned one of the sixteen Peers of Scotland in the present Parliament. He has also published "Thoughts on Finance," a pamphlet; and several of his Speeches have reached the press. In 1797, his Lordship was made free of the Needle-makers Company and became an unsuccessful candidate for the office of Sheriff of the City of London!!
MALHAM, REV. JOHN.
The author of "The Schoolmaster's complete Companion," a book of arithmetic, published in 1783. Since that time, he has published two Sermons on the King's Recovery, sixteen Sermons on the most interesting subjects to Seamen, a Word for the Bible (written in 1796), and the Naval Gazetteer, or, Seaman's complete Guide, in two volumes, octavo, all of which are respectable performances.
MALKIN, BENJAMIN HEATH, ESQ.
Of Trinity College, Cambridge. The author of "Essays on Subjects connected with Civilization," published in an octavo volume, in 1795. These Essays possess much ingenuity, as well as many faults.
MALONE, EDMUND, ESQ.
Of Queen Ann Street East. This gentleman, a native of Ireland, is the son of the late Attorney General of that Kingdom, and brother to Lord Sunderlin. He boasts a very high and deserved reputation in the literary world, as an Editor of Shakspeare, and appears to have devoted almost the whole of his time to the study and illustration of his immortal Author. Mr. Malone has written several Prologues and Epilogues, and published, in 1780, a very valuable Supplement, in two octavo volumes, to the edition of Shakspeare's Plays, published, in 1778, by Johnson and Stevens. In 1790, he produced his edition of the Plays and Poems of Shakspeare, in ten crown octavo volumes, which, though inferior in splendour to the elegant edition since published by Mr. Stevens, has obtained its editor most distinguished credit for his assiduity and critical accumen. Two years after the appearance of this work, Mr. Malone published a Letter to Dr. Farmer, relative to some distorted facts, in a pamphlet, entitled, "Cursory Criticisms" on his edition of Shakspeare; and in 1796, an octavo volume, entitled, "An Enquiry into the Authenticity of certain Miscellaneous Papers, &c. attributed to Shakspeare." The latter of these performances had the honour of giving the finishing stroke to the infamous forgery of the Shaksperian MSS. (vide Ireland) and if we extend our indulgence to some extraneous matter, and a certain self-complacent, sarcastic asperity, flowing through the volume, we cannot but pronounce it, a most masterly piece of criticism, and a very learned and entertaining book. By this work Mr. Malone made a pious offering to the Manes of his celebrated author, and gave the public a new proof of his indefatigable diligence and accuracy. Mr. Malone was one of the executors of Sir Joshua Reynolds, and published his works, in two volumes, quarto, in 1797, prefixing an Account of the Life and Writings of the Author.
MALTON, THOMAS.
When a King asked Euclid the mathematician, whether he could not explain his art to him in a more compendious manner? he was answered, that there was no royal way to geometry. Nevertheless the subject of our present article gave his first publication the title of "A Royal Road to Geometry." This useful work appeared, in an octavo volume, in 1775, and was republished, with considerable additions and improvements, in 1793. He has also published "A complete Treatise on Perspective, in Theory and Practice," published in folio, in 1776, and an Essay concerning the Publication of Works on Science and Literature, by subscription. As a writer on subjects of science, Mr. Malton's greatest fault appears to be his prolixity.
MANNERS, LADY.
A native of Lehena, in Ireland, and the lady of Sir William Manners of Bucminster-Park, Leicestershire. Her Ladyship published, in 1793, a most elegantly-printed volume of "Poems," chiefly of the ballad or elegiac kind. These productions cannot lay claim to first-rate excellence in point of genius and poetry▪ yet, the ease, elegance, taste, and charming simplicity, which generally pervade them, will lay almost every reader under a contribution of applause; while the virtuous sentiments and amiable feelings which they discover in the writer, may confirm them, by a fair example, in the rectitude of goodness.
MANNING, REV. JAMES.
Pastor of the united congregation of Dissenters in Exeter. He published, in 1792, "A Sketch of the Life and Writings of the Rev. Micaiah Tow-good," in an octavo volume; and has, since that time, written a Funeral Sermon for the late Dr. Rice Harris, and "Exercises of Piety," translated from the French edition of the original German of Zollikofre. They are all very respectable performances.
MANNING, THOMAS, ESQ.
Late of Caius College, Cambridge, and author of an Introduction to Arithmetic and Algebra, in an octavo volume, published in 1796. The completion of this design was intended in another vovolume; but, we have understood, that, owing to the non-admission of the part already published as a lecture-book in the University, this completion is a matter of great uncertainty. For ourselves, we must own, that the present publication appears to us, from the manner of its execution, to cast no new light or beauty on the branch of science, of which it treats, and to have been an unnecessary undertaking, after the then recent labours of Mr. Wood. But the causes of authorship are many and various!
MANTE, THOMAS, ESQ.
Assistant Engineer during the Siege of the Havanna, and Major of a Brigade in the Campaign of 1764. He published, in 1773, A History of the War in North America, and the Islands of the West Indies, in one volume, quarto; and has also written a Translation of M. Maizeroi's Treatise on the Use of Defensive Arms; a Translation of M. Maizeroi's Tactics; Lucinda, a novel; and the Siege of Aubignè, an historical tale.
MARKHAM, REV. WILLIAM, D.D.
Lord Archbishop of York, Primate of England, and Lord High Almoner to his Majesty. His Grace was, for some years, Master of Westminster School, and had the honour of being preceptor to their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales and Duke of York, from the year 1771 to 1776. His Grace's only publications have been several occasional single Sermons, and a
Concio ad Clerum,
preached in 1769. A Sermon which he published, preached in 1777, before the Society for propagating the Gospel in foreign Parts, excited a good deal attention, and was thought of an intolerant complexion.
MARSH, REV. HERBERT, B.D.
Fellow of St. John's College, Cambridge, and a most diligent biblical Scholar, and ingenious Critic, who has deserved very highly of the learned world, and of the theological Student, in particular. He has resided some years in a German University, and published, in 1793, at the Cambridge press, in three octavo volumes, a Translation into English of the first part of the fourth edition of Michaelis' Introduction to the New Testament, a work which he has executed with most distinguished ability, and which exhibits, in our language, a counterpart of the excellent performance of the German Professor, whose name will be ever uttered with respect, as long as learning is an object of esteem. Mr. Marsh has been, for some time, employed in preparing the remainder of this valuable work for the press. He has also published the Substance of two excellent Discourses, preached before the University of Cambridge, in 1792; the one on the Usefulness and Necessity of Theological Leaning to those who are designed for Holy Orders, the other on the Authenticity of the five Books of Moses. And in 1795, he printed at Leipzig, an octavo volume of Letters to the late Mr. Archdeacon Travis, in confirmation of the opinion that a Greek MS. in the public Library at Cambridge, is one of the seven quoted by R. Stephens at 1 John v. 7; a volume, which, notwithstanding the whimsical appearance of an algebraical theorem, which he has introduced for determining the identity of MSS. and which has drawn a smile from some of his readers, is a new proof of his learning, diligence, and accuracy.
MARSHALL, WILLIAM.
An eminent writer on the subject of Agriculture, than whom none have done more toward diffusing the important knowledge of Rural Oeconomy. He was, according to his own account, born a farmer, bred to traffic, and returned to the plow. His first publication was "Minutes of Agriculture made on a Farm of three hundred Acres of various Soils, near Croydon, in Surry," which appeared in a quarto volume, in 1778. He has, since that time, written Experiments in Agriculture and on the Weather, in a quarto volume; the Rural Oeconomy of Norfolk: the Rural Oeconony of Yorkshire; the Rural Oeconomy of Gloucestershire; the Rural Oeconomy of the Midland Counties; and the Rural Oeconomy of the West of England, each in two volumes, octavo. Beside these works, he has published a Review of Mr. Knight's Poem, "The Landscape," and "Planting and Rural Ornament," in two volumes, octavo.
MARSHALL, JANE.
This lady has written Clarinda Cathcart and Alicia Montagu, novels, of which, the latter was published in 1767; Sir Harry Gaylove, a comedy, printed in Scotland, but never performed; and Letters for the Improvement of Youth.
MARSOM, JOHN.
A Bookseller in Holborn, and a Dissenting Preacher. He has written several Pieces in Answer to Mr. Winchester's Doctrine of limited Punishments in a future State.
MARTIN, REV. JOHN.
A Baptist Preacher, and Minister of a Chapel in Store Street, Bedford Square. Most of his writings have been of a controversial nature, on trifling and temporary subjects. His principal polemic work is a Series of Letters to the Rev. Mr. Horsey, in Defence of Adult Baptism. He has also, beside several occasional single Sermons, and trifling devotional tracts, published "The Conquest of Canaan," Thoughts on Faith, in two parts, a Speech on the Repeal of such Parts of the Test and Corporation Acts, as affect conscientious Dissenters, a volume of Sermons on the Character of Christ, an History of the Sufferings of M. de Marolles, Letters on Animal Magnetism, and his own Life.
MARTIN, JOHN, ESQ.
Attorney of the Courts of England, and Solicitor of the Courts of Scotland. The author of "The Marriage Law of Scotland stated," an octavo pamphlet, published in 1787. Since which time, he has written, an Inquiry into the State of the Legal and Judicial Polity of Scotland; an Account of the Trial of Samuel George Grant, for whom he was Solicitor; a Letter to Lord Lauderdale, to prove that the High Court of Parliament has a Jurisdiction in Cases of Appeal against the Judgements of the Court of Justiciary in Scotland; and an Account of the Proceedings against him on a Charge of High Treason. Mr. Martin was discharged from the King's Bench Prison, on the occasion referred to, in the latter of these publications, by a warrant of Privy Council. His writings display considerable abilities.
MARTYN, REV. THOMAS, B.D. F.R.S.
Of Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, and Professor of Botany in the University, to which situation he was elected in the year 1761. He is one of those patriotic gentlemen who established the Society for the improvement of naval architecture. He has published a Sermon for Addenbrooke's Hospital; an Address to the Inhabitants of the Parish of St. Anne Westminster, upon his arbitrary Dismission from the Curacy; Ecclesiastical Gallantry," a tale on the same subject; a Letter to Dr. Wynne; a Translation from the Italian of vol. I. of the Antiquities of Herculaneum, published in quarto, in 1773, in association with Mr. John Lettice;
Catalogus Horti Botanici Cantabrigiensis
; Elements of Natural History; Letters on the Elements of Botany, from the French of J. J. Rousseau, with additional letters; Botanical Plates illustrative of Linnaeus' System of Vegetables; a Tour through Italy, published in an octavo volume, in 1791, a Dictionary of the Language of Botany, published in an octavo volume, in 1793, and Aranei, or, the Natural History of Spiders, a large quarto volume.
MASERES, FRANCIS, ESQ. F.R.S.
Cursitor Baron of the Court of Exchequer, and formerly Attorney-General of Quebec. He is a very distinguished writer, particularly in the mathematical department. He was educated under Mr. Wooddeson, late of Kingston-upon-Thames, and at Clare Hall, Cambridge. In the year 1752, he had the honour of obtaining, with Dr. Porteus, Bishop of London, the Chancellor's Medals at Cambridge, on their first institution. Baron Maseres' first publication was a Dissertation on the Use of the Negative Sign in Algebra, which was published in quarto, in 1759; and he, soon afterward, wrote "Elements of plain Trigonomety, in an octavo volume. In 1775, he published an Account of the Proceedings of the British, and other Protestant Inhabitants of Quebec, in order to obtain an House of Assembly in that province, an octavo volume; and two years afterward, vol. I. of the Canadian Freeholder, which was completed in three octavo volumes, and consists of three Dialogues between an Englishman and a Frenchman, settled in Canada. The latter of these works is an Inquiry concerning the King's sole legistative Authority, over countries subdued by the British Arms and ceded to the British Crown; and it has been said that the character of the Canadian Freeholder is sunk in that of the English Lawyer and Historian. Baron Maseres has also published an excellent work, in two volumes, quarto, on the Principles of the Doctrine of Life-Annuities; a short Enquiry into the Extent of the Power of Juries, on Trials for criminal Writings; the Moderate Reformer, a pamphlet on the correction of abuses in the Church Establishment; Mr. James Bernoulli's Doctrine of Permutations and Combinations, and some other useful mathematical Tracts, in an octavo volume; and
Scriptores Logarithmici,
in three volumes, quarto, published in 1791-1796, a most valuable work, consisting of several curious Tracts on the Nature and Construction of Logarithms, with others on the Binomial Theorem, and other subjects connected with the Doctrine of Logarithms. The latter of these undertakings, and the manner of its execution, leave us in doubt whether most to applaud the liberality or the knowledge of the editor.
MASKELYNE, REV. NEVIL, D.D. F.R.S.
Astronomer Royal, an appointment which he obtained in the year 1765, and a very celebrated Mathematician and natural Philosopher. He was formerly a Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, and went to Barbadoes, under the appointment of the Board of Longitude, for the purpose of trying Mr. Harrison's marine time-keeper, according to the Act of the 14th of Queen Anne. His first publication was a quarto pamphlet, with a view to the improvement of practical navigation, entitled, "The British Mariner's Guide," published in 1763. Four years after this, he published by order of the Commissioners of Longitude, an Account of Mr. John Harrison's Watch. In 1774, were published, by the President and Council of the Royal Society, at the public expence, his Tables for computing the apparent Places of the fixed Stars, and reducing Observations of the Planets, in a folio volume. Two years after this, he produced the first volume (in folio) of his Astronomical Observations, made at the Royal Observatory at Greenwich from the year 1765, the continuation of which, to within a few years of the present time, has since appeared. This important publication is introduced into the world, in obedience to his Majesty's Command, in the same manner as that last, mentioned. In 1792, Dr. Maskelyne presented the world with the late Mr. Michael Taylor's invaluable Tables of Logarithms. That indefatigable labourer sunk under his task, and died when only five pages of his work remained unfinished, bequeathing the world a most remarkable monument of human industry. Dr. Maskelyne had always encouraged the design, and now took upon himself to finish the work; to which he added a most masterly Introduction, rendering the whole a very complete performance.
MASON, RT. HON. JOHN MONCK.
A Privy Counsellor, and a Member of Parliament in the Kingdom of Ireland. Beside some Prologues and Epilogues, he has written ingenious Comments on the 1779 Edition of Shakspeare's Plays, which were published in an octavo volume, in 1785.
MASON, REV. HENRY COX.
Chaplain to Lord Onslow and a Methodist. He is a son of the late Mr. Mason, a Watchmaker, who wrote Notes upon Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, the Holy War, &c. He has published some single Discourses, and is now engaged in a Commentary on the Bible.
MATHIAS, THOMAS JAMES, ESQ.
Clerk to her Majesty's Treasurer, and a gentleman of most distinguished character as an elegant scholar and a worthy man. He was educated at Eton School, took the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Cambridge, in 1774, and was, for some time, Fellow of Trinity College. His first publication was a quarto pamphlet, in 1781, consisting of Runic Odes, imitated from the Norse Tongue. Two years afterward, he published in a small octavo volume, an Essay on the Evidence External and Internal, relating to the Poems attributed to Thomas Rowley. This performance contains a general view of the whole controversy respecting those poems, and is justly entitled to the character of a candid and comprehensive Essay. We believe that Dr. Glynn, of Cambridge, gave Mr. Mathias some assistance in this work. In these latter days Mr. Mathias has amused himself and the public, with several satirical pieces, which, while the times are peculiarly in need of such effusions, do the highest honour to his wit and talents. It is not without some scruples that we speak on this subject, as his publications of this cast have always been anonymous, and the author has been studiously concealed. Yet when we reflect that in every such instance his exertions have done him the utmost credit, both as a scholar and as a man, and, that it is our duty to report our information, on these occasions, to the public, we trust we may proceed. To his pen, we have little hesitation in ascribing the three following excellent poetical pamphlets, viz. "The Political Dramatist of the House of Commons, in 1795;" a Pair of Epistles to Dr. Randolph and the Earl of Jersey; and the Imperial Epistle from Kien Long to George III; as also a Letter to the Marquis of Buckingham, chiefly on the Subject of the numerous emigrant French Priests, by a Layman. The author of the celebrated satirical poem THE PURSUITS OF LITERATURE,
It has been said that more persons than one were concerned in this publication, and the poetical part has been attributed to the Rev. Mr. Mansell, Public Orator at Cambridge. Upon this we will only remark that he is a very intimate friend of Mr. Mathias. We also refer the reader to a note in page 205 of our first volume.
in four parts, of which the first was published in 1794, remained long unknown. We subjoin this excellent performance to the above list, from a conviction, that, considered in every possible point of view, it cannot but redound most highly to the credit of the writer. The cause of literature has never been supported, in a day of danger and perversion, upon principles more excellent, or with powers better adapted to their object. The author of this Poem may claim the character of a Noble Patriot in Literature, of a man, whose Piety and Orthodoxy, are an Ornament to Human Nature and the Christian Faith; of a Politician, whose sentiments and example are an Honour to the Government and Ministry under which he lives; of a Scholar, whose attainments are of First-Rate Excellence; and of a Satirist, whose keenest arrow is always directed by the hand of a Gentleman. The few false opinions and false judgements which this poem contains are trifling indeed, when compared with its numerous merits. The various and extensive learning exhibited in the Notes, is conveyed in so lively a manner as to delight almost every reader. More pains, however, might, perhaps, with propriety have been taken, in polishing the style of the notes, and we think the ingenious author
After expressing the above sentiments, we hope we may be allowed to refer the author of this poem to the article EDWARD KING, in this work, and likewise to express our surprise that he should confer on Mr. Sulivan's View of Nature, the character of
a work of labour and of general utility, digested from original writers, with judgement, &c.
Could this be because it came from the same shop?
might, as well, have left Mr. Stevens to tell his story of the Peg.
MAURICE, REV. THOMAS, A.M.
Historiographer we believe to the East India Company, and a very learned, ingenious, and diligent Scholar. He was educated at University College, Oxford, afterward became Chaplain to the 97th Regiment, and lived for some years at Woodford, in Essex. He published, in 1779, a quarto volume of "Poems and Miscellaneous Pieces," with a free Translation of the Oedipus Tyrannus of Sophocles. Most of these poems had appeared in print before, separately; "Netherby," the oldest of them, was published in 1776. They possess much merit, but did not obtain their author that credit which his latter writings have acquired him. About a year, previously to this volume, Mr. Maurice had printed a Fast Sermon, which we believe is his only publication in the class of divinity. In 1782, he wrote
Ierne Rediviva,
an ode, inscribed to the Volunteers of Ireland; and, two years afterward, "Westminster Abbey," an elegiac poem, both of which pieces increased his reputation as a poet. In 1789, Mr. Maurice published Panthea, a tragedy, from a story in Xenophon, which did not add greatly to his fame; and relinquishing here the line of authorship, which he had hitherto traced, he has since acquired the greatest eminence and distinction, in another track. This is a circumstance which cannot but appear surprising; for what reader, with all his approbation of Mr. Maurice's abilities as an historian, can help yielding the palm to his poetical talents? In the year 1790, he published a Letter addressed to the Directors of the East India Company, containing proposals for printing a History of the Revolutions of the Empire of Hindostan, from the earliest Ages; and has, since that time, published "Indian Antiquities," in six volumes, octavo (the two first of which appeared in 1793) and the first volume (in quarto) of the History of Hindostan, published in 1795. The former of these works is introductory to and illustrative of the latter. Although it was sanctioned by the approbation of the East India Company and Sir William Jones, it obtained only
a dozen
subscribers in the course of twelve months! At present, however, the merit of the author of these works is well known to the public, and has obtained him a most distinguished reputation. His erudition, diligence, and ingenuity are very remarkable. His greatest fault is, an imagination too florid and poetical for his undertaking, and not sufficiently reducible to method and the power of condensing. In 1795, Mr. Maurice published, in quarto, a beautiful elegiac Poem, sacred to the Memory and Virtues of Sir William Jones, of which it is no mean praise to say, that it is superior to Mr. Hayley's Poem on the same occasion.
MAYO, REV. CHARLES, L.L.B.
Rector of Beching-Stoke and Hewish, in the county of Wilts. He published, in 1793, in a folio volume, "A Chronological History of the European States, with their Discoveries and Settlements, from the Treaty of Nimeguen, in 1678 to the Close of 1792," a useful work.
MEARES, JOHN, ESQ.
An Officer in the Navy, who particularly distinguished himself by his spirited conduct toward the Spaniards, at Nootka Sound. He has published, in a large quarto volume, "Voyages made in the Years 1788 and 1789, from China to the Northwest Coast of America." In this volume he makes some severe reflections on the conduct of Captains Portlock and Dixon. The latter wrote a Reply to these reflections, was answered by Mr. Meares, and replied to his Answer.
MEDLEY, REV. SAMUEL.
A Methodist Preacher at Liverpool. He engaged, in 1776, in a controversy with the Rev. Richard de Courcy, on Baptism, and has also published the Spiritual Merchant, a Sermon, and a volume of Hymns.
MEILAN, REV. MARK ANTHONY.
This gentleman published, in 1771, by way of appeal to the public, his "Dramatic Works," consisting of three tragedies, which had very properly been rejected by the Managers of both Theatres. He has also published an English Grammar, a Translation of Berquin's Friend of Youth, in twelve small volumes, a Translation of Telemachus, and Sermons for Children, in three duodecimo volumes. Most of these are bad, but the last bad indeed.
MELMOTH, WILLIAM, ESQ.
This literary Veteran has been distinguished for more than fifty years, as one of the most elegant scholars and classical writers of his time. Few authors have contributed so much to the improvement of our style, or have exhibited, in their works, such complete models of elegant writing, such specimens of correct choice and perspicuous arrangement of words, and of harmonious construction of periods. Mr. Melmoth is a son of the late eminent Advocate of the same name, who wrote an admirable treatise on the great importance of a Religious Life. He died in 1743, and it is said of him, 'few ever passed a more useful, none a more blameless life.' The first publication of the subject of this article was "The Letters of Sir Thomas Fitzosborne, on several Subjects," in an octavo volume. These admired Letters made their first appearance about the year 1742, and have experienced that favourable reception and general circulation, to which their very sterling merit entitles them. Mr. Melrmoth's elegant Translation of Pliny's Epistles made its first appearance, in two octavo volumes, in 1747, about four years before the Translation by the Earl of Orrery, to which it was justly preferred. In 1753, he published, in three octavo volumes, a Translation of Cicero's Letters to his Friends, with Remarks in which the
patriot character
ofth a celebrated Roman is justly questioned; and, in 1773 and 1777, Translations of Cicero's Cato and Laelius, each in an octavo volume, with Remarks. These finished performances have acquired Mr. Melmoth the greatest reputation possible, as an elegant and accurate scholar. They will probably speak for him while Roman and English eloquence can be united. Yet, when we consider them as specimens of translation, we cannot help thinking, that he is too often led away by the vanity of improving upon his author, that he frequently sacrifices his original to a false refinement and an overspun delicacy of phrase, and lastly, that he has too much of what the Greeks express by the forcible term
. In the year 1794, after a long repose, Mr. Melmoth was constrained to resume his pen, upon the occasion of a very unprovoked attack from Mr. Bryant, in his Treatise on the Truth of the Christian Religion. The grounds of this attack were Mr. Melmoth's remarks in his Translation of Pliny's Letters, respecting Trajan's persecution of the Christians in Bythinia, and he wrote a pamphlet in Answer to Mr. Bryant, in which he vindicated himself with great ability, and proved his point. Two years after this, Mr. Melmoth published, "Memoirs of a late eminent Advocate" (his father), in a thin octavo volume; which is a tribute of filial piety, not less elegant than merited.
MELMOTH, COURTNEY. — See Pratt.
MERRY. ROBERT, ESQ. A.M.
This gentleman is a native of the Metropolis, and son of a late Governor of the Hudson's Bay Company. He was born in the year 1755, was educated at Harrow under the private tuition of Dr. Parr, and became, afterward, a Member of Christ
s College, Cambridge, and of Lincoln's Inn. Upon the death of his father he bought a commission in the Horse-guards, and was, for several years, Adjutant and Lieutenant to the first troop, commanded by Lord Lothian. He afterward quitted this service, and travelled, for some years, on the continent. Mr. Merry made a long stay at Florence, and was elected a Member of the famous Academy Della Crusca. A few years ago, he married the celebrated actress Miss Brunton, who then quitted the stage. During his residence at Florence, Mr. Merry was a principal contributor to the "Florence Miscellany," which was written by a few English of both sexes, who had met by chance at Florence, and was superintended by Mrs. Piozzi. In 1787, he published, in London, "Paulina, or the Russian Daughter," a poetical tale, founded on fact; and in the year following, "Diversity," a poem. He has also published "The Laurel of Liberty," a poem; "Lorenzo," a tragedy, represented at Covent Garden; an Ode for the 14th of July, 1791, which was performed at the Crown and Anchor Tavern; "Fenelon, or the Nuns of Cambray," a serious drama, altered from the French; and "The Pains of Memory," a poem, published in 1796. An Ode on the Recovery of his Majesty, recited by Mrs. Siddons at a Gala given by the Subscribers to Brookes' Club, as well as a comic-opera, entitled, "The Magician no Conjuror," acted four nights in the winter of 1792, are also to be attributed to his pen. On the 29th of June, 1787, Mr. Merry sent a pretty little poem, entitled, the Adieu and Recall to Love, to the World, a newspaper of the day, with the signature Della Crusca. It was answered by a poem, entitled, the Pen, signed Anna Matilda. The correspondence thus begun, was from poetical sympathy kept up, at intervals, for two years. Many new correspondents came forward, but the writers remained long unknown to the public and to one another. Time, at last, discovered Della Crusca and Anna Matilda, to be Mr. Merry and Mrs. Robinson, who had an interview toward the conclusion of the correspondence. In the mean time the poetry, some of which is very pretty, attracted a good deal of notice, and was reprinted, in volumes, under the title of "The Poetry of the World." It has now reached a fourth edition, in two duodecimo volumes, entitled, "The British Album." Mr. Merry's pieces, in this collection, have the greatest claim to distinction of any. His poem, "Diversity" and "Ambitions Vengeance," a tragic-drama, are to be found in these volumes. In speaking of Mr. Merry's pretensions to same, as a poet, we must observe that he has been loudly decried and stigmatised by an elegant satirist of the present day, (vide William Gifford, Esq.) who has said of one of his pieces
The Laurel of Liberty.
that it is distinguished by "Downright nonsense, Downright frigidity, and downright doggerel." We own that his false glitter, his negligence, and his obscurity are frequently highly reprehensible, yet, cannot but allow, that his pretensions to poetical merit are often great and striking, while the spirit of liberty and benevolence which breathes through his writings seems ardent and sincere. His poem, entitled, "The Pains of Memory," has been preferred by many readers, to Mr. Rogers' popular poem "The Pleasures of Memory."
MICHELL, CHARLES, ESQ.
Of Forcett. The author of an octavo volume, published in 1795, entitled "Principles of Legislation," which does him very considerable credit.
MIDDLETON, REV. ERASMUS.
A Methodist Clergyman, who has published a Sermon on the Death of Thomas Jackson; "Biographia Evangelica," in four volumes, octavo, the style of which is peculiarly disagreeable; a Dictionary of Arts and Sciences, which is but an indifferent compilation; and a Sermon preached at the funeral of Mr. W. Binns.
MILES, WILLIAM.
A well-known political Pamphleteer, sufficiently addicted to scurrility. He is supposed to have been, not long ago, a secret agent of the British Government. He has written a Letter to the Prince of Wales, on a second Application to Parliament to discharge Debts, &c. which has been a good deal rend; "The Conduct of France toward Great Britain examined;" a Letter to the Duke of Grafton; a Vindication of that Letter; a Letter to Earl Stanhope; "The Expediency of prescribing Bounds to the Russian Empire;" a Letter to Henry Duncombe, Esq. on the Subject of Mr. Burke's Letter to a noble Lord; and "Authentic Correspondence with M. le Brun," &c.
MILLAR, JOHN. ESQ.
Professor of Civil and Scottish Law, in the University of Glasgow. He published, in 1771, a quarto volume of Observations concerning the Distinction of Ranks in Society; and, in 1787, a very ingenious Historical View of the English Government, in a quarto volume.
MILLER, JOHN.
The author of an Illustration of the Sexual System of Linnaeus, which was first published in twenty folio numbers, at a guinea each, and which obtained the approbation of Linnaeus himself. At the request of many Students in Botany, and particularly or the younger Linnè, he was induced, in 1779, to publish the Plates of this work, reduced to an octavo size. Other engagements intervening, ten years elapsed before his Illustration of the Termini Botanici was ready for publication. The whole constitutes a very valuable work.
MILLER, JAMES, ESQ.
Professor of Chemistry to the College, New-Windsor, Nova Scotia, and Mineralogist General to British America. The author of a very valuable Synopsis of Mineralogy, in thirteen large folio sheets, published in 1794, which procured him the above honours.
MILLER, REV. WILLIAM.
A Dissenting Minister of High Wycomb. He has published "Catholic Baptism examined," "The Paedobaptist Mode of administering the Baptismal Ordinance defended," and a Funeral Sermon for his Father!
MILNE, REV. COLIN, L.L.D.
Rector of both the Churches at Deptford. He is a popular Preacher, and celebrated as a Botanist. In 1770, he published a Botanical Dictionary, in duodecimo, and has, since that time, written "Institutes of Botany," in two parts, quarto; a Supplement to his Botanical Dictionary; and vol. I. (in octavo) of "Indigenous Botany," a most useful book, published in 1793, in association with MR. Alexander Gordon. Dr. Mine has also, beside several single Sermons, published a volume of Sermons, which appeared in 1780. These Discourses are excessively tedious, and the Dr. appears to greater advantage in print, as a cultivator of the flowers of the earth, than of those of rhetoric.
MILNER, REV. JOSEPH, A.M.
Late Master of the Grammar School, at Kingston-upon-Hull, and now Vicar of the High Church in that Borough. He is a classical Scholar of considerable eminence, and has sent forth many men into the world who do him the highest credit as a teacher. He was educated at Catherine Hall, Cambridge, is brother to the present Master of Queen's College, and resigned the above School upon being presented with the Vicarage, in 1797, vacated by the death of the Rev. Mr. Clarke▪ Mr. Milner's first publication Account of Christianity considered; together with some Strictures on Humes' Dialogues concerning Natural Religion," a performance, which, though written with the most laudable intention possible, is, perhaps, too angry and dogmatical to entitle him to much credit. In 1789, he published "Essays on several religious Subjects, chiefly tending to illustrate the Scripture Doctrine of the Influence of the Holy Spirit," in a duodecimo volume. These Essays were chiefly intended as an answer to Mr. Ludlam's Theological Essays. Since that time, he has published two volumes (in octavo) of a History of the Church of Christ. Upon the whole, it is, perhaps, to be lamented in the case of Mr. Milner, that, with abilities and knowledge like his, he should not have been more assiduous in cultivating the character of a well-bred and attractive writer.
MILNER, REV. JOHN, F.A.S.
A Roman Catholic Clergyman, of a private Chapel in Winchester. He published a sensible Discourse on his Majesty's Recovery (1789) in which be has introduced a very elaborate, and truly jesuitical justification of the principles and conduct of modern Catholics. Mr. Milner has also published the Funeral Oration of Louis XVI. at the funeral service performed by the French Clergy of the King's house, Winchester, Inquiry into the Existence and Character of St. George, Patron of England. He is an occasional correspondent with the Gentleman's Magazine, and has been severely reprimanded by the author of "The Pursuits of Literature," for a pamphlet which he wrote, in 1795, entitled. "A Reply to the Report published by the Cisalpine Club on the protestation, &c. &c."
MILNS, WILLIAM.
Member of St. Mary Hall, Oxford, and Master of the City Commercial School, George Yard, Lombard Street. He published, in 1794, in an octavo volume, "The well-bred Scholar," a useful collection of practical Essays, on the best methods of improving the taste and assisting the exertions of youth in their literary pursuits.
MINIFIE.—See Gunning.
MITFORD, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.P. F.R.S.
Lieutenant Colonel of the South Hampshire Militia, and brother to Sir John Mitford, Solicitor General to his Majesty. This gentleman is one of those characters, in the republic of letters, which we contemplate with peculiar satisfaction. He has devoted the leisure of a military life to the cultivation of letters, has served the truest interests of the literary community, by bringing to classic regions fresh accessions of light and certainty, and has always preserved in his writings a manliness of deportment and strength of character, which entitle him to the highest admiration as a citizen of that community. ford, and has bestowed much time and attention on his favourite study of antiquities. His chief work, the History of Greece, is a performance which does him infinite credit. To those who are acquainted with the intricacy of many parts of Grecian History, with the extreme difficulty of collecting the scattered members of it, of detecting the supposititious and doubtful among what is related by inferior or later authors, and of ascertaining and arranging the genuine; and lastly, without the assistance of invention, of forming, from parts so broken and dispersed, a harmonizing whole, he will appear highly to deserve the character of a learned and accurate historian. His History of Greece is not the work of a closet critic, or a monkish philosopher; but owes its existence to a most comprehensive mind and correct judgement, happily blended with extensive knowledge, and an acquaintance with the modes and manners of life. He frequently and his union of characters, soldier, seaman, statesman, scholar, poet, and philosopher; while his just estimation of
his
invaluable guides Thucydides and Xenophon, increases our admiration of the soldier-philosopher who is our own. Much of the earlier part of this valuable work was written in camps and in quarters during the American war. It was first published by single quarto volumes, of which the first appeared in 1784, two years previous to the History by Dr. Gillies (vide that name). At present three of these volumes are published, and the third edition was printed in octavo, each of the original volumes forming two of these. Ten years previous to the first appearance of this work, Mr. Mitford had published, anonymously, an Essay upon to illustrate that of the English Language; and, in 1791, he wrote a pamphlet, entitled, "Considerations on the Opinion stated by the Lords of the Committee of Council, in a Representation to the King, upon the Corn Laws, that Great Britain is unable to produce Corn sufficient for its own Consumption, &c."
In his most distinguished character, as an author, we assert without hesitation of Mr. Mitford, that, the industry with which he has collected his materials from ancient sources, and brought together from distant quarters, whatever might serve to which he discovers in comparing, the various representations given by different authors of the same facts, his perfect originality of thought and expression, the display of general knowledge which he so agreably and judiciously introduces, his comprehension of mind in the arrangement of the whole, his found learning, his strength of judgement, his diligent investigation, all unite in entitling him to the first place among the historians of Greece. It is unfortunate that amid so much perfection there should be found a single blemish. Yet, the style of Mr. Mitford can certainly not be said to possess that grace and polish, which would display to most advantage the many excellencies of his writings. With the generality of readers, the beauties of style are of the highest consideration. Could Mr. Mitford boast this among his other superiorities, few indeed would be the historians who would have greater claims to distinction!
MOIR, REV. JOHN.
A native of Scotland, formerly a Clergyman of the Church of Scotland, and now of the Church of England. He is a writer of considerable ability, but owing to a large family and a small curacy, we believe, he has felt severely the hardships of poverty. He published, in 1776, a duodecimo volume of "Discourses on Practical Subjects;" and in 1784, an octavo volume of "Sermons, on some of the most useful and interesting Subjects in Religion and Life." A History of the Life and public Services of Mr. Fox, and a History of Transactions in India, from 1760, each in an octavo volume, have also been attributed to him. Mr. Moir is, moreover, supposed to have been concerned in some of the Newspapers, and has lately written some single Sermons, and an octavo volume, entitled "Preventive Policy." The latter of these works aims at an humble defence of our whole establishment in every form of property and distinction it involves, and, as its drift is to guard the interests of the opulent, a copy was left at many of the principal houses in the Metropolis, in the hope that some consideration might be deemed due to the labour of the author. There is an affected profundity in many of the reflections of Mr. Moir, but, upon the whole, his style of writing is good, and his talents appear to be very respectable.
MOISES, REV. EDWARD, A.M.
Of Trinity College, Cambridge, and Master of the Royal Grammar School, at Newcastle-upon-Tyne. He published, in 1792, "The Persian Interpreter," in a quarto volume, which is a shameful plagiarism from the excellent Persian Grammar of Sir William Jones.
MONBODDO, LORD.—See Burnet.
MONK, JOHN, ESQ.
Of Bear's Combe near Kingsbridge, Devonshire. Late a Lieutenant of Dragoons, and author of an Agricultural Dictionary, consisting of Extracts from the most celebrated authors and papers, in three volumes, octavo, which is by no means a complete performance.
MONRO, ALEXANDER, ESQ. M.D.
Professor of Medicine, Anatomy, and Surgery in the University of Edinburgh, &c. and a Physician of the highest reputation. He is the son of a celebrated character of the same name, whose "Osteology" is so universally esteemed, and who likewise, formerly, held the above Professorship. In 1781, he published his father's works, in a quarto volume; and two years afterward, "Observations on the Structure and Functions of the Nervous System," in a royal folio volume, illustrated with plates. In 1785, he published "The Structure and Phisiology of Fishes explained, and compared with those of Man and other Animals, in a royal folio volume; and, three years afterward, a Description of all the
Bursae Mucosae
of the Human Body. He has, since that time, written a quarto pamphlet of Experiments on the Nervous System with Opium and Metalline Substances.
MONRO, DONALD, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
A Physician in London, Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, and brother to the subject of the preceeding article. He wrote the Life of the late Dr. Monro, prefixed to the quarto volume of his works, mentioned in our last memoir, and beside several smaller medical Treatises, has written, "Observations on the Means of preserving the Health of Soldiers," in two volumes, octavo, published in 1780; and a Treatise on Medical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, and the Materia Medica, in four octavo volumes.
MONTAGU, MRS.
Of Upper Berkley Street, Portman Square. A lady of considerable literary accomplishments, and whose charity, in bestowing an annual May-day Dinner upon the Chimney Sweepers, is well known. Her maiden name was Robinson, and she was nearly related to the late Primate of Ireland. She has written "An Essay on the Writings and Genius of Shakspeare, compared with the Greek and French dramatic Poets, with some Remarks upon the Misrepresentations of M. de Voltaire," in octavo, the first edition of which was published in 1769, and a second in 1776. This performance has obtained her much applause.
MONTAGU, MATTHEW ROBINSON, ESQ.
This gentleman's original name was Robinson. He is brother to the subject of the preceeding article, and was a Member of the two last Parliaments. Mr. Montagu has written several political Pamphlets, which, notwithstanding their peculiarity of style, do him great credit. Among them are, "Considerations on the Measures carrying on with respect to the British Colonies in North America," published in 1774; "A farther Examination of our American Measures," published two years afterward; "Peace the best Policy," published in 1777; "The Dangerous Situation of England," published in 1786; and "Friendly Remarks on Mr. Pitt's Administration, by a near Observer," published in 1795. His signature, formerly, was M. Robinson, M. Esq.
MONTUCCI, ANTONIO, L.L.D.
A native of Sienna, and a Teacher of Languages. He has published
L'Instruttor giocondo
&c. i.e. the amusing Instructor, or a Key to the Italian Classics; a Version of the Common Prayer, in Italian; Select Pieces of Metastatio, &c. He is supposed to have uncommon knowledge of the Chinese Language.
MOOR, EDWARD, ESQ.
A military Officer, and author of a very entertaining Narrative of the Operations of Captain Little's Detachment, and of the Mahratta Army, commanded by Purseram Bhow, during the Confederacy in India, against the Nawab Tippco Sultan Bahadur, published in a quarto volume, in 1794.
MOORE, JOHN, ESQ. M.D.
This gentleman, whose writings have obtained him a great and well-merited celebrity in the literary world, was formerly travelling-preceptor to the Duke of Hamilton. He published, in 1779, a View of Society and Manners in France, Switzerland, and Germany, in two octavo volumes; a work which was favourably received, and which gained its author no small share of credit. Two years after this, he wrote a View of Society and Manners in Italy, which, as the observations it contains occurred in the same tour, so is it to be considered as a continuation of the above work, in merit, as well as subject. These volumes have seen several editions since their first publication. In 1786, Dr. Moore published an octavo volume of "Medical Sketches;" and, three years afterward, his celebrated novel, entitled, "Zeluco," in two volumes, octavo. Dr. Moore accompanied the Earl of Lauderdale to Paris, in 1792, and was present during the horrid massacre of the 2d of September. Soon after his return to England, he published a Journal during his Residence in France, in two volumes, octavo, which is a most valuable and authentic work; and, in 1795, he produced a View of the Causes and Progress of the French Revolution, in two more octavo volumes. He has, since that time, written Edward, a novel, in two octavo volumes, which, like Zeluco, exhibits various views of human nature, but its characters are more indigenous to our own soil. It is hardly necessary for us to add of so popular a writer as Mr. Moore, that his works discover him to possess great insight into human nature, and that happy union of acute discernment, with a lively imagination, by which he is enabled to describe its intricacies with the greatest pleasantry.
MOORE, REV. CHARLES, A.M.
Rector of Cuxton, and Vicar of Boughton-Blean, Kent; and formerly Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. This gentleman published a Visitation Sermon, in 1785, and, in 1790 "A full Inquiry into the Subject of Suicide," in two volumes, quarto, which is an elaborate, useful, and entertaining work.
MOORE, JAMES, ESQ.
Member of the Surgeons' Company. He published in 1786, in an octavo pamphlet, "A Method of preventing or diminishing Pain, in several Operations of Surgery," i.e. by compressing the nerves going to the limb. In the year 1789, he obtained the prize-medal, given by the Lyceum Medicum Londinense, for an ingenious Dissertation on the Process of Nature, in filling up the Cavities, healing Wounds, &c. in the Human Body. He has also written, an Essay on the Materia Medica, in which the theories of Dr. Cullen, with some opinions of Mr. Hunter and other celebrated writers, are considered in a very sensible manner.
MORE, HANNAH.
Formerly a School-mistress at Bristol, and a lady justly celebrated for her literary accomplishments. The elegant simplicity of her poems, and the pious and virtuous sentiments which they inculcate, come with peculiar grace from a female pen. Her first publication was a pastoral drama, entitled, "The Search of Happiness," which appeared in 1773. It was written at the age of eighteen for some female friends, who played the respective characters in private parties. Though the plot of this little piece is perfectly inartificial, the poetry which it contains does infinite credit to the powers of such early years, and it experienced a very favourable reception. In the following year, Mrs. More published the Inflexible Captive, founded on the story of Regulus, an excellent tragedy considered as a literary composition, and which was acted one night at Bath. Sir Eldred of the Bower, and the Bleeding Rock, two beautiful legendary tales, were published together, in quarto, in 1776. The latter is in the manner of Ovid, and the pretty fiction at the conclusion had its origin from a rock, near the author's residence in Somersetshire, whence a crimson stream flows, occasioned by the red strata over which the water makes its way from the mountains. Mrs. More has also. written an Ode to Dragon, Mr. Garrick's House-Dog; Essays on various Subjects, principally designed for young Ladies, an octavo volume; the tragedy of Percy, founded on the Gabrielle de Vergy of M. de Belloy; the Fatal Falsehood, a tragedy; Sacred Dramas, the subjects of which are taken from the Bible, and Sensibility, a poem; Florio and the Bas Bleu, two poems; Slavery, a poem; and Remarks on the Speech of M. Dupont, made in the National Convention of France, on the Subjects of Religion and public Education. The profits of the last of these publications were to be given to the French emigrant clergy. Each of these performances bears genuine marks of the sterling abilities and proficiency of their author. United, they entitle her to high eminence, indeed, among female writers. Mrs. More wrote the preface to Anne Yearsley's (the Bristol Milk-maid) poems, and is supposed to be concerned in several little pieces distributed among the poor, by a society under the active patronage of the worthy Bishop of London. The useful little tract, "An Estimate of the Religion of the Fashionable World," is also attributed to her.
MORGAN, WILLIAM, ESQ. F.R.S.
Actuary to the Equitable Assurance Office, Black friars. This gentleman is nephew to the late celebrated Dr. Price. His abilities as a calculator are of the fist distinction, and, had he been satisfied with the exercise of those abilities, in the advancement of his fortune, without employing them to calculate the possible calamities of his country, in a day when she stood in need of encouragement rather than increase of apprehension, he had been esteemed, by her better citizens, a more useful and respectable member of her community. He published, in 1779, "The Doctrine of Annuities and Assurances on Lives and Survivorships," in an octavo volume, which is a very ingenious performance. About a year after this, he was engaged in a philosophical controversy with Dr. Adair Crawford on the subject of Animal Heat, and wrote a pamphlet, entitled, "An Examination" of that gentleman's Theory. In 1792, he published a Review of Dr. Price's Writings on the Subject of the Finances of this Kingdom, in an octavo pamphlet, which has been reprinted. Mr. Morgan has, since that time written, "Facts," addressed to the serious attention of the people, respecting the expence of the War and the state of the national Debt; "Additional Facts," on the same subject; and "An Appeal" to the people on the alarming state of the public Finances and public Credit. In these pamphlets Mr. Morgan has made many very questionable positions, and has, throughout, strained every nerve of his ingenuity, and knowledge of public affairs, to become a most terrifying alarmist. We are sorry that his abilities should ever have been prostituted upon so pernicious and unpatriotic a purpose. The "Facts," were extremely well answered in a most gentlemanly pamphlet, by Nicholas Vansittart, Esq. M.P.
MORGAN, REV. G.C.
A Dissenting Clergyman, formerly of Hackney, at present of Southgate. He is brother to the subject of the preceeding article, and keeps an academy for young gentlemen. Mr. Morgan is author of "Lectures on Electricity," in two duodecimo volumes, published in 1794, a work far from creditable to a natural philosopher, who would be thought a superior electrician.
MORGAN, REV. THOMAS.
A Dissenting Minister, and one of the compilers of the new volume of Hymns introduced among the presbyterian congregations. In this selection several of Dr. Watts' beautiful compositions are wretchedly mutilated, and he is made to utter sentiments which he never professed. Mr. Morgan is also supposed, since the death of Dr. Kippis, to superintend the New Annual Register.
MORRES, RIGHT HON. HERVEY, VISCOUNT MOUNTMORRES, IN THE KINGDOM OF IRELAND, F.R.S. M.R.I.A.
This nobleman is an adherent to the popular cause in the Irish House of Lords, and has paid a good deal of attention to the politics of this country. He has shewn a Very commendable zeal in the acquisition of political and historical knowledge. In 1774, his Lordship was an unsuccessful candidate with Lord Viscount Mahon, since Earl Stanhope, for the City of Westminster; and, in 1784, he made several Speeches against the Coalition, in the popular meetings of the electors of that city. He took an active and able part, in the House of Lords of Ireland, in the year 1789, upon the occasion of the address to the Prince of Wales. His Lordship published, in the year 1782, a Speech intended to have been spoken, on the apellant jurisdiction of the House of Lords of Ireland; and, three years afterward, a pamphlet, entitled, "Impartial Reflections upon the Question for Equalizing the Duties upon the Trade between Great Britain and Ireland." He has since written, "The Danger of the Political Balance of Europe," a translation from the French of the King of Sweden, which reached a second edition; the History of the principal Transactions of the Irish Parliament, from 1634 to 1666, in two volumes, octavo; the Letters of Themistocles, in a duodecimo volume, which were published originally in a London Newspaper; the Crisis, a collection of political essays, in an octavo volume, which were originally published in the same manner; an excellent historical Dissertation upon the Origin, Suspension, and Revival of the Judicature and Independency of the Irish Parliament; and impartial Reflections on the present Crisis, published in 1796. A new Version of Herodotus, by his Lordship, has been announced.
MORRIS, CHARLES, ESQ.
An Officer in the Army, highly celebrated for his powers of conviviality. He has written many obscene Songs, which have been collected in an octavo pamphlet. They abound with more exquisite ideas than are often to be found in so small a compass, and entitle their author to the credit of very uncommon abilities. It is to be lamented, however, that talents so shining should not have been directed to nobler purposes, than the perversion of young minds, by the most studied and unblushing obscenity. The pamphlet (as was to be expected) has seen no less than fourteen editions, and could Captain Morris ascertain the real evil he has done to society by such a publication, it might greatly contribute to tinge, with a browner shade, the evening of his life. The highest praise which the celebrated Thomson has received, is, that his works contained
No line which, dying, he could wish to blot.
MORRIS, THOMAS, ESQ.
This gentleman is an elder brother of the subject of the preceeding article, and likewise a Captain in the Army. He published, in 1791, an entertaining volume of Miscellanies, in prose and verse, and, in the year following, a general View of the Life and Writings of the Rev. David Williams, an octavo pamphlet, written in a high strain of panegyric. Since that time he has written, Quashy, or the Coal-black Maid, a poetical tale, bearing reference to the slave trade. Mr. Morris is a member of the Literary Fund, and when Richard III. was acted, by the members, for its benefit, at the Haymarket, he undertook to personate the tyrant.
MORRIS, VALENTINE, ESQ.
Formerly Captain-General, Governor-in-Chief, &c. of the Island of St. Vincent, and its dependencies. Having been reflected upon for certain parts of his conduct in the above capacity, he published in 1787, a well-written Narrative of his official Conduct, in an octavo volume.
MORTIMER, THOMAS, ESQ.
This gentleman was formerly employed in the tuition of young noblemen and gentlemen. He is an author of many years standing. He has written "The British Plutarch;" or, lives of illustrious personages of Great Britain, since the accession of Henry VIII. This work was originally printed in twelve, and since in six, duodecimo volumes. He has also written the Universal Director, an octavo volume; the Student's Pocket Dictionary, a duodecimo volume; Every Man his own Broker, a duodecimo volume; the Elements of Commerce, Politics, and Finances, a quarto volume; and a Translation of Neckar on the Finances of France, which was published under the patronage of the Marquis of Lansdown.
MORTON, THOMAS, ESQ.
A dramatic writer, peculiarly adapted for the age in which he lives. He is a native of Durham, was a cotemporary with Mr. Holman at Soho School, and was designed for the Law. With this view he was entered at Lincoln's Inn, but has never been called to the bar. His maiden-offering to the stage, was a comic Song in Mr. Reynolds' comedy of Notoriety. He has, since that time, written Columbus, an historical play; the Children in the Wood, a farce; Zorinski; the Way to get Married; and a Cure for the Heart Ache, comedies. The first of these pieces was published in 1792. It is a queer compound, and was vehemently accused, upon its first appearance, by Mr. Thelwall, as a shameful plagiarism from an historical opera, entitled, "The Incas, or the Peruvian Virgin," which he had offered, without success, to Mr. Harris, nine months previously. Zorinski has also been accused as a plagiarism from Brooke's Gustavus Vasa. Mr. Morton's "Cure for the Heart Ache," is, in our opinion, the best of his dramatic pieces. They have, many of them, experienced considerable favour from the public, and have raised their author to the character of a very successful modern play-writer. As to their
absolute
merit, however, we must observe, that, although they have been approved in an age, in which dramatic composition is at a most melancholy ebb; in which our plays wear no longer the stamp of real life, neither does their colouring shew the breathing vivacity of original observation; in which the strongest effort of dramatic satire is, to make an actor who is endowed with particular talents, laugh before his audience at a reigning eccentricity, and not, as formerly, personate the character to which it is peculiar; and in which an eternal repitition of some contemptible vulgarity, is to supply the places of wit and brilliancy: yet, their existence, we must hope, is eminently precarious; for should a tolerable taste ever again favour a British audience, posterity shall with difficulty credit, that such plays were
heard,
and, with still greater difficulty, that they were applauded.
MOSELEY, WALTER MICHAEL, ESQ.
The author of a very agreable "Essay on Archery," describing the practice of that art in all ages and nations, which he published, in an octavo volume, in 1792, a time when archery was the whim of the day.
MOSELEY, BENJAMIN, ESQ. M.D.
Physician to Chelsea Hospital, Member of the College of Physicians, London, and of several foreign Societies. This gentleman practised, some time, as surgeon, at Kingston in Jamaica. He wrote, in 1781, "Observations on the Dysentery of the West Indies." His next production was a Treatise concerning the Properties and Effects of Coffee, which was first published, in 1785, and has seen five editions. He has also written a Treatise on tropical Diseases, and on the Climate of the West Indies, published in an octavo volume, in 1787. All his publications are highly respectable in point of merit.
MOSER, JOSEPH, ESQ.
A Justice of the Peace for the City of West-minster. He published, in 1794, "Turkish Tales," in two duodecimo volumes; and has also written, "Anecdotes of Richard Brothers;" Lucifer and Mammon; the Adventures of Timothy Twig, in the manner of the Bath Guide; the Meal-Tub Plot, or Remarks on the Powder Tax; Somerset House, a vision; Reflections on Profane and Judicial Swearing; and the Hermit of Caucasus, an oriental romance. Mr. Moser has also been a frequent contributor to the European Magazine. His satirical pieces possess a good deal of humour, and he is, upon the whole, a very entertaining writer.
MOSS, WILLIAM, ESQ.
Surgeon to the Liverpool Lying-in Charity. He published, in 1781, a useful Essay on the Management, Nursing, and Diseases of Children from the Birth, in an octavo volume, which has lately reached a second edition. He also published, in 1784, "A familiar medical Survey of Liverpool," in a duodecimo volume, which did not add to his reputation as an author.
MOUNTMORRES, VISCOUNT.—See Morres.
MULSO, THOMAS, ESQ.
Brother to Mrs. Chapone, and author of "Calistus, or the Man of Fashion and Sophronius, or the Country Gentleman," three most excellent dialogues, published in an octavo volume, in 1768.
MURPHY, ARTHUR, ESQ.
Barrister at Law, and a gentleman who has long been highly and justly esteemed as an elegant Scholar. He was the intimate friend of Dr. Samuel Johnson, many years previous to his death, and has done real service to the character and memory of that celebrated genius, by becoming the editor of his works and his biographer. He has also been honoured with the intimate friendship of Mr. Garrick, Sir Francis Blake Delaval, and Mr. Foote. Mr. Murphy was warmly engaged, at the commencement of the present reign, in the party of the Earl of Bute, and was, upon that account, exposed to the ridicule of Wilkes and Churchill. Early in life he made an attempt upon the stage, and is severely satirised in the Rosciad, particularly for his ill-success in the character of Othello. As an author, Mr. Murphy made his first appearance in the Gray's-Inn Journal, a periodical paper, begun in 1752, and which was continued for two years. This paper contains many ingenious essays, which are collected, in two octavo volumes, in the edition of his works, and was the origin of Mr. Murphy's acquaintance with Dr. Johnson. For, being at a friend's house in the country, and not disposed to lose pleasure for business, he took up a French
Journal Literaire,
and translating something he liked, sent it to his bookseller. Time discovered that he had translated from the French, a Rambler, which had been taken from the English without acknowledgement; and his subsequent apology to Dr. Johnson, gave birth to a lasting friendship. Mr. Murphy's most numerous pieces, however, are in the dramatic line of composition. He began with producing three farces, in 1756, viz. the Apprentice, the Spouter, and the Englishman from Paris. The last of these pieces was only acted one night, and has never reached the press. He has, since that time, written for the stage, the Upholsterer, a farce; the Orphan of China, a tragedy, translated from Voltaire; the Desert Island, a dramatic tale; the Way to Keep Him, and All in the Wrong, comedies; the Old Maid, and the Citizen, farces; No Man's Enemy but his Own, and the School for Guardians, comedies: Zenobia, the Grecian Daughter, and Alzuma, tragedies, of which the first is translated from Crebillon; News from Parnassus, a prelude; Know your Own Mind, and the Choice, comedies; and Three Weeks after Marriage, a farce. These pieces were printed separately at the time of their first appearance, and have since been collected in the edition of Mr. Murphy's works, in seven octavo volumes, published in 1786. They have, many of them, considerable pretensions to merit. The most distinguished are, probably, the Grecian Daughter, and Three Weeks after Marriage; which last, had been most capriciously condemned under its first title, viz. "What we must All Come To." In the above-mentioned edition of his works is also to be found the Rival Sisters, a tragedy, which Mr. Murphy never offered to the stage; and some smaller Poems, a few of which had been published separately. Some elegant Translations from the English, into Latin verse, which are given in this edition do the highest honour to Mr. Murphy's talents; among them, the translation of Gray's Elegy is eminently beautiful. The first specimen of his skill at biographical writing was a copious and most entertaining Essay on the Life and Genius of Henry Fielding, prefixed to the edition of that author's works, which was published in 1762. About five years afterward, he published in a duodecimo volume, a most excellent Translation of Marmontel's Belisarius. Neither of these productions are to be found in the seven-volume edition of Mr. Murphy's works. His writings since the publication of that edition have been, "Seventeen Hundred and Ninety-one," a poem, in imitation of the thirteenth Satire of Juvenal, of which Johnson, after giving us his noble imitations of the third and tenth Satires, said he wished
this
Satire also was done; an Essay on the Life and Genius of Dr. Johnson, published in an octavo volume, in 1792, and prefixed to Mr. Murphy's edition of Dr. Johnson's Works, in twelve volumes, octavo; and a Translation of the Works of Tacitus, published in 1793, in four quarto volumes.
As the Biographer of Dr. Johnson, we feel little hesitation in giving Mr. Murphy the first place among the many who have aspired to that character. His short Essay is the production of a writer who has duly weighed, and rightly conceived, that judicious uniformity of colouring, which, while it gratifies the reader's curiosity, never fails to hold, in its just light, the object which it represents; and, while we have been disgusted with the impertinent prattle which, by some writers, has been so freely expended upon this virtuous and wise, though partial and austere character, we find, in this Essay, a manliness and propriety of conduct, which can always keep up in our minds an interest in his behalf, without ever forfeiting the dignity of its object. His opinions upon the writings of his author are highly judicious, and most honourable to his critical talents, and his edition of Dr. Johnson's Works, clearly entitles him to the same place among the Editors of that great character, which we have given him among his biographers. As a Translator of Tacitus, Mr. Murphy will find most favour from those who are most acquainted with the peril of his situation. The celebrated Mr. Gray, in one of his Letters, declares that he found himself, after making an attempt, unequal to the task of giving Tacitus a becoming dress in our language. A better judge than Mr. Gray of such an undertaking, will not easily be found. We are sorry that we can say nothing in praise of Mr. Murphy's laborious work. The freedom of his translation, appears to us, the leading circumstance against his success. But, when we add, that, notwithstanding every licence of this kind, the English work he has afforded us, is far from an elegant composition; can we say that he has kept any measures with justice, in the execution of his task? The merit, however, of his original writings, will supersede every unfavourable impression of an unfortunate attempt, and gain his writings a lasting distinction among the works of taste. It is said that he has been for some time engaged in writing the Life of his friend Foote. Few are so equal to the task of doing justice to the English Aristophanes.
MURPHY, JAMES.
An Architect of most distinguished ingenuity, who has published excellent Designs of the Church and Royal Monastery of Batalha in Estramadura, Portugal, in five imperial folio numbers, of which the first appeared in 1792; and a quarto volume of most entertaining Travels in Portugal, published in 1795.
N
NAPLETON, REV. JOHN, D.D.
CANON Residentiary of Hereford, Chaplain to the Bishop of Hereford, and late Fellow of Brazen-Nose College, Oxford. This gentleman has published a Charity Sermon, preached at Hereford, in 1789; and "Advice to a Student in the University, concerning the Qualifications and Duties of a Minister of the Gospel, in the Church of England," published in an octavo volume, in 1795, and most excellently adapted to its object.
NARES, REV. ROBERT, A.M.
Chaplain to his Royal Highness the Duke of York, Assistant Preacher to the Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn, and a gentleman of distinguished worth, learning, and talents. He was educated at Westminster School, and Christ-Church College, Oxford. His first publication was a most ingenious and learned Essay on the Demon or Devination of Socrates, published in an octavo pamphlet, in 1782. Two years after this, he published "Elements of Orthoepy," in an octavo volume, a work of great judgement and study, singularly acceptable to the lovers of philology. Mr. Nares next wrote, a beautiful little duodecimo volume of Remarks on the Ballad of Cupid and Psyche, which was published in 1788. Since that time, he has written "Principles of Government, deduced from Reason, supported by English Experience, and opposed to French Errors," an octavo pamphlet, published in 1792; "Man's best Right," a pamphlet, published the following year; and an octavo volume of "Discourses," preached before the Hon. Society of Lincoln's Inn, published in 1794. It is said, that this learned and ingenious gentleman has a principal share in the conduct of the British Critic.
NASH, REV. TREADWAY, D.D.
Rector of St. Peter's in Droitwich, and owner of Bevereye, Worcestershire. This gentleman, with an industrious and patriotic spirit which does him infinite honour, after proposing to the Society of Antiquaries, to undertake the History and Antiquities of Worcestershire, and offering without effect, beside other assistance, to open a subscription for that purpose with three or four hundred pounds, at length, undertook the laborious and expensive task himself. In 1781, he published, vol. I. (in folio) of his valuable "Collections for the History of Worcestershire;" and completed the work with another volume, in the year following. Dr. Nash has also edited a superb edition of Butler's Hudibras, with Notes, in three quarto volumes, published in 1793.
NASMITH, REV. JAMES, A.M.
Rector of Leverington, and formerly Fellow of Corpus-Christi College, Cambridge. He published in 1779,
Itineraria Symonis Simeonis, et Willelmi de Worcestre,
from MSS. in the library of the above Society, in an octavo volume, and in 1787, a new edition of Tanner's
Notitia Monastica,
in folio. Beside these works, he lately printed an Assize Sermon.
NEVE, REV. TIMOTHY, D.D.
Lady Margaret's Professor in Divinity, in the University of Oxford. This gentleman published, in 1765, an octavo volume of Animadversions on Mr. Phillips' History of the Life of Cardinal Pole. He has also printed an Act Sermon, and a volume of Sermons, which were preached at Bampton's Lecture, in 1781.
NEWCOME, REV. WILLIAM, D.D.M.R.I.A.
Archbishop of Armagh, and Primate of all Ireland. His Grace has been Bishop of Ossory, and Bishop of Waterford, in the above kingdom, and is well known to the friends of sacred criticism by his learned and well-directed labours. The first of these was an Harmony of the Gospels, published in a folio volume, in 1778, a work, not less eminent for its liberality than its erudition. Two years after this, his Grace published a duodecimo volume, entitled, "The Duration of our Lord's Ministry particularly considered," in reply to a Letter from Dr. Priestley on that subject, prefixed to his English Harmony of the Evangelists. He was engaged, upon this occasion, in a liberal controversy with Dr. Priestley, on the above subject. Since that time his Grace has written "Observations on our Lord's Conduct," in a quarto volume, published in 1782, and which was reprinted in octavo, in 1795; an Attempt toward an improved Version, &c. of the twelve Minor Prophets, a quarto volume, published in 1785; an Attempt toward an improved Version, &c. of Ezekiel; a Review of the chief Difficulties in the Gospel History, relating to our Lord's Resurrection, a quarto pamphlet, intended to retract some errors in the Greek Harmony; and an historical View of the English Biblical Translations, &c. an octavo volume.
NEWCOME, REV. PETER.
Rector of Shenly, Herts. and author of the History of the ancient and royal Foundation, called the Abbey of St. Alban, in the County of Hertford, in two quarto volumes, of which the first was published in 1793.
NEWMAN, REV. HENRY CHARLES CHRISTIAN.
A German by birth, and a Clergyman of the Church of England. He was formerly of Trinity College, Cambridge, and has published a Sermon preached twice, in 1780, for the benefit of the Humane Society; a Panegyric of Frederick III. King of Prussia, translated from the French of M. Laureau; and "The Love of our Country," a poem, the Dedication to which contains a parallel between the characters of Jesus Christ and the Duchess of Devonshire!!!
NEWTE, THOMAS, ESQ.
This gentleman published, in 1788, in an octavo volume, "A Tour in England and Scotland, by an English Gentleman," which was reprinted with great additions, in quarto, in 1791, with the author's name, and entitled, "Prospects and Observations, on a Tour in England and Scotland, Natural Oeconomical and Literary;" it is a very entertaining work.
NEWTON, REV. JOHN.
A Methodistical Clergyman, Rector of St. Mary Woolnoth, Lombard Street. He was originally a Sailor, but was converted by a great storm; of which he has given an account, in a Series of Letters addressed to the Rev. Mr. Haweis, published in a duodecimo volume. His first publication was a volume of Sermons, preached at his former C
racy of Olney, in Buckinghamshire, and printed in 1767. He has also published Olney Hymns; a Review of Ecclesiastical History, in an octavo volume; a Fast Sermon; Omicron's Letters; Cardiphonia, or the Utterance of the Heart, in two volumes, duodecimo; Apologia, a Vindication of the Church of England, which was answered by the late Dr. Mayo; a Monument to the Memory of Eliza Cunningham; fifty expository Discourses on the Scriptural Passages which form the subject of Handel's Messiah, in two octavo volumes; a Sermon on the King's Recovery; Thoughts on the Slave Trade, an octavo pamphlet; a Sermon preached before the Book Society; and Letters to a Wife, in two volumes, duodecimo.
NEWTON, REV. T.M.A.
Fellow and Tutor of Jesus College, Cambridge, and a character of singular estimation as an amiable man. He published, in 1794, a short Treatise on the Conic Sections. In this little work the three curves are derived from a general description on a plane, and the elegance and neatness, of Mr. Newton's. demonstrations are worthy the hand of a master and an academic, trained in a school, which has been justly celebrated for giving, grace to the abstruseness of science.
NICHOLS, JOHN, F.S.A. EDINGB. AND PERTH.
A celebrated Printer, and Deputy of the Ward of Farringdon-Without. He is a most indefatigable Antiquary; but is, perhaps, more to be commended for his industry in collecting materials, than for his judgement in discriminating their value. His publications have been, a Collection of Poems with biographical and historical Notes, in eight small octavo volumes, of which the first four were published in 1780; Bibliotheca Topographica Britannica, in eight volumes, quarto, published in numbers, of which the first appeared in 1780; Biographical Anecdotes of Hogarth, in an octavo volume; biographical and literary Anecdotes of William Bowyer, the celebrated Printer (to whom Mr. Nichols had been apprentice, partner, and successor), in a quarto volume; the Progresses and public Processions of Queen Elizabeth, in two volumes, quarto; and the History and Antiquities of the County of Leicester, to be completed in four volumes, folio, but of which a part only has yet been published. Mr. Nichols was also the editor of Bishop Atterbury's miscellaneous Correspondences, and of the familiar Correspondence of Sir Richard Steele. He is the present conductor of the Gentleman's Magazine.
NICHOLSON, WILLIAM, F.R.S.
A distinguished writer on the subjects of natural philosophy and chemistry. He published, in 1782, an Introduction to Natural Philosophy, in two octavo volumes, a work of the popular kind. Since that time, he has published, a Translation of M. de Fourcroy's Elements of Natural History and Chemistry; a Supplement to that Work; "The first Principles of Chemistry," in an octavo volume; "Elements of Chemistry," translated from the French of M. Chaptal, in three volumes, octavo; a Dictionary of Chemistry, in two volumes, quarto; and a Journal of Natural Philosophy, Chemistry, and the Arts, a periodical publication. We believe Mr. Nicholson was also the editor of the Count de Benyowsky's Memoirs, in English.
NICHOLSON, GEORGE.
This gentleman published, in 1788, four select Evangelical Discourses, and has, since that time, written a Letter to Dr. Priestley, and Essays on the most essential Theological Subjects contained in the Works of Baron Swedenborg.
NISBET, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D.
Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh, and author of a Treatise on Venereal Diseases, published in 1787; the Clinical Guide, a duodecimo volume, which has reached a second edition; and a Treatise on Scrophula and Cancer; both which last works have been published since the above date.
NISBETT, REV. N.M.A.
The author of an Illustration of various important Passages in the Epistles of the New Testament, in an octavo volume, which has been favourably received. He has also published, Observations on the miraculous Conception of our Saviour; "The Scripture Doctrine concerning the Coming of Christ unfolded;" and a Fast Sermon, preached in March, 1797. These writings display considerable merit, and entitle their author to the character of a candid and intelligent critic on scripture.
NOBLE, REV. MARK, F.A.S.L.E.
Rector of Barming in Kent, and domestic Chaplain to the Earl of Leicester. This gentleman is an Antiquarian of some distinction. He was formerly Rector of Baddesly-Clinton, and Vicar of Packwood, in Warwickshire. His first publication was a quarto volume, containing, two Dissertations on the Mint and Coins of the Episcopal Palatines of Durham, which appeared in 1780. He has, since that time, written, a Genealogical History of the Royal Families of Europe, in a duodecimo volume; Memoirs of the Protectorate House of Cromwell, in two octavo volumes; and Memoirs of the illustrious House of Medici, in an octavo volume.
NOLAN, MICHAEL, ESQ.
Of Lincoln's Inn, Barrister at Law. This gentleman published in 1793, an octavo volume of faithful and clear Reports of Cases, relating to the Duty and Office of a Justice of Peace, from Michaelmas Term, 1791, to the end of Trinity Term, 1792; and, two years afterward, the third edition of Sir John Strange's Reports, in three royal octavo volumes, which contains some most valuable notes, in italics, supposed to have been given to the editor by Lord Kenyon.
NORTHMORE, THOMAS, ESQ. M.A. F.A.S.
A gentleman of fortune, and of distinction as a scho
ar. He was educated, we believe, under the tuition of Mr. Gilbert Wakefield. In 1792, he edited the Poem of Tryphiodorus on the taking of Troy, to which he added notes, chiefly philological. Since that time Mr. Northmore has published, a Translation of Plutarch
s Treatise upon the Distinction between a Friend and Flatterer, and has intimated a design of publishing the Original; "A Triplet of Inventions," viz. a nocturnal telegraph, a pasigraphy by means of numbers, and a new anatomical nomenclature; and also (we believe) some anonymous publications.
NOWELL, REV. THOMAS, D.D.
Principal of St. Mary Hall, and Regius Professor of Modern History in the University of Oxford. He was principally concerned in the expulsion of six Students from Oxford in the year 1768, and published an Answer to the Pietas Oxoniensis of Sir Richard Hill. He has also printed a Sermon preached before the Commons.
O
O'BRYEN, DENNIS, ESQ.
THIS gentleman is a native of Ireland, was bred a Surgeon, and is a friend of Messrs. Fox and Sheridan. Of the former of these celebrated characters, he is a warm partisan. He brought out a comedy at the Haymarket, in 1783, entitled, "A Friend in Need," which was very well received, and occasioned a newspaper controversy between him and Mr. Colman. In 1788, Mr. O'Bryen published some pretty "Lines written at Twickenham," in a quarto shilling-pamphlet. He has also written an ironical pamphlet of considerable merit. entitled, a Defence of the Earl of Shelburnn, which was extremely well received; some Fugitive Pieces in defence of Mr. Fox's Party; several occasional Political Pamphlets; and lately, upon the publication of Mr. Burke's Thoughts on a Regicide Peace, a pamphlet, entitled, Utrum Horum? the Government; or, the Country. The latter of these performances was very generally read, and is one of the best pamphlets which have been produced in the course of the present War.
O'CONNOR, ARTHUR, ESQ.
A gentleman of fortune and family in the kingdom of Ireland, and a warm partisan of democracy. He published, in 1795, a very well-written Letter to the Earl of Carlisle, occasioned by his Lordship's Reply to Earl Fitzwilliam's
Two Letters,
in which the administration of the late Lord-Lieutenant is ably defended. He also published an inflammatory Address to the Inhabitants of Belfast, at the very time when they were threatened with an invasion from the French. He was apprehended and committed a close prisoner, on a suspicion of high treason.
OGILVIE, REV. JOHN, D.D. F.R.S.E.
A native of Scotland. His first publication was the Day of judgement, a poem, which has been much admired, and which reached an improved edition, in the year 1758. He has written several poems since that time, which appeared singly, and were collected in two octavo volumes, in 1769 Rona, a poem, is his only poetical production since this collection was made. Perhaps, the best of these pieces are, "The Day of Judgement" and "Providence," an allegorical poem. Upon the whole, they cannot be said to entitle their author to great distinction as a poet. Dr. Ogilvie's remaining works have been, a duodecimo volume of Sermons, published in 1766; philosophical and critical Observations on Composition, in two octavo volumes, published in 1774; an Enquiry into the Causes of the Infidelity and Scepticism of the Times, published in an octavo volume, in 1783; and the Theology of Plato compared with the Principles of the Oriental and Grecian Philosophers, published in an octavo volume, in 1793. The Essay last mentioned was written for the Transactions of the Edinburgh Royal Society; but a regulation having passed, excluding all disqu
stions of theology from their records, and the Essay having received the approbation of that body, it was presented, separately, to the public.
OGILVIE, REV. JAMES, D.D.
Chaplain to Lord Forbes, Curate of Egham, and, formerly, Rector of Westover Parish in Virginia. He published a volume of respectable Sermons, in 1787.
O'HALLORAN, SYLVESTER, ESQ.
A native of Ireland, and a Surgeon by profession. He published, in 1752, a Treatise of the Glaucoma, or Cataract, in an octavo volume, and has, since that time, written a Treatise on Gangrene and Sphacelus, in an octavo volume; an Introduction to the Study of the History and Antiquities of Ireland, in a quarto volume; and a general History of Ireland, in two quarto volumes, published in 1778.
O'HARA, KANE.
The author of the following farces, viz. Midas; the Golden Pippin; the Two Misers; April Day; and Tom Thumb, altered from Fielding.
O'KEEFE, JOHN, ESQ.
A well-known Dramatic Writer, who has had the misfortune to be blind for some years. He is a native of Ireland, was originally designed for a painter, and was, for some time, a performer upon the Dublin Theatre. Before he came to England, he produced, about 1767, at Smock-Alley Theatre, a farce, entitled, "The She-Gallant," which was afterward altered for Covent Garden Theatre, under the title of the Positive Man. His second piece was Tony Lumpkin in Town, a farce, first acted at Dublin, and brought out at the Haymarket, in 1778. The chronological list of his numerous subsequent pieces, produced at the London Theatres, is as follows, viz. the Son in Law, a farce; the Dead Alive, a farce, from a story in the Arabian Nights; the Agreeable Surprise, a farce; the Banditti, a comic opera; the Positive Man, a farce; the Castle of Andalusia, altered from the Banditti; Lord Mayor's Day, a speaking Pantomine; the Maid the Mistress, a burletta, from the Italian of La Serva Padrona; the Sham-rock, a comic opera; the Young Quaker, a comedy, one of the principal circumstances in which was taken from Smollet's Count Fathom; the Birth Day, or the Prince of Arragon; the Poor Soldier, a comic opera, altered from the Sham-rock; Friar Bacon, a pantomine; Peeping Tom, a musical farce; Fontainbleau, a comic opera; the Blacksmith of Antwerp, a farce; a Beggar on Horseback, a dramatic proverb; Omai, a pantomine; Love in a Camp, a comic opera; the Siege of Curzola, a comic opera; the Man-Milliner, a farce; the Farmer, a farce; Tantararara, a farce, from the French; the Prisoner at Large, a farce; a Key to the Lock, a farce; the Highland Reel, a comic romance; the Czar, a comic open; the Little Hunch-Back, a farce; Modern Antiques, a farce; Wild Oats, a comedy; Sprigs of Laurel, a comic opera; the London Hermit, a comedy; the World in a Village, a comedy; Life's Vagaries, a comedy; the Irish Mimic, a musical farce; and the Doldrum, a farce. Some of these pieces have been withdrawn from the stage, and many of them have continued favourites with the public. They have all reached the press except the Son in Law; and, with a poems, entitled, "Oatlands," which was printed in 1795, constitute the list of Mr. O'Keefe's publications. As a dramatic writer, this gentleman has, perhaps, for some years, crossed the meridian of his glory, His plays are, for the most part, characterised by broad humour, without purity of diction or wit of dialogue; and by a neglect of plot, probability, and, often, common-sense. He has, perhaps, contributed his share to the introduction of that vitiated taste, in dramatic composition, which, at present, so lamentably prevails. He has contrived, however, to please many, and he who pleases many must have merit.
O'LEARY, REV. ARTHUR.
A Roman Catholic Clergyman of the kingdom of Ireland. He has been distinguished as a friend to freedom, liberality, and toleration▪ and was highly complimented, upon this account, in their public speeches, by Messrs. Grattan, Flood, and other celebrated Members of the Irish Parliament. His publications have been several Addresses to the Catholics of Ireland; Remarks on Mr. Wesley's Defence of the Protestant Association; a Defence of his Conduct in the Affair of the Insurrection in Munster, in 1787; a Review of the important Controversy between Dr. Carrol, and the Rev. Messrs. Wharton and Hawkins; and a Fast Sermon preached at St. Patrick's Chapel, Soho, March 8th, 1797. A collection has been made of his miscellaneous tracts, in one volume. The style of Mr. O'Leary is voluble, bold, and figurative; but it is deficient in grace, manliness, perspicuity, and, sometimes, grammar. In his controversy with John Wesley he is generally thought to have been successful.
ORME, ——, ESQ.
Formerly one of the Servants of the East India Company, and author of a much admired History of the Military Transactions of the British Nation in Hindostan, from the year 1745, in two volumes, quarto; the first of which was published in 1763, and the second in 1778. To these he added, in 1782, Historical Fragments of the Mogul Empire, in a duodecimo volume.
OSWALD, REV. THOMAS, D.D.
A Clergyman of the Church of Scotland. He has written an Appeal to Common Sense in Behalf of Religion, in two volumes, octavo, the first of which was published in 1766, and the second in 1772. This Appeal, which is in favour of the celebrated doctrine of Common Sense, as it bad been promulgated by himself, Dr Thomas Reid, and Dr. James Beattie, was treated with great severity by Dr. Priestley, in an Answer to the three Scotish Doctors. Dr. Oswald has also published two Sermons on the Death of the Rev. Robert Lawson.
OUSELEY, WILLIAM, ESQ.
This gentleman, a Major in the Army, published, in 1795, a quarto volume, entitled, "Persian Miscellanies." The leading object of this work is to facilitate the reading of Persian MSS▪ by familiarizing a variety of specimens, engraven after different hand-writings, wherein the more usual variations and imperfections of form, to which the several characters are liable, and the different contractions which the scribes have found it convenient to adopt, repeatedly occur. It abounds, with very curious, pleasing, and learned information. Major Ousely has also published, Nos. I. and II. of "Oriental Collections," in quarto, a miscellaneous publication, intended to promote and facilitate the study of Oriental Literature. Four numbers of this work are to appear annually, if the plan shall be approved of.
OWEN, WILLIAM, F.S.A.
This gentleman was one of the editors of BARDDONIAETH DAFYDD AB GWILYM, published in an octavo volume, in 1792. He has also published the Heroic Elegies and other Pieces of Llywarc Hen, Prince of the Cumbrian Britons, with a literal Translation, in an octavo volume; and a valuable Welsh and English Dictionary, in three parts, octavo.
OWEN, REV. JOHN, A.M.
Late Fellow of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. He published, in 1794, a political pamphlet, entitled, the Retrospect; and has also published a few occasional single Sermons, and two entertaining, and well-written, octavo volumes of Travels into different Parts of Europe. As a writer Mr. Owen is entitled to the credit of considerable elegance and taste, but he has likewise, unfortunately, an unseemly tinge of affectation.
P
PADMAN, J. ESQ.
A CLERK in the Bank, and author of "A Layman's Protest against Paine's Age of Reason."
PAINE,
The name he inherited from his family is Pain, which he bore when he first appeared in America. His reason for adding the
e
final always afterward, is left to the penetration of the reader.
THOMAS.
This notorious character was born in 1737, at Thetford in Norfolk. His father was a stay-maker, he was himself brought up to that profession, and exercised it during his youth, at London, Dover, and Sandwich. He afterward turned Exciseman and Grocer, at Lewes in Sussex; and, upon the occasion of an election at Shoreham, in 1771, the poets of Lewes being called upon, by the candidate of fairest pretensions, to furnish an election song, Paine entered the lists, obtained the laurel and was presented with three guineas. This, we believe, was his first public appearance as an author. in the year following, a design having been formed by the excise officers throughout the kingdom to apply to Parliament for a consideration of the state of their salaries, he wrote
their case,
in an octavo pamphlet of twenty-one pages, which was republished in London a few years ago. Having been discovered, as a grocer to deal in exciseable articles, and as a grinder of snuff to buy smuggled tobacco, he was dismissed from the excise in 1774, after twelve years service. In the mean time, Paine, by his
Case of the Excisemen,
and by his plausibility of manner, had attracted the notice of the late Mr. George Lewis Scott, commissioner of excise. This gentleman recommended him strongly to the celebrated Dr. Benjamin Franklin, as a person who could be serviceable, at that time, in America; and Paine set sail for Pennsylvania, in September, 1774, upon a letter of introduction to Governor Franklin of the Jerseys. It was two years after this, that he attracted great notice by the publication of his pamphlet, entitled, "Common Sense." Designed as this production was, to ridicule and expose the absurdity of monarchical Government, it proved highly palatable to the republican taste of the United States. It has been called one of those few literary performances, which have been known to produce a great and sudden effect upon the sentiments and conduct of a nation; and, having been published at a very critical period, the commencement of the American war, served more than any thing else to induce the inhabitants of that country to an immediate declaration of independence. At the latter end of the same year (1776) he began to publish, in the Pennsylvania Journal, "The Crisis," a periodical essay, which appeared as often, during the continuance of hostilities, as his idea of the state of affairs required. The congress, at first, managed their European concerns by a committee for secret correspondence, but their demands for European aid becoming more urgent, the Secret Committee was converted into a Committee for Foreign Affairs. Paine, who was now becoming a celebrated character in the United States, was appointed Secretary to this Committee, but being detected in retailing through the newspapers what he confidentially knew from the foreign correspondence, he was forced to resign that office. Soon after this, he obtained the degree of M. A. from the University of Pennsylvania, was chosen a Member of the American Philosophical Society; and, when the Congress had rejected him as unworthy of trust, the Assembly of Pennsylvania, which had been purged of Quakers by his pen, thought him fit for its Clerk. In 1782, he printed at Philadelphia, a Letter to the Abbé Raynal on the Affairs of North America, in which he undertook to correct and clear up the mistakes in the Abbé's Account of the Revolution. A little later in the same year, and at the same place, he also printed, a Letter to the Earl of Shelburne, on his Speech in Parliament, July 10th, 1782, in which the noble Earl had said, that,
When Great Britain shall acknowledge American Independence, the sun of Britain's glory is set for ever.
Both of these Letters were, shortly afterward, reprinted in London. In the Autumn of 1786, Paine left America, with the intention of going to France, and arrived at Paris early in 1787, having left no great share of popularity behind him. His stay here was short, and he reached London in the Autumn of the same year. Before the conclusion of 1787, he published a pamphlet upon the recent transactions between Great Britain and Holland, entitled, "Prospects on the Rubicon," in which he censured the measures of the English Administration.
We come now to that period in Paine's History, when his speculations were to shake the fabric of the public mind to its very foundation, and his writings to infuse a poison among a deluded commonalty, the effects of which, to a philosopher in the shade, would have been scarcely credible. Being released, in November, 1789, from a sponginghouse, into which a debt, contracted by the project of erecting an Iron Bridge, had brought him; he beheld, with delight, the proceedings of that memorable year in France, and hastened to that country. Soon, however, he recrossed the channel, and, in his road to London, encountered Mr. Burke's far-famed pamphlet, which appeared a few days before the celebration of the French Revolution, November 5th, 1790. A few months labour produced Part I. of the "Rights of Man." It was submitted to the revisal of Mr. Brand Hollis and a democratic Committee; and, after some struggles, between the desires of the author and the wishes of his patrons, was committed by them to the press. In February 1791, it was printed for Johnson, in St. Paul's Church Yard, but his regard for
the credit of his shop,
induced him to decline the sale, and a delay of a month in the publication thus took place. A few copies were, however, smuggled into private hands, and, at length, on the 13th of March, 1791, it was published by Jordan, in Fleet Street, with a Dedication to General Washington. The apprehensions of Paine, upon this occasion, seem to have been very great. Always ready to take wing for France, he fluttered with anxiety about the Metropolis. At length, finding that the Ministry, trusting to the good sense of the people, gave itself no concern about him, he took a lodging in Fetter Lane, (where he remained till his final departure) and immediately went to work at Part II. of the "Rights of Man." This was published by Jordan, early in 1792. It is well known that the Jacobin Societies took the utmost pains to distribute cheap editions of this work, over the whole nation, particularly in manufactories, and among the labouring poor. It is even said, that tobacco, grocery, and sweet-meats for children, were frequently sold in wrappers of its sheets! Many Answers to the two Parts were produced at the press, and at the anniversary meeting of the Constitutional Society, on the 13th of April, 1792, the Members of these Jacobin Societies were stated to exceed forty thousand persons! Government, at length, became alarmed. Prosecutions were commemced, in May, 1792, against Paine, as the author, and Jordan as the publisher of "Rights of Man." The royal proclamation was issued, stating that seditious writings had been industriously dispersed for inciting discontent, and warning all magistrates to be diligent in suppressing tumult and preserving quiet. Both Houses of Parliament declared their abhorrence of writings, which had anarchy for their end, and proclaimed their unalterable resolution to maintain the authority of the laws. The City of London avowed her loyalty to the King, and her attachment to the constitution. The other corporations followed the example of the metropolis; and the county-meetings joined in the general abhorrence of innovation, and in the universal determination to support the wise system of policy, which had been transmitted by the wisdom of their ancestors. Paine was now employed in writing those Letters for the ARGUS, which were afterward distributed from the pamphlet-shops under the title of "Paine's four Letters on Government." Shortly afterward, he produced a pamphlet, consisting of two Letters to Lord Onslow, and one to Mr. Dundas; and another pamphlet, containing, "A Letter to the Addressers on the late Proclamation," the great object of which was, to procure a National Convention in contempt of the Parliament. He was, at the same time, readily adopted as a proper citizen, by a country which had recently plunged into the depths of anarchy; and, when the Jacobin Clubs were about to form a Convention at Paris of turbulent spirits from every quarter of the world, several departments contended for the honour of being represented by the celebrated Thomas Paine. Calais bore away the
glorious
prize from all her competitors, and she sent citizen Audibert to signify his appointment, and to solicit his acceptance of it. He required little solicitation; and quitting London on the 13th of September, 1792, was received with open arms on the following day, on the shores of Calais. He was tried by a special jury at Guildhall, and convicted as a malignant libeller; and, soon afterward, his effigy and his books were burned in almost every village in England. His conviction made him an outlaw, and, having joined the Convention at Paris, in a declaration of war against Great Britain, he has, since that time, become a traitor. Amid the changes of Government in France, Paine did not escape notice, and when Robespierre began to gain an ascendancy, he was sent, with Anacharsis Cloots, to the prison at Luxemburg. He, however, escaped the Guillotine, and during his confinement, composed his work, entitled, "The Age of Reason," Part I. of which was published in London, in 1794, and Part II. in the year following. This work naturally produced several Answers at the press, among which the "Apology for the Bible," by the Bishop of Landaff, is to be most eminently distinguished. Paine's subsequent writings have been, a Dissertation on the first Principles of Government; "The Decline and Fall of the English System of Finance;" a most impudent Letter to General Washington; and "Agrarian Justice opposed to Agrarian Law and to Agrarian Monopoly," all pamphlets.
The abuse which has been so liberally bestowed upon Paine, as a writer, has, perhaps, for the most part, been the result of a zeal whose tendency is to weaken, more than to support, its cause. Let us rather allow him, the qualified credit of an animated, energetic writer, who displays considerable acuteness but whose manner of thinking is rude, wicked and daring, and whose language is vulgar though impressive. Let us rather rejoice, that Englishmen, with their just veneration for civil liberty and the rights of the people, were found so wise and stedfast in an hour of danger, as to despise those sorry calculators, that would persuade a country, whose constitution has raised her to be the envy of all the civilized world, to hazard that constitution upon the grossest, clumsiest, and stalest theories. Let us be thankful that the Arch-theorist of the Rights of Man, of those rights which transfer the reins from his passion to his reason, of those rights which dissolve ties, which confound distinctions, which destroy security, could play upon us with his new lights upon human governments, without dazzling our reason, or impairing our eye-sight. Finally let us rejoice, that when this wily and audacious Anarch dared, at last, to attack the sacred volume of our Religion, there was found, on our bench of Bishops a learned and philosophical Prelate, condescending enough and active enough to oppose them nobly and completely, by his erudition, his clearness, and his strength of argument.
PALEY, REV. WILLIAM, D.D.
Archdeacon of Carlisle, &c. A most venerable and distinguished character as a sound Reasoner, a well-read Scholar, and an excellent Divine. He was educated at Christ's College, Cambridge, took his degree of Batchelor of Arts, with great distinction, in 1763, and afterward, became tutor of the above society. His works have experienced that brilliant success to which their very extraordinary value entitles them. The first of them (excepting single Sermons) was his highly celebrated "Principles of Moral and Political Philosophy," which was first published in a quarto volume, in 1785, and has since been very frequently reprinted, with corrections and improvements, in two octavo volumes. It is hardly possible to say too much in favour of this treatise. The ripest schoolman may read it with instruction and delight, while it contains amusement for the most volatile fancy. It has obtained its author one distinction among others, singularly glorious, and, most probably, unparallelled. We mean the circumstance of its chapters, being very frequently subjects for disputation in the Schools of one of our Universities, at the same time with sections of the immortal Principia of Newton, or with chapters of the celebrated Essay of Locke. Thus the distinguished honours which such transcendent characters are proud to receive after death, are conferred on Dr. Paley while alive! The style of this work is admirably adapted to its subject, and is, perhaps, one of the best models for the imitation of youth, which can be found in our language; while the fine reasoning, the pertinency of illustration, the strong integrity of judgement, and the great comprehension of mind which pervade it, may be fit objects of its emulation, provided it duly estimate the labour of thought, and application necessary to such acquisitions, and form not, after all, too sanguine hopes of reaching such perfection. Some Remarks upon this work have been written by Mr. Gisborne, for an account of which, we refer the reader to our memoir of that gentleman. Beside this production. Dr. Paley has published several single Sermons, preached on particular occasions and before the University of Cambridge; "Horae Paulinae; or, the Truth of the Scripture History of St. Paul evinced, by a Comparison of the Epistles which bear his Name, with the Acts of the Apostles, and with one another," published in an octavo volume, in 1790; and "A View of the Evidences of Christianity," in three volumes, octavo, published in 1794. All these productions are worthy of the celebrated author of "Principles of Moral and Political Philosophy." The last of them, in particular, has experienced a most distinguished reception. It bears in every page, the strongest characteristic touches of its able and excellent writer. It is the most complete summary of the evidences of Christianity, that has ever appeared. It is a work most essential and useful to his fellow-creatures, and must be acceptable in the sight of his God.
PALMER, REV. THOMAS, FYSHE.
An Unitarian Minister, formerly Pastor of a congregation at Dundee, and Fellow of Queen's College, Cambridge. He was tried and found guilty, in 1793, before a Circuit-Court of Justiciary at Perth, of writing and publishing a seditious Paper, and was sentenced to a seven years transportation to New South Wales, where he now is. He was soon afterward deprived of the above fellowship. Mr. Palmer published, in 1792, "An Attempt to refute a Sermon by H. D. Inglis," in which he is a zealous advocate for the Unitarian doctrine, concerning the person of Christ. He, not long ago, transmitted a manuscript Account of his severe Sufferings during his Voyage to New South Wales, which was published in 1797, by Jeremiah Joyce, who was a state prisoner in the Tower, and preceptor in the family of Earl Stanhope.
PALMER, REV. SAMUEL.
A Dissenting Minister of Hackney whose learning is less conspicuous than his pedantry. He has published a good many single Sermons; an octavo volume of Family Prayers; the Nonconformist's Memorial adridged from Dr. Calamy, in two large octavo volumes; "Reasons why I am a Dissenter;" the Protestant Dissenters Catechism, which has been ably answered by Dr. Smith, reader at the Temple; a volume of Mr. Matthew Henry's Sermons; a Life of Dr. Isaac Watts, intended to prove that his last sentiments on the Trinity were conformable to the orthodox creed; a Letter to the Archdeacon of St. Alban; a Vindication of the Modern Dissenters; an Appendix to Dr. Johnson's Life of Watts; and a duodecimo volume of Discourses on Truth.
PALMERSTONE, VISCOUNT LORD. —See Temple.
PARK, JAMES ALLAN, ESQ.
Of Lincoln's Inn, Barrister at Law. Author of an excellent System of the Law of Marine Insurance, in a royal octavo volume, which was first published in 1787, and reached a third edition in 1796.
PARK, T. ESQ.
Author of a volume of Sonnets and other small Poems of much merit, published in a duodecimo volume, in 1797, by the counsel of Mr. Cowper, and with the comments of Miss Seward.
PARKER, REV. WILLIAM, D.D. F.R.S.
Chaplain in Ordinary to his Majesty, and Rector of St. James' Westminster. This respectable divine was one among the many able champions, who, many years ago, defended the establishment against the attacks of Bolingbroke, Morgan, Middleton, &c. He was educated at the University of Oxford, was made Chaplain to Dr. Osbaldeston, a late Bishop of London, and obtained the above Rectory by
his
presentation. He published many single Sermons in the earlier part of his life, the two first of which appeared in 1749. These Discourses, and two Pieces on the old and new Style, were collected, and reprinted in two octavo volumes, in 1792.
PARKER, WILMOT, ESQ.
Solicitor. Author of an Analysis of the Practice of the Court of Chancery, published in an octavo pamphlet, in 1794, and editor of the eighth edition of Harrison's Practice of the Court of Chancery, in two volumes, octavo, published in 1796, to which he added much valuable matter.
PARKHURST, REV. JOHN, M.A.
Formerly Fellow of Clare-Hall, Cambridge, and the celebrated author of the best Hebrew-English Lexicon in existence. The first edition of this valuable work made its appearance in 1762; the second was published with considerable enlargements and improvements, in 1778; and the third, still farther enlarged and improved, in 1793. Mr. Parkhurst has also written, "A serious and friendly Address to Mr. John Wesley," which was his first publication, and appeared in 1753; a Greek and English Lexicon to the New Testament, a very valuable work, published in a quarto volume, in 1769; and "The Divinity and Pre-Existence of our Saviour demonstrated from Scripture," an answer to Priestley and Wakefield, published in an octavo pamphlet, in 1787.
PARKINSON, REV. T. D.D. F.R.S.
Late Fellow and Tutor of Christ's College, Cambridge. This gentleman was a cotemporary at the University with the celebrated mathematician, Mr. Atwood. They both took their degrees of B. A. in 1769, and to Mr. Parkinson was adjudged the superiority in mathematical knowledge. The world, however, from the specimens which each of these gentlemen have given it, as writers on subjects of science, will be disposed to wonder at this decision. Dr. Parkinson published, in 1789, in a quarto volume, a System of Mechanics and Hydrostatics, the substance of his lectures as a public tutor. Of this work we do not scruple to declare that it is one of the clumsiest which has ever come from the hands of an able proficient in natural philosophy, who has attempted to facilitate the progress of the Student, by a selection from the works of others▪ It is a disgraceful specimen of the proficiency of an University, who prides herself on polishing the abstruseness of science, and uniting in her studies an elegance with a profundity of research. It is of a character so coarse and rugged, and of a bulk so unnecessarily huge, as to frighten rather than encourage the student. Finally, it is the work of a writer, whose elegance of thought, whose justness of conception, whose perspicuity of arrangement, and whose beauty of operation, can in no wise be compared, with the masterly specimens of the union of all these excellencies which have been afforded us by Mr. Atwood. Beside this work, Dr. Parkinson has published two single Sermons.
PARR, REV. SAMUEL, L.L.D.
A most elegant and profound Scholar, very highly celebrated for his knowledge of the Greek language. He was originally one of the undermasters of Harrow School, and in that situation had the honour of sharing in the education, among others, of Mr. Richard Brinsley Sheridan. Upon a vacancy in the headmastership, in 1770, Dr. Parr became a candidate for that office, and his cause was so warmly, espoused by many of the boys of the school, as to occasion very turbulent proceedings. Proving unsuccessful, he retired to a village at a small distance from Harrow, and opened a school, to which he was followed by many of the Harrow scholars. Dr. Parr was afterward appointed, by the Earl of Dartmouth, to superintend the education of his eldest son, Lord Viscount Lewisham, in consequence of which he resigned his school, and fixed his residence at Colchester, where he was attended by his Lordship, and one or two more pupils. At the expiration of this engagement, he was chosen Master of the Free School at Norwich, which he conducted with great reputation, and has now been settled, for some years, in the neighbourhood of Warwick, in the occupation of educating private pupils.
Dr. Parr's first publications were, Sermons preached at Norwich during the American war. Of these, two appeared with his name in 1780, and a third, a Fast Sermon, under the name
Phileleutherus Norfolciensis,
in the year following. The last of these is particularly excellent. In 1786, he published a fourth Sermon, preached for the benefit of the Charity Schools in Norwich. It was in the year following this, that he published a new edition, in an octavo volume, of the three Books
De Statu
of Bellendenus, (Master of the Pleas to James I.) and prefixed a most elegant Preface. Few pieces of composition in Latin, have been more admired than this masterly preface. It was reprinted, separately, in the year following its first publication. It consists chiefly of a political retrospect of the internal transactions of Britain, since the year 1783, and presents us an animated panegyric of Lord North, Mr. Burke, and Mr. Fox, with a glowing invective against the methods employed to deprive them of the share they held in the Government of their country. The Latin, as well as the English style of Dr. Parr, is always strong, manly, and beautiful, but, perhaps, it possesses, upon the whole, less of grace and elegance than of energy. In 1789, Dr. Parr published "Tracts by Warburton and a Warburtonian, not admitted into the Collection of their respective Works," in an octavo volume. Almost every reader will condemn the poignancy of language, which is used in the preface to this volume, against the venerable Bishop of Worcester, while he will confess, with pleasure, that the characters of Jortin, Leland, and Warburton are amply and beautifully delineated. In the year 1792, Dr. Parr published an octavo pamphlet, entitled, "A Sequel to the printed Paper
lately
circulated in Warwickshire, by the Rev. Charles Curtis, brother of Alderman Curtis, a Birmingham Rector, &c." which reached a second edition. This was occasioned by a suspicion, that Mr. Curtis had written certain anonymous Letters, which were sent to the Doctor; that he had uttered certain reflections upon him, in his pulpit discourses; and that he had sent the
printed paper,
which appeared
(auctior et emendatior)
in an evening Newspaper. The same year produced Dr. Parr's celebrated and excellent Letter from Irenopolis to the Inhabitants of Eleutheropolis, which is a serious address to the dissenters of Birmingham, written, in consequence of a report that they intended a second commemoration of the French Revolution, and was published in a shilling pamphlet. For an account of Dr. Parr's literary association with the late Mr. Homer and Dr. Combe, relative to the publication of an Edition of Horace, we refer the reader to our memoir of the last-mentioned gentleman; where he will also see the occasion which produced Dr. Parr's excellent pamphlet, entitled, "Remarks on the Statement of Dr. Charles Combe, by
an occasional Writer in the British Critic."
It may very reasonably be questioned whether the services which Dr. Parr has done to the world have been adequate to his ability, or his knowledge. Much is to be allowed, however, for that want of leisure and opportunity which every man of letters must feel, whole constant and necessary occupation is the instruction of youth. To the character of a profound scholar, though the printed testimonies he has afforded us may have been slender, none shall dare to dispute his claim; and were our remaining possessions of Greek and Latin authors to share the fate of the celebrated Alexandrian Library, we believe, that this gigantic proficient could afford us, from recollection, a very tolerable idea of Grecian and Roman literature. Of the English style of Dr. Parr it has been said, that it unites the strength of Johnson with the richness of Burke.
PARSONS, WILLIAM, ESQ.
This gentleman was one of the gleaners of laurels on the banks of the Arno, who some years ago published, in association, the Florence Miscellany (vide Merry or Piozzi). He has also written, an Ode to a Boy at Eton (Mr. Greathead, jun.), intended to counteract the gloomy conclusions of Mr. Gray's well-known Ode on that subject, which, with three Sonnets and one Epigram, was published in a quarto pamphlet, in 1796. Mr. Parsons was also, we believe, a contributor to the "Poetry of the World." He has received a severe and, we confess, not an undeserved chastisement, from Mr. Gifford the author of the Baviad and the Maeviad; and, by way of retort courteous, has shot many pins and needles from the newspapers, at the javelin-proof armour of that hero.
PARSONS, REV. PHILIP, A. M.
Minister of Wye in Kent. He published, in 1794, in a quarto volume, "Monuments and Painted Glass of upward of one hundred Churches, chiefly in the Eastern Part of Kent;" and, in the year following, an admirable Discourse, preached at the funeral of the late Alderman Sawbridge. Mr. Parsons, previously to these publications, had written Dialogues between the Dead and the Living; and six Letters to a Friend, on the Establishment of Sunday Schools.
PARSONS, REV. JOHN WEDDELL.
Vicar of Wellington in the county of Hereford, and author of Essays on Education, published in a duodecimo volume, in 1797, which had appeared, separately, some years ago.
PARSONS, MRS.
A widow, who was reduced from a state of affluence to the hard necessity of writing, to provide for a numerous family. She published, in 1790, "The History of Miss Meredith," in two duodecimo volumes; and has also written, "The Errors of Innocence;" "Ellen and Julia;" "Lucy;" "The Voluntary Exile;" and "The Girl of the Mountains," novels, all of which are very respectable performances; and the Intrigues of a Morning, a farce.
PASQUIN, ANTHONY.—See John Williams.
PATERSON, DANIEL.
A Captain in the Army, and Assistant to the Quarter-master-general of his Majesty's Forces. He is author of a well-known Book of Roads, in an octavo volume, which made its first appearance in 1771, has since seen many editions, and has experienced that encouragement, to which such a laborious work was entitled. He has also published a Travelling Dictionary, in an octavo volume, and the British Itinerary, in two duodecimo volumes.
PAYNE, JOHN.
This writer has assumed the names,
George Augustus Hervey, William Frederic Melmoth,
&c. Under the first of these, he published, some years ago, a Naval, Commercial and General History of Great Britain, in five octavo volumes. He has also written a System of Geography; an Epitome of History, in two octavo volumes, of which the first appeared in 1794; and Geographical Extracts, in an octavo volume, published in 1796. The two last of these works appeared in his own name, and they all entitle him to the character of an industrious and ingenious compiler.
PEACOCK, REV. DANIEL MITFORD, M.A.
Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, and a gentleman of very superior abilities and attainments. He published, in 1794, a most excellent pamphlet, entitled, "Considerations on the Structure of the House of Commons, &c." with which the Bishop of London was so much pleased, that he appointed him a Whitehall Preacher upon the first subsequent opportunity. Mr. Peacock was engaged, not long ago, in a kind of controversy with the Critical Reviewers, which was occasioned by some severe strictures passed by them upon a System of Algebra, published by his friend Mr. Wood, of St. John's College, Cambridge.
PEACOCK, MISS.
A Novel-writer of some merit. She published, in 1786, (being then very young) an allegory, entitled, "The Adventures of the six Princesses of Babylon, in their Travels to the Temple of Virtue." Since that time, she has written, "The Knight of the Rose," an allegorical narrative; the Juvenile Magazine; "The Visit for a Week," designed for youth; and " Ambrose and Eleanor," translated from the French. All of her publications have been anonymous.
PEAKE, THOMAS, ESQ.
Of Lincoln's Inn. This gentleman published, in 1795, in a royal octavo volume, Cases determined at Nisi Prius, in the Court of King's Bench, from the sittings after Easter Term, 30 Geo. III. to the sittings after Michaelmas Term, 35 Geo. III. both inclusive. These Cases are so extremely well reported, that they may be considered as models.
PEARCE, —
A Dramatic Writer, who has experienced tolerable success. His most distinguished piece is Hartford Bridge, an operatic farce, which was very well received, and published in 1793. In the same year he published, the Midnight Wanderers, a comic opera, in two acts; and has since published, Netley Abbey, an operatic farce; Arrived at Portsmouth! an operatic drama, in two acts, (occasioned by Lord Howe's Victory); and Windsor Castle, an opera, in honour of the Prince of Wales' Marriage. The poetical talents of Mr. Pearce are, by no means, contemptible.
PEARSON, GEORGE, ESQ. M.D.
Member of the Royal College of Physicians, London. This gentleman published, in 1784, two octavo volumes of Observations and Experiments for investigating the Chemical History of the tepid Springs of Buxton, &c. The occasion of this publication was the discovery of an error in the common opinion, concerning the nature of a kind of
air
or
permanent vapour,
that impregnates the tepid waters of Buxton, on which their peculiar efficacy in diseases was believed principally to depend. In the year following, Dr. Pearson published, Directions for impregnating the Buxton Water with its own and other Gases, in an octavo pamphlet; and, in 1794, a Translation of the Table of Chemical Nomenclature, proposed by De Guyton (formerly de Morveau), Lavoisier, Bertholet, and De Fourcroy, in a quarto volume. Dr. Pearson is well known, as a judicious and useful writer.
PEARSON, JOHN, ESQ.
Surgeon to the Lock Hospital. He published in 1787, Part I. of Principles of Surgery for the Use of chirurgical Students, in an octavo volume, which was primarily designed as a text-book for the attendants of his surgical lectures; and in 1793, an octavo pamphlet of Practical Observations on Cancerous Complaints.
PEARSON, REV. EDWARD, B.D.
Fellow and Tutor of Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge. This gentleman gained the Norrisian Prize, in the University, in the year 1786, for an Essay on the Goodness of God, as manifested in the Mission of Jesus Christ, which was published in pursuance of the will of the founder. He has also published several excellent single Sermons, most of which were delivered before the University.
PEARSON, MRS. S.
This lady published, by subscription, in 1790, "Poems" in a quarto pamphlet, which possess some merit. She has since that time written, the Medallion, a novel, in three duodecimo volumes.
PEART, E. ESQ. M.D.
This gentleman published, in 1788, "The Generation of Animal Heat investigated," an octavo pamphlet; and has, since that time, written an octavo volume on the Elementary Principles of Nature; a pamphlet on Electricity; a pamphlet on the Properties of Matter, the Principles of Chemistry, &c.; a pamphlet on Electric Atmospheres; an octavo volume, entitled, "The Antiphlogistic Doctrine of M. Lavoisier critically examined, and demonstratively confuted;" and an octavo volume on the Composition and Properties of Water. Dr. Peart was, some time ago, engaged in a controversy with Mr. Read of Knightsbridge, on the subject of Electricity. In all of his writings he has adhered to a philosophy of his own; contriving and modifying, with much ingenuity, three simple elementary substances, one solid and two fluid, so as to account for all possible phenomena. Most readers, however, will, perhaps, be disposed to allow him more credit for the ingenuity, than for the solidity, of his principles.
PECKARD, REV. PETER, D.D.
Dean of Peterborough and Master of Magdalen College, Cambridge. This venerable divine, has uniformly shewn himself a zealous advocate for toleration and liberty. He published, in the year 1753, a Sermon, preached at Huntingdon, in favour of the Bill for Naturalizing the Jews, and also a Sermon on Civil and Religious Liberty. Some time after this, he had a controversy with Mr. Caleb Fleming, on the Materiality of the Soul, and wrote, in 1759, Observations on his
Survey of the Search after Souls.
Dr. Peckard has, since that time, published several occasional single Sermons, in some of which he has been loud in his censures upon the Slave-trade; a Dissertation on Revelations xi. 13; and Memoirs of the Life of Mr. Nicholas Ferrar (his relation by marriage, and a celebrated ascetic of the last century), in an octavo volume, published in 1790.
PENN, JOHN, ESQ.
This gentleman is grandson of the celebrated Cecrops of Pennsylvania. He published, in 1796, the Battle of Eddington, a tragedy, the argument of which is taken from the History of Alfred. It was acted, privately, for a night or two at the Haymarket, and to the second edition of it were added, Letters on the Drama. The Monthly Reviewers having criticised this tragedy with freedom, Mr. Penn published a Reply to their Strictures, which, we think, he would have done more wisely to have let alone. He has also written a Translation of Signior Ranieri Calsabigi's Letter to Count Alfieri on Tragedy, with notes; and an octavo volume of Poetical Translations and Miscellanies, containing many Odes and Sonnets from Petrarch.
PENNANT, THOMAS, ESQ. F.R.S.
Member of many foreign Societies, and a most ingenious and celebrated Naturalist and Antiquarian. He was born at Downing in Flintshire, in 1726, received the earlier part of his education at Wrexham School, was afterward removed to a school at Fulham, then kept by Mr. Croft, and, after being a Member of Queen's and Oriel Colleges, Oxford, assumed the law gown. A present or Willoughby's Ornithology, made to him at the age of twelve years, first gave him a taste for the study of Natural History. Of Mr. Pennant's first work, his celebrated British Zoology, the first part made its appearance on the 1st of March, 1763, in Imperial folio. It was carried on at the expence of a Society of ancient Britons (the Cymmrodorions) for the benefit of a Welch charity-school, in London, and was completed in 1766. This work was next published in four volumes, octavo, of which the two first made their appearance in 1768; and it has since been also reprinted in quarto. Mr. Pennant's subsequent publications have been, Indian Zoology, formed from a fine collection of drawings of animals brought over by J. G. Loten, Esq. a former Governor in Ceylon, of which a small part was first published, in folio, in 1769, and which, a few years ago, was published with additions, by other hands, in a quarto volume; a Synopsis of Quadrupeds, published in an octavo volume, in 1771; a Tour in Scotland, (made in 1769) published in an octavo volume, in 1771, and afterward republished with large additions in quarto; Genera of Birds, a duodecimo volume, published in 1773; a Tour in Scotland, and Voyage to the Hebrides (made in 1772), published in a quarto volume, in 1774; Part II. of this Tour, published in a quarto volume, in 1776; a Tour in Wales, published in a quarto volume, in 1778; a Journey to Snowdon (in continuation of the last mentioned Tour), published in a quarto volume, in 1781; History of Quadrupeds, in two volumes, quarto, published in 1781; Free Thoughts on our Militia Laws, a sixpenny pamphlet, addressed, in 1782, to the poor inhabitants of North Wales; a Journey from Chester to London, published in a quarto volume, in 1782; Part II. Vol. II. of a Tour in Wales, (in continuation of the Journey to Snowdon) published in quarto, in 1783; a Letter from a Welch Freeholder, published in 1784; Arctic Zoology, in two volumes, quarto, published in 1785; Indexes to the Ornithology of the Comte de Buffon, and the
Planches enluminées,
published in a quarto volume, in 1786; Supplement to the Arctic Zoology, a quarto volume, published in 1787; and some Account of London, published in a quarto volume, in 1790. Beside these productions, Mr. Pennant had, at this time written, the Natural History of the Turkey, and an Account of Earthquakes felt in Flintshire, in the Philosophical Transactions of the year 1781; as also "Miscellanies," of which only thirty copies were printed, at the press of George Allan, Esq. of Darlington.
In the year 1790, Mr. Pennant determined to desist from his literary labours, and Signified his intention, in a prefatory paragraph to his Account of London. Two years afterward, however, he published a Letter to a Member of Parliament, on Mail Coaches, and has also written "The Literary Life of
the late
Thomas Pennant, Esq." published in a thin quarto volume, in 1793; and a History of the Parishes of Whiteford and Holywell, published in a quarto volume, in 1796. This literary death to which Mr. Pennant condemned himself, and his subsequent resuscitation, had a very whimsical appearance. But those who were most in habits of intimacy with him, while he
lived,
and knew best the pleasure and instruction he could afford them, would most rejoice that his sleep was not eternal.
PERCIVAL, THOMAS, ESQ. M.D. F.R.A.S.
Member of the Medical Societies of London and Edinburgh, &c. A Physician of Manchester, whose judgement and industry have materially benefitted medicine and philosophy. His first publication was an octavo volume of Essays Medical and Experimental, which appeared in 1767. Soon after this, he published several small tracts, singly, viz. the Disadvantages of early Inoculation; Experiments and Observations on Water; and Observations and Experiments on the Poison of Lead. In the year 1776, he published an octavo volume of Philosophical Medical and Experimental Essays, which, together with the above mentioned volume and tracts, and some detached pieces, inserted in Transactions of learned societies, or in periodical journals, has ever since been reprinted in two octavo volumes, under the title, "Essays Medical, Philosophical, and Experimental."
Dr. Percival is also distinguished as a pleasing and instructive writer for juvenile readers. He published, in 1775, "A Father's Instructions to his Children," in a duodecimo volume, consisting of tales, fables, and reflections, designed to promote the love of virtue, a taste for knowledge, and an early acquaintance with the works of nature. Two years afterward, he added another volume, and completed a work which is executed in a manner most excellently adapted to its object. Since that time, Dr. Percival has written, "Moral and Literary Dissertations," published in an octavo volume, in 1784; and several Papers in the Transactions of the Philosophical and Literary Society of Manchester.
PERCY, REV. THOMAS, D.D.
Lord Bishop of Dromore, in the kingdom of Ireland. His Lordiship published, in 1761, HAU KIOU CHOAAN, or the pleasing History, a Chinese Romance, in four duodecimo volumes. This literary curiosity is a translation from the Chinese language, which his Lordship had revised from a manuscript (dated 1719) found among the papers of a gentleman who had large concerns in the East India Company, and who occasionally resided much at Canton. In 1765, his Lordship presented the public with a very elegant and curious Collection of Reliques of ancient English Poetry, published by Dodsley, in three duodecimo volumes; and six years afterward, he published the Hermit of Warkworth, a Northumberland ballad. In the class of divinity, we believe, his Lordship has only printed a single Sermon. For the curious anecdotes and literary information, to be found in the Edition of the Tatler with Illustrations and Notes, historical, biographical, and critical, published in six octavo volumes in the year 1786, the public is principally indebted to this prelate, though it was finished and edited by another hand.
PERFECT, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D.
A Surgeon of West Malling in Kent, Member of the London Medical Society, and Provincial Grand Master of Masons for the county of Kent. This gentleman was born at Oxford, in 1740, and is son of the Rev. William Perfect, formerly Vicar of East Mailing in Kent. He is celebrated for his skill in the cure of persons afflicted with insanity, and for his activity as a member of the brotherhood of Free and Accepted Masons. Dr. Perfect communicated several articles to the Medical Museum; among them are. "An Attempt to improve Medical Prognostication;" "The Case of a Catalepsy;" and "The Appearances on dissecting a Woman who died of eating too much Cucumber." In 1778, he published "Methods of Cure in some particular Cases of Insanity," an octavo pamphlet; and, in 1781, Vol. I. (in octavo) of "Cases in Midwifery," to which Vol. II. was, soon afterward, added. The last mentioned work was founded on the literary correspondence of the late learned and ingenious Dr. Colin Mackenzie, and contains the only traits of his practice which have, hitherto, been submitted to the public eye. In 1784, Dr. Perfect published an Address to the Public on the Subject of Insanity, notifying that he had opened houses at West Malling for the reception of insane persons; and, three years afterward, he produced an octavo volume of select Cases in the different Species of Insanity, Lunacy, or Madness, with the Modes of Practice as adopted in the Treatment of each. Since that time, Dr. Perfect's only production, in this class of publications, has been a pamphlet, entitled, "A remarkable Case of Madness, with the Diet and Medicines used in the Cure." This remarkable case is a boy at the age of
eleven,
and the cure is an additional proof of the author's skill, in the treatment of confirmed mania.
Dr. Perfect is also a Versifier, as well as a writer on medical subjects. He published, so early as the year 1763, "A Bavin of Bays," in a duodecimo volume; and has also written "The Laurel Wreath," in two duodecimo volumes; an Elegy on the great Storm in 1773, which was a good deal read; the Snowy Day, a pastoral sketch; and "Poetical Effusions," published in 1796. His verses cannot be said to tower very highly above mediocrity.
PERRY, JAMES.
A native of Scotland, and the editor of the newspaper called the Morning Chronicle.
PERRY, SAMPSON
Formerly a Surgeon. He has written an Historical Sketch of the French Revolution, in two octavo volumes, published in 1796; and the Argus, or General Observer, a political miscellany, in an octavo volume, published the same year. Both party publications.
PHILLIPS, JOHN.
The author of an entertaining and instructive General History of Inland Navigation, foreign and domestic, which he published in a quarto volume, in 1792, and to which he has since added two uniform pamphlets of
Addenda.
PHILLIPS, THOMAS.
A native of Shrewsbury. Author of the History and Antiquities of Shrewsbury, in one volume, quarto, and of a few pamphlets on Theological Subjects. By the interest of Sir William Pulteney, he obtained a place in the Customs, which he now holds.
PICKBOURN, JAMES.
Master of a Boarding-school at Hackney, and author of a Dissertation on the English Verb, published in an octavo volume, in 1790, which evinces considerable grammatical knowledge and judgement.
PILKINGTON, JAMES.
The author of a useful View of the State of Derbyshire, in two octavo volumes, published in 1789, to which the Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures, and Commerce, adjudged the reward of twenty-five guineas. Mr. Pilkington also published, in 1795, a pamphlet, entitled, "The Doctrine of Equality of Rank and Condition examined and supported on the Authority of the New Testament, and on the Principles of Reason and Benevolence," in which he is as ingenious as a theoretical visionary can be said to be.
PILKINGTON, MRS. J.
This lady, in 1796, sought the press with two little volumes of "Miscellaneous Poems." We will only add, she had done better to have staid at home!
PINDAR, PETER.—See Walcot.
PINKERTON, JOHN, F.S.A. PERTH.
A native of Scotland. His first publication was an octavo volume, in 1781, which he entitled,
Rimes.
Being of opinion that uniformity of stanza, when protracted to any degree, must ever fatigue, as extinguishing the great source of all pleasure, variety, he here adopted a series of stanzas, in which, as in the Greek strophe, antistrophe, and epode, the two first correspond, and are succeeded by a third of a different measure. But the specimen with which Mr. Pinkerton here presented the public, was by no means peculiarly engaging. In the year following he published, "Tales in Verse," in a quarto pamphlet; and also two dithyrambic Odes; which are more distinguished by harshness and affected singularity, than by any species of excellence. Mr. Pinkerton's next publication was a useful Essay on Medals, which first appeared, anonymously, in a single octavo volume, in 1784, and was enlarged to two volumes in the second edition. The valuable assistance of Dr. Combe and Mr, Southgate, we believe, were afforded the author upon this occasion. In 1786, Mr. Pinkerton published, "Ancient Scotish Poems, never before in Print," in two crown-octavo volumes; and, in the year following, a Dissertation on the Origin and Progress of the Scythians or Goths, in an octavo volume. His subsequent publications have been, an Enquiry into the History of Scotland, preceeding the Reign of Malcolm III. in two octavo volumes, published in 1789; the first genuine edition of Barbour's Bruce, with notes and a glossary, in three volumes, duodecimo, published in 1790; Scotish Poems, reprinted from scarce editions, in three octavo volumes, published in 1792;
Iconographia Scotica
; or, Portraits of illustrious Persons of Scotland, with short Biographical Notices, Part I. II. III. IV; and the History of Scotland from the Accession of the House of Stuart to that of Mary, with Appendixes of original Papers, in two volumes, quarto, published in 1797. In the last of these works, Mr. Pinkerton has judiciously chosen the period of Scotish History which remained insulated between the accurate investigation of the earlier age, by Sir David Dalrymple, and the elegant History of the later times, by Dr. Robertson. He has produced a work of great merit, and, should it experience the favourable reception to which we think it entitled, it is his design to write, upon the same plan, the History of Scotland from the earliest Accounts to the Accession of the House of Stuart. Upon the whole, our opinion of Mr. Pinkerton as a writer is, that, notwithstanding an occasional unpleasant appearance of vanity, pedantry, causticity, and want of taste, he is possessed of real and extensive knowledge, much good sense, and sufficient originality. We think he is somewhat amenable on the score of Book-making,
PIOZZI, HESTHER LYNCH.
A Lady of considerable notoriety in the literary world. She is the daughter of John Salisbury Esq. formerly of Bach-y-graig, in the county of Flint, and neice to Sir Thomas Salisbury, who rose to considerable eminence as a civilian, in Doctor's Commons. In 1763, she married the late Henry Thrale Esq.; a distinguished Brewer in the borough of Southwark. This excellent man, in the year following his marriage, was introduced, by Mr. Murphy, to the acquaintance of Dr. Samuel Johnson. The intimacy of that celebrated character with this family daily increased, and he soon became an almost constant inmate of their country residence at Streatham. The conduct of Mr. Thrale to Dr. Johnson, was indeed truly praise-worthy. His family contributed, for fifteen years, to the prolongation and comfort of a most valuable life, and when the benevolent master sunk into the grave, the memory of his kindness was acknowledged by the loving object of his regard, with the confession that with him were buried many of his hopes and pleasures, that the face upon which he had looked for the last time, had never been turned upon him but with respect and benignity, that he obtained from him many opportunities of amusement, and turned his thoughts to him as to a refuge from misfortunes. Upon the death of Mr. Thrale, his widow finding it (as she asserts) extremely perplexing and difficult to live in the same house with the Doctor, took advantage of a lost law-suit to plead inability of purse for remaining longer in London or its vicinity, and retired to Bath, where she knew he would not follow her. She continued, however, to correspond with Dr. Johnson, till near the time (July 1784) of her marriage to her second husband, Signior Piozzi, a native of Florence, and a music-master of the City of Bath; when a very warm expostulation, on the part of the Doctor, against this step, dissolved their friendship. Soon after her union with Mr. Piozzi, she travelled with him to the place of his birth, and visited several parts of Europe before they returned to England.
During her residence in Florence, in 1785, chance having brought together, at that place, a few English of both sexes, particularly Mr. Merry, Mr. Parsons, and Mr. Greathead, they wrote, in association, "The Florence Miscellany," a collection of pieces in prose and verse, of which a few copies have been printed, but it has not been published. Some specimens of this flighty production appeared in a newspaper of the day, called the World, as well as in several of the magazines: the preface was written by Mrs. Piozzi, to whom, we believe, the conduct of the work had been committed. Several other fugitive poetical pieces by Mrs. Piozzi, as, the Three Warnings, a tale imitated from La Fontaine; a Translation of Boileau's Epistle to his Gardener, (first printed in Mrs. Williams' Miscellanies); and a Prologue to the Royal Suppliants, have reached the public eye. Among these, the first is to be particularly distinguished as a very masterly production, and it has been strongly suspected that Dr. Johnson either wrote it, or assisted in the composition of it. The former opinion, we think, from the style of the piece, is improbable; but that it has felt his correcting hand, we have little doubt.
The first regular exploit of Mrs. Piozzi in authorship, was made in the year 1786; when she produced her crown-octavo volume of Anecdotes of Dr. Johnson. Two years after this, she published a Collection of Letters to and from Dr. Johnson, from 1765, to 1784, in two octavo volumes. Her "Anecdotes," as coming from the pen of a writer who had long shared the society and friendship of that illustrious character, were perused with great avidity; but time has dissolved the charm. They bring us acquainted, it is true, with the domestic transactions, and introduce us to the private hours of the object held up to our view; yet, what of this, when, as admirers of the learning and moral excellence of their hero, we glow at almost every page with indignation, that his weaknesses and his failings should be disclosed to public view? There is, surely, something sacred attached in every well-constituted mind to the memory of a character, which, beside extorting from us a tribute of admiration by its public name, has mingled its social intercourse with our private lives, has confirmed and instructed us by its example and its precepts, and displayed to us, upon a nearer view, a proportional degree of that excellence which same had conceded as its due. To a mind of this make, the stamp of death would enliven the impressions it had received, and, creating a melancholy and awful veneration for the departed object of its regard, forget its failings, amid its pious fondness for the pleasing remembrance of its worth. The name of Johnson shall live while Piety, while Virtue, while Learning are regarded: yet Johnson, after the lustre he had reflected on the name of Thrale, after the delight which his counsel and his friendship had, for many years, afforded to the family, aged and infirm, was to be deserted by his only surviving companion and his nurse a year or two before his end; and after death, to have his memory tortured and abused by her detested itch for scribbling. More injury, we will venture to affirm, has been done to the same of Johnson, by this lady and her late biographical helpmate,
Boswell.
than his most avowed enemies have ever been able to effect; and if his character becomes unpopular with some of his successors, it is to these gossiping friends he is indebted for the favour.
In 1789, Mrs Piozzi published, "Observations and Reflections made in the Course of a Journey through France, Italy, and Germany," in two octavo volumes; and, in 1794, "British Synonymy; or, an Attempt at regulating the Choice of Words in familiar Conversation," in two octavo volumes. The former of these works is entertaining, though, in many respect, very reprehensible. To the due execution of the latter, a rare combination of talents was requisite, among the least of which may be numbered neatness of style, acuteness of perception, and a more than common accuracy of discrimination. This lady, on the contrary, brought to the task a jargon, long since become proverbial for its vulgarity, an incapability of defining a single term in the language, and just so much Latin, from a child's syntax, as sufficed to expose the ignorance she so anxiously labours to conceal.
Vide Preface to Baviad.
The general character, which we are disposed to afford Mrs. Piozzi, as an author, is, that she is possessed of respectable talents, and of an education superior to what commonly falls to the lot of the fair sex; but that her vanity is so conspicuous upon every occasion, as to destroy, in most minds, any favourable impression which her abilities, or her attainments might make. Little indeed, do the lessons and example of her austere preceptor appear to have contributed toward making her more solid or more judicious!
PLANTA, JOSEPH, ESQ.
Secretary to the Royal Society, and one of the under-librarians to the British Museum. He has written an Essay on the Runic or Scandinavian Language.
PLAYFAIR, REV. JAMES, D.D.
A native of Scotland, and author of a valuable System of Chronology, in a folio volume, published in 1784. At the time of this publication, Dr. Playfair promised the public some chronological Dissertations, if his work experienced a favourable reception; they have not yet made their appearance.
PLAYFAIR, WILLIAM.
A native of Scotland, and an ingenious writer on Subjects of Calculation and Finance. His first publication was a quarto pamphlet, entitled, "Regulations for the interest of Money;" and, in 1786, he published, in quarto, the Commercial and Political Atlas, representing, by means of stained copper-plate charts, the exports, imports, and general trade of England, the national debt, and other public accounts. Since that time, he has written▪ an Essay on the National Debt; "Inevitable Consequences of a Reform in Parliament;" a General View of the actual Force and Resources of France, in January, 1793; "Better Prospects to the Merchants and Manufacturers of Great Britain;" Thoughts on the Present State of French Politics (1703); "Peace with the Jacobins impossible;" a Letter to Earl Fitzwilliam, occasioned by his two Letters to the Earl of Carlisle; and a Real Statement of the Finances and Resources of Great Britain.
PLEYDELL. J. C. ESQ.
Late Lieutenant Colonel and Equerry to his Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester. He published, in 1768, an Essay on Field Fortification, in an octavo volume; and, in 1795, Military Observations in a Tour through Part of France, French Flanders, and Luxembourgh, in a quarto pamphlet. A future publication of a similar kind with the latter of these, is to depend upon the reception afforded to this.
PLOWDEN, FRANCIS, ESQ. L.C.D.
Of the Middle Temple, Barrister at Law, and a Roman Catholic. This gentleman's first publication was a discussion respecting the state of the descendants of persons attainted and aliens under the British Laws, which he published in an octavo volume, in 1784, under the title, "An Investigation of the Native Rights of British Subjects," and wrote a Supplement to it in the year following. Since that time, he has written, "Impartial Thoughts on the beneficial Consequences of inrolling all Deeds, Wills, and Codicils affecting Lands," an octavo pamphlet, published in 1790; "The Case stated," a pamphlet, occasioned by the Act of Parliament passed for the relief of the English Roman Catholics;
Jura Anglorum,
an octavo volume, published in 1792; a short History of the British Empire, from May, 1792, to the Close of the year 1793, an octavo volume; "A friendly and constitutional Address to the People of Great Britain," an octavo pamphlet, published in 1794; a short History of the British Empire during the year 1794, an octavo volume; "Church and State, being an Enquiry into the Origin, Nature, and Extent of ecclesiastical and civil Authority, with Reference to the British Constitution," a quarto volume, published in 1795; and a Treatise upon the Law of Usury and Annuities, an octavo volume, published in 1797. As a writer, Dr. Plowden is generally ingenious, but, sometimes, too dogmatical. "Church and State," is his most distinguished work, which will be a lasting monument to his honour, as a christian, a man, a scholar, and a lawyer.
PLYMLEY, REV. JOSEPH, A.M.
Archdeacon of Salop, In the diocese of Hereford. He has published three "Charges," given at the visitation of his Archdeaconry, and a Sermon preached at a triennial visitation of the Bishop of Hereford.
POLE, THOMAS, ESQ.
Member of the Corporation of Surgeons in London, and author of "The Anatomical Instructor," an illustration of the methods of preparing and preserving the different parts of the human body, &c. published in an octavo volume, in 1790.
POLWHELE, REV. RICHARD.
Of Polwhele in Cornwall. A respectable divine, a very pleasing poet, but a less successful historian. He was born in 1760, at his abovementioned patrimonial estate, was educated at the neighbouring grammar-school of Truro, became a member of Christ-Church College, Oxford, was admitted a student in civil law, afterward took orders, and was, for ten years, curate of Kenton near Exeter. Before Mr. Polwhele left Truro-school, he wrote and published the Fate of Lewellyn, a legendary tale; the Genius of Karnbre, a poem; the Spirit of Fraser to General Burgoyne, an ode; the Death of Hilda, an American tale; an Ode to Mrs. Macaulay, on her Birth-day; the Castle of Tintadgel, an ode; and the Isle of Poplars, an ode: the two last of which were published among Rack's Essays. It is curious that the versification of his first production, "The Fate of Lewellyn," is much more melodious than that of his "English Orator," which is nearly the last; but the Tale was written to please the ear only. In 1785, Mr. Polwhele published, anonymously, Book I▪ of "The Art of Eloquence," a didactic poem; and also, "Pictures from Nature, in twelve Sonnets," each quarto pamphlets. The first of these was reprinted in the following year, under the title of "The English Orator," and three more books were afterward added. In the year 1786, Mr. Polwhele also published a Translation into English verse, with dissertations and notes, of the Idyllia, Epigrams, and Fragments of Theocritus, Bion, and Moschus, with the Elegies of Tyrtaeus, in a quarto volume, which was afterward reprinted in two octavos. It is said of this work that it was completed in half a year: if so, it does great credit to the talents of the writer, since many of the translations are extremely happy, and, considered as a whole, it is, perhaps, a formidable rival of the similar production by Mr. Fawkes. In 1789, Mr. Polwhele published, two octavo volumes of well-written Discourses on different Subjects; and has, since that time, produced a quarto volume of "Poems," containing his "English Orator," his "Sonnets," and some other pieces; a single Sermon, preached in 1792, at Kenton; Vol. I. of Historical Views of Devonshire, in octavo; and Vol. II. of the History of Devonshire, in folio. The
former
of the two last-mentioned works is to be completed in five volumes: it is a repository of curious notices, not interfering with the author's main undertaking: the
latter
of them, which is to be comprehended in three volumes, and the publication of which was commenced with the second volume, in 1793. Beside these productions, Mr. Polwhele wrote the Biographical Memoirs of Mr. Rack, in Collinson's History of Somerset, and was the editor of two octavo volumes of "Poems," by gentlemen of Devon▪ and Cornwall, who form a literary society, whose meetings are held at stated times at the Globe Inn, Exeter, and of which Mr. Polwhele is one of the oldest members.
POPE, REV. JOHN.
This gentleman was the successor of Mr. Gilbert Wakefield, as tutor in Belles-Lettres and Classical Literature, at the New-College, Hackney, and has made himself appear ridiculous enough, by attempting to bring his sprinkling of classical knowledge, in competition with the copious waters of that celebrated and excellent scholar. He published, in 1792, a duodecimo volume, entitled, "Observations on the miraculous Conception," &c. with Remarks on Mr. Wakefield's opinion concerning Mat. xxvii. 5; and also an octavo volume, entitled, "Divine Worship founded in Nature, and supported by Scripture Authority," with Remarks on Mr. Wakefield's arguments against Public Worship, and strictures on some parts of his Silva Critica, and English Version of the New Testament. Previous to these publications, we believe, he had printed a single Sermon: since their appearance he has published, two Sermons, in an octavo pamphlet. The writings of Mr. Pope are, by no means, destitute of ingenuity or liberality; but, when, in the first instance, he attempted a display of learning (respecting the word
), in opposition to Mr. Wakefield, his conduct was surely no less ill-judged, than his comprehension of the force of his adversaries argument was erroneous. He has been some time employed upon a course of Remarks on the three Greek Tragedians, with which he seems inclined to favour the world,
modestly
observing that 'no good edition of 'those authors had yet appeared.' The vanity of Mr. Pope is, indeed, too conspicuous!
PORSON, RICHARD, ESQ. M.A.
Greek Professor in the University of Cambridge, and formerly Fellow of Trinity College. This gentleman is well known, not in this country only, for his very extraordinary talents, and as the best Greek scholar we have. He was educated at Eton-school, took his degree of B. A. at Cambridge in 1782, was always most eminently distinguished for his classical knowledge, and succeeded Mr. Cooke in the above Professorship, in the year 1793. Mr. Porson's first regular and avowed publication, was his celebrated volume of Letters to Mr. Archdeacon Travis, in Answer to his Defence of the three Heavenly Witnesses, i. John v. 7, which made its appearance in 1790. Of this work, the celebrated Mr. Gibbon has said, that it is the most acute and accurate piece of criticism which has appeared since the days of Bentley. The author's strictures are founded in argument, enriched with learning, and enlivened with wit; and his adversary neither deserves, nor finds, any quarter at his hands. The elegant edition of the seven Plays of Aeschylus, without notes, without the scholia, and without the fragments, which was published by Foulis at Glasgow, in 1795, in a folio volume, was clandestinely printed from a text corrected by Mr. Porson. That gentleman had lent his manuscript corrections and conjectures on the text of Aeschylus, to a friend in Scotland, they fell into the hands of Foulis, and the above-mentioned edition was published without the Professor's leave, or even knowledge. Mr. Porson edited the Edition of Heyne's Virgil, which was printed in London; is at present, publishing new editions of Greek Plays, with short commentaries, by single plays, each in an octavo volume, some of which have already made their appearance; and will shortly (we believe produce a new Edition of Aeschylus complete, with Notes. He has also been, for some time, preparing for the Cambridge press, an Edition of the inedited Greek Lexicon of Photius, from the manuscript in Trinity College Library. A most elegant and masterly copy of this work, which his Herculean talents and exquisite Greek hand-writing had produced, was, not long ago, consumed by an accidental fire, in a house where it was deposited. He has again, however, assailed the mighty undertaking, and will, probably, soon favour the world with the truly desirable fruit of his industry.
It is needless for us to add our eulogium to the well known merit of Mr. Porson, as a philologist, a very consummate scholar, and a most acute and accurate critic. Many occasional fugitive productions, which have either never reached the press, or, if printed, have appeared anonymously, are additional testimonies to the just estimation in which he is held by the literary world. We have only to lament that he should live below the measure of abilities so transcendent, in contradiction to nature's design in the talents with which she has so liberally endowed him. What is genius (says an elegant writer) without a regulated life! And, surely the paultry occupation of writing for a party journal,
Morning Chronicle.
and the unmanly indulgence of every excess and dissipation, are most derogatory to a character of first-rate powers and attainments, yea verily beneath a Greek Professor in one of our Universities.
PORTER, THOMAS.
The author of a Defence of Unitarianisin, published in an octavo volume, in 1793, and intended as an answer to Dr. Hawker's Sermons on the Divinity of Christ. It occasioned a Reply from Dr. Hawker, which produced a very able rejoinder from Mr. Porter.
PORTEUS, RT. REV. BEILBY, D.D.
Lord Bishop of London, Dean of the Chapel Royal, &c. This learned and amiable prelate, after having been Rector of Lambeth, and after holding the Bishoprick of Chester for eleven years, succeeded to the See of London, in the year 1787, on the decease of the venerable Dr. Lowth; and is supposed to have risen to his present high rank through the particular patronage of her Majesty. Dr. Porteus was educated at Christ's College, Cambridge, took his degree of B. A. in 1752, obtaining with Baron Maseres, the Chancellor's Medals at that University on their first institution, was, for some time, Fellow of the above Society, and gained the Seatonian Prize for a poetical Essay on Death, in 1759, which was published according to the will of the founder. His Lordship was also for many years, Chaplain to the late Archbishop Secker, and, in association with Dr. Stinton, published the seven octavo volumes of Sermons by that eminent divine, prefixing a Review of his Grace's Life and Character. In the year 1776, Dr. Porteus distinguished himself by his exertions to establish a more solemn observation of the Fast, Good-Friday, and published, in that year, a serious, affectionate, and sensible "Exhortation," to that effect. This produced a rude ill-natured attack upon his Lordship, from the late Mr. Robert Robinson, of Chesterton near Cambridge, who published the History and Mystery of Good-Friday, in order to ridicule the observance of it. Having, previously, printed several occasional single Sermons, Dr. Porteus published in 1781 "A Brief Confutation of the Errors of the Church of Rome," extracted from Archbishop Secker's five Sermons against Popery, and designed for general distribution. Two years after this, he produced a volume of Sermons on several subjects, to which he added a second volume, in the year 1794. In both of these volumes, many of the occasional single Sermons, which his Lordship had formerly printed were republished, and they are well known to rank among the most perfect examples of pulpit eloquence in our language. Dr. Porteus has also published, a Letter to the Clergy of the Diocese of Chester concerning Sunday Schools, and a Charge delivered to the Clergy of the Diocese of London, at the primary Visitation, in 1790. His Lordship's poetical talents have been handsomely complimented by Hannah More, in her poem, Sensibility. His style in prose composition is always classical and correct, but, perhaps, he is too studious of avoiding the blandishments of ornament and fancy. In his episcopal character, he is a pattern of propriety of conduct.
POTT, REV. JOSEPH HOLDEN.
Prebendary of Lincoln, Archdeacon of St. Albans, and formerly of St. John's College, Cambridge. This gentleman is a son of the late eminent Surgeon, Percival Pott. He published in 1779, an octavo volume of "Poems," consisting of odes, elegies, &c. and, three years afterward, an octavo volume of "Elegies," with Selmane, a tragedy: neither of these productions possesses very distinguished pretensions to merit. Since that time, Mr. Pott has published, four Charges to the Clergy of the Archdeaconry of St. Albans; two Sermons for the Festivals and Fasts of the Church of England; three single Sermons preached upon particular occasions; and a duodecimo volume of "Elementary Discourses," designed for the use of a young person after confirmation. His writings in the class of divinity, have always been highly acceptable.
POTTER, REV. R. F.R.A.S.
Minister of Scarning, and a character of the highest distinction as a classical scholar. The literary world is most intrinsically indebted to him for excellent poetical versions of the three Greek Tragedians. Mr. Potter published, in 1774, an octavo volume of "Poems," most of the pieces in which had before appeared, separately. It contains many very pretty compositions, particularly a beautiful farewell Hymn to the country, in imitation of Spenser. Three years after this, his Translation of Aeschylus made its appearance in a quarto volume, and has, ever since, been reprinted with the addition of notes, in two volumes, octavo. Of the excellence of this translation, it is hardly possible to say too much: many of the parts are so exquisitely beautiful as to leave us in doubt whether any poet, we have ever heard of, could have accomplished the task with greater success. In 1781, Mr. Potter published, Vol. I. (in quarto) of his Translation of Euripides, to which Vol. II. was added in the year following; and, in 1788, his Translation of Sophocles was published, in a quarto volume. These last-mentioned versions are, certainly, upon the whole, inferior to Mr. Potter's first production, yet, they are, each of them excellent performances, and far superior to those of our former translators, Mr. Wodhull and Dr. Franklin. Beside these laborious works, Mr. Potter published, in 1783, "An Enquiry into some Passages in Dr. Johnson's Lives of the Poets," a quarto pamphlet; and, in 1785, a Translation of the Oracle concerning Babylon, and the Song of Exultation from Isaiah, chap. xiii. and xiv.
In his weightiest character, the Translator of the Greek Tragedians, we must again compliment Mr. Potter on the very singular service which he has done to the literary world. It was an undertaking which, to many, must have appeared too great for the life of man: and considering the success with which so much labour has been accomplished, considering also the amiable character which Mr. Potter bears, as a member of society, we are surprised that he has not, long ago, attracted the notice of those, who are able and willing to confer honours and preferments, where they meet with peculiar desert.
POTTER, JOHN.
Author of the History and Adventures of Arthur O'Bradley; the Curate of Coventry; the Virtuous Villagers; the Favourites of Felicity; and Frederic, all novels; the morality of some of which is extremely lax, and the composition of all of them very indifferent.
POWELL, JOHN JOSEPH, ESQ.
Of the Middle Temple. Barrister at Law, and a distinguished writer in the law department. He published, in 1785, an excellent Treatise on the Law of Mortgages, in an octavo volume, and has since that time written, an Essay on the Learning respecting the Creation and Execution of Powers, an octavo volume; an Essay upon the Learning of Devises an octavo volume; and an Essay on the Law of Contracts and Agreements, in two octavo volumes. Mr. Powell also humanely undertook to complete the second volume of the late Mr. Fearne's Essay on the Learning of contingent Remainders and executory Devises, for the benefit of his widow, her husband having only lived to finish the first volume.
PRATT, ROBERT.
This voluminous gentleman was, some time ago, a bookseller of the City of Bath. His first attempt at distinction consisted in reading passages of some of the most celebrated poets, in public. When he first assumed the character of an author, his signature was
Courtney Melmoth,
under which his first production (in the year 1774) was a quarto pamphlet of wretched stanzas, entitled, "The Tears of Genius, occasioned by the Death of Dr. Goldsmith." In the year following, Mr. Courtney Melmoth produced, Vols. I. and II. (in duodecimo) of "Liberal Opinions upon Animals, Man, and Providence," with the History of Benignus; a miserable farrago, which dragged its senseless length to six volumes. Mr. Courtney, soon afterward, published Observations on Young's Nights Thoughts, in an octavo volume; the Pupil of Pleasure, a novel, in
illustration
of the system in Lord Chesterfield's Letters, and in which the hero of the piece is divested of every sentiment of honour, delicacy, and humanity!! the Sublime and Beautiful of Scripture, in two duodecimo volumes; an Apology for the Life and Writings of David Hume, Esq. in a duodecimo volume; Travels for the Heart, in two duodecimo volumes; the Shadows of Shakspeare, a monody, occasioned by the death of Mr. Garrick, and honoured with a Bath-Easton Prize; Shenstone Green, a novel, in three duodecimo volumes, founded on the passage in Shenstone's works
Had I a fortune of eight or ten thousand pounds a year, I would build myself a neighbourhood;
the Tutor of Truth, a novel, in opposition to the Pupil of Pleasure; and Emma Corbet, a novel, in three duodecimo volumes, published in 1780.
Mr.Courtney Melmoth having, by this time, scribbled himself out of notice, "Sympathy," a poem was published, anonymously, in 1781; and, in the same year, the Fair Circassian, a tragedy, taken from Hawkesworth's
Almoran and Hamet,
was produced at Drury Lane, and published BY MR. PRATT, with a dedication to the Prince of Wales. Since this time Mr. Pratt has always prefixed his name to his productions. In the year 1783, he brought out a Comedy at Drury Lane, entitled. "The School for Vanity," which was, perhaps rather capriciously, condemned; and, two years afterward, he published "Landscapes in Verse," a poem; and four crown octavo volumes of "Miscellanies," in which many of his former fugitive pieces were reprinted. Mr. Pratt's next productions were, "The Triumph of Benevolence," a poem, occasioned by the design of erecting a monument to Mr. Howard; "Humanity," a poem; and an Ode on his Majesty's Recovery; after which his absence on the Continent afforded his pen a long repose. On his return he made, in 1795, an offering of his Muse to his native country, by an Ode to the Benevolence of England; and another to the pockets of his countrymen, by three octavo volumes of "Gleanings," through Wales, Holland, aad Westphalia. Since that time, Mr. Pratt has written a novel, in five duodecimo volumes, entitled, "Family Secrets, Literary and Domestic;" and two three-penny Letters, one to the British Soldiers, the other to the Tars of old England.
A short time before Mr. Pratt's return from the Continent, the following paragraph was inserted, for several days, successively, in the London newspapers,
A few days since, died, at Basle in Swisserland, the ingenious Mr. Pratt. His loss will be severely felt by the literary world; as he joined to the accomplishments of the gentleman, the erudition of the scholar!!!
Soon afterward came a second paragraph, as follows,
As no event of late has caused a more general than the supposed death of the ingenious Mr.Pratt; we are happy to have it in our power to assure his numerous admirers, that he is as well as they can wish, and (what they will be delighted to hear) busied in preparing his TRAVELS for the press!!!!!!!
It is difficult to say, which of Mr. Pratt's literary productions have been most approved. By the above list of them, the reader will observe that he may say with Dr. Johnson, 'he has
written
his share.' Beside these, we only recollect a farce, entitled, "Joseph Andrews," which was acted at Drury Lane, in 1788, for Mr. Bensley's benefit, but never printed. Of his verses, we think "The Triumph of Benevolence," the best. Upon the whole, the stationers and printers must thank him for his excellent custom; but, if he ever wrote for same, he seems mightily to have mistaken the means of obtaining his object▪
PRESCOTT, MISS ANN.
This lady is the surviving prop of Animal Magnetism, in Bloomsbury Square. During the life time of the late Dr. de Mainauduc, she was the only person allowed to assist the Doctor in delivering his lectures, and in communicating his two-hundred-guinea secret. Upon his death, finding herself his executrix, she issued
by the advice of the late Dr's. Friends,
Proposals for Publishing his Lectures by subscription. These lectures are divided into THREE PARTS: the first of which she begged to offer to the students and public, immediately, printed on superfine wove paper, hot-pressed, with a portrait of the Doctor, price five guineas!!!
N. B. Three times five are FIFTHTEEN.
PRESTON, WILLIAM, ESQ.
Past Matter of the Lodge of Antiquity, No. I. He is a native of Edinburgh, born in 1742, was for some time amanuensis to the celebrated Thomas Ruddiman, and apprentice to his brother the printer, and has, since that time, become a superintendent of the press of Mr. Strahan in London. While in Scotland, he compiled a Catalogue of Mr. Ruddiman's Books; and, in May, 1772, delivered an Oration on the Institution of Masonry, at a grand gala of eminent brethren, held at the Crown and Anchor Tavern, in the Strand. This composition was afterward printed in the first edition of Mr. Preston's "Illustrations of Masonry," a well-written panegyrical view of that celebrated fraternity, published the same year. Having been appointed to the office of Deputy Grand Secretary, under James Heseltine, Esq. he compiled, for the benefit of the charity, the History of Remarkable Occurrences, inserted in the two first publications of the Freemasons Calendar; prepared for the press, an Appendix to the Book of Constitutions; and, from the various memoranda he had made, formed the History of Masonry, which was afterward printed in his ILLUSTRATIONS. A dispute taking place, in 1779, between the Grand Lodge and the Lodge of Antiquity, Mr. Preston took the part of the Lodge and his private friends, in consequence of which his name was erased from the Hall Committee, and he was afterward, with several gentlemen, Members of that Lodge, expelled the Society. The treatment which he and his friends experienced on this occasion, was circumstantially related in a pamphlet, entitled, "A State of Facts, &c," which was printed by Mr. Preston, at his own expence, and circulated among his friends, but never sold: the leading circumstances were also recorded in some of the latter editions of his ILLUSTRATIONS. Ten years afterward, however, Mr. Preston and all the other Members of the Lodge of Antiquity, were re-instated by the Grand Lodge in a handsome manner.
PRESTON, WILLIAM, ESQ.
Of Gloucester Street, Dublin. This gentleman published, in 1794, two octavo volumes of his "Poetical Works," some of which had been published separately, as long ago as the year 1775. Among these poems are many pieces of very considerable merit, and the public are likely to be favoured with a third volume. Mr. Preston has also published, "Democratic Rage; or, Louis the Unfortunate," a political tragedy, and a Letter to Brian Edwards, Esq. containing Observations on some passages of his History of the West Indies.
PRESTON, RICHARD, ESQ.
Of the Inner Temple. Author of a very useful elementary Treatise, by way of essay, on the Quantity of Estates, &c. published in an octavo volume, in 1762; to which he has since added, by way of supplement, a succinct View of the Rule in Shelley's Case. Mr. Preston has also published, No. I. (in octavo) of a Collection of Law Tracts.
PRETTYMAN, RT. REV. GEORGE, D.D.
Lord Bishop of Lincoln, and Dean of St. Paul's. This distinguished prelate was born with humble prospects in life, at Bury St. Edmund's in Suffolk. He was educated at Pembroke Hall, Cambridge, and took his degree of B. A. with the greatest distinction, in the year 1772. Dr. Turner, the present Dean of Norwich, was his senior by a few and, when Mr. Pitt and the late son of Lord Elliot came to the above College, the latter became the private pupil of Dr. Turner, and Mr. Pitt was given to Dr. Prettyman. The pains which the preceptor took with the embryo glory of his country, were, afterward, gratefully and deservedly repaid, by the Mitre which he now wears. His Lordship was, for some time, private Secretary to Mr. Pitt, and has most usefully assisted him by the application of those talents for calculation and financial skill, which he had, unsuspectingly, cultivated in the groves of the academy. The publications of Dr. Prettyman have only been one or two occasional single Sermons, the first of which appeared in 1784. In a late Charge to his Clergy, his Lordship attacked Dr. Geddes with the imputation of infidelity, in denying the divine authority of the Pentateuch!
PRICE, UVEDALE, ESQ.
A very distinguished Connoisseur in the Picturesque. He published, in the year 1780, in an octavo volume, a Translation from the Greek of the Account, by Pausanias, of the Statues, Pictures, and Temples in Greece, when he travelled over all its states, about the 177th year of the Christian aera. In 1794, he wrote an Essay on the Picturesque, as compared with the sublime and the beautiful, in an octavo volume, which was attacked with propriety, by Mr. H. Repton, the landscape painter, in a Letter to Mr. Price, vindicating Mr. Brown's and his own principles of improvement. To this Letter Mr. Price published a concessive Answer; and has since written, "Thoughts on the Defence of Property," a small pamphlet.
PRICE, JOSEPH, ESQ.
A native of Wales, and formerly a Captain in the army. Some years ago, he wrote many pamphlets on the subject of our Transactions in the East Indies, and was a strentious defender of
things as they are,
in that country. His Reply to the Travels of Mackintosh (vide that name), was chiefly noticed. A Collection has been made of his Tracts, in four octavo volumes.
PRICE, JOHN.
The author of an Historical and Topographical Account of Leominster and its Vicinity, published in an octavo volume, in 1795; and of an Historical Account of the City of Hereford, in an octavo volume, published the year following. The last of these is a very respectable performance, and, perhaps, preferable to the first. Mr. Price has also (we believe) written, "The Seaman's Return," a farce, acte at provincial theatres.
PRIESTLEY, REV. JOSEPH, L.L.D. F.R.S.
Fellow of many foreign societies, and a dissenting Clergyman, late of Hackney. This celebrated character was born at Field-head near Bristall, about seven miles from Leeds, in the year 1728-9. His father was a merchant and manufacturer: he received the early part of his education from the Rev. Mr. Scott, a dissenting minister in the neighbourhood, and completed it under Mr. Ashworth, near Daventry in Northamptonshire. Dr. Priestley was educated in the strictest principles of calvinism; about the age of twenty he became an Arian, in which persuasion he continued for fifteen or sixteen years; and, at length, embraced the doctrines of Socinus, to which he was chiefly led by Dr. Lardner's Letters on the Logos. He was, for several years, Tutor in the Languages and Belles-Lettres, at the late dissenting academy of Warrington, whence he returned to his native county, and took upon himself the pastoral office at Mill-Hill Chapel, Leeds. In the year 1773, being appointed Chaplain and Librarian to the Marquis of Lansdown, then Lord Shelburne, he quitted that situation, and resided with his Lordship for nearly seven years. A coolness taking place between them, and Dr. Priestley having received an invitation to settle with a society of protestant dissenters at Birmingham, he undertook the pastorship of the new meeting of that town, on the last day of the year 1780. Here he long remained undisturbed, although his pulpit Discourses, his political pamphlets, and his private conversation were well known to be highly inimical to the Government of his country, and, especially, to her ecclesiastical constitution. But his declamatory vehemence, and the indecency of his conduct to the neighbouring clergy, caused him to be viewed, by the lower classes in Birmingham, as a turbulent, seditious man: and, in July 1791, a flame, which had, for a long time, been gaining strength under suppression, broke out with dreadful fury upon his devoted head. A most infamous libel had been circulated, which was, of itself, sufficient to inflame the minds of the populace; and the fabrication of this paper was ignorantly attributed to Dr. Priestley. Attached to the Constitution of their country, they resolved to inflict the heaviest vengeance upon the man, who dared thus to insult them: and the consequences were dreadful, indeed. For some days, Birmingham was a miserable scene of popular fury. Houses were pillaged, meeting-houses burned, and no bounds could have been put to the fury of the enraged mob, had it not been for the wise, dispassionate conduct of the neighbouring nobility and gentry, who, at length, succeeded in restoring peace to the distracted town. Dr. Priestley suffered severely. His house, his library, with numerous unpublished manuscripts, his laboratory, and valuable philosophical apparatus were all destroyed. Part of the mob, inflamed with liquor, and more savage than the rest, had actually conceived the horrid design of taking away his life: but the previous intelligence he had received enabled him to elude their vengeance, and they contented themselves with burning his effigy. Upon his arrival in London, Dr. Priestley published a Letter, couched in haughty terms, by which he seemed to consider himself as persecuted for righteousness' sake: and, soon afterward, he accepted an invitation to succeed the late Dr. Price, at the New-College, Hackney. His misfortunes had not, however, cured him of his political frenzy, and his conduct being, at length, marked by Government, a polite intimation was given him to quit the country. Upon this, he emigrated to America, and settled at Northumberland-Town, He was, not long ago, a candidate for the office of Chaplain to the House of Assembly at New York, but had a minority of votes in favour of Dr. Green.
Of the numerous literary productions by Dr. Priestley, the first was a Treatise on the Rudiments of English Grammar, which was published in a duodecimo volume, in 1761, and seven years afterward, republished with great additions and improvements, in an octavo volume. This first work was followed, in 1765, by his useful Charts of Biography, and of Universal History, and by an Essay on Liberal Education, in an octavo volume. In 1767, Dr. Priestley published an History of Electricity, in a quarto volume; and a familiar Introduction to the Study of Electricity, in a quarto pamphlet; and, in the year following, a Pamphlet on the Lord's Supper; a small Catechism; and an Essay on the first Principles of Government, in an octavo volume. In 1769, was published Vol. I, (in octavo) of the Theological Repository, consisting of original essays, hints, queries, &c. calculated to promote religious knowledge, a periodical miscellany conducted by Dr. Priestley, and continued to six volumes. Since that time he has written, in the class of theology, a free Address to Protestant Dissenters, on the Doctrines of Calvinism; an Address to Masters of Families: Considerations on Church Authority; Considerations on Differences of Opinion among Christians; a View of the Principles and Conduct of the Protestant; Dissenters; Additions to his Address on the Lord's Supper; Letters to the Author of Remarks on several Publications relative to the Dissenters; Answer to a second Letter to him on his Address on the Lord's Supper; Institutes of Natural and Revealed Religion, in two volumes, octavo; a Farewell Sermon at Leeds; an Address to Protestant Dissenters on giving the Lord's Supper to Children; Considerations for the Use of Young Men; a Free Address to Protestant Dissenters on the Subject of Church Dicipline; a Harmony of the Evangelists in Greek, with Dissertations in English; a Sermon on the Doctrine of Divine Influence on the Human Mind; a Harmony of the Evangelists in English; Letters to a Philosophical Unbeliever, two parts; a Sermon preached on undertaking the Pastorship of the New Meeting at Birmingham; two Letters to Dr. Newcome on the Duration of our Saviour's Ministry; two Discourses preached to Protestant Dissenting Ministers; additional Letters to a Philosophical Unbeliever; a Sermon on the Proper Constitution of a Christian Church; an History of the Corruptions of Christianity, in two volumes, octavo; a Reply to the Animadversions on his History, in the Monthly Review; Letters to Dr. Horsley, three parts; Forms of Prayer for the Use of Unitarian Societies; Remarks on the Monthly Review of the Letters to Dr. Horsley; a General View of the Arguments for the Unity of God; a Sermon on Free Enquiry; a History of Early Opinions concerning Jesus Christ, in four volumes, octavo; a Letter to Mr. Pitt on Toleration; Letters to Dr. Horne; Letters to the Jews, two parts; a Sermon on the Slave Trade; an octavo volume of Discourses on various Subjects, most of which had been published separately; Defences of Unitarianism, for 1787, 1788, and 1789; an History of the Sufferings of Mr. Lewis de Marolles and Mr. Isaac le Feyre, upon the revocation of the edict of Nantz: a Sermon on the Test; Letters to the Rev. E Burn; Familiar Letters addressed to the Inhabitants of Birmingham, five parts; a Sermon on Death; a General History of the Christian Church to the Fall of the Western Empire, in two volumes, octavo; a Sermon on the Death of Dr. Price; a Sermon on Education; an Ordination Sermon at Warwick; a Sermon at Buxton; Original Letters by the Rev. John Wesley and his Friends; Letters to the New Jerusalemites; a Sermon on the Birmingham Riots; a Sermon at Hackney; Letters to a Young Man, occasioned by Mr. Wakefield's Essay on Public Worship, two parts; Letters to the Philosophers and Politicians of France, on the Subject of Religion; two Fast Sermons preached April 19th, 1793, and February 28th, 1794; a Farewell Sermon at Hackney; an octavo volume of Discourses on the Evidences of Revealed Religion; an Answer to Paine's Age of Reason; Observations on the Increase of Infidelity; and a Sermon on Unitarianism preached at Philadelphia. The three last of these were first published in America, and reprinted in London. Collections of his larger and smaller Tracts, have been made in octavo and duodecimo volumes. His publications in other classes, since the above date, have been, Additions to his History of Electricity; the Trial of Elwal, a quaker; Directions for impregnating Water with fixed Air; the History and
present
State of Discoveries relating to Vision, Light, and Colours, (published in 1772) in two quarto volumes; Experiments and Observations on different Kinds of Air, in three octavo volumes; an Examination of Reid on the Mind, Beattie on Truth, and Oswald's Appeal; Hartley's Theory of the Mind; "Philosophical Empiricism," a pamphlet relative to a charge of plagiarism; Lectures on Oratory and Criticism; Disquisitions relating to Matter and Spirit; the Doctrine of Philosophical Necessity illustrated; a Correspondence with Dr. Price on Materialism and Philosophical Necessity; Observations on Education; Experiments and Observations in Natural Philosophy, three volumes, octavo; a Letter to Mr. Palmer, in Defence of the Illustrations of Philosophical Necessity; a Letter to Mr. Bryant, in Defence of Philosophical Necessity; a second Letter to Mr. Palmer; Lectures on History and General Policy, in one volume, quarto, and two volumes, octavo; Letters to Mr. Burke, occasioned by his REFLECTIONS on the French Revolution; a Letter to the Inhabitants of Birmingham; an Appeal to the Public on the subject of the Riots in Birmingham, two parts; Experiments on the Generation of Air from Water; Heads of Lectures on a Course of Experimental Philosophy, delivered at the New-College, Hackney; Experiments and Observations relating to the Analysis of Atmospherical Air, first published in America, and reprinted in London; and several Papers printed at sundry times, in Philosophical Transactions of learned societies.
As a Controversialist, no man upon record has been more distinguished than Dr. Priestley. He has been engaged with Mr. Venn, a methodist; with Mr. Berington, a Roman catholic clergyman; with Mr. Whitehead, a quaker; with Dr. Price and Mr. Palmer, dissenting ministers, and Mr. Jacob Bryant, on the subjects of Materialism and Philosophical Necessity; with Bishop Newcome, on the duration of our Lord's Ministry; with Mr. Hammon, a pretended atheist; with Bishop Horsley, Mr. Badcock, Mr. Burn, Mr, Hawkins, the Jews, (particularly Mr. Levi) and the followers of Baron Swedenborg; and, lastly, with Mr. Brian Higgins (in particular) on Natural Philosophy, A short, but curious correspondence between Mr. Gibbon and Dr. Priestley, may also be seen in Lord Sheffield's publication of that gentleman's posthumous Works; in which, though the Historian seems well to understand the
direct tendency
of the Doctor's character and opinions, the temper of the divine appears to much greater advantage than that of his antagonist.
Of the abilities of Dr. Priestley, none can hesitate to pronounce that they are of first-rate excellence. His philosophical enquiries and publications claim the greatest distinction, and have materially contributed to the advancement of science. As an experimental philosopher, he is, perhaps, the very first of his age. He has also been a most industrious divine; and, had he proved as diligent in propagating truth, as in disseminating error, in establishing the gospel in the minds of men, instead of shaking their belief in the doctrines of revelation, perhaps, few characters of the present century would have ranked higher as learned men, or have been held in greater estimation. On the contrary his political and theological writings must be pronounced to be fraught with principles the most destructive to the well-being of society. It was a saying of Dr. Johnson that they were calculated to unsettle every thing, but to settle nothing. The undaunted and unremitting constancy with which he has pursued the establishment of his speculative doctrines, has done infinitely more than was to be wished, toward giving popularity to his metaphysical and theological sentiments: and, if their apprehended effect has fortunately been counteracted, it is, probably, owing to their violence rather than to any other cause. The pillars of revelation, (says Mr. Gibbon) are shaken by those men who preserve the name without the substance of religion, who indulge the licence without the temper of philosophy!
PRIESTLEY, REV. TIMOTHY.
Brother to the subject of the preceeding article, and a methodist minister. He has published a Commentary on the Bible; an Answer to William Huntington's
Timothy Priestley Shaved
; an octavo volume of Family Exercises; "The Christian's Looking Glass, in a duodecimo volume; and a few occasional single Sermons. He was, for some time, editor of the Christian's Magazine.
PRINCE REV. J.H.
A methodist preacher in Wesley's connection. He has published a Sermon on the Christian's Duty to God and the Constitution; an octavo volume of original Letters and Essays on moral and entertaining Subjects; and an Oration in Defence of Methodism, delivered at the Westminster Forum. He is a frequent writer in the Lady's Magazine.
PRINSEP, JOHN, ESQ.
The author of a Letter to the Proprietors of East-India Stock, on the
present
Crisis of the Company's Affairs, published in 1793; and also of Strictures on the Mocurrery System of Landed Property in Bengal, originally, written for the Morning Chronicle, under the signature, GURREEB DOSS.
PROBY, RIGHT HON. JOHN, JOSHUA, K. P. EARL OF CARYSFORT, IN THE KINGDOM OF IRELAND.
Joint Keeper of the Rolls in the above kingdom, and brother-in-law to the Marquis of Buckingham and Lord Grenville. His lordship published in the year 1780, a Letter to the Huntingdonshire Committee, intended to shew the legality, as well as necessity, of extending the right of election to the whole body of the people, and of abridging the duration of Parliament. Three years afterward he wrote, Thoughts on the Constitution, with a View to the proposed Reform, in the Representation of the People, and Duration of Parliaments. They are both of them well-written pamphlets.
PROSSER, THOMAS.
The author of An Account and Method of Cure of the Bronchocele, or Derby Neck, which was first published in 1769, and well received; and also of a Treatise on the Strangles and Fevers of Horses, in an octavo volume, published in 1790.
PROUD, REV. J.N.H.M.
A Swedenborg Minister. He has written a very candid Reply to Dr. Priestley's Letters, to the Members of the New Jerusalem; a Fast Sermon, preached in the New Jerusalem Temple at Birmingham; Hymns for the use of the New Church; and Jehovah's Mercy, a poem.
PROVO, P.
A Surgeon and Apothecary of Pentonville. He has published "Wisdom's Dictates," a collection of maxims, chiefly from Baron Swedenborg.
PRYCE, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D.
Of Redruth, Cornwall. This gentleman published in 1778, in a folio volume,
Mineralogia Cornubiensis,
a sensible and useful treatise on Minerals, Mines, and Mining; and in 1790, in a quarto volume,
Archaeologia Cornu-Britannica,
an Essay to preserve the Ancient Cornish Language, which is a work very acceptable to the Philologist.
PUDDICOMBE, REV. J.N.
Formerly of Pembroke Hall; Cambridge, and Fellow of Dulwich College. His first publication was a Fast Sermon preached at Fitzroy Chapel, in 1782. Since that time he has published Albion Triumphant, or Admiral Rodney's Victory over the French Fleet, a poem; an irregular Ode addressed to Mr. Pitt, which reached a second edition; and a Poem to Messrs. Ramsay, &c. on their exertions for suppressing the Slave Trade: none of which entitle him to distinction as a poet. Also a volume of Sermons full of flighty extravagance.
PULTENEY, SIR WILLIAM, BART. M.P.
This Senator is one of the most distinguished among those, usually denominated the country gentlemen. He has written several political pamphlets, viz. Thoughts on the State of Affairs with America, published in 1778; Considerations on the State of Public Affairs, published in the following year; "The Effects to be expected from Mr. Fox's India Bill upon the Constitution of Great Britain, if passed into a Law," which was published in 1784, and bought up and distributed in great numbers by the friends of Mr▪ Pitt; Considerations on the Legality, Policy, and Operation of the Impress of Seamen, published in 1786; and Considerations on the Cause,
Sutton
v.
Johnstone,
published the year following. The Substance of his Speech on his Motion, April 7th, 1797, for shortening the time during which the Bank of England shall be restrained from issuing cash for its debts and demands, has also been published in an octavo pamphlet. He is a sensible, accurate and moderate writer.
PULTENEY, RICHARD, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
This gentleman, a well-known Physician and Naturalist, published in 1781, a General View of the Writings of Linnaeus, in an octavo volume, which gained him very great credit. Since that time he has written, Historical and Biographical Sketches of the Progress of Botany in England, from its Origin to the Introduction of the Linnaean. System, published in two volumes, octavo, in 1790, which is likewise a work of great merit.
PYE, HENRY JAMES, ESQ.
Poet Laureat, and one of the Magistrates of the Police Office, Queen Square, Westminster. This gentleman is descended from an ancient family in Berkshire, which county his ancestors, as well as himself, have frequently represented in Parliament. He was educated at Magdalen College, Oxford, took his degree of M. A. in 1766, and was afterward, for some time, in the Berkshire Militia. On the death of Dr. Warton, in 1790, he succeeded that gentleman as Poet Laureat.
We believe Mr. Pye's first literary production was an Ode on the Birth of the Prince of Wales, printed in the Oxford Collection. He afterward, occasionally, published singly and anonymously, several original Poems; and also excellent Translations of the six Olympic Odes of Pindar, omitted by Mr. West; and a Translation of the Art of War, a poem, from the French of the King of Prussia, written in 1778, at his leisure hours during the encampment at Coxheath. In 1783, he published, with his name, the Progress of Refinement, a poem; and, four years afterward, "Poems on various Subjects," in two octavo volumes, in which all of the pieces, above referred-to, were collected, and a few new ones added. A very elegant English Translation of the Song of Harmodius and Aristogeiton, in which the turn of expression of the original has been imitated with extraordinary felicity, is to be found, among other excellent pieces, in this collection. Mr. Pye's subsequent publications have been, a Translation of the Poetic of Aristotle, first published in an octavo volume, in 1788, and afterward prefixed to a Commentary on that work, published in a quarto volume; Amusement, a poetical essay, published in 1790; the War Elegies of Tyrtaeus imitated, and addressed to the People of Great Britain, published in 1795; the Siege of Meaux, a tragedy, acted at Covent Garden Theatre; and Leonore, a tale, translated from the German of Burger. He is also speedily about to present the public with a Poem on the Origin and Progress of Navigation, which, as we have understood, is to close with a splendid apostrophe, commemorating our late glorious naval victories.
The poetry of Mr. Pye cannot, perhaps, upon the whole, be said to be of that very superior kind, which has universally exacted from his readers the applause of first-rate excellence. Yet, none can deny that he is always the elegant scholar, the man of taste and fancy, and the writer of polished versification; while the great interests of virtue and public spirit-have uniformly been countenanced by his pen. His ARISTOTLE, though a performance of considerable merit, has been displaced by the work, so singularly masterly, of Mr. Twining. Among the several translators of the above-mentioned German tale, he is certainly the best.
PYLE, REV. PHILIP.
Rector of Castle Rising, and Lynn St. Edmund, in Norfolk. This gentleman edited his father's Sermons, in three volumes, octavo; and published, in 1789, one hundred and twenty popular Sermons, in four volumes, octavo, among which are likewise some by his father. The profits of the last of these publications, which has some merit, are designed for the benefit of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.
Q
QUIN, CHARLES WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D.
FELLOW of the King's and Queen's College of Physicians, Physician-general of his Majesty's Army in Ireland, and of the Royal Hospital for Invalids, near Dublin. This gentleman has written an interesting Treatise on the Dropsy of the Brain illustrated by a variety of cases, which was published in an octavo volume, in 1791.
R
RADOLIFFE, MRS. ANN.
A LADY of great distinction in the literary world as a Novel-writer. We believe her first production in this class was, "The Castles of Athlin and Dunbayne," an highland story, published in a duodecimo volume, in 1789. Since that time, she has written, "A Sicilian Romance," in two duodecimo volumes; the Romance of the Forest, in three duodecimo volumes; the Mysteries of Udolpho, in four duodecimo volumes; and the Italian, in three duodecimo volumes. They have all been very generally read and admired, especially, the Romance of the Forest, and the Mysteries of Udolpho. Her powers of pleasing, in this line of composition, are very singularly great; and the happy combination of various talents which her pieces display, entitles their author to rank among the first novel-writers of her age; while the beautiful verses interspersed among her tales, must raise her highly in the estimation of every poetical genius. Beside these Romances, Mrs. Radcliffe published, in 1795, in a quarto volume, "A Journey made in the Summer of 1794, through Holland and the Western Frontier of Germany, with a Return down the Rhine; to which are added, Observations during a Tour to the Lakes of Westmoreland and Cumberland." This volume was afterward reprinted in two octavos. It is a well-written, entertaining, and authentic work, and adds a new laurel to the brows of the fair writer.
RADCLIFFE, WILLIAM.
Of Oriel College, Oxford. This gentleman has translated from the French, "A Journey through Sweden, containing a detailed Account of its Population, Agriculture, Commerce, and Finances;" and "The Natural History of East Tartary, traced through the three Kingdoms of Nature," originally published at Petersburgh, by the Academy of Sciences. Each of these Translations were published in an octavo volume, in 1790.
RAITHBY, —
A Law-Stationer. He has written Henry Bennet, a novel, in three volumes, which is an attempt in the manner of Fielding, not destitute of merit.
RAMSAY, DAVID, ESQ. M.D.
A native, and President of the Senate, of South Carolina. He has distinguished himself as a warm friend to human liberty. In 1787, he published the History of the Revolution of South Carolina, in two octavo volumes, printed in America; and, in 1791, the History of the American Revolution, in two octavo volumes. Both of these performances display a very commendable degree of integrity, temper, liberality, penetration, and knowledge. The first Oration which was spoken at the public celebration of the establishment of American independence, was delivered by Dr. Ramsay; and, after a lapse of sixteen years, he was again called upon to perform the same office, July 4th, 1794. The excellent Speech he made was published in London, the year following, in an octavo pamphlet.
RAMSDEN, J.
Mathematical, Optical, and Philosophical Instrument-maker in Piccadilly. He is one of the few workmen of this description, who unite great scientific knowledge with much practical skill. He has made several inventions and improvements in the instruments used in the practical parts of natural philosophy, which are greatly to the credit of his ingenuity, and which constitute him a worthy promoter of science. For the invention of his celebrated Machine for dividing Mathematical Instruments, he received six hundred and fifteen pounds, on certain conditions, from the commissioners of longitude. Of this Machine he published a Description, in 1777, in a quarto volume, by order of the above-mentioned commissioners; and has also, occasionally, written Papers in the Philosophical Transactions.
RAMSDEN, REV. RICHARD, M.A.
Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, and a very superior Classical Scholar. He took his degree of B. A. in the University with great distinction, in 1736; and has written, perhaps, the
best
Greek Ode, in imitation of Sappho, on the subject of the Siege of Gibraltar, which the legacy of Sir William Browne has ever produced. Mr. Ramsden has of late, attracted a good deal of notice, by the publication of two singular Sermons on the Right to Life, preached before the University. They are the production of an imagination extraordinarily poetical; and have been read by many, understood by few, and translated into English metre by
one.
RANDOLPH, REV. JOHN, D.D.
Canon of Christ Church, and Regius Professor of Divinity in the University of Oxford; and late Greek Professor in that University. This gentleman's first publication was a Sermon preached at an ordination at Christ Church, in 1779. Since that time, he has published a Sermon at the consecration of Dr. Lewis Bagot, in 1782, to the Bishoprick of Bristol;
De Graecoe Linguae studio Praelectio habita in Schola Linguarum, Oxon. III. Non. Dec. A. D. MDCCLXXXII;
and
Concio ad Clerum in Synodo Provinciali Cantuariensis Provincae, ad D. Pauli, Die 26o . Novembris, A. D.
1790.
RANDOLPH, REV. F.
Chaplain to his Royal Highness the Duke of York, and late Fellow of King's College, Cambridge. He published, in 1788, a Letter to Mr. Pitt on the proposed Abolition of the Slave Trade; and, in 1792, "Scriptural Revision of Socinian Arguments," in a letter to Dr. Priestley, which does him very great credit. The latter of these productions produced a Reply from Benjamin Hob-house, Esq. which occasioned Mr. Randolph to publish, in 1793, a pamphlet, entitled, "Scriptural Revision of Socinian Arguments vindicated." This Vindication likewise produced an Answer from Mr. Hobhouse.
RASPE, RUDOLPHUS, ERICUS.
A foreigner of distinguished reputation and merit. He edited the posthumous writings of the celebrated Leibnitz, and published at Leipzig, in 1763,
Specimen Historiae Naturalis Globi terraquei, &c.
an essay, (in octavo) chiefly relating to the formation of islands, the origin of mountains and the phenomena of petrified bodies. In 1776, he published, in London, an Account of some German Volcanos and their Productions, in an octavo volume; and has, since that time, produced a Translation of Ferber's Philosophical Travels, in an octavo volume; an Essay on Oil Painting, in quarto; Tabby in Elysium, a poem; and a Translation from the German of Baron Inigo Born's New Process of Amalgamation of Gold and Silver Ores, &c. in a quarto volume.
READ, JOHN.
Of Knightsbridge. The author of a Summary View of the Spontaneous Electricity of the Earth and Atmosphere, an accurate and judicious work, published in an octavo volume, in 1793.
REED, ISAAC, ESQ.
Of Staple's Inn. Barrister at Law, and a very distinguished editor of dramatic writings. He edited the Collection of old Plays, in twelve duodecimo volumes, published by Dodsley, in 1780, and lately republished; and also, in consequence of a very flattering application from Mr. Stevens, the ten-octavo-volume edition of Shakspeare's Plays, published in 1785. Mr. Reed has, moreover, we believe, written "Biographia Dramatica," in two duodecimo volumes. No man is more conversant than this gentleman, with English publications, both ancient and modern; and no man more willing to assist the literary undertakings of others.
REES, REV. ABRAHAM, D.D. F.R.S.
A Dissenting Minister of Hackney, and, we believe, one of the tutors at the New College. His principal work is the last improved edition of Chamber's Cyclopaedia, in four large folio volumes; a task which he has performed with very considerable care and success. Dr. Rees has also published several occasional single Sermons, the last of which was on the Death of his intimate friend Dr. Kippis. He was formerly concerned in the Monthly Review.
REES, THOMAS.
The author of a new System of Stenography, which has been favourably received, but which is too concise in its principles to be of very general utility.
REEVE, MRS. CLARA.
A literary lady of much ingenuity, resident at Ipswich in Suffolk. Her first publication was a Translation from the Latin of the fine old romance, Barclay's Argenis, which made its appearance in 1772, in four duodecimo volumes, under the title, "The Phoenix; or, the History of Polyarchus and Argenis." She next wrote the Champion of Virtue, a Gothic story, which was published in 1777; and was republished in the following year, under the title it has ever since retained, viz. "The Old English Baron." Mrs. Reeve has, since that time, written the two Mentors, a modern story; "The Progress of Romance through Times, Countries, and Manners," in a course of interesting and well-written evening conversations; The Exile, or Memoirs of the Count de Cronstadt, the principal incidents of which are borrowed from a novel by M. D'Arnaud; the School for Widows, a novel; "Plans of Education," with remarks on the system of other writers, in a duodecimo volume; and Memoirs of Sir Roger de Clarendon, a natural Son of Edward the Black Prince, with Anecdotes of many other eminent persons of the fourteenth century, in three duodecimo volumes. It is hardly necessary for us to add, concerning a writer so well known as Mrs. Reeve, that her works discover her to have cultivated useful knowledge with considerable success, and to have applied that knowledge less frivolously than is frequently the case with female authors.
REEVES, JOHN, ESQ.
Barrister at Law, and author of a very valuable History of the English Law, from the time of the Saxons, to the end of the Reign of Phillip and Mary, published in two volumes, quarto, in 1784, and afterward reprinted in four octavo volumes. Mr. Reeves has also written a History of the Law of Shipping and Navigation; History of the Government of the Island of Newfoundland; and Thoughts on the English Government, in a letter.
REID, REV. THOMAS, D.D. F.R.S.E.
Late Professor of Moral Philosophy in the University of Glasgow. He was the most scientific and distinguished of the three
Reid, Beattie, and Oswald. They were answered by Dr. Priestley.
Scotish defenders of the celebrated doctrine, COMMON SENSE. His earliest publication was upon this subject. It was an octavo volume, published in 1764, and entitled, "An Enquiry into the Human Mind, on the Principles of Common Sense." The great object of this volume was, to refute certain principles with regard to the human understanding, which had, for a long time, been commonly adopted by philosophers, and, upon which, Bishop Berkeley and Mr. Hume had, at last, erected a system of scepticism. It was received with a degree of favour, seldom shewn to metaphysical disquisitions. In the year 1785, Dr. Reid published, "Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man," in a quarto volume. This treatise is written upon a much more extensive plan than the former, and comprehends an account of all the powers of the human understanding. A few years afterward, in continuation of his general plan, and, in completion of the analysis, which he proposed to make of the human mind, Dr. Reid published "Essays on the active Powers of Man," in a quarto volume. His writings have found many admirers.
REID, THOMAS, ESQ. M.D. F.A.S.
Formerly of the Isle of Thanet. He published, in 1782, an Essay on the Nature and Cure of the
Phthisis Pulmonalis,
in an octavo volume, which was greatly enlarged and improved in a second edition. Dr. Reid has written, since that time. Directions for Warm and Cold Sea-bathing, a pamphlet of considerable merit.
REID, WILLIAM, HAMILTON.
A Translator of foreign Newspapers, and a frequent writer in our Magazines. He has published a Collection of his Poems, which cannot be said to rank above mediocrity.
REIDE, THOMAS, DICKSON.
An Army-Surgeon. Author of a useful View of the Diseases of the Army, published in an octavo volume, in 1793, which confirms the practice adopted by Doctors Millar, Robertson, and Clarke.
RENNELL, JAMES, ESQ. F.R.S.
A gentleman of very extensive and very accurate knowledge. He was formerly Major of Engineers and Surveyor-general in Bengal; and is highly celebrated as the delineator of a very beautiful map of Hindostan. This map was first published in 1783, accompanied by a "Memoir," in a quarto volume, consisting of illustrations of Indian Geography. Five years afterward the Memoir was republished, in a thicker volume, with great improvements. Major Rennell has written, since that time, "The Marches of the British Armies in the Peninsula of India, during the Campaigns of 1790 and 1791, illustrated and explained by reference to a Map, compiled from authentic Documents, transmitted by Earl Cornwallis from India," published in 1792, in an octavo volume; Memoir of a Map of the Peninsula of India, from the latest authorities, published the year following, in a quarto volume; and Observations on a Current that often prevails to the Westward of Sicily, a quarto pamphlet. To the third edition of Major Rennell's first-méntioned Memoir, published in 1793, was added the second supplementary map, containing the new geography of the Peninsula of India, and also the explanatory memoir. It is hardly necessary for us to add that this gentleman ranks among the very first geographers, and that his country is very deeply indebted to his labours.
RENNELL, REV. THOMAS, D.D.
Prebendary of Winchester, Rector of St. Magnus in the City of London, and late Fellow of King's College, Cambridge. This stout and worthy pillar of the church has, of late, distinguished himself by the publication of several very excellent single Sermons, preached for the most part on particular occasions. Among them are, "Principles of French Republicanism essentially founded on Violence and Blood-guiltiness," a Sermon occasioned by the Murder of Her Most Christian Majesty; "The Consequences of the Vice of Gaming, as they effect the Welfare of Individuals, and the Stability of Civil Government considered;" and "The Services rendered to the Church of England by the English Nation, a Motive for Liberality to the indigent Ministers of that Church," preached at the anniversary meeting of the Sons of the Clergy it St. Paul's, May 10th, 1796. One or two more single Discourses, from these excellent hands, have also reached the press. Dr. Rennell merits the highest estimation, from all good men, for the energy with which his conduct, as a minister of the gospel, has, of late years, been marked. No well-wisher to his country has heard his eloquent harangues, or admired, in private, in his closet, his piety, his patriotism, and his erudition, without wishing that our religion and our morals had in these times many more supports so able and so active.
The celebrated satirical poem, THE PURSUITS OF LITERATURE, was, at one time, confidently attributed to this gentleman: on this subject, we refer the reader to the note at page 205, of our first volume. Dr. Rennell married a daughter of the celebrated Sir William Blackstone.
RENWICK, WILLIAM.
Surgeon in the Royal Navy. He published, in 1778, a pamphlet, which he entitled, "An Attempt to restore the primitive natural Constitutions of Mankind, &c." and has, since that time, published three Addresses to Parliament on the Situation of the Navy Surgeons; and an Enquiry into the Nature and Causes of Sickness in Ships of War, an octavo pamphlet.
REPTON, H. ESQ.
A very distinguished proficient in the art of drawing, who has been consulted in the improvement of many of the seats of gentlemen of fortune. He was engaged in a controversy with Mr. Uvedale Price, in the year 1794, on the subject of the Picturesque; and, upon the publication of that gentleman's
Essay,
published a "Letter" to him, in vindication of Mr. Brown's and his own Principles of improvement. Since that time, Mr. Repton has published, "Sketches and Hints on Landscape Gardening," an elegant work, in a folio volume. We believe he is also the author of an octavo volume of Essays, published in 1788, under the title, "Variety."
REYNOLDS, FREDERIC, ESQ.
A successful Dramatic Writer of the day. He is the younger son of Mr. Reynold's Solicitor to Lord Chatham, and brother to a barrister of that name. He was himself, after an education at Westminster-school, brought up to the law, but has never been called to the bar. The first production of Mr. Reynolds was Werter, a tragedy, taken from a novel of the celebrated Goethe, which was first rejected by Mr. Harris, afterward represented with success on the Bath stage, and finally brought out at Covent Garden. He next produced Eloisa, a tragedy, taken from Rousseau, which lasted three nights at Covent Garden, and cleared the author
eight pounds.
Here ended Mr. Reynolds' attempts in tragedy. In the year 1793, he produced, at Covent Garden, his whimsical comedy, entitled, "The Dramatist," which succeeded in creating the laughter of our modern audiences, to the astonishment of all who read it in their closets. Since that time Mr. Reynolds has furnished Covent Garden Theatre with the Crusade, an opera; and Notoriety, How to Grow Rich, the Rage, Speculation, Fortune's Fool, the Will, and Cheap Living, comedies. All of these pieces have reached the press. The last but one has been, not unaptly, called by Mr. William Gifford, a
Bartholomew-fair farce:
indeed, the same name is but too applicable to most of them. Upon the whole, perhaps, the Dramatist is the best of Mr. Reynolds' dramatic productions; but they all bear, in every scene, the badges of that corrupt and pitiful taste, so lamentably, but so strongly the characteristic of the age in which they were written. We have already, alas! had but too frequent opportunity
Vide Morton, O'Keefe, &c.
of expressing the concern we feel upon this occasion!
REYNOLDS, HENRY REVELL, ESQ.
Of Gray's Inn. Son of the physician of the same name, and Member of Trinity College, Cambridge. This gentleman published, in the year 1796, a duodecimo volume, which he entitled, "An Address to the Ladies from a young Man." This production (by no means to the credit of the times, be it said) reached, in a short time, a second edition. We will only add, that the subject itself, and more especially the indecent manner in which it is treated, considering to
whom
it is addressed, are unworthy of a writer who professes in his preface to have been lately studying mathematics; and totally unworthy of an academic and a scholar.
RICHARDS, GEORGE, M.A.
Fellow of Oriel College, Oxford, and a gentleman whose poetical talents have very considerable claims to distinction. We believe that his first publication was his beautiful poem, "The Aboriginal Britons," which was printed in 1791, having been publicly recited at Oxford during an Act, in consequence of a prize adjudged to its author, the donation of an unknown person. Almost all the copies, of the first impression of this masterly production, were sold on the day of publication. Mr. Richards' subsequent pieces have been, "Songs of the Aboriginal Bards of Britain," published in a quarto pamphlet, in 1792; "Modern France," a poem, published in a quarto pamphlet the year following; and "Matilda, or the Dying Penitent," a poetical epistle, published in a quarto pamphlet, in 1795: all of which are worthy of the author of "The Aboriginal Britons." If this gentleman shall prove duly attentive to the cultivation of his talent for poetry, these specimens of his early years assuredly afford us the highest promise.
RICHARDS, REV. WILLIAM.
A Baptist Minister. He was engaged, in the year 1780, in a controversy with Mr. John Carter, on Infant Baptism, reviewed his
Strictures
on that subject, in a pamphlet, and wrote another pamphlet, entitled, Observations on Infant Sprinkling; or, an Answer to
the Reviewer reviewed.
Since that time he has written, "The History of Antichrist; or, Free Thoughts on the Corruptions of Christianity," an octavo pamphlet; a Review of Noble's Memoirs of the Protectoral House of Cromwell, an octavo pamphlet; a Discourse concerning Baptism; and Reflections on French Atheism and English Christianity, an octavo pamphlet.
RICHARDSON, JOHN, ESQ. F.A.S.
A gentleman celebrated for his proficiency in Eastern Languages. He was educated at Wadham College, Oxford, and brought up to the study of the law. His first publication was, "A Specimen of Persian Poetry, or, Odes of Hafez, with an English Translation and Paraphrase," which appeared in 1774, in a quarto volume. Two years afterward he published, a Grammar of the Arabic Language, and a year or two after this, a Persian, Arabic, and English Dictionary, in two volumes, folio, to which was prefixed a Dissertation on the Language, Literature, and Manners of the Eastern Nations, which was afterward printed, separately, in an octavo volume. These grand performances have put the literary world under the highest obligations to Mr. Richardson; and the manner in which he has executed them are no less honourable to his abilities than to his learning.
RICHARDSON, WILLIAM, M.A. F.R.S.E.
Professor of Humanity in the University of Glasgow. This gentleman republished, in 1797, in an octavo volume, under one uniform title, with corrections and more commodious arrangement, "Essays on some of Shakspeare's Dramatic Characters," which had appeared separately at distinct times; and the earliest of which, published in 1773, was, we believe, his first production. These pieces have gained Professor Richardson very considerable applause as a critic, and as a man of taste. He also published, in 1774, an octavo volume of "Poems chiefly Rural," which were favourably received; and ten years afterward, " Anecdotes of the Russian Empire," in a series of letters, written from St. Petersburgh, an octavo volume. Since that time, Professor Richardson has written the Indians, a tragedy, performed at the Richmond Theatre, and printed in 1790. We need hardly add that this gentleman is an elegant, and an ingenious writer.
RICHARDSON, JOSEPH, ESQ.
Barrister at Law, and author of the Fugitive, a well-written comedy, acted at Drury Lane, and printed in 1792. He has also written, we believe, some other dramatic Pieces.
RICHARDSON, W. F.A.S. SCOTLAND.
Surgeon, and author of "The Chemical Principles of the Metallic Arts," a light performance, published in an octavo volume, in 1790.
RICKMAN, THOMAS, CLIO.
A Bookseller in London, and a frequent correspondent with periodical publications. His compositions are chiefly metrical. In 1787, he published, "The Fallen Cottage," a poem, in a quarto pamphlet.
RIPPON, REV. JOHN, D.D.
A Baptist Minister, successor to the late Dr. John Gill. He has published some single Sermons, and a Selection of Hymns. He is also editor of a work, entitled, the Baptist's Annual Register.
RITTSON, JOSEPH, ESQ.
Deputy High Bailif of the Dutchy of Lancaster, and a conveyancer in the Metropolis of some distinction. He is a man of taste and information, but more to be commended for his acuteness than for his good-breeding or his candour. We believe his first publication was an anonymous quarto pamphlet, in 1782, of Observations on the three first volumes of Warton's History of English Poetry; which is an ingenious, but, at the same time, one of the most illiberal productions we ever recollect to have seen. Mr. Rittson has also written, anonymously, three sets of Remarks on the Editors of Shakspeare: the first on Mr. Stevens' edition, in 1778, entitled, "Remarks critical and illustrative on the Text and Notes of the last Edition of Shakspeare," an octavo volume; the second on Mr. Reed's republication of that edition, entitled, "The Quip Modest, &c." and the third on Mr. Malone's edition, entitled, " Cursory Criticisms, &c." The last of these is particularly illiberal. In the year 1788, he published, with his name, a well-executed Translation with Notes, of the Hymn to Venus, which has been ascribed to Homer.
The most distinguished character of Mr. Rittson, in his literary capacity, is that of a judicious and intelligent compiler. He published, in the year 1785, a select Collection of English Songs, in three octavo volumes; and has, since that time, edited an octavo volume of Ancient Songs, from the time of King Henry III. to the Revolution; an octavo volume of Pieces of Ancient Popular Poetry; the English Anthology, a selection of poetry, in three small octavo volumes; "Robin Hood," a collection of ancient poems, in two small octavo volumes; and a Collection of Scottish Songs, with the genuine music, in two volumes, duodecimo. All of his publications, except the Translation of the Hymn to Venus, have been anonymous.
RIVERS, REV. DAVID.
A Dissenting Minister of a small congregation at Highgate. He has published a Sermon against Popery; a Sermon on a Censorious Temper and Disposition, dedicated to the Bishop of Landaff; a Sermon on Faith, Hope, and Charity; a Sermon, entitled, "The Gospel a perfect Law of Liberty;" a volume of Miscellaneous Works, to which are prefixed Memoirs of his own Life; and "Lord Mayor's Day," an heroic poem, published in a quarto pamphlet, in 1797. Mr. Rivers is also the author of several anonymous Pamphlets; was a very frequent correspondent with the newspaper called the World, while it was under the direction of Captain Topham, signing his pieces MARCUS ANTONINUS; and has had a principal share in conducting the Sunday Reformer and the Sunday Recorder, newspapers. He, moreover, edited "The Beauties of Saurin," a duodecimo volume, published in 1797.
ROBERTS, WILLIAM, ESQ.
Of Wandsworth-Common, Surry. This gentleman is brother to the Master of St. Paul's School, and cousin to the late Provost of Eton College, of the same name. He was formerly an officer in the army, but has, for many years, quitted the service and devoted his attention, with considerable success, to the education of youth. He published, in the year 1782, a tract of some merit, entitled," Thoughts upon Creation, &c." and, two years afterward, a thin octavo volume of "Poetical Attempts." The Looker-on, a periodical paper, is dedicated to this gentleman, by his son, the author, 'as an humble expression of his love, and a still humbler tribute to manly virtue, and unblemished integrity of life.'
ROBERTS, WILLIAM, ESQ. A.M. F.A.S.
Of Gray's Inn. A gentleman whose literary attainments are of very singular distinction and excellence. He is the younger son of the subject of the preceeding article, was educated at Corpus Christi College, Oxford, became a Fellow of that society, and was originally destined to the church, which he afterward relinquished in favour of the law. While at the University, he obtained, about the year 1788, a prize for an Essay on Refinement, which is one of the most masterly and elegant performances we almost ever recollect to have seen. A few copies only of it were printed for the sake of private distribution. Mr. Roberts was also, about that time, a frequent contributor to the English Review, which was then certainly the best-conducted literary journal of the day; and, we believe, he also published, at the University, an Account of the Oxford Marbles, in a duodecimo volume. On leaving College, he travelled, for a short time, on the continent; and, soon after his return, commenced the publication of his excellent periodical paper, "The Looker-on." No. I. made its appearance, (in folio) March 10th, 1792, the first twenty-five numbers were published on Tuesdays and Saturdays, then, after an interval of a few months, it was continued on Saturdays only, and the last number was dated, December 21st 1793. Of the few contributors to this work, Mr. Beresford (vide that name) was the chief. The second edition was printed in three duodecimo volumes; and the third, in four, with some additions.
Very few, indeed, are, in our opinion, the instances, which the English language affords, of such finished specimens of essay-writing, as are to be found in the Looker-on. The taste, knowledge, and ingenuity, the sterling wit, the happy raillery, and the elegance of style, with which these papers are conceived and written, must ever characterise them as very first-rate performances of their kind; while we know of no instance, in particular, in which a writer has displayed greater power over the feelings of his readers, than in the beautiful and natural story of EUGENIO. The reigning whims and follies of the age have never, in our opinion, since the days of Addison been combated by the weapons of wit and reason with equal address: and, if the 'urbanity of criticism, the elegance of morality, and the playfulness of allusion,' which so remarkably distinguish the SPECTATOR, be any where to be looked for since those days, it must be in the lucubrations of Simon Olivebranch. The RAMBLER is assuredly the only periodical paper, which can, by any means, aspire to the rank of these two productions; and, let none incautiously detract from the solid merit of that performance. It has been truly called a body of ethics: and, to give it the highest possible praise, it is a work whose profundity and whose composition are worthy of the great logician and lexicographer whom it owns for its author. Yet, the charms with which Addison instructs, have gained him, with most readers, a preference to his great successor; and the Looker-on, with a perfect originality of his own, and with the becoming character of a writer of his own time, is surely the SPECTATOR, rather than the RAMBLER of his day.
It is a singular and a melancholy consideration that this work, although favourably received, has not experienced from the public that extraordinary distinction to which its extraordinary merit certainly entitled it; for let it be read for our amusement, for the improvement of our taste, or for the greater sakes of our religion and our morals, it shall be found to answer all our purposes with superior excellence. Some blame has, perhaps, been justly bestowed upon the author, for an occasional excess, in the amplification of his subjects, and for an over-wrought nicety of style, too like what may be called a false refinement in writing: yet, these are but as dust in the balance. It is not to these causes, we fear, that we are to look for the evil; but to the tastelessness and insipidity of the larger portion of that shallow age in which the work was written. Melancholy, indeed, is the reflection that the good taste, which we once, undoubtedly, possessed, should, so far, have forsaken us, as to neglect such distinguished merit!
We shall conclude this article by applying to Mr. Roberts the language used by one of Mr. Burke's political adversaries, when speaking of that transcendent writer; alledging as our reason for so doing, that, we know of no LIVING AUTHOR to whom we think them more properly applicable.
He is a writer of the most splendid and unequalled powers; the fascination and magic of whose eloquence cannot be withstood. His imperial fancy has laid all nature under tribute, and has collected riches from every scene of the creation, and every walk of art. His images are so select, so rich with colours dipt in Heaven, that whoever can read his works without rapture may have merit as a reasoner, but must resign all pretensions to taste and sensibility.
Hall's Apology for the Freedom of the Press.
ROBERTS, WILLIAM, ESQ.
Of Manchester. Barrister at Law. In consequence of an action brought against him, by Mr. Walker, Merchant of Manchester, and of the Account which was published of the proceedings on the subsequent Trial, this gentleman published, in 1791, a Pamphlet, consisting of Supplementary Facts and Observations on that occasion. He has also published, the Fugitives, a comedy, never offered for representation; and a Charge to the Grand Jury of the Court Leet for the Manor of Manchester, delivered at the Michaelmas Court, October 15th, 1788.
ROBERTS, W. M.A.
Fellow of Eton College, and son of the late Provost of that society, of the same name. He published, in the year 1795, an octavo volume of Corrections of various Passages in the English Version of the Old Testament, the posthumous work of his father.
ROBERTSON, WILLIAM, ESQ.
One of the Deputies of the Lord Clerk-Register for keeping the Records of Scotland. He published in the year 1790, "Proceedings relating to the Peerage of Scotland, from Jan. 16th, 1707, to April 29th 1788, in a quarto volume; a very laborious and a curious work.
ROBERTSON, REV. THOMAS, D.D. F.R.S.E.
Minister of Dalmeney. This gentleman published, in 1785, Vol. I. of an Enquiry into the Fine Arts; a work, which, we believe, has never been continued, and, for the due execution of which he does not appear to be peculiarly qualified. In 1793, he published the History of Mary Queen of Scots, in a quarto volume; in which he vindicates the conduct of that Queen, on grounds somewhat different from those of her former apologists. This History cannot, however, upon the whole, be said to rank with the best productions which the subject has afforded us.
ROBERTSON, REV. J.
Of Mortimer Street, London. We believe this gentleman's first publication was a single Sermon, preached at St. John's Westminster, on the General Fast, 1761. In 1785, he published a useful Essay on Punctuation, which has been favourably received, and has seen four editions. Having, in a note in this Essay, appeared to question the authenticity of the Arundelian Marbles, he was addressed, on the subject, in the Gentleman's Magazine, and, in 1788, he published, "The Parian Chronicle," with a Dissertation concerning its authenticity, in an octavo volume, in which he enlarged on the above opinion, and, in consequence, involved himself in a controversy with Mr. Hewlett, (vide that name). Mr. Robertson displayed, upon this occasion, great candour and considerable learning. In 1795, he published a Translation, from the French, with Notes, of the Adventures of Telemachus, in two duodecimo volumes, founded on the Translation of Littlebury and Boyer, but greatly improved.
ROBERTSON, ABRAHAM, M.A.
Of Christ Church College, Oxford. He published, in 1792, in a quarto volume,
Sectionum Conicarum Libri septem. Accedit Tractatus de Sectionibus Conicis, et de Scriptoribus qui earum doctrinam tradiderunt.
This Treatise on the Conic Sections, one of the very few books produced by the University of Oxford, on subjects of science, though not an unvaluable performance, will, we can venture to say, be read by very few.
ROBERTSON, ROBERT, M.D.
Surgeon in his Majesty's Navy. He published, in 1778, in a quarto pamphlet, "A Physical journal," kept on board the ship, Rainbow, during three voyages to the coast of Africa and the West Indies; in 1783, an octavo volume of Observations on the Jail, Hospital, or Ship Fever; and, in 1792, an Essay on Fevers, in an octavo volume, in which he rejects every system except his own.
ROBERTSON, ARCHIBALD.
The author of a Topographical Survey of the great Road from London to Bath and Bristol, with Plates and Maps, published in two octavo volumes, in 1792. These are elegant volumes.
ROBERTSON, DAVID, ESQ.
The author of an agreeable octavo volume, entitled, "A Tour through the Isle of Man," with a Review of the Mank's History, which was published in 1794. We believe Mr. Robertson had published an octavo volume of Poems, about ten years previously.
ROBERTSON, REV. JOSEPH.
Minister of Sleighs near Whitby, Yorkshire, and author of "Seven Sermons, preached on particular Occasions," published in a quarto volume, in 1795. Some of these discourses, which are very respectable compositions, had appeared before, singly.
ROBINS, THOMAS.
Formerly a Dissenting Minister, and Tutor at the Dissenting Academy at Daventry, Northamptonshire. He pubslihed, in 1784, a Treatise on Baptism, abridged from the original manuscript of the late Mr. Matthew Henry, in a duodecimo volume.
ROBINSON, MATTHEW, MONTAGU. —See Montagu.
ROBINSON, MATTHEW, LORD ROKEBY IN THE KINGDOM OF IRELAND.
A Nobleman, conspicuous for his eccentricities, His Lordship is the author of some spirited Political Pamphlets.
ROBINSON, MRS. MARY.
The maiden name of this celebrated lady, who is descended from a very respectable family, was Darby. Her father lost his fortune in promoting a scheme for the commercial advantage of this country, and, afterward, accepted the command of a seventy-four-gun ship, in the service of the late Empress of Russia. Her mother is grand daughter to Catharine Seys, of Boverton Castle in Glamorganshire; whose sister, Ann Seys, a woman celebrated for her virtues and accomplishments, married Lord King, then Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain. Mrs. Robinson was born in the College Green, Bristol, received the early part of her education in that city, and, at the age of fifteen, married her present husband, who was then a student in Lincoln's Inn. Shortly afterward, she thought it proper to exercise her talents on the stage, and came out in Juliet, under the particular patronage of the Dutchess of Devonshire, on the 10th of December, 1776. For three seasons she continued to perform the parts of Lady Macbeth, Imogen, Rosalind, Cordelia, Ophelia, Viola, Palmira, the Irish Widow, Perdita, &c. with great applause; and, having in the latter character, attracted by her elegance and beauty, the notice of a certain distinguished FLORIZEL, she quitted the stage at a time when she was rising rapidly in the estimation of the public.
Of the literary productions of Mrs. Robinson, we believe, the first was a small octavo volume of "Poems," published in 1775. Two years afterward she wrote "Captivity," a poem, and Celadon and Lydia, a tale, which were printed together, in a quarto pamphlet, dedicated to her patroness, the Dutchess of Devonshire. In 1778, she brought out a farce, entitled, "The Lucky Escape," for her own benefit, at Drury Lane. None of these productions appear to have attracted that notice, by which the later writings of their fair author have been so remarkably distinguished; and her pen appears to have been unemployed till about the year 1787, when she figured in the newspaper, THE WORLD, under the signature, Anna Matilda. For an account of the correspondence with Delia Crusca, kept up from poetical sympathy, at intervals, for two years, we refer the reader to our memoir of Mr. Merry; and shall only observe, that we think her poems in the collection, entitled, "The British Album," certainly claim the second place in point of merit. Mrs. Robinson also produced many pieces about this time in THE ORACLE, under the signatures Laura Maria, Julia, Laura, Oberon, &c. In 1790, she published a poem, inscribed to Mr. Merry, under the title,
Ainsi va le Monde
; and, in the year following, produced her elegant octavo volume of "Poems," which was honoured by a very splendid list of subscribers. The poetical productions with which Mrs. Robinson has favoured the world, since that publication, are, a Monody to the Memory of Sir Joshua Reynolds; Sight, the Cavern of Woe, and Solitude, published together, in a quarto pamphlet; Modern Manners, a poem, by Horace Juvenal; a Monody to the Memory of the late Queen of France; and Vol. II. of "Poems," in which some of these pieces are reprinted. In the year 1792, Mrs. Robinson published her first novel, "Vancenza;" and has, since that time, written, "The Widow," "Angelina," and "Hubert de Sevrac," novels; and "The Sicilian Lover," a tragedy. Several popular Pamphlets have also been attributed to her pen.
The beauty of Mrs. Robinson's poetry has obtained her the dignified appellation of THE ENGLISH SAPPHO. She is sometimes feeble, and sometimes degenerates into a false taste; but the poetic imagery, the feeling and tenderness, the warmth and elegance, and, above all, the delicacy of expression, which breathe through her poems can seldom fail to lay her reader under a bountiful contribution of applause. As a novel-writer, we think this lady much less successful. Her VANCENZA speedily reached a third edition, because it was the work of Mrs. Robinson; but surely in falls greatly short of many of her countrywomen, this, as well as in her subsequent attempts, she in the talent of pleasing. Her tragedy (The Sicilian Lover) is a very favourable specimen, indeed, of her talent in that line of composition!
ROBINSON, MISS, M.E.
Daughter of the subject of the proceeding article, and a young lady whose literary talents and accomplishments are said to vie with her personal attractions. She published, in 1794, "The Shrine of Bertha," a novel of some merit, in two duodecimo volumes, interspersed with some elegant poetry by her mother.
ROBINSON, REV. THOMAS, M.A.
Vicar of St. Mary, Leicester, and formerly Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. He published, in 1789, Vol. I. of "Scripture Characters; or, a practical Improvement of the principal Histories of the Old Testament, from Adam to Joshua inclusive," in duodecimo; to which he has since added three more volumes, and has likewise reprinted the work, in four volumes, octavo. Mr. Robinson also printed, in 1797, "A Serious Exhortation to the Inhabitants of Great Britain, with reference to the
approaching
Fast."
ROBINSON, POLLINGROVE, ESQ.
This gentleman published, in 1782, a poem, entitled, "The Beauties of Painting;" and has, since that time, written, "Handel's Ghost," an ode; the Cassina, a poem; "A Tour to the Isle of Love," a species of tale; and "Cometilla, or Views of Nature," an Introduction to Astronomy, the most valuable parts of which are drawn from M. de la Lande's
Abregè d' Astronomie.
ROBINSON, MICHAEL.
The author of Love Fragments; Sydney St. Aubyn, a novel; and some other small pieces.
ROBISON, JOHN, ESQ. M.A.
Secretary to the Royal Society of Edinburgh, and Professor of Natural Philosophy in the University. This gentleman, in the early part of his life, accompanied the late Admiral Sir Charles Knowles, as private secretary, when he went to Russia for the purpose of regulating the navy, and resided for some time, in that capacity at St. Petersburgh: he has also resided a good deal in Germany. Professor Robison is distinguished for his accurate and extensive knowledge; especially on subjects of science. He contributed to the Encyclopaedia Britannica the valuable articles, Physics, Pneumatics, Precession of the Equinoxes, Projectiles, Pumps, Resistance of Fluids, River, Roof, Rope-making, Rotation, Seamanship, Signals, Sound, Specific-Gravity, Statics, Steam, Steam-engine, Strength of Materials, Telescope, Tide, Articulating-Trumpet, Variation of the Compass, and Water-Works; also Philosophy, in association with Dr. Gleig. In the Autumn of the year 1797, Professor Robison published an octavo volume, entitled, "Proofs of a Conspiracy against all the Religions and Governments of Europe, carried on in the secret Meetings of Free-masons, Illuminati, and Reading Societies: collected from good Authorities." This volume, has been favourably received; and although too hasty a performance for a work of so much consequence, is well entitled both from its subject and by its authenticity, to the serious attention of every reader. It arrives at the same remarkable conclusion as the celebrated Memoirs of the Abbé Barruel illustrating the History of Jacobinism, though the authors were perfectly unconnected with each other, and pursued their enquiries in very different ways. It has raised (we are sorry for such an appearance) a considerable clamour and enmity against the Professor; though it was written, as we are fully convinced, from the best of motives. We cannot conclude this article without observing that the principles and honest zeal, which Professor Robison has displayed upon this occasion, are highly creditable to him, and merit the warmest acknowledgements from society in general. We have understood that he designs to favour the world, at some time or other, with a Life of Sir Isaac Newton, a work much wanted from a man of Science, and for the due execution of which the Professor is peculiarly well-qualified.
ROGERS, SAMUEL, ESQ.
A partner in the Banking-house of Messrs. Welch and Co., and a poet of very considerable distinction. He is a son of the Mr. Rogers who was the unsuccessful candidate for Coventry, in opposition to Colonel Holroyd, (now Lord Sheffield), in the election for that city, so celebrated for riot and strenuous contention. Mr. Rogers has written "The Pleasures of Memory," a poem, which has been received with very uncommon applause, and is one of the most elegant and charming productions, with which the votaries of the Muses have, for many years, favoured the public. This poem made its first appearance in 1793, and has been NINE times reprinted, in a very elegant duodecimo volume, with the addition of a few smaller pieces some of which had appeared before, separately and anonymously.
ROKEBY, LORD.—See Robinson.
ROSCOE, WILLIAM, ESQ.
Of Liverpool. A gentleman who has acquired great and merited renown in the literary world, by the masterly manner in which he has, of late, exhibited to the public, the Life and Labours of Lorenzo de' Medici, called the Magnificent. Mr. Roscoe was brought up to the profession of an attorney, but does not, we believe, at present, practice in that line. The above-mentioned work does the highest credit to his literary talents, and entitles him to rank with the very first writers on European History. The circumstances attending this publication, are not among the least singular in the annals of literature. The full, distinct, and accurate idea afforded us, with such genius and learning, of the interesting subject treated in these volumes, is the result of discoveries made in the literature of one of the most polite and learned nations of Europe, by a foreigner who had never visited that country! By a gentleman who was not courting literature in academical bowers, but devoting his time to an active and a laborious profession! Mr. Clarke a banker of Liverpool, and son of the late banker of the same name, a gentleman of very extensive information, and the intimate friend of Mr. Roscoe, had paid a visit to Italy, and had fixed his winter residence at Florence. It was through the assiduity of this gentleman, that Mr. Roscoe obtained his large stock of original and interesting information; as well as the beautiful Poems of Lorenzo de' Medici (with copies of which, as well as with beautiful and exact Translations of them, he has enriched his work) the originals of which are deposited in the Laurentian Library, although the former editiors appear not to have had the slightest information respecting them! The work made its first appearance in 1795, in two volumes, quarto, under the title, "The Life of Lorenzo de' Medici, called the Magnificent." Such, we have understood, was the author's diffidence of its success, that the first impression consisted of only two hundred and fifty copies! So small a number disappeared very soon after publication; and, although the work was printed in the expensive style and sold at a proportional price, it has seen three editions, even in times so unpropitious as the present. Nor (as every reader can foretel) has it obtained early popularity, without the prospect of a lasting reputation. It holds the place which it fills in the History of Europe by too lawful a tenure ever to renounce its privileges.
The celebrated and excellent Letter to Mr. Pitt, BY JASPER WILSON, has been improperly attributed to Mr. Roscoe. It is the production of his friend Dr. James Currie of Liverpool; and, we believe, that the largest share he had in that publication was a perusal of the original copy, and some little assistance he may have given in revising the sheets, as they came from the press. Mr. Roscoe has been engaged, for some time, we understand, upon a Life of Burns the Scotch poet.
ROSE, GEORGE, ESQ. M.P.
Clerk of the Parliaments, Joint Secretary to the Treasury, and late Master of the Pleas-Office. This gentleman is a remarkable instance of the power of genius, in rescuing its possessor from the obscurity, which he shall seem to have inherited by his birth. We first hear of him in the capacity of Purser to a man of war, a situation, from whence he rose, by many gradations to his present eminence. Mr. Rose held the same appointment under the Marquis of Lansdown, which he has, at present, under Mr. Pitt. He is supposed to have written a pamphlet, which was published in the year 1785, entitled, "The proposed System of Trade with Ireland Explained.
ROSE, REV. W.
One of the Masters of Merchant Taylor's School, Rector of St. Martin's Outwich, and evening Preacher at St. Michael's, Cornhill. He has written some dramatic Pieces, which have been favourably received.
ROSE, SAMUEL, ESQ.
Of Lincoln's Inn. The editor of the second edition of Comyns' Reports of Cases argued and adjudged in the Courts of King's Bench, Common Pleas, and Exchequer, published in 1792, in two octavo volumes, on which he has bestowed great and commendable pains.
ROTHERAM, JOHN, ESQ.
Professor of Natural Philosophy in the University of St. Andrew. He published, in the year 1790, a very sensible Letter to Mr. William Smellie, vindicating the Sexes of Plants, and refuting that gentleman's arguments against that doctrine. He is also the author of the articles Oxygen and Phlogiston in the new Encyclopaedia Britannica.
ROUGH, WILLIAM, ESQ.
Of Gray's Inn. Late of Trinity College, Cambridge; and, formerly, of Westminster School. We believe this gentleman's first attempts at authorship were some contributions to the Flagellant, a miserable periodical paper, by the Westminster Scholars, which was published in 1792, and which reached about eight or nine numbers. In 1797, Mr. Rough published "Lorenzino di Medici, and other Poems," in a small duodecimo volume, dedicated to Mr. Roscoe, to whom Mr. Rough is wholly unknown, but for whose character, as an author, he thus expresses his great esteem. Notwithstanding Mr. Rough's hopes that his tragedy has some claim to the honours of a legitimate drama, we must beg leave to say of his volume, that the dedication is absurd, the four first acts of the tragedy woefully dull, and the sonnets which follow, pretty, rather than otherwise. He is also the writer of the poetry in the Monthly Magazine, signed W. R. GRAY'S-INN. Mr. Rough has announced his intention of publishing "A comparative View, in a Series of Letters, of the moral and metaphysical Opinions of Hume,
Godwin,
and Hartley;" on which occasion we beg leave to repeat the trite maxim of Horace,
Sumite materiam vestris, qui scribitis, aequam
Viribus; et versate diu, quid ferre recusent,
Quid valeant humeri.
ROUS, GEORGE, ESQ.
A Veteran in political warfare. We believe his first publication was a masterly Letter to the Jurors of Great Britain, occasioned by an opinion of the Court of King's Bench, read by Lord Chief Justice Mansfield, in the case of the King and Woodfall; which appeared anonymously, in 1771, and was reprinted with the sanction of his name, in 1785. In the year 1784, Mr. Rous printed a well-written tract, entitled, "A candid Investigation of the present prevailing Topic
(Secret Influence)
the first edition of which was distributed, but not sold; and it was afterward reprinted in a shilling-pamphlet. He has also written, "Thoughts on Government," occasioned by Mr. Burke's REFLECTIONS, an octavo pamphlet, which was very favourably received; and a Letter to Mr. Burke, in Reply to his Appeal from the New to the Old Whigs,
ROUS, THOMAS BATES, ESQ.
Author of a pamphlet, published in 1786, entitled, "Observations on the Commutation Project;" and of another pamphlet, published three years afterward, entitled, "An Explanation of the mistaken Principle on which the Commutation Act was founded, &c." These performances, in opposition to the measures of administration, were supposed to contain the strongest arguments urged on that side of the question.
ROUSSEAU, SAMUEL.
Nephew to the celebrated French writer of the same sirname. He was employed by Mr. John Nichols to copy the Epitaphs in Islington Church and Church-yard. How faithfully he executed this task is evident from the copious enumeration of them, which is annexed to the History and Antiquities of Canonbury-house, Islington.
ROWE, REV. HENRY, L.L.B.
Rector of Ringshall in Suffolk, and a relative of the celebrated Poet of the same sirname. He published, in 1796, two octavo volumes of "Poems," in which, in
The Poet's Lamentation,
he describes his own melancholy situation, a tale which will melt the coldest bosom.
ROWLEY, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D.
Member of the University of Oxford, the Royal College of Physicians in London, &c. and a voluminous, though, by no means, a very distinguished writer on Medical Subjects. We believe his first publication was an Essay on the Cure of Ulcerated Legs without Rest, published in an octavo pamphlet, in 1770. Since that time, he has written a Treatise on the Cure of the Gonorrhoea; an Essay on the Ophthalmia; a Treatise on the Diseases of the Breasts of Women; a Treatise on the Diseases of the Eyes (lately reprinted and enlarged); a Letter to Dr. W. Hunter, occasioned by the Death of Lady Holland; a second Letter to the same; Medical Advice for the Army and Navy; seventy-four select Cases, with the Manner of Cure; the Gout and Rheumatism cured, &c.; a Treatise on the ulcerated Sore Throat; a Treatise on female, nervous, hysterical, hypochondriacal, bilious, convulsive Diseases, &c.; "Truth vindicated, or, the specific Differences of mental Diseases ascertained," in reply to some anonymous attacks; a Treatise on the Management of Female Breasts during Childbed; a Treatise on the regular, irregular, atonic, and flying Gout; the Causes of the great Number of Deaths among Adults and Children, in putrid Scarlet Fevers and ulcerated Sore Throats explained; a Treatise on the Causes and Cure of Swelled Legs; the rational and improved Practice of Physic, in four volumes, octavo; and Schola Medicinae Universalis, in two volumes, quarto.
ROWSON, MRS.
Formerly Miss Beverley. She has written the Inquisitor, a novel, published in 1788; an octavo volume of pieces, which she was pleased to call POEMS, published in the same year; and (we believe) some other pieces.
ROXBURGH, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D.
Botanist in the Carnatic to the East India Company. He is publishing a very beautiful and splendid work (in folio), entitled, "Plants of the Coast of Coromandel," It is a selection from drawings and descriptions presented to the East India Directors, and is published by their order under the direction of Sir Joseph Banks. This work, beside the attention of the celebrated naturalist who superintends it, has had the advantage of the collective labours of three excellent botanists, viz. of Johne Gerrard Koeing, a pupil of Linné, who bequeathed his MSS. and specimens to Sir Joseph Banks; of Dr. Russell who succeeded him in the service of the East India Company, and who planned the work; and lastly, of the subject of this article, who succeeded Dr. Russell, and who executes the work with very great ability. Three fasciculi of this publication, each containing twenty-five plates, have already made their appearance.
RUDD, REV. A.B. M.A.
Vicar of Diddlebury, and Reader at Ludlow, in the county of Salop. This gentleman published in 1791, the second edition of "Sermons on practical Subjects," in two volumes, octavo. The first edition formed only one volume, and appeared in 1786. These discourses have no inconsiderable pretensions to merit.
RUDWORTH, JOSEPH, ESQ.
The author of a pleasing and an highly picturesque Tour to the Lakes of Westmoreland, Lancashire, and Cumberland.
RUGGLES, THOMAS, ESQ. F.A.S.
One of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the counties of Essex and Suffolk, and author of a very useful and interesting History of the Poor, their Rights, Duties, and the Laws respecting them, in a series of letters. The earlier letters of which this work consists were originally published in THE ANNALS OF AGRICULTURE. The work was afterward printed in two volumes, octavo, of which the first appeared in 1793, and the second in the year following; and it was reprinted in 1797, in a quarto volume, corrected and continued to that time. It contains much valuable knowledge, and is highly creditable to the humanity as well as to the abilities of its author.
RUMFORD, COUNT.—See Thompson.
RUNNINGTON, CHARLES, ESQ.
Serjeant at Law. The editor of Sir Matthew Hale's History of the Common Law; which he first published and in 1779, his edition was reprinted a fifth time, in 1794. Mr. Runnington also published, a Treatise on the Action of Ejectment, in an octavo volume, in 1781; and, in 1795, he produced the History, Principles, and Practice (ancient and modern) of the legal Remedy by Ejectment, an octavo volume.
RUSH, BENJAMIN, ESQ. M.D.
Professor of the Institutes of Medicine, and of Clinical Practice in the University of Pennsylvania; and a writer of very great distinction on medical subjects. We believe his first publication was a Dissertation on the Spasmodic Asthma of Children, which was originally printed in a Pennsyvania newspaper, and, in 1770, in a shilling pamphlet. Dr. Rush has, since that time, published an Oration delivered before the American Philosophical Society at Philadelphia, Feb. 27th, 1786; an Enquiry into the Effects of public Punishments upon Criminals, and upon Society, an octavo pamphlet; an Account of the Sugar Maple Tree of the United States, an octavo pamphlet; a Tract on the Punishment of Murder by Death; an Account of the Bilious, Remitting, Yellow Fever, as it appeared in the City of Philadelphia, in 1793, an octavo volume; and "Medical Inquiries and Observations," in four volumes, octavo, some of which are republications of the works before mentioned.
RUSSEL, J. ESQ. F.R.S.E.
Surgeon, and author of a practical Essay on a certain Disease of the Bones called Necrosis, published in an octavo volume, in 1794, a performance which does him very great credit.
RUSSELL, PATRICK, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
Formerly Physician to the British Factory at Aleppo. He published, in 1791, a valuable Treatise on the Plague, in a quarto volume; and, three years afterward, the second edition, in two volumes, quarto, revised, enlarged, and illustrated with notes, of his late brother's (Dr. Alexander Russell) Natural History of Aleppo.
RUTHERFORD, REV. WILLIAM, D.D.
Formerly Master of an Academy at Uxbridge, and a Clergyman of the Church of Scotland. He has written a View of Ancient History, a work of considerable judgement and elegance, in two volumes, octavo, the first of which was published in 1788, and the second three years afterward. Previously to this publication, Dr. Rutherford had printed a single Sermon preached December 22d, 1780, at the Ordination of the Rev. Mr. Thomas Rutledge.
RUTLEDGE, REV. THOMAS.
The author of a volume of Practical Sermons, on select passages of Scripture, of some merit, published in 1794. He also published an Ordination Sermon, in 1787. The sentiments of Mr. Rutledge are calvinistical.
RUTT, JOHN TOWEL.
A Druggist, in Upper Thames Street. He has published, anonymously, a pamphlet, occasioned by Mr. Clayton's Sermons; and several Poems. In 1795, he produced with his name, "The Sympathy of Priests," a pamphlet addressed to Thomas Fyshe Palmer, Port Jackson, to which he added "Odes," written in 1792. His verses are not without merit. At the memorable meeting of Merchants at Merchant Taylor's Hall, for the purpose of signing a declaration of attachment to the Constitution, Mr. John Towel Rutt was the only person present who expressed dissatisfaction at the measure.
RYAN, MICHAEL, ESQ. M.D. F.S.A.E.
A medical writer of reputation. He published, in 1787, a valuable Enquiry into the Nature, Causes, and Cure of the Consumption of the Lungs, an octavo volume, which is, in fact, a comment on what Dr. Cullen has offered on the same subject, in his First Lines of the Practice of Physic; and, in an Appendix to which, Dr. Ryan combats some opinions advanced by Dr. Reid, in his Essay on the Phthisis Pulmonalis. He also published, in the year 1793, Observations on the History and Cure of the Asthma, in an octavo volume.
RYAN, REV. EDWARD, D.D.
Prebendary of St. Patrick, and Minister of the parish of St. Luke, Dublin. This gentleman has written, "The History of the Effects of Religion on Mankind," in two octavo volumes, the first of which was published in 1788, and the second in 1793. The tendency of this work is to prove from a direct appeal to historical facts that the actual operation of Christianity on mankind has been highly beneficial; and, though not unexceptionably, it is very respectably executed. The praise-worthy exertions of Dr. Ryan, in support of religion have been rewarded by academical honours, and considerable church preferment.
RYLAND, REV. JOHN, D.D.
A Baptist Minister of Bristol, son of the late John Ryland of Northampton. He has published several calvinistical Tracts and Sermons.
RYMER, JAMES.
Surgeon, and a medical writer of very questionable reputation. He published, in 1775, an Introduction to the Study of Pathology; since which time, he has written a Treatise on Medical Education;
Transplantation, or poor Crocus pluckt up by the Root,
a shilling pamphlet reciting his case, when, having been surgeon to the Conquestadore guardship, he was dismissed the service on account of a misunderstanding with the Admiral; a Letter to the Commissioners for sick and wounded Seamen; a Treatise on the Section of the Symphysis of the Ossa Pubis; Chemical Reflections on the Sea Scurvy, Stone and Gravel, &c.; a Treatise on Indigestion and the Hypochondriac Disease; a Treatise on the Gout; Physiological Conjectures; and a short Account of the Method of treating Scrofula.
S
SALMON, REV. THOMAS ABRAHAM, A.M.
OF Wadham College, Oxford. This gentleman published, in 1796, a Hebrew Grammar (with the vowel-points) for the Use of Westminster School, in an octavo volume; and is editing, by subscription, a new and elegant edition of
Vitarum Plutarchi Epitome, &c.
in large octavo.
SALMON, NICHOLAS.
An Itinerant Teacher of the French Language, and formerly Master of an Academy in Red Lion Street, Clerkenwell. He published, in 1773, "Rules for the French Genders;" since which time, he has written, the French Teacher's Assistant; the Expeditious Accomptant; a Footstep to the French Language; a System of the French Language, in an octavo volume; and
Stemmata Latinitatis,
an Etymological Latin Dictionary, in two large octavo volumes, published in 1796. The last of these is a very useful work.
SANDERS, FRANCIS WILLIAM, ESQ.
Of Lincoln's Inn. The author of a well-written Essay on the Nature and Laws of Uses and Trusts, which was published in an octavo volume, in 1791; and editor of the third edition of Atkyns' Reports, in three volumes, royal octavo, a task which he has performed with great diligence and accuracy.
SANDILANDS, REV. RICHARD, L.L.B.
Preacher at the New Ebury Chapel, near Sloane Square, Chelsea, (which house of worship was, we believe, built by him). Chaplain to the Viscountess Dowager Hereford, and formerly of Baliol College, Oxford. He has published three single Sermons, the first or which was preached in 1784, and the second in 1792, at the opening of the above-mentioned chapel. He has also printed a small volume of Hymns for the Use of his Congregation; in which, the name of the respective writer being affixed to each poem, we meet with Milton, Pope, Dryden, Young, &c and, sometimes, SANDILANDS!!!
SARGENT, JOHN, ESQ.
The author of a very beautiful dramatic poem, which has been much admired, entitled, "The Mine." It took its rise from a paragraph in a public print, stating that a nobleman of great rank at Vienna had been condemned to the mines; and that his wife, a Lady of high extraction, and in the bloom of youth and beauty, had taken the desperate resolution of sharing his face, and of accompanying him to those abodes of wretchedness. This poem was first published (in quarto), in 1785; and has, since that time, been reprinted, with the addition of two Historic Odes, which are not unworthy of Gray, in a duodecimo volume. The Mine is a successful attempt to unite poety and science. Its principal subjects are the wonders of the fossil kingdom; and the manner in which it is executed does great honour to the learning and genius of the writer, and, frequently, discovers in him very uncommon powers of expression.
SATIS, G.
Of Clifford's Inn. The author of a very complete Introduction to the Knowledge of the French Language, comprized in four distinct octavo volumes, viz. his edition of Holder's System of French Accidence and Syntax;
Thèmes François et Anglois;
"Classical Exercises upon the Rules of the French Syntax;" and "The Guide to Satis' Classical Exercises."
SAUMAREZ, RICHARD, ESQ.
Surgeon to the Magdalen Hospital, and author of "A Dissertation on the Universe in general, and on the Procession of the Elements in particular," published in an octavo volume, in 1795, a work, by which he seems to hold modern science in small esteem, and to be an admirer of ancient metaphysics.
SAUNDERS, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
Senior Physician to Guy's Hospital. This gentleman published, in 1767, a Translation of Plenck's
Method of giving Mercury in Venereal Cases;
and has, since that time, written an Answer to Geach and Alcock's Observations on Dr. Baker's Essay on the Devonshire Cholic;
Observationes de Antimonio
; a Treatise on the red Peruvian Bark; a Treatise on the Mephetic Acid; and a valuable Treatise on the Structure, Oeconomy, and Diseases of the Liver, which speedily reached a second edition.
SAYER, EDWARD, ESQ.
This gentleman published, in the year 1784, "Observations on the Police, or Civil Government of Westminster," in a quarto pamphlet, which reached a second edition in 1792. He has also written Observations on Dr. Price's Revolution Sermon; Lindor and Adelaide, a moral tale, in which are exhibited the effects of the French Revolution on the Peasantry of France; and an octavo volume of Essays literary and political. The latter of these productions concludes with a statements of the ill-return experienced by Mr. Sayer, for his services as counsel on the part of Lord Hood, before a Westminster election-committee in the year 1789.
SAYERS, F. ESQ. M.D.
We believe the first publication of this gentleman, was a quarto tract, which appeared in 1790. entitled, "Dramatic Sketches of the Ancient Northern Mythology," a work very highly to the credit of his taste, and his poetic genius. Two years afterward, he reprinted these Sketches, in an octavo volume, with the addition of two Monodramas, and several smaller poetical pieces, under the title, "Poems." Since that time, Dr. Sayers has published an octavo volume of Disquisitions, Metaphysical and Literary, a work likewise greatly to the credit of his talents.
SCOTT, JOHN, ESQ.
Formerly a Major in the service of the East India Company, and also formerly a Member of Parliament. He was, for some years, agent to Mr. Hastings, when that gentleman was Governor-general of Bengal, has always been his warm defender, and, previous to his trial, displayed very uncommon diligence and ability in supporting the cause of his absent friend. While in this capacity, he published several political pamphlets, the first of which appeared in 1782, under the title, "A short Review of the Transactions in Bengal during the last ten years." This was followed by two Letters to Mr. Burke, in Defence of Mr. Hastings; a Letter to Mr. Fox; a Narrative of Transactions in Bengal; two Replies to Speeches by Mr. Burke; and "The Conduct of his Majesty's late Ministers considered, as it affected the East India Company and Mr. Hastings," (published in 1784). Several of his Speeches in Parliament also, about this time, reached the press; and innumerable letters, paragraphs, puffs, and squibs, which appeared in the newspapers, were attributed to him. A very curious bill of the latter, to the amount of several hundred pounds, was published in 1787, by the Editor of the Morning Herald. Could perseverance and confidence have gained a cause, the triumph of the indefatigable Major would have been complete; and, accordingly, they had their weight while the question respecting Mr. Hastings remained in loose and general terms. It has, however, been imputed to Major Scott, that, notwithstanding the temerity of his zeal, he was considerably instrumental in bringing his Principal into the miserable situation, which he was so long constrained to endure.
The pamphlets which he has written since those already mentioned, have been Observations on Mr. Sheridan's Comparative Statement of the two India Bills; seven Letters on the Regency; three Letters to Mr. Fox; Letters to Dodsley in Refutation of certain Misrepresentations in the Annual Register; a Letter to Mr. Francis; two Letters to G. Hardinge, Esq.; a Letter to Mr. Burke; and Observations on Belsham's Memoirs of the Reign of George III. The latest of Major Scott's productions, as well as the first, is in the cause of his friend Mr. Hastings; and he very properly asserts, that if Mr. Belsham aspires to the character of an impartial historian, he should studiously revise every passage of his work that is calculated to convey to posterity an injurious reflection on the conduct and principles of the late Governor-general. The world knows that they have stood the test of the most rigorous examination.
SCOTT, JONATHAN, ESQ.
Captain in the East India Company's Service, Persian Secretary to the late Governor-general, Warren Hastings, Esq. and Member of the Asiatic Society in Calcutta. This gentleman published, in 1794, in two volumes, quarto, Ferishta's History of Dekkan, from the first Mahummedan Conquests, with a continuation; a work which he has executed with great credit to himself.
SCOTT, REV. THOMAS.
A Methodist Clergyman, Chaplain to the Lock Hospital, and formerly Curate of Weston Underwood and Ravenstone, Bucks. He published, in 1779, a miserable farrago, under the title, "The Force of Truth," which is a narrative of his own change of sentiments. He has, since that time, printed several single Sermons, an Answer to Paine's Age of Reason, and, we believe, some other theological Tracts.
SELLON, BAKER JOHN, ESQ.
Barrister at Law. Author of a useful work (on Crompton's plan of Practice-common-placed) entitled, "The Practice of the Courts of King's Bench and Common Pleas," in two volumes, octavo, the first part of which was published in 1792. He had previously published (in 1789) an Analysis of the above-mentioned Practice, which is an outline of his subsequent production.
SEWARD, MISS ANNA.
A lady who has acquired considerable reputation by her Poetical Talents; and who has also been celebrated for her great excellence in the art of reading. She is the daughter of the late Rev. Thomas Seward, Rector of Eyam in Derbyshire, Prebendary of Salisbury, and Canon Residentiary of Litchfield. From this parent she received the advantage of a good education, discovered early symptoms of the rhyming propensity, and, becoming acquainted with the late Lady Miller of Bath-Easton, was a frequent and, sometimes, a successful candidate for the myrtle wreath of the poetic institution of that villa. Her first regular publication was a beautiful Elegy on Captain Cook, which, together with an Ode to the Sun (a Bath-Easton Prize Poem) was published in a quarto pamphlet, in 1780. In the year following, she produced a Monody on her gallant and amiable friend Major Andrè; and, it is said, that Dr. Darwin, speaking of this poem and the one on Captain Cook, used to tell her she was the inventress of Epic Elegy. Miss Seward's subsequent productions have been, a Poem to the Memory of Lady Miller; Louisa, a poetical novel; an Ode on General Elliot's Return from Gibraltar; and "Llangollen Vale, with other Poems," published in a quarto pamphlet, in 1796.
Of these productions, perhaps, the first, in point of popularity, is the poetical novel; while the one held in highest estimation for poetical value, by the fair author herself, is, we are told, the Ode on General Elliot's Return. Miss Seward's perpetual study of uncommon and poetical expression has not unfrequently led her into affectation and obscurity; yet, the general harmony of her numbers, her refined sentiment, her elegant description, and her copious imagery, will always insure her many admirers. Beside the poems above mentioned, she has contributed many original fugitive Pieces, and some Translations of Odes of Horace to the Gentleman's Magazine; and has announced for speedy publication, a collection (in quarto) to be entitled, "Sonnets and Horatian Odes."
SEWARD, WILLIAM, ESQ.
A very successful and judicious Compiler. He has published an entertaining and interesting Collection of Anecdotes of some distinguished Persons, chiefly of the present and two preceeding Centuries, in four crown octavo volumes, of which the two first were published in 1795. Mr.Seward had furnished the European Magazine with many of these anecdotes previously to this publication.
SHARP, GRANVILLE, ESQ.
One of the Directors of the Sierra Leone Company. A gentleman who has long been employed in the exercise of benevolence, and in endeavours to meliorate the hardships of the suffering part of mankind. He was one of the first persons to set on foot the enquiry into the African Slave Trade, and was President of the association for its abolition. He was likewise the principal agent in the endeavours to establish the colony, in the direction of which he has now a share. Mr. Sharp published, in the year 1768, "Remarks on several very important Prophecies," a pamphlet which displays considerable learning. Since that time, he has written a Treatise son Slavery; Remarks on the Distinction between Manslaughter and Murder; a Declaration of the People's natural Right to a Share in the Legislature; a Tract on the Law of Nature and Principles of Action in Man; and a pamphlet, entitled, "The Legal Means of Political Reformation," published in 1780.
SHARPE, —
The son of a Grocer and Confectioner in Fenchurch Street, and Member of Pembroke Hall, Cambridge. A year or two ago, he arrogated to himself the title of Editor of Rowley's Poems, reprinting those pieces in an octavo volume, prefixing Mr. Coleridge's beautiful Monody on Chatterton, and adding, perhaps
a dozen,
filly notes. The lines of Horace at the end of his Epistle to Augustus, can never be more appropriately applied than to this volume,
Deferar in victim vendentem thus et odores,
Et piper, et quidquid chartis amicitur ineptis.
SHAW, REV. WILLIAM,
A native of Scotland, and a friend of the late Dr. Samuel Johnson. He published, in 1780, a Galic and English Dictionary, in two volumes a work of very laborious application and enquiry. In the following year Mr. Shaw engaged in a controversy respecting the Poems of Ossian, and displayed much learning and acuteness in denying their authenticity. He published two pamplets upon this occasion, and experienced a good deal of rough treatment from Mr. John Clarke, a sturdy champion of the contrary side of the question.
SHAW, GEORGE, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
This gentleman has published Vol. I. (in quarto) of
Museum Leverianum,
containing select specimens from the Museum of the late Sir Ashton Lever. It is a very splendid volume.
SHAW, REV. S.M.A.
Fellow of Queen's College, Cambridge. He published, in 1789, "A Tour to the West of England," in an octavo volume, which is an indifferent performance.
SHEFFIELD, LORD.—See Holroyd.
SHEPHERD, REV. RICHARD, D. D. F.R.S.
Archdeacon of Bedford, Chaplain to the Bishop of Durham, and formerly Fellow of Corpus Christi College, Oxford. A gentleman of distinguished learning and liberality of sentiment. His first publication was an excellent Ode to Love, which appeared in 1756, and was republished under the title, "The Philogamist." Soon after this, he was engaged in a controversy with the author of a Free Enquiry into the Nature and Origin of Evil; and twenty years after the above date, he published two octavo volumes, entitled, "Miscellanies," which contained his various productions, in verse and prose, published separately during the interval. One of these, a Didactic Poem, was particularly admired on its first appearance. His subsequent publications have been "The Dying Hero," a poem; an Essay on Education, in a Letter to the late Sir William Jones; a volume of Bampton Lecture Sermons on the Ground and Credibility of the Christian Religion; additional Discourses, supplementary to his Bampton Lecture Sermons; two single Sermons; a Translation of Polyaenus' Stratagems of War; and three Sermons on a Future State.
SHEPHERD, REV. JOHN, M.A.
Late of Queen's College, Oxford, and Curate of Paddington. He published, in 1791, a sensible Discourse, preached at the opening of Paddington Church, with the whimsical title,
The Good Old Ways
; and, five years afterward, a Critical and Practical Elucidation of the Morning and Evening Prayer of the Church of England, in an octavo volume. If this sensible work shall experience a favourable reception, Mr. Shepherd has hinted his intention of also favouring the public with an Elucidation of the Litany, Communion-office, and other Offices of the Church.
SHERIDAN, RICHARD BRINSLEY, ESQ. M.P.
This celebrated character is of a family which during the greater part of the present century has been eminent for genius and learning. His grandfather was the intimate friend and favourite of Doctor Swift, the companion of his leisure, the sharer of his confidence, and the imitator of his wit. His father was the corrector of the English accent, and was acknowledged to be the best declaimer in the English Language of his day: he was, for a considerable time, manager of the Dublin Theatre, and being compelled, by the animosity of party, to quit that situation, acquired same and profit in London as an actor, and as a lecturer. The mother of Mr. Sheridan could also boast a distinguished literary reputation, obtained by several Plays, Novels, and other Pieces of considerable merit.
Mr. Sheridan was born at Quilea, near Dublin, in the year 1752. At the age of six years, his father, then compelled to quit his native country, brought him to England, and placed him at Harrow School, under the care of Dr. Sumner, who was, at that time, the head-master. Here Mr. Sheridan contracted a friendship with Dr. Parr, then one of the under-masters, which has, ever since subsisted, between them. It does not appear that he was ever a member of either of the Universities; but, the law being his destination, was entered of the Middle Temple. At the age of eighteen years, he translated from the Greek, in association with a friend, the Epistles of Aristaenetus, and also, about that time, printed several pieces, which are known only to his intimate friends, and among which, we believe, was an Answer to the celebrated Heroic Epistle to Sir William Chambers. Residing for some time at Bath, he became acquainted with Miss Elizabeth Linley, daughter of the late Patentee of Drury Lane, of that name. This lady, celebrated no less, in her day, for her mental than for her personal accomplishments, was highly distinguished, at that time, as a public singer: and a part of her story, very honourable to herself, relative to a proposal of marriage, is commemorated by Foote, under the character of Miss Linnet, in his comedy, entitled, "The Maid of Bath." Not long after this affair, Mr. Sheridan made honourable proposals to her, and was engaged, on her account in a duel, with a Captain Matthews, which was very singular for the courage, ferocity, and inveterate resentment displayed by the parties. In 1773, his suit was crowned with success; and, though his lady brought him little or no fortune, it has been supposed that his subsequent figure in the world, has been, in some degree owing to this marriage. He was now in his twenty-second or twenty-third year, and even at this early period, discovered that pride and dignity of mind, which, though not always desirable companions in the commerce of life, are mostly characteristic of a generous spirit, and a true genius. For, notwithstanding his narrow circumstances, and the distance at which he was then removed from those brilliant prospects, which he afterward had in view, he would not allow Mrs. Sheridan to engage herself at any place of public entertainment.
Depending on his own talents alone for support, Mr. Sheridan first turned his thoughts to dramatic composition; and, in January, 1775, brought out at Covent Garden Theatre his comedy, THE RIVALS. This piece, as it was originally played, nearly doubled in length the generality of theatrical performances. It suffered greatly on the first night from the severity of the audience, and with difficulty obtained a second hearing. Several causes conspired to produce this effect, among which, in justice to Mr. Sheridan, must be mentioned the miserable manner in which some of the performers (Mr. Lee in particular) acted their parts. Being, however, new moulded by the author, it was received with considerable applause, and has continued a favourite with the public. This play abounds in character and situation: yet, though it bears indisputable marks of the fertility of the author's genius, it is, certainly, far from a perfect composition. The character of Mrs. Malaprop, who is distinguished from the ordinary run of illiterate pretenders, by the mere circumstance of her pronouncing hard words correctly, but using them in an improper sense, instead of murdering, the words themselves, as is usually the case, is surely ill-conceived and unnatural. The idea of Acres, with his new-fangled oaths, always swearing by objects appropriate to the subject of which he is treating, seems an equal violation of probability; and there appears to run through the piece an endeavour to give character and originality, which is always built upon affected circumstances, and not upon experience and knowledge of human nature. When Mr. Sheridan published this comedy, he acknowldged his youth and inexperience, and adopted the error of dreading imitation, asserting in his preface that,
on subjects on which the mind has been much informed, invention is slow of exerting itself.
Yet, it has always happened in some degree to those writers, who think that the want of information will assist their invention, that they have incurred the very censure they were anxious to avoid, and have exhibited as new what is stale and hackneyed, and what a more intimate acquaintance with their subject would have taught them to reject. In this year he also produced, St. Patrick's Day, a farce, which was originally represented for the benefit of Mr. Clinch, who seems to have been favoured with it, in consequence or his representation of the Irishman in the Rivals, in which he greatly excelled Mr. Lee.
In the following year, Mr. Sheridan enriched the English drama, with his celebrated comic opera, THE DUENNA. The success of this piece was beyond all former example. The Beggar's Opera which had all the wits and half the nobility of England for its supports, ran sixty-three nights in one season; the Duenna, seventy-five. The satire of this piece is beautiful and poignant; the flashes of wit are perpetual and always genuine; while the songs are characterised by that
onction.
that ripeness and mellowness of expression, which is, probably, the grand secret of song-writing. This piece did not reach the press, by the author's consent till the year 1794.
But, even the merit of the Duenna was thrown into comparative oblivion on the appearance, in the following year, of THE SCHOOL FOR SCANDAL. No dramatic production ever equalled this celebrated piece in success. It can receive no honour from additional praise, nor is it likely to be injured by the severest critical examination. Character it is true, is not the fort even of this greatest production of our author; yet, the plot is so natural, the mirror held up so true, the incidents follow with such ease and grace, the dialogue is so chaste and lively, the wit so brilliant and stirling, and every thing is so exquisitely finished and so happily conveyed, that our entertainment is unbounded, and we can never enough applaud our mirth. This piece (the policy, as we suppose, of our earliest theatres being on this occasion revived) has never lawfully reached the press, though, some editions of it have been printed in Ireland, from a smuggled copy, and sold here.
In 1778, Mr. Sheridan brought out at Drury Lane "The Camp," a dramatic entertainment, intended to compliment the Dutchess of Devonshire, which has never been printed; and, in the following year, "The Critic, or a Tragedy Rehearsed," a farce, which
has
reached the press. The Critic is distinguished by that genuine wit, which has so often characterised the productions of its author, and is a piece which has obtained the frequently repeated applauses of the public. Its first act has particular merit, in the character of Sir Fretful Plagiary, which, as is well known, is a satire upon Mr. Richard Cumberland, a gentleman of mild and amiable manners, but, who is probably, in some degree, subject to the weakness here ridiculed, and who had been so ill-advised, or so unfortunate as to give offence to Mr. Sheridan. The two last acts, which consist of a mock tragedy, have as much merit as their subject will allow, under the two-fold disadvantage of being barren in itself, and of having been anticipated by the popular comedy of the Rehearsal. The author of the Rehearsal had the advantage of writing in an aera of false taste, and of having for the topic of his ridicule, the absurdities of so great a genius as Mr. Dryden. The errors of more modern tragedies were too evanescent for satire, and Mr. Sheridan, in order to be intelligible, was obliged, sometimes to have recourse to the best passages of Shakspeare: now it is true that our mirth may be excited by a travesty of Homer or Virgil, but we never can applaud the author. To the pen of Mr. Sheridan are also to be attributed, "A Trip to Scarborough," a comedy, as
altered
from Vanburgh's
Relapse
; a Monody to the Memory of Mr. Garrick, which would have reflected lustre upon an inferior genius, but added nothing to our admiration of Mr. Sheridan; the Prologue to Captain Ayscough's tragedy, Semiramis, which is a beautiful piece of poetry; and several more highly elegant trifles, which are to be found in different collections of fugitive pieces. The public has also, for many years, been flattered with the hopes of receiving from the same source, "The Foresters," a comic opera; and Affectation, a comedy; but, from the length of their delay, we may be led to despair of their appearance.
It was in the year 1776, when Mr, Garrick retired from the stage, that Mr. Sheridan purchased, in association with Mr. Linley his father-in-law, and with Dr. Ford, one moiety of the property of Drury Lane Theatre; to which they soon afterward added the other moiety. Mr. Sheridan's share of this property is said to have been more than a half; and, for some years, he continued the acting manager of the theatre. His carelessness and inattention to the interests of this situation were very conspicuous, and the credit of old Drury certainly lost: a sturdy prop in her celebrated Garrick. But, having completed every thing with regard to the stage, to which his ambition could aspire, Mr. Sheridan turned the activity of his mind to another object, and was encouraged, by the friendship of Mr. Fox, to offer himself a candidate for representing the town of Stafford in the Parliament, which was summoned to meet October 30th, 1780. The new life into which his success introduced him, exalted his views, and, by engaging his talents in the concerns of his country, has had a fatal effect on his dramatic pursuits. Yet, it must be acknowledged a remarkable circumstance that a writer should so soon have reached the highest pinnacle of excellence, in a path so arduous of ascent, and that he should then have relinquished it for ever.
Mr. Sheridan did not inherit from nature every advantage toward making him a great public speaker. His voice, in particular, was neither strong, harmonious, nor of considerable compass. He had, however, the benefit of a remarkably clear and accurate articulation, and was early initiated in ideas of public speaking by his father. The difficulties under which he laboured were conquered by unwearied perseverance, and by the exercise of his voice on trifling topics and ordinary occasions. This conquest was not completed when he was appointed, in 1782, Under Secretary of State, in the department of Mr. Fox, or when, in the year following, he was promoted to the place of Secretary to the Treasury under the Duke of Portland. In the session of 1785, he made a celebrated Speech upon the fourth of the twenty Irish Propositions; and, in the following year, upon a motion, brought forward by himself, upon the subject of finance: of the former of these Speeches a tolerable report was published, and has been inserted in the Parliamentary Register. But Mr. Sheridan rose to his greatest height, as a speaker, in 1787, when he opened the third article of impeachment, in the House of Commons, against Mr. Hastings, upon the subject of the punishment inflicted by him for the rebellion of the Princesses of Oude. This speech was five hours and a half in length, and those who heard it seemed to think that no language could do justice to its wit, its sublimity, and its pathos. It is hardly necessary to add that Mr. Sheridan has, for many years, been one of the most distinguished leaders of the opposition. As an elegant scholar, we may safely say he has not a superior in the senate of his country; and, however different the sensations may be, with which his character will impress some of those who contemplate him as a genius and as a man, the urbanity of his behaviour in that assembly, and the uniformly classical elegance and grace of his diction, must command the admiration of all.
Not many years after the loss of his first wife, Mr. Sheridan married, in 1794, Miss Ogle, daughter of the Dean of Winchester. About this time he attempted to dispose of his property in the theatre, but, though he sold a part of it, he still retains the larger share.
SHERIDAN, CHARLES FRANCIS, ESQ.
This gentleman is an elder brother of the subject of the preceeding article and was, a few years ago, Under Secretary of State for the War Department in the Kingdom of Ireland, and also a Member of the Parliament of that Kingdom. He published, in 1778 in an octavo volume, a History of the
late
Revolution in Sweden, having been Secretary to the British Envoy in that kingdom, at the time of the Revolution. This is a very masterly performance. Mr. Sheridan also wrote several pamphlets, which were received with applause, upon the ministerial side of the question, during the former dissentions of Ireland; one of them was entitled, "Letters of a Dungannon Volunteer, respecting the Expediency of a Parliamentary Reform." In the year 1793, Mr. Sheridan published, in London, an Essay upon the true Principles of Civil Liberty and of Free Government, occasioned by the levelling doctrines of the day.
SHERLOCK, REV. MARTIN.
A native of Ireland, and Chaplain to the Right Rev. the Earl of Bristol, Lord Bishop of Derry. During his travels with his patron, in 1779, he published at Naples,
Consiglio ad un Giovane Poeta,
which is an ingenious investigation of Italian poetry, published with the intention of giving foreigners a more just idea of Shakspeare than could be collected from the strictures of the partial and jealous Voltaire; and at Geneva,
Lettres d'un Voyageur Anglois
in which the words of Horace,
Purpureus, late qui splendeat, unus et alter
Assuitur pannus;
are remarkably exemplified. In the following year Mr. Sherlock published, in London and Paris
Nouvelles Lettres d'un Voyageur Anglois,
in an octavo volume. Both of these volumes of Letters were afterward translated into English. Soon after his return, in 1781, he published "Letters on several Subjects," in two duodecimo volumes; and, four years afterward, "A Fragment on Shakspeare," extracted from the above-mentioned
Advice to a young Poet.
As a writer, Mr. Sherlock seems to have equal shares of ingenuity, sprightliness, and impertinent vanity.
SHILLITO, CHARLES.
This gentleman published, in 1780, "The Sea-Fight," an elegiac poem, which he wrote at sea. He has, since that time, published anonymously, "The Country Book-club," a poem; "The Man of Enterprize," a farce, acted by the Norwich, company; and a Translation of a Sonnet supposed to have been written by Mary Queen of Scots to the Earl of Bothwell. Some of these pieces are not without merit.
SIBLY, MANOAH.
Short-hand writer to the City of London, one of Baron Swedenborg's preachers, and formerly a teacher of Greek, Hebrew, &c. He published, in 1777, a Critical Essay on Jeremiah xxxiii. 16; and has also published twelve Sermons, in an octavo volume; three Sermons on the question WHO IS THE LORD? the Liturgy of the New Church; two Sermons on the Call of the Jews; Hardy's Trial for High Treason, in two volumes, octavo; and Mr. Gibbs' Speech in Defence of Hardy.
SIDDONS, HENRY, ESQ.
Son of the celebrated actress of the same name. He brought out at the Haymarket Theatre, in 1790, a farce, entitled, "Modern Breakfast," which was condemned and afterward published! He has also written "William Wallace or The Highland Hero," a novel, which was noticed rather for the hereditary honours of its author than for any distinguished merit which it can boast.
SIMEON, REV. CHARLES, M.A.
A Methodist Preacher, Fellow of King's College, Cambridge. He published, in 1796, in a large octavo volume, Claude's Essay on the Composition of a Sermon, with an Appendix containing one hundred
Skeletons
of Sermons; and has also printed occasional single Sermons, preached before the University, which have plenty of
flesh
on their bones.
SIMES, THOMAS, ESQ.
A Military Officer, and author of several Tracts on Military subjects. He published, in 1767, "The Military Medley," in an octavo volume, for the benefit of an humane charity in Ireland; and has, since that time, written "A Military Course for the Government and Conduct of a Battallion," an octavo volume; "The Military Instructor," a duodecimo volume; a Treatise on the Military Science, in quarto; "The Military Library," in four volumes, octavo; and "The Military Regulator," an octavo volume.
SIMPSON, REV. DAVID.
Author of a work, in four volumes, octavo, published in 1789, entitled, "Sacred Literature," which is a compilation consisting of a vast variety of quotations from authors of all descriptions who have written concerning the holy scriptures, and whose only merit is the marks which it bears of the compiler's industry.
SINCLAIR, SIR JOHN, L.L.D. M.P.
President of the Board of Agriculture, and a distinguished promoter of improvements in that art. This Baronet was born in the year 1754, and is the only surviving son of the late George Sinclair, Esq. of Ullester in the county of Caithness, North Britain. He was educated at the High-school, Edinburgh, and at the Universities of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Oxford. In the year 1780, he was chosen Member for Caithness, his native county, which he represented in two Parliaments, and was chosen, at the last election, for Petersfield, Hants. Sir John Sinclair is distinguished for his knowledge of Finance, Agriculture, and Statistics. He published, in the year 1782, "Observations on the Scottish Dialect," designed to remove the distinction which a different dialect had produced between nations united under the same government, and connected by similar customs and laws; also "Lucubrations during a short Recess," an anonymous pamphlet; and "Thoughts on the Naval Strength of the British Empire," a pamphlet. The anonymous pamphlet produced several Answers, one, in particular, by Lord Camelford, drawn up with great ability: the Pamphlet on our Naval Strength was also answered from the press. In the following year, Sir John Sinclair wrote a pamphlet, entitled, "Hints addressed to the Public," on the state of our finances, which (in opposition to the Earl of Stair, among other writers) was the first of the publications asserting the ample resources of the nation. His subsequent productions have been, "The History of the Public Revenue of the British Empire," a very elaborate and interesting work, in two volumes, quarto, of which the first was published in 1785; "State of Alterations which may be proposed in the Laws for regulating the Election of Members of Parliament for Shires in Scotland," a pamphlet, published in 1787; an Address to the Edinburgh Society for the Improvement of British Wool, of which Sir John was appointed chairman; an Address to the Landed Interest, on the Corn Bill, (1791); "Statistical Account of Scotland," drawn up from the communications of the ministers of the different parishes, in twenty volumes, octavo, of which the two first were published in 1792, a work which redounds very highly to the credit of its author's activity, perseverance, and public spirit; and Letters to the Directors and Governors of the Bank, on the pecuniary Distresses of the Country, written in 1796.
SKINNER, REV. JOHN.
A Presbyter of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, at Longside, Aberdeenshire. He published, in the year 1788, in two volumes, octavo, an Ecclesiastical History of Scotland, from the first appearance of Christianity in that Kingdom, to the time at which his book was printed. In this work he vindicates the episcopal at the expence of the presbyterian party.
SKRINE, HENRY, ESQ.
This gentleman published, in 1795, "Three successive Tours in the North of England, and great Part of Scotland," interspersed with descriptions of the scenes they presented, and with occasional Observations on the State of Society, and the Manners and Customs of the People," in a quarto volume, an entertaining work.
SMITH, MRS. CHARLOTTE.
Of Bignor Park, Sussex, a lady of very distinguished reputation as a Poet, and as a Novel-writer. Her first publication was "Elegiac Sonnets and other Essays," which appeared in quarto, in 1784. These poems, characterised by great elegance of feeling and beauty of expression, have been very frequently reprinted, and, with many subsequent additions, are now published in two duodecimo volumes, under the title, "Elegiac Sonnets and other Poems." In 1787, Mrs. Smith published "The Romance of Real Life," in three duodecimo volumes, which is a compilation from a voluminous French work, entitled
"Causes celebreè, &c."
and, in the year following, "Emmeline, or the Orphan of the Castle," a novel. She has, since that time, written Ethelinde, Celestina, Desmond, the Old Manor House, the Wanderings of Warwick, the Banished Man, Montalbert, and Marchmont, novels; "The Emigrants, a poem; "Rural Walks," in dialogues intended for the use of young persons, in two duodecimo volumes; "Rambles Farther," in continuation of the Rural Walks," in two duodecimo volumes; and a Narrative of the Loss of the Catherine, Venus, &c. near Weymouth, drawn up from information taken on the spot, and published for the benefit of an unfortunate survivor from one of the wrecks and her infant child. Considered as a novel-writer only, though her powers of pleasing are very great, Mrs. Smith has a few superiors among her countrywomen: considered as a poet only, the number of these will be found exceedingly small: but, if considered, as to her union of both these characters, we know of no lady who has superior pretensions.
SMITH, JAMES, EDWARD, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
This gentleman is sometimes distinguished by the name, LINNAEAN SMITH, from possessing the Linnaean library, cabinets, &c. He is a very industrious and able writer, particularly on subjects of Natural History. We believe, his first publication was a pamphlet, in 1785, entitled, "Reflections on the Study of Nature," which is a translation of one of the preface's of Linnaeus. In the year following, he published a Dissertation on the Sexes of Plants, translated from the Latin of Linnaeus; and, three years after that,
Reliquiae Rudbeckianae,
in a folio volume, and the first Fasciculus (in folio) of
Plantarum Icones hactenus ineditae,
a most elegant and learned work, intended to give figures of such plants (chiefly of the Linnaean Herbarium) as have not, hitherto, been properly represented, or of which no description or figure is, as yet, extant. Three Fasciculi of this publication have made their appearance. In 1790, Dr. Smith published the first Fasciculus (in folio) of his
Icones Pictae Plantarum Rariorum,
a work designed to give accurate and elegant figures, with full scientific descriptions, of such plants as have, hitherto, been imperfectly or not at all known, and of which no sufficiently good figures exist. Another Fasciculus of it has made its appearance. Dr. Smith's subsequent publications have been, a new and improved edition of the
Flora Lapponica
of Linnaeus, in an octavo volume; Fasciculus I. and II. of
Spicilegium Botanicum,
in small folio, a work appropriated to plants of a more humble stature; and a Sketch of a Tour on the Continent, in the years 1786 and 1787, in three octavo volumes.
SMITH, WILLIAM, M.A.
Author of "An Attempt to render the Pronunciation of the English Language more easy to Foreigners," published in an octavo volume, in 1795. This sensible work is an abridgement of a Dictionary of the English and French Languages upon a plan entirely new, shortly to be published by this gentleman.
SMITH, E. ESQ.
This gentleman published, in 1796, "William and Ellen," a tale, in verse; and has, since that time, published "The Scaith of France," a poem; and also a small collection of his "Poems." He is a respectable versifier.
SMYTH, JAMES CARMICHAEL, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
Physician Extraordinary to his Majesty. He published, in 1788, the Works of the late Dr. William Stark, in a quarto volume; and has written a Description of the Jail Distemper, as it appeared among the Spanish Prisoners at Winchester, in 1780; and an Account of the Experiment made at the Desire of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty on board the Union Hospital Ship, to determine the Effect of the Nitrous Acid in destroying Contagion.
SNODGRASS, GABRIEL, ESQ.
Surveyor to the East India Company, and an excellent writer on Ship-building and Naval Architecture. Beside, several other pieces, he has published, a Letter addressed to the East India Company, on the Mode of improving the Navy of Great Britain.
SOANE, JOHN.
Architect to the Bank of England, and Member of the Royal Academics of Parma and Florence. He published, in 1793, an elegant folio volume, entitled, "Sketches in Architecture."
SOMERVILLE, REV. THOMAS, D.D. F.R.S.E.
This gentleman published, in 1792, "The History of Political Transactions, and of Parties from the Restoration of King Charles II. to the Death of King William," in a quarto volume, a work of very considerable merit. In the following year, he wrote "Observations on the Constitution and
present
State of Britain," a pamphlet; and is now publishing by subscription, a Complete History of Great Britain, during the Reign of Queen Anne, in a quarto volume.
SOTHEBY, W. ESQ.
Author of a volume of Poems, consisting of a Tour through Parts of Wales, Sonnets, Odes, &c. which was first printed at Bath, in 1790, and, four years afterward, elegantly reprinted in London, in a royal quarto volume, with engravings from drawings taken on the spot. The poetry has considerable merit.
SOUTHEY, ROBERT, ESQ.
Of the City of Bristol. A gentleman whose talent for Poetry has obtained him very distinguished applause in the literary world. His first publication was a small volume of Poems, in association with Mr. Robert Lovell, his fellow-student of Baliol College, Oxford, which appeared in 1795. In the year following, he published Joan of Arc, an epic Poem, in a quarto volume, about four hundred lines of which, at the beginning of the second book, were contributed by his friend Mr. Coleridge. This performance, as originally written in twelve books, was finished in six weeks; and on its improved plan in ten books, was almost entirely recomposed during the time of printing! The poetical powers displayed in this poem are of a very superior kind, and, notwithstanding a little occasional negligence, its merit is such as unquestionably to entitle its author to the name or POET: yet, Mr. Southey, at the same time, must be said to have done infinite injustice to his extraordinary talents, in allowing the fervour of youth to hurry him, in such a manner, through a work of genius so singulary arduous. In 1797, Mr. Southey published a duodecimo volume of Poems, which has been very generally admired, and abounds in pieces of exquisite beauty. In this year he also published an octavo volume of Letters, written during a short residence in Spain and Portugal, which abound in information, and are highly entertaining.
SPENCER, W. R. ESQ.
This gentleman was one of the translators of Leonora, a tale, from the German of Bürger. His Translation was published in 1796, in a very splendid folio volume, with designs by the Right Hon. Lady Diana Beauclerc, and having the German printed on one side of the paper. This tale has been called, not unaptly,
a sort of blue-beard story for the nursery.
That the rage for translating this and similar pieces should have been so great, and that they should have occupied the public curiosity so much, are certainly, by no means, flattering testimonies of the taste of the times. The production of Mr. Spencer was the most elegant of any of them, in point of typography and embellishment, and not the least distinguished as to literary merit.
STAFFORD, REV. JOHN, D.D.
A rigid Calvinist. He published, in 1772 "The Scripture Doctrine of Sin and Grace considered, in a Series of Sermons," in one volume, octavo; and has also printed a Funeral Sermon for his Daughter, and some other single Discourses.
STAIR, EARL OF.—See Dalrymple.
STALKARTT, MARMADUKE.
A distinguished writer on the science, Naval Architecture. He published, in 1781, a very valuable work on the Rudiments and Rules of Ship-Building, in a folio volume, entitled, "Naval Architecture," and dedicated to his Majesty.
STANHOPE, CHARLES, EARL STANHOPE, F.R.S.
Fellow of the Society of Arts, and Member of the American Philosophical Society at Philadelphia. This nobleman (formerly Lord Viscount Mahon) has applied himself with some success to the studies of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy; and has contributed several Papers upon these subjects to the Philosophical Transactions. In the year 1775, his Lordship published "Considerations on the Means of Preventing Fraudulent Practices on the Gold Coin," a pamphlet which he had written at Geneva two years previously; in 1779, "Principles of Electricity," in a quarto volume: and, in 1786, "Observations on Mr. Pitt's Plan for the Reduction of the National Debt." His Lordship's subsequent publications have been, a Letter to Mr. Burke, in Answer to his Speech on the French Revolution (1790); and "The Rights of Juries defended," a pamphlet. Previously to the troubles in France, his Lordship, although ministerial in his politics and united by consanguinity, as well as inclination to the Chancellor of the Exchequer displayed considerable independence in his conduct, and bore the character of one desirous to promote the public welfare to the best of his judgement. Since those appearances his political conduct has been highly extravagant. In 1794, he made a motion to acknowledge the French Republic; and some of his Speeches have even excited the risibility of his adherents. Not long ago, in the true levelling spirit, his Lordship gave the hand of his daughter, Lady Stanhope, in marriage to Mr. Taylor a surgeon of Seven-Oaks in Kent.
STARKE, MISS MARIANNA.
The author of the Widow of Malabar, a tragedy, performed at Mrs. Crespigny's private theatre at Camberwell, and brought out at Covent Garden, in 1791. This piece is an imitation from M. le Mierre's drama,
La Veuve du Malabar,
which was once much in vogue at Paris. In its present form it has some merit.
STAUNTON, SIR GEORGE, BART. L.L.D. F.R.S.
This gentleman was his Majesty's Secretary of Embassy to the Emperor of China, and Minister Plenipotentiary in the absence of the Ambassador. He was formerly an Apothecary in the country, married a Miss Collins, daughter of a Printer at Salisbury, and has raised himself from obscurity to wealth, rank, and honours. His only appearance as an author has been in the Account he has published of the Embassy to China. This long expected work made its appearance in August, 1797; in two volumes, quarto, accompanied by a folio volume of plates, under the title, "An Authentic Account of the Embassy from the King of Great Britain to the Emperor of China." Such was the public curiosity, that, although it was printed in a very expensive style, and the impression consisted of a large number of copies, every one was subscribed for long before the day of publication. An octavo edition of it, in three volumes, has been published since its first appearance. The ACCOUNT was taken chiefly from the papers of Lord Macartney, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary; of Sir Erasmus Gower, Commander of the expedition; and of other gentlemen in the several departments of the Embassy. Though it may be said to contain little additional information respecting China, to what was already to be found in the writings of Duhalde, Grosier, and others who have travelled in that country, it must be confessed that Sir George Staunton enjoyed peculiar advantages for describing with accuracy the physical as well as moral state of the vast empire. So remarkable an instance of the necessary abilities and opportunities to collect information, and of strict authenticity in reporting it, as concurred in the case of the gentlemen who accompanied this embassy, can very rarely happen! It is true that in these volumes utility is never sacrificed to pleasure, nor instruction to amusement. Veracity, candour, and modesty mark them in every page; but the author's excess of precaution against egotism, superinduces a styptic dryness too often to be lamented. It is said that a large sum of money was presented to Sir George Staunton by the East India Company, to defray the expence of the drawings and engravings which belong to this work.
STEARNES, HON. SAMUEL, M.D. L.L.D.
Astronomer to his Majesty's Provinces of Quebec, and New Drunswick, &c. Author of a very singular and, for the most part, a very absurd book, entitled, "The American Oracle," published in an octavo volume, in 1791. In this work he has given a new and ingenious hypothesis of the Aurora Borealis; but his vanity and his poetry are insupporta
able. Mr. Stearns is one of the props of Animal Magnetism, and was a coadjutor to Mr. Cue in working magnetic miracles.
STEDMAN, REV. THOMAS, M.A.
Vicar of St. Chad's, Shrewsbury. He has edited a volume of Dr. Doddridge's Letters, with biographical notes; and a volume of Letters from the late Rev. Mr. Job Orton to a young Clergyman (Mr.Stedman). He has also printed a single Sermon, preached at St. Chad's Church, January 30th, 1793.
STEEVENS, GEORGE, ESQ.
A gentleman of fortune, resident at Hampstead, and a most distinguished character in the literary world, as a very learned and acute Editor of Shakspeare. He published, in 1766, "Twenty of the Plays of Shakspeare," in four octavo volumes. A year previously to the appearance of this edition, Dr. Johnson had published an edition of Shakspeare's Plays with Notes, in eight octavo volumes. A coalition between these two editors having been negociated, the edition of Shakspeare commonly called Johnson's and Steevens' Edition made its appearance, in ten octavo volumes, in 1773. It was reprinted, by these gentlemen, in the same number of volumes, five years afterward; and again, in 1785, under the care of Mr. Reed, who undertook the office of editor at the request of Mr. Steevens. The fourth edition of this work, with great additions and improvements, was published by Mr. Steevens, in 1793, in fifteen octavo volumes. In its present form this is by far the most complete edition of Shakspeare extant. The diligent editor has taken every possible pains to render his work full, clear, and convenient; and such are the utility and excellence of the prolegomena and notes, such also the elegance of the typograpical execution, that we may say our immortal bard is edited in a manner becoming his fame.
STEVENSON, JOHN HALL, ESQ.
A Versifier of considerable genius and humour. He has written Crazy Tales for grown Gentlemen; Lyric Epistles; Pastoral Cordials; Macarony Fables, &c. His works have been lately collected and published, with notes, in three small octavo volumes.
STEWART, DUGALD, F.R.S.E.
Professor of Moral Philosophy in the University of Edinburgh. This gentleman published, in 1792, "Elements of the Philosophy of the Human Mind," in a quarto volume, a work highly to the credit of his abilities. He also edited, in 1795, the late Dr. Adam Smith's posthumous Essays on Philosophical Subjects, in a quarto volume, prefixing an Account of the author's Life and Writings.
STILLINGFLEET, REV. EDWARD, M.A.
Chaplain to the Earl of Dartmouth, and formerly Minister of West Bromwich,
ordshire. He published, in 1794, a volume of Sermons on some of the principal Doctrines of the Christian Religion, which are plain and sensible.
STOCKDALE, REV. PERCIVAL.
Rector of Lesborough and Long Houghton in Northumberland. A veteran of the press. He was formerly in the army and commenced his literary career in the character of a poet, publishing, in 1764. "Churchill defended," a poem; and "The Constituents," a poem. In 1770, he published a Translation of Tesso's
Amyntas
; and, two years afterward, he translated for the booksellers Bos' Antiquities of Greece, and Sabbathier's Institutions, &c, of the Ancient Nations. Mr. Stockdale has, since that time, published the Works and Life of Waller, in a duodecimo volume; three Discourses against Luxury, &c. six Discourses, in an octavo volume; a single Sermon on Self-knowledge; a volume of Sermons dedicated to Mr. Pitt, eight Sermons on different subjects, dedicated to Mr. Jerningham; a volume of Sermons to Seamen, preached on board the Leander; an Enquiry into the Nature and genuine Laws of Poetry; a duodecimo volume of Miscellanies in Prose and Verse; an Essay on Education; an Essay on Misanthropy; "Three Poems," viz. Siddons, an Epistle to Sir Ashton Lever, and an Essay on an Officer; Ximenes, a tragedy; a Letter to Granville Sharpe, Esq. respecting the Negroes; Poetical Thoughts and Views on the Banks of the Wear; Letters to the Bishop of Durham, relative to the Living of Hartburn; Observations on modern Reformers; a Letter to Mr. Bryan; Letters to the Reviewers; and a very angry Letter to a Gentleman of the Philanthopic Society. He is also the editor of Oram's Poems.
The life of Mr. Percival Stockdale has been marked by various misfortunes, and discouraging circumstances. As a writer he has never been popular, and his miscarriage has been somewhat unfortunate. He seems to labour under an extreme irritability of the nervous system, which has never allowed him to endure the rebukes of honest criticism. He is paradoxical, without being ingenious; he is new, without the power of invention; and he possesses the true poetic melancholy without one spark of poetic fire.
STOKES, ANTHONY, ESQ.
Barrister at Law. He published, in 1783, a View of the Constitution of the British Colonies in North America and the West Indies, at the time the Civil War broke out on the Continent of America, in an octavo volume. Of those parts of the globe Mr. Stokes had acquired considerable knowledge by personal residence, and he has produced a very judicious and intelligent volume. In 1793, he wrote a sensible pamphlet, entitled, "Desultory Observations" on the situation, extent, government, &c. of Great Britain, occasionally contrasted with those of other countries, in order to point out the blessings which the English enjoy above all other nations.
STONE, REV. FRANCIS, M.A. F.S.A.
Rector of Cold-Norton, Essex, and a distinguished Reformer. Being then Chairman of the Society of the Petitioning Clergy, he published, in 1777, "A new, easy, and expeditious Method of Discharging the National Debt," in which he very absurdly substituted buffoonery for the discretion and gravity which would have become him in that situation. In 1789, he wrote "Political Reformation on a Large Scale," a pamphlet, in which he threatened to relinquish his native soi
, and to seek an asylum in Ireland with Messrs Grattan, Corry, &c. This design he unfortunately laid aside, and wrote, in 1792, an Examination of Mr. Burke's REFLECTIONS; and also a superficial pamphlet, entitled, "Thoughts in favour of the Abolition of the Slave Trade."
STRATFORD, EDWARD, EARL OF ALDBOROUGH IN THE KINGDOM OF IRELAND, F. R. S.
A nobleman distinguished for his eccentricities. His Lordship has been called THE STANHOPE OF IRELAND. He published, in 1783, an Essay on the true Interests and Resources of the Empire of the King of Great Britain and Ireland.
STREET, REV. STEPHEN, M.A.
Of Queen's College, Oxford, and Rector of Teyford in Sussex. This gentleman published, in 1790, a new literal Version of the Book of Psalms, with Notes, in two volumes, octavo. The design of this work is to elucidate what is obscure, to amend what is mistaken, and to improve what is defective; and the execution is, by no means, unworthy of the laudable attempt.
STRETCH, REV. L.M. M.A.
Vicar of Twyford and Owslebury, and formerly a schoolmaster at Twickenham. He published, in 1769, "The Beauties of History," in two duodecimo volumes, designed for youth. This compilation has been favourably received; but, though the plan is good, the execution of it is, certainly, not such as might have been displayed on such a subject. Mr. Stretch has also published the Substance of two Discourses preached at Winchester Assizes in 1790.
STUART, CHARLES.
A dramatic writer, and a friend of the late Mr. George Colman. He has written the Cobler of Castlebury; Ripe Fruit; Damnation; Gretna Green; the Distressed Baronet; the Stone-eater; and the Irishman in Spain. The last of these is a mutilation of a farce called,
She would be a Dutchess,
which was stopped by the Lord Chamberlain, at the request of General Gunning. All of these pieces are farces or interludes, which were brought out at the Haymarket Theatre. Mr. Stuart is also the author of a few Prologues and Epilogues.
STUART, PETER.
Brother to the subject of the preceeding article. He was formerly concerned in the printing and conduct of the Morning Post; and is now the Printer and Editor of the paper called, the Oracle, which was originally set on foot by Mr. John Bell.
STURGES, REV. JOHN, L.L.D.
Chancellor of the Diocese of Winchester, and Chaplain in Ordinary to his Majesty. This gentleman's first publication was a Consecration Sermon, printed in 1777. Two years afterward, he published, "Considerations on the State of the Church Establishment," in an octavo volume. This book was in reply to the Lectures on Non-conformity of the late Mr. Robert Robinson; and the manner in which it is written places its author in a most creditable light, both as a sensible and as a moderate man. In 1791, Dr. Sturges wrote, "Short Remarks" on Dodson's Translation of Isaiah, which were answered by Mr. Dodson, and produced very favourable testimonies to the learning of the Doctor, and to the candour of his adversary. The subsequent literary productions of Dr. Sturges have been, a volume of excellent Discourses chiefly on the Evidences of Natural and Revealed Religion; and an elegant single Sermon preached in Lambeth Chapel December 2d, 1792, at the Consecration of the late Dr. Buller, Bishop of Exeter.
SULIVAN, RICHARD, JOSEPH. ESQ. F.R.A.S.
This gentleman was Member for New Romney in the last Parliament, and has, we believe, spent part of his life in India. His first publication was "A Tour through Parts of England, Scotland, and Wales," in a series of Letters, which appeared in 1780, in two volumes octavo. Not long after this, he published a Letter to the East India Directors; an Analysis of the Political History of India, in an octavo volume; Thoughts on Martial Law, a pamphlet; and Philosophical Rhapsodies, Fragments of Akbur of Betlis, containing Reflections on the Laws, Manners, Customs, and Religions of certain Asiatic, Afric, and European Nations," in three octavo volumes. The last of these works, though said to be written by a native of Assyria, was soon found to be much more deeply tinctured with European than with Oriental Philosophy. In 1794, Mr. Sulivan published "A View of Nature, in Letters to a Traveller among the Alps," in six volumes, octavo; a work whose title attracted a degree of curiosity, which its contents were but ill able to gratify. The author of THE PURSUITS OF LITERATURE has thought it proper to dignify this publication with the character of
a work of labour and of general utility, digested from original writers with judgement, and with an upright virtuous heart, in a pleasing and instructive manner:
a sentence unworthy of him who passed it. To the goodness of the writer's heart, we have nothing to object; but surely, as a philosopher, he is even below mediocrity. Had not the name of a gentleman, and a man of fortuné appeared in the title, we should have pronounced the work an arrant instance of book-making. As it is, we can only allow the
last
volume to be at all worthy of a philosophical pen: the remaining five are trash, the babblings of an infant in natural knowledge. Among many to notice
one
particular instance, a writer who adopts such a Theory of the Tides as Mr. Sulivan has adopted, can either not understand Newton's theory, and therefore must be totally unequal to such a work as
The View of Nature
; or, if he does understand it, shews by the choice he has made that he is utterly incompetent to his undertaking, in point of philosophical reasoning and judgement. How trite, yet how little heeded is the good old maxim!
Sumite materiam vestris, qui scribitis, aequam
Viribus; et versate diu, quid ferre recusent,
Quid valeant humeri.
SULLIVAN, JOHN, ESQ.
Son-in-law to the Earl of Buckinghamshire, and Member for Old Sarum in the last Parliament. This gentleman published, in 1795, an elegant octavo volume of "Tracts upon India," written in the years 1779, 1780, and 1788; a work which contains much instructive matter.
SWAINSON, ISAAC.
Proprietor and Vender of De Velnos' Vegetable Syrup. Several Pamphlets have been written in the course of the last ten years under his name, in assertion of the superior excellence of this medicine; particularly a late severe attack on Dr. Beddoes, under the title, "Mercury Stark Naked." These pamphlets have been attributed to the pen of Mr. David Williams.
SWINBURNE, HENRY, ESQ.
This celebrated traveller is the youngest son of the late Sir John Swinburne, Bart. of Capheaton in Northumberland, the long-established seat of that ancient Roman Catholic family. He was educated at Scorton School in Yorkshire; and, afterward, studied at Paris, Bourdeaux, and the Royal Academy at Turin. After this he made the usual tour of Italy, and, in 1774, travelled with his lady on the Continent, for the express purpose of indulging their taste for antiquities and the fine arts. Mr. Swinburne spent six years in France, Spain, Italy, and Germany, during which time he formed an intimacy with some of the most celebrated literati of those countries, and received some signal marks of esteem from the Sovereigns of the courts he visited. On his return to England he retired to his seat at Hamsterly, in the Bishoprick of Durham, which has been his place of chief residence since that time. The first of Mr. Swinburne's publications was his quarto volume of Travels through Spain, which appeared in 1779. Four years afterward he published Vol. I. (in quarto) of his celebrated Travels in the two Sicilies; to which Vol. II. was added two years afterward. Both of these works have been reprinted in octavo; the first in two, and the last in four volumes. The learning and ingenuity of Mr. Swinburne are too well known to require an additional panegyric from us. The warmth and animation of his descriptions discover an imagination highly susceptible to every beauty of nature, or of art; and, if he have a fault it is, that he is too apt to relinquish simplicity for profusion of ornament.
SWINTON, ANDREW, ESQ.
Author of an octavo volume of Travels into Norway, Denmark, and Russia, published in 1792. This work engaged its author in a legal contest with the proprietors of the Critical Review. It contains much amusement and information.
SWINTON, JOHN, ESQ.
Advocate. He has published an Abridgement of the Public Statutes in Force and Use, relative to Scotland, from the Union in the fifth year of Anne to the twenty-seventh George III. inclusive, in two volumes, quarto; which is a considerable enlargement of a work published about 1755, by his relation and namesake.
SYMMONS, REV. CHARLES, B.D.
Rector of Narberth in the county of Pembroke, and formerly of Clare-Hall, Cambridge. He published, in 1787, a volume of Sermons, which do him great credit, and which have been favourably received. Mr. Symmons has also printed two single Sermons.
SYMMONS, REV. CHARLES, D.D.
Of Jesus College, Oxford. Author of Inez, a dramatic poem, published in 1797.
SYMONDS, JOHN, ESQ. L.L.D.
Of Bury St. Edmund's, Suffolk. The learned Professor of Modern History in the University of Cambridge, and Member of Trinity College. He was elected to the above Professorship in the year 1771, and published, in 1778, "Remarks upon an Essay, entitled,
The History of the Colonization of the Free States of Antiquity, applied to the Contest between Great Britain and her American Colonies,"
a pamphlet. In 1789, he published, "Observations upon the Expediency of revising the present English Version of the four Gospels, and of the Acts of the Apostles," in a quarto pamphlet, which was followed, in 1794, by similar "Observations respecting the Epistles in the New Testament." Of these OBSERVATIONS, which display uncommon industry and abilities, the first was answered in an illiberal anonymous pamphlet, entitled,
An Apology for the Liturgy of the Church of England,
said to be the joint production of two Bishops; and prefixed to the last was an able rejoinder by Dr. Symonds. As a Lecturer in Modern History, the fame of this gentleman is supremely great.
T
TAPLIN, WILLIAM.
SURGEON, and (in his own words) Equestrian Physician. He published, in 1788, Vol. I. (in octavo) of "The Gentleman's Stable Directory," to which he has added another volume; and, in 1796, "A Compendium of Practical and Experimental Farriery," in an octavo volume. These books have been favourably received; and, notwithstanding their author's pompous manner, ill-calculated to inform
stabularian
practitioners, are likely to be of great general utility.
TAPRELL, REV. RICHARD.
Of South Molton. Author of several pious, sensible, and useful little publications. He wrote, in 1789, a plain Discourse for Children, particularly intended to benefit the Sunday-schools; and "Meditations," chiefly for Women in Pregnant Circumstances. His subsequent publications have been, "Serious Advice to Young People;" Lectures on the Lord's Prayer, in an octavo volume; "A Seasonable Publication," a political pamphlet, published in 1794; and two single Sermons.
TARLETON, BANASTRE, ESQ. M.P.
A Major-general in the Army, and a character of greater celebrity in the memoirs of the turf, than in the noiseless tenor of these peaceful pages. He published, in the year 1787, in a quarto volume, a History of the Campaigns of 1780 and 1781, in the Southern Provinces of North America; in which he was Commandant of the British Legion. This work does him credit as an officer, but was thought amenable on account of certain disrespectful insinuations, which it contains, concerning Lord Cornwallis, (vide our article Roderick Mackenzie).
TASKER, REV. WILLIAM.
Of Exeter. This gentleman completed, in 1793. a collection of "Select Odes and Miscellaneous Poems," in three duodecimo volumes, many of which had appeared singly at different times, several years before that period. The first of them, an Ode to the Warlike Genius of Great Britain, was printed in 1778, and has gained its author considerable credit. Had Mr. Tasker duly estimated his talents he would have confined himself to excursions like this, for mediocrity is the highest station to which any dissimilar poetical attempts of his can be said to have attained. Since the above-mentioned collection, he has published Arviragus, a tragedy (never performed) whose subject is the contest between the ancient Britons and the Romans, terminated by the marriage of Arviragus with the daughter of the Emperor Claudius. To his "Select Odes" is added a series of Letters, containing much miscellaneous matter; and, among the rest, proofs of the anatomical accuracy of Homer, in his description of the wounds suffered by the heroes in the Illiad. Mr. Tasker is, at present employed, as we understand, on a History of Physiognomy from the time of Aristotle, to that of Lavater; in which the Stagyrite's knowledge of physiognomy is to be illustrated in the same manner as the anatomical knowledge of the venerable Bard in these Letters.
TASSIE, JAMES.
A most ingenious Modeller, of Leicester-square, celebrated for his grand collection of engraved gems. He published, in 1791, a Descriptive Catalogue of his Gems, arranged and described by Mr. R. E. Raspe, in two volumes, quarto.
TATHAM, REV. EDWARD, D.D.
Rector of Lincoln College, Oxford. A gentleman of distinguished abilities and attainments; but, by no means, a very attractive writer. He published, in 1778, a strange "Essay on
Journal
Poetry;" in 1780, a volume of Discourses Introductory to the Study of Divinity; and, in 1790, Vol. I. (in octavo) of "The Chart and Scale of Truth," in continuation of which a second volume was soon afterward published. Dr. Tatham has also printed some single Sermons; Letters to Mr. Burke on Politics, a pamphlet; a Letter to Mr. Pitt on the National Debt; and a second Letter to the same on a National Bank. "The Chart and Scale of Truth, by which to find the Cause of Error," indisputably the masterpiece of its author, was read before the University of Oxford, at the Lecture founded by Mr. Bampton, and is not completed in the two volumes already published. It is a work highly creditable to the learning and accurate reasoning of its author, who appears to have written it with a laudable zeal for academical reformation, and for the general advancement of knowledge. Its leading object is to assist the philosophical enquirer, in distinguishing what he can know, from what he cannot know; and, by marking the modes and degrees of human knowledge, to furnish a general scale, or common measure, by which we may ascertain the particular nature and relative force of every kind of TRUTH. It is calculated, in short, to lead men to think and to judge for themselves, and not in the thoughts and opinions of others. If this book can be said to have a fault, it seems to be that it is without that finish and polish which, to so important a design, appear peculiarly requisite.
TATTERSALL, REV. W.D. M.A.
Vicar of Wotton under Edge, Gloucestershire, and Chaplain to the Hon. Mr. Justice Buller. A gentleman of high respectability of character. He published, in 1791, "A Version or Paraphrase of the Psalms," originally written by Mr. Merrick, divided into stanzas and adapted to the purposes of public or private devotion; which, he entertains hopes, may at some future time obtain a proper sanction for its introduction into the Church. Some copies of this work were printed in a larger size and presented to the dignified clergy. Mr. Tatterfall is also collecting a number of tunes, which, after submitting them to the best judges of music, he designs to publish, in addition to the above-mentioned work. A year or two previously to these Psalms, we believe
this
gentleman published a single Sermon.
TAYLOR, THOMAS, ESQ.
Of Walworth. This gentleman has been properly called the would-be Restorer of unintelligible Mysticism and superstitious Pagan Nonsense. He is a most enthusiastic admirer of the Platonic school, and has, for several years past, occasionally astonished the Public with some strange production or other. In 1787, he published a Translation of the Mystical Hymns of Orpheus, in an octavo volume; and also a paraphrased Translation of Plotitinus CONCERNING THE BEAUTIFUL. Since that time, he has published a Translation of Proclus' Commentaries on the first Book of Euclid's Elements; a Dissertation on the Eleusinian and Bacchic Mysteries; a Translation of the Cratylus, Phaedo, Parmenides, and Timaeus of Plato; Sallust on the Gods and the World, &c. a Translation of Apuleius' Fable of Cupid and Psyche; and a Translation of Pausanias' Description of Greece, with Notes, in three volumes, octavo. He has also announced his intention of giving a complete Translation of Plato's Works. Mr. Taylor has a very respectable share of learning, and is no less indefatigable than he is whimsical.
TAYLOR, DANIEL.
A bookseller, and a dissenting preacher. He has published several single Sermons, beside some other small Theological Pieces; and also an Essay on the Truth and Inspiration of the Scriptures; "The Consistent Christian," the substance of five sermons; and Memoirs of the late Rev. W. Thompson, of Boston, Lincolnshire, with a Discourse occasioned by his Death.
TAYLOR, — ESQ.
Occulist to his Majesty. The author of an octavo volume of pretty "Verses on various Occasions," published in 1795.
TEMPLE, RT. HON. HENRY, LORD VISCOUNT PALMERSTON, IN THE KINGDOM OF IRELAND, L. L. D. M. P.
His Lordship has written many Charades, Anagrams, Rebuses, and Acrostics, a Selection of which may be seen in Mr. Debrett's Foundling Hospital for Wit.
TEMPLE, REV. ANTHONY, M.A.
Master of the Grammar School at Richmond, Yorkshire, and Vicar of Easby. This gentleman published, in 1772, "The Written Word the only Rule of Christian Faith and Manners," a pious and sensible tract, consisting of three discourses. Some years afterward he wrote, Remarks on Dr. Burgh's Scriptural Confutation; and also some highly judicious Letters to Dr. Randolph, formerly President of Corpus Christi College, Oxford in reply to his Animadversions on those Remarks. In 1791, Mr. Temple printed a single Sermon.
TEMPLE, RICHARD, ESQ. M.D.
Licentiate of the Royal College of Physicians, London. He published, in 1792, an octavo volume, entitled, "Practice of Physic," which is a useful compendium for young practitioners, upon the arrangement of Cullen's Nosology.
TENCH, WATKIN, ESQ.
Major of Marines. He published, in 1789, a Narrative of the Expedition to Botany Bay, for the Conveyance of Convicts, an octavo pamphlet; and has, since that time, written a complete Account of the Settlement of Port Jackson, in New South Wales. The latter of these productions takes up the history of the Settlement where the former drops it, and brings it down to the end of the year 1791, when Major Tench left the place. He has contributed largely by his inland travels to the knowledge which we have of the country about Port Jackson; but he is, perhaps, amenable on the score of exhibiting the dark side of the picture. An octavo volume of highly interesting Letters written by Major Tench in France, to a Friend in London, was published in 1796. While he was of his Majesty's ship Alexander, that vessel was captured by a French squadron; and these Letters were written between November, 1794 and May, 1795. The air of truth and manliness which pervades them, and the entertaining manner in which they are written, characterise them as peculiarly pleasing.
THELWALL, JOHN.
This conspicuous character, after a very inferior education, was articled to an attorney; and early in life exhibited that restless, unsatisfied, turbulent disposition, by which he has of late peculiarly distinguished himself. Upon the publication of Paine's "Rights of Man," Mr. Thelwall was one of the first to display a zealous attachment to his principles; and he soon afterward began to deliver a course of Lectures of an inflammatory tendency, at Beaufort Buildings in the Strand. Here, evening after evening, he thundered out philippics against the Constitution of his country, with the vehemence of an impassioned demagogue, to the admiration of the vilest refuse of the metropolis. In the year 1794, these Discourses were interrupted by the hand of Government, and the orator was conveyed to the Tower to take his trial, together with Hardy, Tooke and some other unruly citizens. During his confinement, Mr. Thelwall wrote some Poems, which were published after his release. Having been tried at the Sessions House, Old Bailey, in November, 1794, and acquitted with the other prisoners, his subsequent behaviour has been no less marked by its mischievous tendency, than it was previously to his imprisonment. Under the semblance of illustrating Ancient History, he has continued his political Lectures, and has transferred his pernicious school to different parts of the country. At Yarmouth he was, some time ago, interrupted in a very serious manner in the midst of his oratory, by the abrupt entrance of a body of sailors, who were heated with liquor, and who, actuated by an imiprudent zeal, committed several unjustifiable acts of violence upon the auditory. He also experienced some riotous opposition at Lynn and at Wisbeach.
As an author, Mr. Thelwall made his first appearance in 1787, when he published Orlando and Almeyda, a legendary tale in the manner of Goldsmith, and also "Poems on various Subjects," in two duodecimo volumes. The touching simplicity which is characteristic of true poetry, is, in these wretched pieces, supplied by a plain prosaic diction, which is as remote as possible from it. After this unfortunate attempt, Mr. Thelwall did not seek the press again till the year 1794, when No. I. of his Political Lectures made its appearance. In the following year he published "The Natural and Constitutional Right of Britons to Annual Parliaments, Universal Suffrage, and the Freedom of Popular Association," the Speech which he intended to have delivered on his trial. His subsequent productions have been "Sober Reflections on the Seditious and Inflammatory Letter of the Rt. Hon. Edmund Burke to a Noble Lord;" "Strike but Hear!!!" a pamphlet; an Appeal to Popular, Opinion respecting the Proceedings at Yarmouth; "The Rights of Nature against the Usurpations of Establishments," in two parts; a particular Account of the Outrages at Lynn and Wisbeach; "Democracy Vindicated," consisting of Walter Moylè's Essay on the Constitution and Government of the Roman State, with a Preface and Notes by Mr. Thelwall; "The Retort Courteous to Master Burke;" and the Peripatetic, in three volumes, duodecimo. His writings abound in common-place observations, and sometimes, in most offensive, petulant scurrility.
THOMAS, REV. A.G.
Rector of Woolwich, and nephew to the late Bishop of Rochester. He is the editor of the Works of Bishop Thomas, in two volumes, octavo, to which he has prefixed Memoirs of his Life.
THOMPSON, SIR BENJAMIN, KNT. COUNT OF RUMFORD.
Knight of the orders of the White Eagle and St. Stanislaus, &c. and Fellow of many foreign Societies. This ingenious Philosopher and Experimenter is a native of the town of Rumford in the Province of Massachusets. During the late war between the Colonies and the mother Country, he raised a regiment of American Dragoons, and signalised himself on many occasions during the heat of that contest. In 1784, by his Majesty's permission, he engaged himself in the service of his Serene Highness the Elector Palatine, Reigning Duke of Bavaria, and was employed in various public services, particularly in arranging his military affairs, and in introducing a new system of order, dicipline, and oeconomy among his troops. He also formed establishments for the relief of the poor at Munich, furnished them with employment, suggested many plans for providing them with food at small expence, and, by various experiments, enabled them to abridge their consumption of fuel. In pursuing these enquiries, he made some valuable discoveries in the construction of Chimneys; and was enabled to point out means, which have since been successfully put in practice in this country also, of increasing the heat, and, at the same time, decreasing the quantity of fuel. Count Rumford, moreover, introduced manufactures into Munich, until then unknown; and was the mean of familiarizing the use of the Potatoe in Germany. The honours which he has received from his new master the Elector are of the highest distinction.
The publications of Count Rumford have been confined to his Experimental Essays, Political, Oeconomical, and Philosophical, seven of which have been published in octavo pamphlets. They have been very generally read, and breathe, in every page, the benevolent and philosophic spirit of their author.
THOMSON, WILLIAM, L.L.D.
Formerly a Clergyman of the Church of Scotland, and at present a resident of the Metropolis. This gentleman wrote the continuation of Dr. Robert Watson's History of Philip III. of Spain, which was left unfinished by its author. He was also the real editor of the Commentary on the Bible, which was published under the names, Herries; and is understood to have been concerned in the original institution of the English Review, and to have written the Review of Politics, which was subjoined to each number. Dr. Thomson has also published, "The Man in the Moon," a political and philosophical romance, in two volumes, duodecimo; a Translation of the History of Great Britain, from the Revolution to the Accession of George I. written in Latin by Mr. Alexander Cunningham, in two volumes, quarto; an Appeal to the People of England and Scotland in behalf of Mr. Hastings; Memoirs of the War in Asia, in two volumes, octavo, which was also intended to vindicate the late Governor-general; and "Mammuth, or Human Nature displayed on a grand Scale," in two duodecimo volumes. Dr. Thomson is a friend of Dr. Parr, and assisted him with some Observations inserted in the sequel to a Paper circulated by the Rev. Charles Curtis. As an author he unites great vigour of invention, great depth of observation, and great eloquence of expression, with remarkable negligence of composition. It has been happily said of him, that he can be romantic without extravagance, and eccentric without absurdity.
THOMSON, REV. GEORGE.
Author of an octavo volume, entitled, "The Spirit of General History," in a series of Letters from the eighth to the the eighteenth century, first published in 1791. This useful performance was honoured with a long list of subscribers.
THOMSON, ALEXANDER, ESQ.
This gentleman published, in 1791, in an octavo volume, "Whist," a poem, which possesses considerable merit. He has, since that time, written an ingenious Essay on Novels; "The Paradise of Taste," a poem; and "The German Miscellany," consisting of translations of dramas, dialogues, tales, and novels. Mr. Thomson, as a writer, possesses no mean talents in the art of pleasing; but he cannot be said to rank in the first class in point of strength, elegance, and taste.
THOMSON, J. ESQ.
An Officer in the Army, and a very sensible and well-informed writer. He has published, Translations from the French of M. de Pauw's Philosophical Dissertations on the Greeks, and on the Egyptians and Chinese, each in two volumes, octavo; and was also, we believe, the translator of D'Antoni's Treatises on Gun-powder, Fire-arms and the Service of Artillery in Time of War.
THOMSON, ALEXANDER, ESQ. M.D.
This gentleman published, in 1796, in an octavo volume, a Translation of Suetonius' Lives of the first twelve Caesars, with annotations, and a Review of the Government and Literature of the different Periods. Nearly all the Latin classical authors having flourished in the period which form the subject of Suetonius' History, this translation was judiciously chosen as a vehicle for an examination of the State of Literature among the Romans; and Dr. Thomson has executed his undertaking in a manner worthy of a scholar. We believe
this
gentleman published, in 1781, an Enquiry into the Nature, Causes, and Method of Cure of Nervous Disorders, in a Letter to a friend.
THORNTON, JOHN ROBERT, ESQ. M.D.
Late of Trinity College, Cambridge. An eminent Botanist and Physician. He has published "A new Illustration of the Sexual System of Linnaeus," a splendid work; and also "Medical Extracts," in four octavo volumes.
THORP, REV. ROBERT, D.D.
Archdeacon of Northumberland, Rector of Gateshead, and formerly Fellow of St. Peter's College, Cambridge. This gentleman published, in 1777, Vol. I. (in quarto) of an English Translation of Sir Isaac Newton's Principia with a Commentary, comprehending Book I. of that work. Owing, as we suppose, to a want of encouragement, this undertaking has never been prosecuted farther. The part which Dr. Thorp has committed to the public cannot be said to be a very favourable specimen of his appropriate talents for such an undertaking. His Commentary is, for the most part, a translation of the Notes by the Jesuits; and in the management of fluxions, a deficiency of knowledge and of address is apparent throughout. Beside this publication, Dr. Thorp has printed two single Sermons, one preached at the Assizes at Newcastle, in 1768, and the other before the University of Cambridge, in 1792.
THROSBY, JOHN.
An intelligent Antiquarian, who has devoted his particular enquiries to the Town and County of Leicester. He published, in 1780, "Memoirs of the Town and County of Leicester," in six duodecimo volumes; and has, since that time, produced "Select Views in Leicestershire," from original Drawings, in two volumes, quarto; a Letter to the Earl of Leicester, on the Discovery of the Roman Cloaca or sewer at Leicester; and the History and Antiquities of the Town of Leicester, in a quarto volume. Mr. Throsby has a good deal of industry, but not much taste.
TIDD, WILLIAM, ESQ.
Of the Inner Temple. Author of "The Practice of the Court of King's Bench in personal Actions," in two volumes octavo, of which the first was published in 1790, and the second four years afterward. This well-executed work is to consist three parts, the first and second of which are comprehended in the above volumes. Mr. Tidd has also published a pertinent pamphlet on the Law of Costs in civil Actions, which was afterward reprinted in Part II. of his "Practice."
TIERNEY, GEORGE, ESQ. M.P.
Author of three pamphlets, viz. "The Real Situation of the East India Company considered," published in 1787; two Letters to Mr. Dundas and Mr. Hobart, respecting the Colchester Petition, published in 1791; and a Letter to Mr. Dundas, on Mr. Anderson's Statement of the Affairs of the East India Company, published the year following. Mr. Tierney was voted in upon petition, as Member for the Borough of Southwark, the election of Mr. Thellusson, his successful opponent at the general election in 1796, having been made void, on account of his violation of the Statute of seventh William III. Cap. 4. He is become a conspicuous member of the opposition.
TINDAL, REV. WILLIAM, M.A.
Rector of Billingford in Norfolk. This gentleman published, in 1791, "Juvenile Excursions in Literature and Criticism," a duodecimo volume, which does him considerable credit as a polite scholar. He has, since that time written "Plain Truth in a Plain Dress," a sixpenny pamphlet; and the History and Antiquities of the Abbey and Borough of Evesham, compiled chiefly from MSS. in the British Museum, a quarto volume, of great merit.
TODD, REV. HENRY JOHN, M.A.
Minor Canon of Canterbury, and author of an octavo volume, containing some Account of the Deans of Canterbury from the new Foundation of that Church by Henry VIII. to the
present
time (1795), a curious work.
TOMKINS, CHARLES.
Author of "A Tour to the Isle of Wight," illustrated with eighty views, drawn and engraved in aqua-tinta, in two large octavo volumes, published in 1796, a very splendid publication.
TOMLINS, T. E. ESQ.
Barrister at Law. Editor of Jacob's Law Dictionary, in two volumes, quarto; and author of a pamphlet, in Explanation of the Law of Wills and Codicils, published in 1785;
Repertorium Juridicum,
a general Index to the Cases and Pleadings in Law and Equity contained in all the Reports, Year-books, &c. published in 1786, in folio; and Rules of Evidence before Election Committees, an octavo volume.
TOOKE, JOHN, HORNE, ESQ.
This celebrated character was formerly, while he bore the sirname of Horne, a member of St. John's College, Cambridge, and afterward a Clergyman of Brentford in Middlesex. He took a very active part in the election canvas of Mr. Wilkes, at the memorable period of 1768; and was deeply concerned with Messrs. Glynn, Sawbridge, Oliver, Townsend, Bellas, Vaughan, &c. in the subsequent measures, for the support of Mr. Wilkes' cause, and in the institution of the Society of the Bill of Rights. An accusation having been brought against Mr. Wilkes, that he strove to engross the whole subscription money of this society to himself, and that he would not permit the other sufferers in the cause of liberty to share in its benefits, Mr. Horne together with many others, deserted his political leader, and a newspaper controversy, soon afterward, broke out between these two gentleman, in which they very liberally accused each other of roguery and swindling, about an
important
affair of a Welch poney, and a packet of foul linen. Mr. Horne also entered the lists with the celebrated JUNIUS, a contest in which the political divine is commonly thought to have come off second-best. While Minister of New Brentford, he published in the year 1796, a single Sermon on the precarious tenure of human friendship; and, in the year following, an Oration which he delivered at a numerous Meeting of the Freeholders of Middlesex, at Mile-end Assembly Room, March 30th, 1770, to consider of an Address, Remonstrance, and Petition to his Majesty. It is probable that the manner in which he had embroiled himself in political dispute, and the conspicuous and improper part which he had acted, were his inducements to the resignation of his gown. Since that time he has made himself a most conspicuous champion of republicanism. In the year 1777, he was tried for a libel, in having charged the King's troops with murdering the American soldiery at Lexington and Bunker's Hill. He subpoenaed Lord George Sackville and, several of the King's Ministers, who did not think it proper to answer his summons; and, having undertaken to plead his own cause, he delivered a speech three hours in length, full of ingenuity, argument, and shrewdness. This speech, printed in the State Trials, is highly creditable to his talents, as a constitutional lawyer.
Mr. Horne was, at this time, preparing himself for the bar; but objections were raised to exclude him from the profession he had chosen, and in several attempts which he made to address his old audiences of freeholders and others, he was constantly overborne and silenced. The native energy of his mind enabled him to find a consolation amid these disappointments in the pursuits of literature and having applied himself to the study of Universal Grammar, the first fruit of his labour appeared in a Letter to Mr. John Dunning (Lord Ashburton) published in 1777. This pamphlet, now become very scarce, is the skeleton of his subsequent celebrated work on this subject, to be noticed hereafter; and it is said Dr. Johnson thought so well of it, that he told a friend, if he ever printed a new edition of his dictionary, he should adopt many of Mr. Horne's etymologies of the conjunctions. Five years after this he published a Letter to Lord Ashburton on Parliamentary Reform, which was reprinted by Ridgway in 1794. Mr. Horne assumed the sirname of Tooke in the year 1782, in consequence of the will of Andrew Tooke Esq. a gentleman who bequeathed him an estate; and in 1786 he published celebrated etymological work, entitled,
, or Diversions of Purley, in an octavo volume. These WINGED WORDS obtained the above title from Purley near Croydon, at that time the residence of the author, and formerly the seat of President Bradshaw. In this work Mr. Tooke has pointed out, and has himself proceeded far in, a path before untrodden, and evidently leading to improvements, by which the science of grammar may be established on a sure basis. It has been highly admired, and is conceived by the generality of its readers to have totally demolished the system of Mr. James Harris of Salisbury, who had long shared in profusion the compliments of the literari. A continuation of his grammatical researches has been promised to the world; and we have understood that "The Diversions of Purley," are reprinting in quarto. In the year 1787, Mr. Tooke published an extraordinary Letter in defence of Mrs. Fitzherbert, under the idea of her being the lawful consort of the Prince of Wales; and in the year following "Two pair of Portraits," a pamphlet, exhibiting, in the painter's own style, the late Lords Chatham and Holland, and their sons Messrs Pitt and Fox.
Mr. Tooke distinguished himself some years ago as the strenuous partisan of Lord Hood in the Westminster Election. In 1792 an action of debt, founded on the statute 28 Geo III. c. 52, was brought against him by Mr. Fox for the sum of £ 198 2
s.
2
d.
the taxed amount of Mr. Fox's expences, incurred in defending himself against the memorable petition presented by Mr. Tooke to the House of Commons. The verdict of the Jury was, with great deliberation and justice, in favour of the plaintiff, and Mr. Tooke himself published an account of the proceedings. Being a very active Member of the Corresponding Society, he was taken into custody in May 1794, by a warrant from the Secretary of State, on suspicion, of High Treason, and was afterward committed to the Tower. His trial came on at the Sessions House in the Old Baily, the November following together with those of Hardy, Thelwall, &c. and ended in his acquittal. In 1796 he offered himself for the second time as a candidate for representing the City of Westminster in company with Messrs. Fox, and Admiral Sir Alan Gardner. Not having any prospect of success, he amused himself upon the hustings with deriding Sir Alan Gardner before an ignorant unprincipled mob!
However unpopular Mr. Tooke may have made himself with the better part of mankind by the distinction he has aimed at as a Philosopher of the New Sect, he is certainly entitled to the credit of first-rate abilities. His style is clear and nervous, and the acuteness of his intellect has seldom been equalled. As a Scholar and Philologist his fame will probably live while our language exists; and even as a Politician it has been said for him, that he is one of the few of his day whose conduct has been uniformly consistent with itself.
TOOKE REV. —
This gentleman was for many years Chaplain to the Factory at St. Petersburgh. He published, in the year 1780, two volumes (in octavo) of "Russia, or a complete Historical Account of all the Nations which compose that Empire." To these he afterward added two more volumes, completing a work which has been generally thought to redound very little to the credit of its author. Mr. Tooke has announced his intention of speedily publishing a Life of the late Empress of Russia, in two volumes, octavo.
TOPHAM, EDWARD, ESQ.
Formerly an Officer in the Guards, and, for a long time, the Editor of the World, a newspaper, which he instituted on the first of January, 1787. His first publication was an octavo volume of "Letters from Edinburgh," written in the years 1774 and 1775, and published in 1776. Mr. Topham has, since that time, written an Address to Mr. Burke, on his Letter relative to the affairs of America; the Fool, a farce brought out at Covent Garden, for the benefit of Mrs. Wells; the Westminster School-boy, a farce, which was very properly damned, unheard, by the Westminster Scholars; the Life of the late John Elwes, Esq. the celebrated Miser, a pamphlet; and an Account of a remarkable Stone that fell from the Clouds. Of these pieces, the best written is the Life of Elwes.
TOULMIN, REV. JOSHUA.
A Socinian Minister at Taunton in Somersetshire. His first publication was a single Sermon, on the Death of his Royal Highness William Duke of Cumberland, in the year 1765. He has since that time published many more single Sermons; a volume of Sermons addressed to youth, first printed in duodecimo, and afterward reprinted in octavo; two Letters on the Applications to Parliament by the Protestant Dissenting Ministers, published in 1774; Memoirs of the Life and Writings of Socinus, in an octavo volume; Letters to the Rev. John Sturges, in Answer to his Considerations on the present State of the Church Establishment, published in 1782; Dissertations on the internal Evidences and Excellence of Christianity, in an octavo volume; an Essay on Baptism; a Review of the Life, Character, and Writings of the Rev. John Biddle, the Father of the English Unitarians, who was banished to Sicily, in the Protectorate of Oliver Cromwell; The History of the Town of Taunton, in a thin quarto volume; a new edition of Neal's History of the Puritans, in three volumes, octavo; and Memoirs of the Life of Dr. Samuel Morton Savage, prefixed to an octavo volume of the Doctor's Sermons. Mr. Toulmin is a sensible and a pleasing writer.
TOULMIN, GEORGE HOGGART, ESQ. M.D.
Author of a deistical octavo volume, published in 1780, under the title, "The Antiquity and Duration of the World;" and republished five years afterward, under the title, "The Eternity of the World." This book has been admired by some readers for its learning and acuteness. Dr. Toulmin has also published "The instruments of Medicine; or, the Philosophical Digest and Practice of Physic," an octavo volume of some merit.
TOWERS, REV. JOSEPH, L.L.D.
A Dissenting Clergyman, formerly a Bookseller in Fore Street. Obtaining the patronage of certain dissenting ministers, he was encouraged to apply himself to the cultivation of letters, and embraced the profession of a divine. In 1774 he was chosen pastor of a congregation of protestant dissenters at Highgate, and was elected, four years afterward, one of the ministers of the congregation at Newington Green: he thus became joint-minister of that congregation for several years with the celebrated Dr. Price, and still continues in the same office. In the year 1779, the University of Edinburgh conferred on him the degree of L. L. D.
Of the literary productions of Dr. Towers, the first was a pamphlet, entitled, "A Review of the Genuine Doctrines of Christianity," which was published in 1763. Since that time, he has published a Charity Sermon, and many Tracts, a chiefly temporary and political. Of these Tracts a Collection was made by the Doctor, in 1796, in three octavo volumes. They are marked by an attachment to the interests of virtue and religion; but are written upon whig principles, and are characteristic of a politician who is more addicted to warmth than strict moderation can approve. Dr. Towers has also written the first seven volumes of a work, entitled "British Biography," in ten volumes, octavo; Memoirs of the Life and Reign of Frederick III. King of Prussia, in two volumes, octavo; and an Oration delivered at the London Tavern November 4th, 1788, on occasion of the commemoration of the Revolution, and completion of a century from that great event. He also gave considerable assistance to Dr. Kippis in preparing the new edition of the Biographia Britannica; and is supposed to be the editor of the last edition of the British Plutarch. Dr. Towers was said, at one time, to have engaged in writing a Continuation of Hume's History of England, but, we believe, that plan is laid aside. As a compiler he has great merit.
TOWLE, REV. THOMAS, B.D.
A Dissenting Minister. He has published some Funeral Orations, and is the author of a sensible Letter which appeared in Woodfall's Diary, in Defence of the Dissenters, on the occasion of an Attack upon them by Dr. Tatham.
TOWNLEY, RICHARD, ESQ.
Author of "A Journal kept in the Isle of Man," published in two octavo volumes, in 1791. A very indifferent performance.
TOWNLEY, REV. GEORGE STEPNEY.
This gentleman published, in 1794, an octavo volume, consisting of six Sermons, of some merit, which were preached before Paul le Mesurier, Esq. when Lord Mayor of the City of London, at which time Mr. Townley was his Chaplain.
TOWNSEND, REV. JOSEPH.
Rector of Pewsey, Wilts. Formerly of Clare-Hall, Cambridge, and afterward Chaplain to the late Jean, Duchess Dowager of Atholl. This gentleman's first publication was a single Sermon, printed in 1765. In the year 1781, he published a small anonymous octavo volume, entitled, "Free Thoughts on despotic and free Governments;" and, seven years afterward, a pamphlet, consisting of Observations on various Plans offered to the Public for the Relief of the Poor. It was in the year 1791, that Mr. Townsend favoured the public with an Account of his Journey through Spain, in 1786, and 1787, in three octavo volumes. This work, upon the whole, does great credit to its author; but had he been less circumstantial on subjects of chemistry and natural history, as well as in describing local peculiarities of the country, he would probably have succeeded better in the important point of attracting readers. Since the appearance of this his chief publication, Mr. Townsend has set a very praise-worthy example to his reverend brethren, by the proofs he has given the world of his attention to medical subjects. In 1794, he published "The Physician's Vade-mecum." a duodecimo volume, for the use of students; and, in the following year, Vol. I. (in octavo) of "A Guide to Health," to which he has since added another volume. This work has been favourably received, and the number of those readers will be small who cannot derive valuable information from it. Few are the means so open for the general comfort of the poor, as an imitation of Mr. Townsend's example among the body of the Clergy! In 1796, Mr. Townsend published a short Dissertation on the Poor Laws.
TOWNSEND, REV. JOHN.
A Dissenting Minister at Rotherhithe. He is the author of an anonymous pamphlet, entitled, "Remarks on the late Charge of the Bishop of St. David's" (Dr. Horsley, now Bishop of Rochester); "Three Sermons," addressed to Old, Middle-aged, and Young People; and a few single Discourses.
TOWNSHEND, T. ESQ.
Of Gray's Inn. This gentleman published a pamphlet, in 1796, entitled, "A Summary Defence" of Mr. Burke, which was abundantly abused for its absurdity, by the Critics of the day. In the year following, he published a duodecimo volume of Poems, embellished with vignettes.
TOWNSON, ROBERT, L.L.D. F.R.S.E.
This gentleman has appeared before the public as an Experimenter, and as a Traveller; but with the greater success in the first capacity. He printed at Gottingen, in 1794-5
Observationes Physiologicae,
a quarto pamphlet, containing highly curious and accurate observations on Amphibious Animals. In 1796, he published, in London, "Travels in Hungary, with a short Account of Vienna, in the year 1793," a quarto volume. This work, being ground untrodden by any of our late tourists, must excite an attention which it is, unfortunately, ill-calculated to gratify in a pleasing manner. It discovers, but two frequently, the unclassical taste of its author.!
TRAPP, REV. JOSEPH.
This Clergyman has been principally employed In Translating, a task, in which he is, by no means, peculiarly adroit. He has translated from the German, D'Archenholtz's Picture of Italy; Stoever's Life of Sir Charles Linnaeus; and the Genius, a novel.
TRELAWNEY, REV. SIR HARRY, BART.
Of Trelawney in Cornwall. Son of the late Governor of Jamaica, and a descendant of a very ancient family. He is a gentleman, singularly distinguished by his progress through almost every stage of theological opinion. From a Methodist he became a Calvinistical Dissenter; from a Calvinist, a stern and rigid Socinian; and from a Socinian, a Clergyman of our Established Church, and a humble Subscriber to the thirty-nine Articles. About two months previously to this last gradation, he published a very spirited Letter to the Rev. Francis Alcock, upon the Sin of Subscription! Sir Harry has also printed one or two single Sermons.
TRESHAM, HENRY, ESQ.
An Artist of distinction, who has spent much of his time in Italy. He published, anonymously, in 1796 "The Sea-sick Minstrel," a poem, which, though marked with negligence and incorrect taste, bespeaks poetical ability.
TRIEBNER, REV. J.F.
A German Minister. Author of several curious Theological Works. In an octavo volume, entitled, "A Key to the French Revolution," he labours to prove that Pius VI. and the Jesuits were the original instigators of that event! Buonaparte had not yet reached the gates of Rome when this publication made its appearnce.
TRIMMER, MRS.
Of Brentford. A lady who has devoted her attention, as an author, to the improvement of young minds. In 1780, she published an easy Introduction to the Knowledge of Nature and Reading the Holy Scriptures, an octavo volume. Since that time she has written, "Sacred History," in six duodecimo volumes; a little Spelling-book; the Servant's Friend; the Oeconomy of Charity; an Account of Sunday Schools in Old Brentford; a Commentary on Watts' Divine Songs; Easy Lessons for young Children; the two Farmers, a tale; Cobwebs to catch Flies; the Sunday Scholar's Manual; the Sunday School Catechist; Fabulous Histories; Reflections upon the Education of Children in Charity Schools; an Attempt to familiarise the Catechism; an Explanation of the Office for the Public Baptism of Infants; and a Companion to the Prayer Book, in two duodecimo volumes. Her useful and benevolent labours have been generally approved.
TRINDER, REV. WILLIAM MARTIN, L.L.B. M.D.
Of Hendon in Middlesex. He published, in 1781, an Essay on the English Grammar; and has, since that time, written an Enquiry respecting the Medicinal Waters of Essex; a volume of practical Sermons; and a series of discourses under the title, "The Philanthropic Monitor."
TROTTER, THOMAS, ESQ. M.D.
Member of the Royal Medical Society of Edinburgh, long a Navy Surgeon, and lately Physician to his Majesty's Fleet under the Command of Admiral Lord Howe. He published, in 1786, "Observations on the Scurvy▪ " a pamphlet, in refutation of Dr. Milman's opinions on the disease; which was greatly enlarged and improved in a second edition, in 1792. His position respecting the scurvy is, that it is produced from a deficiency of vegetable matter alone, which is confirmed by proving from fact, that impure air will not, of itself, occasion the disorder, and that it is curable only by fresh vegetables, or their acid in a natural state. Dr. Trotter has also written, a Review of the Medical Department in the British Navy, a pamphlet, published in 1790; an octavo volume of Medical and Chemical Essays; and
Medicina Nautica,
being an account of the occurrences with respect to health of the channel fleet for three years, in an octavo volume, both of which were published in 1797. He is, for the greater part, a judicious writer, a careful observer, and an active promoter of improvements in the peculiar department of his profession.
TRUSLER, REV. JOHN, L.L.D.
A Literary Pedlar, whose small-ware is of the vilest quality. The first commodity which he offered to the public was a duodecimo volume, entitled, "Chronology," published in 1768, and which was, afterward, amplified into two volumes. Since that time, he has spawned upon the public innumerable goods of commercial, historical, theological, political, &c. fabric, which are too contemptible to deserve enumeration. He is the publisher of the worse of the two Clerical Almanacks, and vends Sermons for the use of the pulpit, printed in imitation of hand-writing, the most unspeakable trash that can be conceived. It is a scandal to the discernment of the literary world that such a pettifogging driveller in the trade of authorship, has not, long ago, been ruined and broken.
TUCKER, REV. JOSIAH, D.D.
Dean of Gloucester. A gentleman chiefly celebrated for his commercial and political Tracts. In the early part of his life he was Rector of St. Stephen's, Bristol, and Chaplain to the Bishop of that diocese. His first publication was an excellent treatise, entitled, "A brief Essay on the Advantages and Disadvantages which respectively attend France and Great Britain, with regard to trade." Some years afterward, in 1751, he published Part I. of Reflections on the Expediency of a Law for the Naturalization of foreign Protestants; to which Part II. was soon afterward added. Since that time, he has written many more pamphlets in this class, a collection of which has been made, in an octavo volume, under the title, "Tracts on Political and Commercial Subjects." Dr. Tucker also published, in 1781, a Treatise concerning Civil Government, in reply to Mr. Locke, an octavo volume. The boldness and spirit which he displayed, as a political writer, at one time, brought the credit of his understanding considerably into question. But his early argument in favour of a separation from America, and his reasonings to shew that no material disadvantage would arise from it, were so far confirmed by experience, and his principles in favour of free trade so naturally approved themselves to unbiassed minds, that he was not long without a numerous set of admirers.
In the class of Divinity Dr. Tucker's first publication was an excellent tract, in 1772, entitled, "An Apology" for the Church of England, written in opposition to the petitioning Clergy. This was by far the best pamphlet on the occasion. Soon afterward, he published "Six Sermons," in a duodecimo volume; Letters to Dr. Kippis on his Vindication of the Protestant Dissenting Ministers; two Sermons, together with four Tracts on political and commercial subjects; an Essay on Religious Intolerance; a View of the Difficulties of the Trinitarian, Arian, and Socinian Systems; and Seventeen Sermons, in an octavo volume.
We have understood that this gentleman is no relation whatever of the late Mr. Abraham Tucker, known in the literary world by the name of EDWARD SEARCH, ESQ.
TUITE, LADY.
Niece to the Countess of Moira. Her Ladyship published, in 1796, a duodecimo volume of Poems, of some merit.
TURNER, MRS. MARGARET.
This lady published, in 1790, Ramsay's Gentle Shepherd attempted in English, in an octavo volume. She has executed this task with considerable judgement.
TURNER, S.
Solicitor. Author of "Costs and present Practice of the Court of Chancery," in quarto, which has been favourably received.
TURTON, W. ESQ. M.D.
Author of a well-executed Medical Glossary, in which the words in the various branches of Medicine are deduced from their original languages, properly accented and explained; published in a quarto volume, in 1797.
TWEDDELL, JOHN, ESQ.
Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, and a very distinguished Classical Scholar. While resident at the University of Cambridge, he obtained unprecedented honours by the numerous prizes adjudged to him for classical compositions. Encouraged by the approbation of Dr. Parr, and some other distinguished scholars, he published in the year 1793, a collection of these pieces, in an octavo volume, under the title
Prolusiones Juveniles Praemiis Academicis Dignatae.
This volume, published at the age of twenty-two years, is a very singular testimony in favour of Mr. Tweddell's attainments as an elegant scholar; and, if he shall cultivate his talents with becoming diligence, we cannot doubt from these specimens that he will, one day, rank highly in the world for his literary credit. If the volume can be said to have a fault, it is an occasional appearance of affectation in the author; as one instance of which, among others, it may be remarked that his beautiful Latin prose sometimes appears unnatural, and sometimes even obscure, from his strains and efforts to introduce choice phrases and expressions, which may display his reading. Mr. Tweddell has, for some years, resided abroad.
TWINING, REV. THOMAS, M.A.
Late of Fordham near Colchester, and Rector of St. Mary, Colchester. A very distinguished Classical Scholar. He published, in 1789, in a quarto volume, a Translation of Aristotle's Treatise on Poetry, with Notes and two Dissertations, a work which has gained him no small share of credit among the Learned. Considered in every point of view, it is one of the most masterly performances which our language has ever produced. Beside this work Mr. Twining has published three single Sermons, preached upon particular occasions; and a short History of the Pharisees, a six-penny pamphlet.
TWINING, RICHARD.
An eminent Tea-dealer in the Strand, brother to the subject of the preceeding raticle. He has published several intelligent pamphlets which are chiefly relative to the Tea-trade.
TWISS, RICHARD, ESQ. F.R.S.
This gentleman published, in 1775, in one volume, quarto, "Travels through Portugal and Spain;" and, in the following year, "A Tour in Ireland," in an octavo volume. Though not deficient in ingenuity and good sense, Mr. Twiss belongs to the class of
petits maitres
in literature. This circumstance was the occasion of two elegant and spirited poetical satires, published in the year 1777; the first,
an Heroic Epistle from Donnae Teresa Pinna Y Ruiz of Murcia to Richard Twiss, Esq. F.R.S.
after the manner of the Heroic Epistle to Sir W. Chambers; and the second,
an Heroic Answer from Richard Twiss, Esq. to Donna Teresa Pinnae Y Ruiz,
by the same hand as the former. In 1787, Mr. Twiss published an octavo volume, entitled, "Chess," in which he gives a very complete and entertaining history of that game; to this he added a second volume, two years afterward. Since that time, he has written, "A Trip to Paris in July and August, 1792," a thin octavo volume, in which he is, as usual, volatile but, for the greater part, sensible.
TYTLER, A. F. ESQ.
Professor of Universal History in the University of Edinburgh. This gentleman distinguished himself with reputation in the controversy respecting Mary Queen of Scots. His Enquiry into the evidence produced by the Earls of Murray and Morton, written in favour of the innocence of that Queen, was first published in 1760. It has been greatly enlarged in subsequent editions, and now consists of two octavo volumes. In the year 1783, Mr. Tytler published a Plan and Outlines of his Course of Lectures on Universal History, in an octavo volume, a book whose judicious arrangement and matter render it peculiarly serviceable to the scholar. We believe this gentleman was the first person in these islands who adventured in an air-balloon. In the year 1784, we are told he cleared
two barns and a stable.
TYTLER, HENRY WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D.
Fellow of the Society for the Encouragement of Arts. He published, in 1793, a Translation into English verse of the Works of Callimachus, in a quarto volume, which is very respectably executed. In 1797, he published
Paedotrophia,
or the Art of Nursing and Rearing Children, a poem, translated from the Latin of Scevole de St. Marthe, in an octavo volume.
V & U
VAILLANT, JOHN, ESQ. M.A.
OF the Inner Temple. Barrister at Law. He published, in the year 1793, a new and excellent edition of Dyer's Reports, in three parts, royal octavo.
VALANGIN.—See De Valangin.
VALPY, REV. R.D.D. F.A.S.
Master of Reading School. He published, in 1783, a Latin Grammar, in which the rules are given in English, and which has been favunrably received. He has also printed two Assize Sermons, of great merit; "Poetical Chronology of Ancient and English History," a duodecimo tract, which has been favourably received; and "The Roses," or Henry VI. an historical tragedy, represented at Reading School, in 1795, and compiled principally from Shakspeare.
VANSITTART, NICHOLAS, ESQ. M.P.
Of Lincoln's Inn. Barrister at Law. This gentleman published, in the year 1796, a very seasonable pamphlet, entitled, "An Enquiry into the State of the Finances of Great Britain, in Answer to Mr. Morgan's FACTS." In this performance Mr. Vansittart combated the disingenuous conclusions of his calculating adversary with considerable success; and placed himself in a very favourable light as a gentleman of financial knowledge, as well as of moderation and urbanity of behaviour. About two years previously to this pamphlet, Mr. Vansittart answered the Letter to Mr. Pitt, under the signature JASPER WILSON, written by Dr. James Currie.
VAUGHAN, WALTER, ESQ. M.D.
Physician at Rochester. He published, in 1791, "An Exposition of the Principles of Anatomy and Physiology," in two octavo volumes, which is a judicious commentary on the
Praelectiones Anatomicae
of Ferdinand Leber. In the year following, Dr. Vaughan published a very ridiculous Essay, Philosophical and Medical, concerning Modern Clothing; and has since that time written a pamphlet on the superior Efficacy of the
Cinchona Flava,
or yellow Peruvian Bark.
VAUGHAN, THOMAS, ESQ.
Author of "The Hotel, or the Double Valet," an indifferent farce, taken from two farces of Goldoni, and brought out at Drury Lane, in 1776; and "Love's Vagaries," a farce, which was received with applause, when acted in 1776, at Drury Lane for the benefit of Mrs. Wrighten and Mr. Vernon, was, many years afterward, rejected by Messrs Kemble and Colman, jun. and printed in 1791, with a dedication to the
rejectors,
for the benefit of the theatrical fund. Mr. Vaughan has also written some Prologues and Epilogues; and, we believe, a novel, entitled, "Fashionable Follies."
VESEY, FRANCIS, ESQ.
Barrister at Law. He published, in 1793, a folio volume of Reports of Cases in Chancery, cotemporary with those by Mr. William Brown.
VEYSIE, REV. DANIEL, B.D.
Fellow of Oriel College, Oxford. He has published a single Sermon preached before the University, in 1791; and a volume of Sermons on the Doctrine of Atonement, preached at the Bampton Lecture, in the year 1795. These discourses possess some merit.
VIDLER, REV. J.
A Preacher of Universal Redemption and the Universal Restoration of Mankind. He has published some single Discourses, and was the editor of an Answer to Paine's Age of Reason by Mr. Winchester.
VILLIERS, J. C. ESQ.
This gentleman published, in the year 1789, "Chaubert, or the Misanthrope," a tragic drama, the circumstances of which are related in Mr. Cumberland's OBSERVER. This piece, though not calculated for representation, has considerable poetic merit, considering the age of the writer at the time of its publication. Mr. Villiers also published in that year, anonymously, "A Tour through Part of France," in a series of entertaining letters, forming an octavo volume.
VINCE, REV. SAMUEL, M.A. F.R.S.
Plumian Professor of Experimental Philosophy in the University of Cambridge, and a distinguished Mathematician, He was originally of Caius College, Cambridge, took his degree of B.A. with the greatest distinction, in the year 1775, was afterward, for some time, Member of Sidney Sussex College, and, at present, resides in the town of Cambridge. After reading the Plumian Lectures on Experimental Philosophy, and Practical Astronomy for some years in the University, he succeeded the late Dr. Anthony Shepherd in the Professorship, in the year 1796.
The first appearance of Mr. Vince as an author was in the old mathematical gymnasium, the Ladies Diary, in which, about thirty years ago, he proposed three Questions and answered one. In 1781, he published a useful, but inelegant treatise on the Elements of the Conic Sections, designed for students in the University preparatory to the Principia; and has since that time published, likewise from the University-press, a Treatise on Practical Astronomy, in a quarto volume; a Plan of his Course of Lectures on the Principles of Natural Philosophy, an octavo pamphlet; and Vol. I. of a Complete System of Astronomy, a work which was greatly wanted. Mr. Vince also engaged, in 1795, in association with Mr. Wood of St. John's College, in the publication of a work, entitled, "The Principles of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy," which is intended to comprise, in four octavo volumes, the substance of the Lectures on those subjects, which are usually read in the University. The parts to be drawn up by Mr. Vince are the Fluxions, Hydrostatics, and Astronomy, of which the two first are already published.
As a writer on subjects of science, Mr. Vince displays considerable ingenuity and acuteness. Yet, although his works are marked by the characteristics of that graceful School, in which his habits have been formed, they seem to want that superior polish which genius and elegance of mind alone can give. Setting aside their frequent uncouthness of style and manner,
Vide by way of
one
Instance among many, Mr. Vince's battle with the ANALYST, p. 17 of his "Principles of Fluxions." His writings are full of striking examples of the
lucidus ordo.
they appear rather the offspring, of haste, and hunger, than the production of a learned Professor, under the auspices of an university, and in the enjoyment of academical leisure.
VINCENT, REV. WILLIAM, D.D.
Sub-Almoner to his Majesty, one of his Majesty's Chaplains in Ordinary, Rector of Allhallows, Thames Street, and Head Master of Westminster School. A gentleman of distinguished learning and respectability of character. His first publication was a sensible tract, entitled, "Considerations on Parochial Music," which was published in 1787. Since that time he has published a Sermon preached at St. Paul's before the Sons of the Clergy, in 1789; a peculiarly excellent Sermon, preached for the Westminster Dispensary, in 1792; "The Origination of the Greek Verb, an Hypothesis," a pamphlet, which was afterward improved, considerably enlarged, and republished under the title, "The Greek Verb analysed ;"
De Legione Manliana Quaestio, ex Livio desumpta, et rei Militaris Romanae Studiosis proposita,
a very elegant and ingenious dissertation; and "The Voyage of Nearchus from the Indus to the Euphrates," collected from the original journal preserved by Arrian, and illustrated by authorities ancient and modern, in a quarto volume. The last of these works is accompanied by three dissertations, the productions of Dr. Horsley, Mr. Wales of Chirst Hospital School, and Mr. De la Rochette. It is a very masterly performance.
VINCENT, SIR R. BART.—See Hawke.
UNDERWOOD, MICHAEL, ESQ. M.D.
Licentiate in Midwifery of the Royal College of Physicians in London, and Physician to the British Lying-in Hospital. This gentleman published, in 1783, a Treatise upon Ulcers of the Legs, in an octavo volume; since which time he has written a Treatise on the Diseases of Children, which was originally published in one volume, octavo, in 1784, and has been favourably received and enlarged to two volumes; and an octavo volume, entitled, "Surgical Tracts," in which the Treatise upon Ulcers of the Legs is republished.
URE, REV, DAVID, M.A.
Preacher of the Gospel, and corresponding Member of the Natural History Society, Edinburgh. He published, in 1793, "The History of Rutherglen and East-Kilbride," in an octavo volume. This book, written with a wish to promote the studies of antiquity and natural history, abounds with entertainment and information.
URQUHART, REV. D.H. M.A.
Vicar of Gainsborough, and Prebendary of Lincoln. This gentleman has published a Translation into English Verse of the Odes of Anacreon, which appeared in a duodecimo volume, in 1787. Though not a very successful attempt, it does credit to the talents of its author. He has also printed a well-written Fast Sermon, preached at Gainsborough February 28th, 1794.
VYSE, CHARLES.
Formerly Master of an Academy in Portland Street. He has written several School-books of considerable reputation. In 1770, he published "The Tutor's Guide," a system of arithmetic; and has also published the "Key to the Tutor's Guide; the Lady's Accountant; the Young Arithmetician; a Geographical Grammar; and "The New London Spelling Book," each a duodecimo volume.
W
WADE, JOHN PETER, ESQ. M.D.
AUTHOR of three useful octavo volumes on the Disorders of Bengal, viz. "A Paper on the Prevention and Treatment of the Disorders of Seamen, and Soldiers in Bengal," presented to the East India Directors, in 1791; "Select Evidence of a successful Method of treating Fever and Dysentery in Bengal;" and "Nature and Effects of Emetics, Purgatives, Mercurials, and Low Diet in Disorders of Bengal and similar Latitudes."
WADSTROM, C. B.
A native of Sweden who has travelled through most parts of Europe. He went to Africa with Dr. Sparrman and Captain Arrhenius, under the patronage of his sovereign; and, on his return to Europe, in 1788, visited London, was invited before the British Privy Council, and delivered his evidence, recorded in its report on the subject of the Slave-trade. In 1789, Mr. Wadstrom published some Observations on the Slave-trade; and has also written a very instructive Essay on Colonization, in two parts, quarto, of which Part I. was published in 1794.
WAINHOUSE, REV. WILLIAM, M.A.
Rector of Badgworth near Axbridge, Somerset. Author of a small octavo volume of indifferent "Poetical Essays," Latin and English, published in 1796.
WAKE, REV. ROBERT WILLIAM.
Vicar of Backwell, Somerset, and Curate of St. Michael's Bath. He has published two Sermons, preached on particular occasions; and "A Liberal Version of the Psalms into Modern Language," with notes, in two volumes, small octavo, a performance which does him little credit in point of judgement or learning.
WAKEFIELD, GILBERT, B.A.
Of Hackney. A very distinguished Classical Scholar: formerly a clergyman of the Establishment, at present, a dissenting layman. Mr. Wakefield was born at Nottingham, in 1756, his father being then Rector of St. Nicholas, in that town. He was educated at the Free-school, Nottingham; under the Rev. Richard Wooddeson, of Kingston-upon-Thames; and at Jesus College, Cambridge: having, in his earliest infancy, discovered that ardent desire of knowledge, which, from his unceasing application, appears never to have been impaired. At the "University Mr. Wakefield cultivated useful learning with great success; and, on his admission to the degree of B. A. in 1776, received distinguished honours for his mathematical, as well as for his classical attainments. Soon after this he was elected Fellow of Jesus College; and, in 1778, was ordained a deacon. Mr. Wakefield was even then so little satisfied with the requisition of
subscription,
and with the subjects of that subscription themselves, that, as he properly confesses in the MEMOIRS of his own Life, he has since regarded this acquiescence as an action highly disingenuous. While he held his station in the Church, which has now for many years been relinquished, he was successively, for a short time, curate of Stockport in Cheshire, and of St. Peter's and St. Paul's in Liverpool. In the year 1779, he removed to Warrington in Lancashire, to accept the office of Classical Tutor at the dissenting Academy in that town. Here Mr. Wakefield remained until the dissolution of that seminary, in 1783, when he removed to Bramcote near Nottingham, with a view of receiving pupils; and, after a short residence at this place, and at Richmond, lived for some years at Nottingham, in the same occupation. In 1790, he was chosen Classical Tutor of the New College, Hackney; since which time, that town has been the place of his residence. His connexion with the college ended a year after his acceptance of his office, and his subsequent days have been spent in a diligent prosecution of his studies.
Mr. Wakefield commenced author in the year 1776; when he printed, at the Cambrige press
Poemata Latine partim Scripta partim Reddita,
with a few critical Observations on Horace, in a small quarto volume. Although he has since discovered one
false quantity
in these poems, they do him great credit as a very elegant scholar at an early age. His next publication was a new Translation of St. Paul's first Epistle to the Thessalonians, accompanied by such notes as were necessary to justify his variations from the established version. This was published in 1781, and experienced a favourable reception. His numerous subsequent publications followed each other at no very considerable intervals of time, in nearly the following order, viz. an Essay on Inspiration, considered chiefly with respect to the Evangelists; a short Treatise on Baptism; a new Translation of St. Matthew, with Notes, critical, philological, and explanatory, in a quarto volume; Vol. I. (in octavo) of an Enquiry into the Opinions of the Christian Writers of the three first Centuries concerning the Person of Jesus Christ, which reaches to the conclusion of the apostolic age, and which was not followed by more volumes for want of encouragement; a Thanksgiving Sermon preached at Richmond, in 1784; the Poems of Mr. Gray, with Notes, in an octavo volume; the Georgi
s of Virgil, with Notes, in an octavo volume; Remarks on Dr. Horsley's Ordination Sermon, published in 1788; "Four Marks of Antichrist, or a Supplement to the Warburtonian Lecture, an anonymous pamphlet; the Evidences of Christianity, a tract, which has seen two editions;
Silva Critica sive in auctores sacros profanosque Commentarius Philologus,
Part I. published in 1789, a work which was discontinued on the completion of five parts (each an octavo volume), the first three of which were printed at the Cambridge press; an Address to the Inhabitants of Nottingham, relative to the Corporation and Test Acts, which was reprinted by the Birmingham Dissenters; a new Translation of those Parts only of the New Testament which are wrongly translated in our common Version; Cursory Reflections, relative to the Test Laws; an Address to Dr. Horsley, on occasion of a pamphlet relating to the Liturgy of the Church of England, ascribed to him; a New Translation of the New Testament, published in 1791, in three octavo volumes, and since that time reprinted in two volumes; an Enquiry into the Expediency and Propriety of Public or Social Worship, a pamphlet, which has seen three editions; Memoirs of the first thirty-six Years of his own Life, in an octavo volume; Short Strictures on Dr. Priestley's Letters to a Young Man, concerning Mr. Wakefield's Treatise on Public Worship; a General Reply to the Arguments against the Enquiry into Public Worship; the Spirit of Christianity compared with the Spirit of the Times, a pamphlet, published in 1794; Answers to both Parts of Paine's Age of Reason; Remarks on the General Orders of the Duke of York to his Army, on June 7th, 1794, respecting the Decree of the French Convention to give no quarter to the British and Hanoverians; Vol. I. (in octavo) of the Works of Alexander Pope, Esq. with Notes, the commencement of a design which was afterward relinquished to Dr. Warton, and completed by Mr. Wakefield, only so far as by the publication of another octavo volume, consisting of Observations on the remaining Poems of Pope; a very elegant edition of Horace, in two duodecimo volumes;
Tragoediarum Graecarum de'ectus,
in two volumes, octavo; Poetical Translations from the Ancients, in a duodecimo volume; a very beautiful edition of Bion and Moschus, with Notes, in a duodecimo volume; a Reply to Burke's Letter to a Noble Lord; a very elegant edition of the Works of Virgil, in two duodecimo volumes; a new edition of Pope's Illiad and Odyssey, with Notes, critical and illustrative, in eleven volumes, octavo; a Letter to Mr. Bryant, relative to his Dissertation on the War of Troy; a Letter to Mr. Wilberforce on the Subject of his PRACTICAL VIEW;
Lucretii Opera, innumeris mendis expurgata, perpetuis Commentariis illustrata, cum
RICARDI BENTLEII
notis non ante vulgatis,
in three volumes, quarto; and
In Euripidis Hecubam, Londini nuper publicatam
(by Mr. Porson)
Diatribe extemporalis
an octavo pamphlet.
It was the intention of Mr. Wakefield, had not the sources of academical favour ben dried up, to have carried on his
Silva Critica
through the whole compass of ancient literature; uniting theological and classical learning, and illustrating the scriptures by light borrowed from the philology of Greece and Rome. His Translation of the New Testament is a very valuable performance; his edition of Pope's Illiad and Odyssey, a very complete and elegant publication; and his edition of Lucretius, upon the large paper, the handsomest book we almost ever recollect to have seen. He has also written, beside the pieces already enumerated, a very masterly Essay on the Origin of Alphabetical Characters, which was read to the Literary and Philosophical Society of Manchester at two successive meetings, was the more immediate occasion of his being elected an honorary member of that Society, and has been inserted in the New Annual Register, and in the Scotch Encyclopaedia. It is likewise to be found, with additions and improvements, in the Memoirs of his Life. Mr. Wakefield is also an occasional contributor to the Monthly and Gentleman's Magazines. To the former he, not long ago, sent two Letters particularly remarkable, in which he endeavours to do away a prejudice of considerable strength and standing respecting the elegance of the style of Hume.
In contemplating Mr. Wakefield's General Character as an author, the first and highest commendation is due to his remarkable industry. It is this active principle that has enabled him, with a repectable share of talent, to serve the truest interests of useful letters, with far greater effect than has commonly fallen to the lot of first-rate genius. His knowledge of Greek and Roman authors is extensive and accurate; and as a critic he possesses a spirit most penetrating and ardent. As an emendator he is frequently ingenious, but, certainly, for the greater part, too bold. His Latin style as he himself acknowledges, savours more of the expressive energy of Quintilian, than of the magnificent volubility of Cicero. It is not a little surprising, and particularly to be lamented for the sake of Mr. Wakefield's credit, that, with such peculiar faculties for the enjoyment of classical studies, he should ever have forsaken that flowery path to share the grovelling walks of writers, infinitely his inferiors; relinquishing the loftiest distinctions of literary character, for a pitiful display of party-spirit, or peculiarity of opinion. Some of his controversial writings, theological as well as political, are peculiarly indecent for their violence and illiberality; and his disposition appears, upon these occasions, to such disadvantage that his unpopularity seems a necessary consequence. His English style is always manly and graceful, and, sometimes, peculiarly elegant and energetic: most readers will, however, object to his superabundant use of classical quotations. His numerous writings have for the greater part experienced an indifferent reception, and some of them, particuliarly the earlier ones, have been severely handled by the critics of their day.
WAKEFIELD, DANIEL, ESQ.
Author of a Letter to Thomas Paine, in Reply to his DECLINE AND FALL OF THE ENGLISH SYSTEM OF FINANCE; and of "Observations on the Credit and Finances of Great Britain," in Reply to Lord Lauderdale and Mr. Morgan. Both of these are sensible pamphlets.
WAKEFIELD, MISS PRISCILLA.
This lady has written several books, designed chiefly for juvenile readers, viz, "Mental Improvement," Juvenile Anecdotes, "Leisure Hours," and an Introduction to Botany. They discover ingenuity and judgement.
WALCOT, JOHN, ESQ. M.D.
Better known by his assumed name, PETER PINDAR. This comical genius is descended from, a respectable family in Devonshire, was bred to the study of physic, and practised for some time, with success, in the county of Cornwall. He afterward followed the fortunes of his friend, the late Sir William Trelawney to Jamaica, and became Physician General to the Island. It is said that during his residence there, he was induced, upon a prospect of important preferment, to assume the clerical function; but, that being disappointed in his views, he resigned that office before his return, to England, and has never since resumed it. On his arrival here he pursued his original profession, for several years, but, at last relinquished it entirely. It is to be recorded to the credit of Dr. Walcot's benevolence as well as discernment, that the art of painting is indebted to him for Mr. Opie. That artist was found by him in the Mines of Cornwall, where his genius first discovered itself to the Doctor, and he was encouraged by him to trust for his future fortune to the cultivation of his intellectual capability.
Of his celebrated satirical pieces, the first was a poetical Epistle to the Reviewers, which appeared in the year 1778, and was followed by the first set of Lyric Odes to the Royal Academicians, i
1782. These, and his numerous subsequent productions were originally published separately in quarto pamphlets, and were, not long ago, published in collection, in four octavo volumes, and likewise in three duodecimo volumes; after several surreptitious collections of them, printed in Ireland. Few, indeed, have been the writings which have succeeded in commanding so large a share of attention as the detached pieces of Mr. Peter Pindar! Such was the demand for them, that a certain number of the London booksellers agreed to allow him two hundred pounds per annum, for the exclusive privilege of selling his works! They are characterised by a species of humour, which, though not elegant and tasteful, is not destitute of nature, and is irresistible in its power of exciting laughter. We consider BOZZY AND PIOZZI, THE LOUSIAD, and PINDARIANA as the best among them; but have never contemplated the character of this writer without a mixture of surprize and concern, that such talents and attainments as his writings discover him to possess, should never have been applied to better purposes than to a Iudicrous display of his contempt of all decent respect, and to the composition of such trifles, as must inevitably perish with the age in which they were written.
WALCOTT, JOHN, ESQ.
This gentleman published, in 1779, an octavo pamphlet, consisting of curious Descriptions and Figures of Petrefactions, found in the Quarries, Gravel-pits, &c. near Bath. Since that time he has undertaken a Delineation of the British Plants, a design which was laid aside after the appearance of a few numbers; and has also published an indifferent Synopsis of British Birds, in two volumes, quarto.
WALES, REV. WILLIAM, F.R.S.
Master of the Royal Mathematical School in Christ's Hospital, and a very distinguished Mathematician. He published, in 1762, an Ode to the Rt. Hon. William Pitt. Four years after this he commenced correspondent with the Ladies Diary, and answered and proposed several of the mathematical Questions. In the years 1772—1775, Mr. Wales made voyages toward the South Pole and round the World, in his Majesty's ships, the Resolution and Adventure; and, in 1777, he published, in association with Mr. William Bayly, his companion, "The original Astronomical Observations," made in the course of the voyages, in a quarto volume. The following year drew from him a severe pamphlet, consisting of Remarks on the Account which Mr. Forster had thought proper to give of Captain Cook's Voyage, during the abovementioned years. Since that time he has written an ingenious Enquiry in the Population of England and Wales, a pamphlet, published in 1781; and a useful tract on the Method of finding the Longitude at Sea by Time-keepers, published in 1794. Mr. Wales is also the author of one of the Dissertations on the Achronical Rising of the Pleiades, added to Dr. Vincent's VOYAGE OF NEARCHUS.
WALKER, REV. GEORGE, F.R.S.
Minister of a congregation of protestant dissenters in Nottingham, and a respectable Mathematician, but a more distinguished Democrat. He was, we believe, one of the tutors of the dissenting academy at Warrington in Lancashire. In the year 1777, he published a quarto volume on the Doctrine of the Sphere, a treatise, uniformly geometrical; and also a Fast Sermon preached at Nottingham, at the end of the preceding year. Mr. Walker has, since that time, printed three more single Sermons; a Speech delivered at the Meeting of the Freeholders of the County of Nottingham, in 1780; a collection of Sermons on various Subjects, in two volumes, octavo, published in 1790; "The Dissenter's Plea," a pamphlet on the Test Laws, which was complimented by THE MAN OF THE PEOPLE; and a Treatise on the Conic Sections, in a quarto volume.
WALKER, SAYER, ESQ. M.D.
Physician in Ordinary to the City of London Lying-in Hospital. This gentleman was formerly a dissenting minister at Enfield. He published a Charity Sermon in the year 1790; and, six years afterward, an excellent Treatise on Nervous Diseases, in an octavo volume.
WALKER, REV. ROBERT, F.R.S.E.
Senior Minister of Canongate, Edinburgh. He published, in 1791, a volume of sensible Sermons, and has since that time printed a Fast Sermon, and a well-written pamphlet on the National Character of the Dutch.
WALKER, JOHN.
A Verbal Critic of considerable merit. He is a Roman Catholic, and was formerly a teacher of the art of speaking. In 1774, he published a pamphlet, entitled, "A general Idea of a Pronouncing Dictionary of the English Language on a Plan entirely new." Since that time he has produced a Dictionary of the English Language, in an octavo volume; the Child's Directory, in duodecimo; Exercises for Improvement in Elocution, in duodecimo; Elements of Elocution, in two volumes, octavo; Hints for improving the Art of Reading, a pamphlet; a Rhetorical Grammar, in duodecimo; English Classics abridged, in duodecimo; the Melody of Speaking delineated, an octavo pamphlet; the Academic Speaker, in duodecimo; and a Critical Pronouncing Dictionary, in a quarto volume, which has reached a second edition.
WALKER, GEORGE.
Author of two novels of considerable merit, viz. the House of Tynian, and Theodore Cyphon. He has also, we believe, published some poetical pieces.
WALKER, ADAM.
A petits-maitres Philosopher, who gives experimental Lectures in the metropolis, which are found very entertaining and instructive by people of fashion. He has published an Analysis of his Lectures; "Ideas suggested on the Spot in a Tour of Italy; an Excursion through Flanders, &c. in an octavo volume; and an octavo volume of Remarks made in a Tour from London to the Lakes of Westmoreland and Cumberland, originally published
in the Whitehall Evening Post.
WALKER, JOHN.
Author of "Elements of Geography and of Natural and Civil History," in an octavo volume, which has reached a second edition; and also of a Universal Gazetteer, in an octavo volume.
WALLACE, LADY.
A lady of the kingdom of Scotland, daughter to Sir William Maxwell, Bart. and sister to Her Grace the Dutchess of Gordon. She married Sir James Wallace, Knt. an officer in the navy, from whom she has been for some years divorced. Her Ladyship's first literary production was "Diamond cut Diamond," a comedy, in two acts, translated from the French of
Guerre ouverte, ou Ruse contre Ruse,
by Dumaniant, which was also translated about the same time (1787) by Mrs. Inchbald, under the title, the Midnight Hour. This was soon afterward followed by "A Letter to a Friend, with a Poem called the Ghost of Werter," a pamphlet containing some severe Strictures on WERTER, a novel. In 1788, Lady Wallace brought out at Covent Garden, "The Ton," a comedy, which was soon withdrawn, and afterward printed; and has, since that time, published a Letter to her Son in the East Indies; "The Conduct of the King of Prussia and General Dumourier investigated," a pamphlet, printed in 1793; a Supplement to this Pamphlet; the Whim, a comedy, ordered to be acted for the benefit of the Hospital and Poor of the Isle of Thanet, but refused the royal licence; and a Sermon addressed to the People, printed in 1796. Her Ladyship is a sensible, but not a very correct writer.
WALLIS, GEORGE, ESQ. M.D.
Lecturer on the Theory and Practice of Physic in the Metropolis. This gentleman published, in 1778, an Essay on the evil Consequences attending injudicious Bleeding in Pregnancy; and has, since that time, published
Nosologia Methodica Oculorum,
selected from the Latin of Francis Bossier de Sauvages, an octavo volume; an Oration delivered in 1790, before the Medical Society; the third edition with considerable additions of Dr. Motherby's Medical Dictionary; and "The Art of Preventing Diseases and Restoring Health," an octavo volume. Dr. Wallis has also published a complete edition of Dr. Sydenham's Works.
WANOSTROCHT, N.L.L.D.
Master of Alfred-house Academy, Camberwell. He published, in 1780, a French Grammar, in duodecimo; and has produced, since that time, a Classical Vocabulary, French and English;
Recueil choisi de Traits Historiques et de Contes Moraux,
French and English; and
Petite Encyclopedie des jeunes Gens.
Some of these pieces have been particularly approved.
WANSEY, HENRY, F.A.S.
A Wiltshire Clothier. He published, in 1796, in an octavo volume, a Journal of an Excursion to the United States of North America, in the Summer of 1794. This performance, though not distinguished for its elegance, abounds in information.
WARD, ROBERT, ESQ.
Of the Inner Temple. Barrister at Law. Author of "An Enquiry into the Foundation and History of the Law of Nations in Europe," from the time of the Greeks and Romans to the age of Grotius, in two volumes, octavo, published in 1795, a work of very distinguished merit.
WARE, JAMES, ESQ.
A Surgeon of eminence, and of particular skill in disorders of the Eye. He published, in 1780, Remarks on the Ophthalmy, Psorophthalmy, and Purulent Eye, in an octavo pamphlet, which has reached a third edition. Mr. Ware has also translated, from the French, de Wenzel's Treatise on the Cataract; and published a pamphlet of Chirurgical Observations, relative to the Epiphora, or Watery Eye; and another on the Causes which have, most commonly, prevented Success in the Operation of Extracting the Cataract.
WARING, EDWARD, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
Lucasian Professor of Mathematics in the University of Cambridge, and a gentleman of very singular mathematical talents, especially for the abstruser analytical investigations. He took his degree of B. A. with the greatest distinction in the year 1757, and, while yet a Batchelor of Arts, published the first edition of his
Meditationes Algebraicae,
a quarto volume, which has, since that time, been twice reprinted. Dr. Waring has also published
Proprietates Algebraicarum Curvarum; Excerpta Mathematica; Miscellanea Analytica
; and
Meditationes Analyticae
; each a quarto volume. These productions have been read by very few, understood by still fewer, and, perhaps, never regularly gone through by
any
man except their author. The Doctor has held the above Professorship for nearly forty years. He is one of the strangest compounds of vanity and modesty which▪ the human character exhibits. The former is, however, his predominant feature; and, among other foibles, he is given to lament that Newton was his predecessor in existence, anticipating those discoveries in the laws of the universe, which, otherwise, a WARING had unfolded!!!!!!!!!
WARNER, REV. RICHARD.
Curate of St. James' Parish, Bath, and late of St. Mary Hall, Oxford. This gentleman published, in 1789, a duodecimo volume, entitled, "A Companion in a Tour round Lymington;" and has, since that time, produced "Hampshire, extracted from Domesday-book," in a quarto volume; Topographical Remarks relating to the South-Western Parts of Hampshire, in two volumes, octavo; the History of the Isle of Wight, in an octavo volume; a single Sermon; and an Illustration of the Roman Antiquities preserved in the City of Bath, in a quarto volume. We have understood that Mr. Warner, some years ago, engaged with several gentlemen in the design of publishing
the whole
of Domesday-book, on a plan similar to his extract of Hampshire. He is a sensible and entertaining writer.
WARRINGTON, REV. WILLIAM.
Chaplain to the Earl of Besborough, and author of an agreeable History of Wales, which was first published in a quarto volume, in 1786, and has since been reprinted in two volumes, octavo.
WARTON, REV. JOSEPH, D.D. F.R.S.
Warden of Winchester College, and brother to the late celebrated poet laureat. A literary veteran of the greatest distinction. We believe the earliest of his publications was an Ode on reading West's Pindar, which appeared in 1749, and has been followed by some other short poetical pieces, among which is the Enthusiast, or Lover of Nature. A year or two after the above date, he first published, in four volumes, octavo, the edition of Virgil, commonly known by the name of WARTON's AND PITT's VIRGIL; adding to Virgil's original text and Mr. Pitt's translation of the Aeneid, a new translation of the Eclogues and Georgics with Notes on the whole by himself, and dissertations Essays &c. by himself and others. This edition of Virgil has been reprinted in four duodecimo volumes, as well as in octavo; and bears a very respectable estimation among learned men. With the merit of Mr. Pitt's Version of the Aeneid the world is well acquainted. Of Dr. Warton's Eclogues and Georgics it may be said, that they convey the sense of their originals with greater exactness and perspicuity than any other translation we have; that their vesification is easy and harmonious and their style correct and pure: yet, if read for themselves, they are inferior as pleasing poems to the similar performances of Dryden. About the same time with this publication, appeared also the first volume (in octavo) of Dr. Warton's celebrated Essay on the Genius and Writings of Pope. It was published anonymously, and the second volume did not make its appearance till 1782, though part of it was printed nearly twenty years before that time. This work, though not always in harmony with later opinions, is abundantly gratifying on account of its learning, information, and just taste. In 1797, Dr. Warton committed to the public the labour, as it is said, of sixteen years, in his long looked-for Edition of the Works of Pope, printed in in nine octavo volumes. The expectation which this work had excited in the literary world, was, in some measure, disappointed on its appearance. It is one of the handsomest books which the modern elegance of typography has produced; but it is deformed by marks of haste, unpardonable in such an undertaking, and the commentary is little more than a selection of the best of Warburton's notes, combined with the corresponding parts of the editor's before-mentioned ESSAY. Yet, though not so excellent a work of the kind as might be wished for, it is certainly the best edition of Pope we have!
WATKINS, CHARLES, ESQ.
Author of "An Essay toward the further Elucidation of the Law of Descents," published in an octavo pamphlet, in 1793: an Enquiry into the Title and Powers of his Majesty as Guardian of the Dutchy of Cornwall, during the late Minority of its Duke, a pamphlet, published in 1795; and "Reflections on Government," a pamphlet, published in the following year. Mr. Watkins also edited the fourth edition of Lord Chief Baron Gilbert's LAW OF TENURES, in a royal octavo volume. He is a sensible and a well-read writer.
WATKINS, THOMAS, M.A. F.R.S.
This gentleman published, in 1792, two octavo volumes of highly entertaining and well-written Travels through Swisserland, Italy, Sicily, and the Greek Islands, to Constantinople, made in the years 1787, 1788, and 1789. These volumes soon reached a second edition.
WATSON, RIGHT REV. RICHARD, D.D. F.R.S.
Lord Bishop of Landaff, Archdeacon of Ely, Rector of Carstil in Leicestershire, and Regius Professor of Divinity in the University of Cambridge. A prelate distinguished for his various and extensive learning. His Lordship was educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, was admitted to the degree of B. A. with distinguished credit, in the year 1759, afterward became Prefessor of Chemistry in the University, and was elected to his present Professorship in 1771. During a residence of more than thirty years, he remained the glory of his University; at one time, by the ingenuity of his chemical researches; at another, as the pride of her divinity-chair. Of his Lordship's publications, the first was
Institutiones Metallurgicae,
a tract, printed at Cambridge, in 1768, and intended as a textbook for that part of his chemical lectures, which explained the properties of metallic substances. He wrote six more chemical tracts during his residence in the University, the greater part of which appeared in the Philosophical Transactions; and they were all afterward reprinted in the fifth volume of his Chemical Essays. His Lordship next published an Assize Sermon, preached at Cambridge, in 1769: which was followed by two Sermons preached at the same place, in the year 1776, the publication of which first made him known beyond the precincts of the University; one of them, entitled, "The Principles of the Revolution vindicated," delivered on the 29th of May; the other on the Anniversary of his Majesty's Accession in that year. These discourses, according to the sentiments of their respective readers, were subjects of high commendation on one side, and of severe disapprobation on the other. In the same year Dr. Watson also published, "An Apology for Christianity." a duodecimo volume, consisting of a series of letters to Mr. Gibbon; which, of all the answers made to the attacks of that gentleman, was the most liberal, the most elegant, and, perhaps, the most forcible. It is seldom, indeed, that controversy has been conducted with so much becoming urbanity, and, at the same time, with so much spirit, as upon this occasion. In 1780, Dr. Watson published a Sermon, preached before the University on the General Fast, Feb. 4th, which was greatly admired; and also a Discourse delivered to the Clergy of the Archdeaconry of Ely. The year following produced the two first volumes (in duodecimo) of those "Chemical Essays" which have been so highly approved, and to which three more volumes were afterward added. They were written, not with a view of giving a System of Chemistry to the world, but to convey, in a popular manner, a general kind of knowledge to persons not much versed in chemical enquiries.
Having been tutor to the late Duke of Rutland, while His Grace resided at Cambridge, Dr. Watson was appointed, through the interest of the Rutland family, under the administration of the Marquis of Lansdown, in 1782, to the Bishopric of Landaff. Immediately upon his promotion, his Lordship published a Letter to the (late) Archbishop of Canterbury, recommending a new disposition of the church revenues, by which the Bishoprics should be rendered equal to each other in value, and the smaller livings be so far increased in income, by a proportional deduction from the richer endowments, as to render them a decent competency. This letter produced several pamphlets at the press, among which was a Letter to the Bishop from Mr. Richard Cumberland (vide that name). Dr. Watson's subsequent publications have been, beside a few occasionial single Sermons, a valuable Collection of Theological Tracts, in six large octavo volumes, published in 1785; an octavo volume of Sermons and Tracts, published in 1788, and consisting chiefly of his smaller pieces which had been published separately before that time, as already enumerated; three Charges delivered to the Clergy of the Diocese of Landaff; an Address to young Persons after Confirmation, a pamphlet, which had been annexed to the first of his Charges; Considerations on the Expediency of Revising the Liturgy and Articles of the Church of England, a pamphlet, published in 1790; and "An Apology for the Bible," in answer to Paine's AGE OF REASON, Part II. Among these, his Lordship's Sermon for the Westminster Dispensary, preached in 1785, and published with an excellent Appendix, in 1793; as well as his most seasonable, strong, judicious, and beautiful APOLOGY for the Bible, are peculiarly entitled to commendation.
As a writer, Dr. Watson has united with almost unexampled grace, the knowledge of a scholar with the liberality of a gentleman, the warm piety of a true christian, and the open manliness of a well-intending character. It has been said, perhaps, with truth, that he is not a stranger to the pride of rank, that he is not deaf to the whispers of ambition, and that he feels with anguish the mortification of disappointment: he has, moreover, rendered himself not a little conspicuous by his opposition to the measures of administration. Yet, whatever delinquencies his detractors may have discovered, none can, with truth, deny that his deportment, in the course of a long, an active, and a conspicuous life, has been marked by the characteristics of a very superior mind.
WEBB, DANIEL, ESQ.
A writer of distinguished taste and ingenuity. He published, in 1762, Remarks on the Beauties of Poetry, in an octavo pamphlet; and has, since that time, written an Enquiry into the Beauties of Painting; Observations on the Correspondence between Poetry and Music; "Some Reasons for thinking that the Greek Language was borrowed from the Chinese;" "Literary Amusements," in verse and prose, a small octavo volume; and Selections from M. Pauw, with Additions, an octavo volume.
WEBSTER, CHARLES, ESQ. M.D.
Of Edinburgh. Compiler of
Medicinae Praxeos Systema, ex Academiae Edinburgenae Disputationibus Inauguralibus praecipue depromptum,
in three octavo volumes, of which the two first were published in 1780, and the third in the following year. Dr. Webster also published, in 1793, "Facts, tending to show the Connection of the Stomach with Life, Disease, and Recovery," a pamphlet, intended as part of heads of lectures on materia medica: the farther application of the doctrine to practice has been promised the Public.
WENDEBORN, REV. D. G. FRED. AUGUSTUS, L.L.D.
A German divine of distinguished ability: formerly Minister of the German Chapel on Ludgate Hill, and, for nearly thirty years, a resident of the metropolis. In the year 1775, he published a German Grammar, which was well received, and republished in an improved state, in 1790. Having met with encouragement in a small treatise upon England, which he wrote with a view to the information of his own countrymen, he, some years afterward, produced, in 1787, a more extensive work on that subject, in three duodecimo volumes, written in the German language. Of this he published a Translation in our language, in the year 1791, in two octavo volumes, under the title, "A View of England toward the Close of the eighteenth Century." This work, written with a philosophic spirit, and abounding in sensible remarks, is highly entertaining.
WENTWORTH, JOHN, ESQ.
Of the Inner Temple. Barrister at Law. This gentleman is publishing a Complete System of Pleading, in royal octavo, of which two volumes have made their appearance; and has also written, "The Action of Assumpsit on Bills of Exchange," &c. &c.
WEST, MRS.
The wife of a Northamptonshire farmer, and a very respectable character in the literary, as well as in the moral world. She published, in 1786, "Miscellaneous Poetry," in a quarto pamphlet; and, in 1791, "Miscellaneous Poems and a Tragedy," in an octavo volume by subscription. Her poetry is natural, simple, and pleasing.
WESTON, REV. STEPHEN, B.D.
Rector of Little Hempston: formerly Fellow of Exeter College, Oxford, and Rector of Mamhead in Devonshire. A distinguished Classical Scholar, skilled in various languages. He published, in 1784,
Hermesianax, sive Conjecturae in Athenaeum,
&c. in an octavo volume, a work which has not been thought peculiarly creditable to his talents. Since that time he has published a single Sermon; "An Attempt to translate and explain the Different Passages in the Song of Deborah;" and an elegant Translation into Greek Verse, of Gray's Elegy.
WHALLEY, REV. THOMAS, SEDGWICK.
This gentleman prefixed his name, in 1794, to Edwy and Edilda, a poetical tale, which he had published anonymously, in 1779. He has also written, Verses addressed to Mrs. Siddons; Verses vindicating his friend, Miss Seward, from the malignity of the Reviewers; Mont Blanc, a poem; and a Collection of Poems and Translations, in an octavo volume. His poetry is not of the first order.
WHITAKER, REV. JOHN, B.D.
Rector of Ruan Lanyhorne, in the County of Cornwall, and formerly Fellow of Corpus Christi College, Oxford. A very ingenious, learned, and energetic writer. His first publication was a History of Manchester, in two volumes, quarto, the first of which appeared in 1771. It is writen upon a very elaborate plan, but has obtained many admirers, both as a work of ingenuity and acuteness, and of elegance and imagination. In 1772, Mr. Whitaker published "The genuine History of the Britons asserted," an octavo volume, in refutation of Macpherson's INTRODUCTION TO THE HISTORY OF GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND; and in which he displayed an evident superiority over his adversary. His next publication was a small octavo volume of Sermons upon Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell, which was printed in 1783, and has been generally thought to have added little to his reputation as an author. This was followed in 1787, by his three octavo volumes, entitled, "Mary Queen of Scots vindicated," which closed the controversy respecting that Princess, by a vindication of her innocence. Although Mr. Whitaker had been preceded on the same side of the question, by the researches of Mr. Goodal, the acuteness of Mr. Tytler, and, above all, by the genius of Dr. Gilbert Stuart, he found means to discover some new materials for the defence of his heroine. The
matter,
indeed, of this publication is excellent throughout, but the
manner
is often highly reprehensible. The subsequent productions of Mr. Whitaker have been, a Review of Mr. Gibbon's History, Vols. IV. V. and VI. which had originally appeared in the English Review; "The Origin of Arianism disclosed," a large controversial tract in which there is an uncommon display of learning and judgement; "The Course of Hannibal over the Alps ascertained," a very curious investigation, in two octavo volumes; and "The real Origin of Government," a very singular pamphlet. Mr. Whitaker was also a very material contributor to the reputation which the English Review could, at one time, boast; and has written some Poems in the Collection published by Gentlemen of Devonshire and Cornwall. His vices as a writer are, a general inequality, and an occasional appearance of excesssive affectation, in his style; too strong a propensity to conjectural reasoning; and, sometimes, too apparent a self-satisfaction in his own performances. For these we are, however, compensated by his many virtues.
WHITAKER, REV. E.W.
Rector of St. Mildred's and All Saints, Canterbury; and formerly Rector of St. John's, Clerkenwell. This gentleman's first publication was a Fast Sermon, in 1782. Since that time he has published a few more occasional single Sermons; a Dissertation on the Prophecies relating to the final Restoration of the Jews; four Dialogues on the Trinity; three theological Tracts, annexed to a Sermon; a volume of Sermons on Education; six Sermons, in an octavo pamphlet; and a View of the Prophecies relating to the Times of the Gentiles, in a duodecimo volume, chiefly in refutation of Mr. Gibbon's attack on Christianity. Mr. Whitaker is a sensible and a judicious writer.
WHITE, REV. JOSEPH, D.D.
Archbishop Laud's Professor of Arabic in the University of Oxford, and Fellow of Wadham College. A gentleman of very distinguished talents and attainments. His first publication was,
De Utilitate Linguae Arabicae in Studiis Theologicis,
an oration delivered in 1775, on his appointment to his Professorship, and published the year following. He next printed a Sermon, recommending a Revisal of the English Translation of the Old Testament, preached before the University in 1778; which was soon afterward followed by an edition of the Syriac Philoxenian Version of the four Gospels, in a quarto volume, with a Latin Translation, by himself. In 1780, Dr. White presented the Public with "A Specimen of the Civil and Military Institutes of Timour, or Tamerlane," a work, written originally by that celebrated conqueror in the Mogul Language, afterward translated into Persian, and rendered from the Persian into English, by the Doctor, from a MS. in the possession of Dr. William Hunter. This quarto pamphlet was followed, three years afterward, by a quarto volume of Institutes, Political and Military, written originally in the Mogul Language, by the Great Timour, translated from the Persian by Major Davy, and published with the Persian translation, a preface, indexes, notes, &c. by Dr. White. His celebrated volume of Sermons, preached at the Bampton Lecture made its first appearance in 1784, the year in which they were delivered. These discourses, containing a view of Christianity and Mahometanism in their history, their evidence and their effects, Have obtained the most unbounded applauses of the literary world for their learning, their strength, and their beauty of composition: in point of eloquence and energy of style, we know of no happier specimens in our language, It afterward appeared that these Sermons owed much of their excellence to the assistance given in their composition, by the late Rev. Mr. Samuel Badcock. Dr. White was openly attacked with a charge to this purpose, by Dr. Gabriel of the Octagon Chapel, Bath; and a literary controversy ensued which produced several pamphlets at the press. Dr. White was, at length, induced to publish a statement of the case, by which it appeared that literary and pecuniary obligations had reciprocally subsisted between Mr. Badcock and himself; and that the Sermons had received additional brilliancy from the masterly pen of Dr. Parr. It is said that Dr. White has been, for some time, engaged in writing a History of Egypt.
WHITE, JAMES, ESQ.
Author of Conway Castle, Earl Strongbow, the Adventures of John of Gaunt, the Adventures of King Richard Coeur de Lion, and some other whimsical pieces.
WHITE, ROBERT, ESQ. M.D.
Author of a Treatise on the Use and Abuse of Sea-water; Observations on Fevers; an octavo volume on Surgery; an Analysis, of the New London Pharmacopaeia; and a Summary of the Pneumato-chemical Theory. He is esteemed a judicious writer on these subjects.
WHITEHEAD, JOHN, M.D.
A Physician who was formerly a quaker, and afterward joined Mr. Wesley's connection, and became one of the stated preachers at his chapels. He has written an Essay on Liberty and Necessity; and was one of the first of those who undertook to refute the Doctrines contained in Dr. Priestley's Disquisitions on Matter and Spirit, publishing, in 1778, a pamphlet, entitled, "Materialism philosophically examined." Dr. Whitehead has also published a Report of a new Method of Treating the P
erperal Fever; the Sermon which he preached at the Funeral of Mr. John Wesley; a well written Life of Mr. John Wesley, in two volumes, octavo; and "Some Account of the Life of the Rev. Charles Wesley, a pamphlet, extracted from the last-mentioned work.
WHITEHOUSE, REV. JOHN.
Of St. John's College, Cambridge. This gentleman published an octavo volume of Poems, in 1787; and has, since that time, written an Elegiac Ode to the Memory of Sir Joshua Reynolds; and a quarto pamphlet of Odes, moral and descriptive. These performances possess considerable poetical merit.
WHITELEY, REV. JOSEPH.
Head-master of the Free Grammar School in Leeds, and Vicar of Lastingham: formerly of Magdalen College, Cambridge. He has gained the Norrisian Prizes in the University, for several sensible theological Essays, which have been published according to the conditions of the institution.
WILBERFORCE, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.P.
A distinguished British Senator, celebrated for his exertions to procure the abolition of the Slavetrade. An elaborate and much-applauded Speech delivered by him, on this subject, in the House of Commons, May 13th, 1789, has reached the press; and, in 1797, Mr. Wilberforce published an octavo volume, entitled, "A practical View of the prevailing Religious System of professed Christians, in the Higher and Middle Classes in this Country, contrasted with real Christianity." The favourable reception which this volume experienced on its first appearance, was, probably, owing to the celebrity of its author's name. It has received much applause, as well as censure, according to the different characters of its readers; and, though undoubtedly written with a very benevolent view, is, perhaps, justly amenable on the score of representing
real Christianity
as rigid calvinism. Mr. Wilberforce has also been the reputed author of the sensible little tract, entitled, "An Estimate of the Religion of the Fashionable world;" but is said to have himself assigned it to Mrs. Hannah More.
WILKINSON, JOSHUA LUSCOCK, ESQ.
Of Gray's Inn. Author of "Political Facts," collected in a tour along the frontiers of France in 1793, a pamphlet; a Translation of Mongaillard's
State of France hi May,
1794; and "The Wanderer," a collection of Anecdotes, &c. during two excursions, in 1791 and 1793, in France, Germany, and Italy, in two duodecimo volumes: all of them very indifferent performances.
WILKINSON, TATE.
Patentee of the Theatres Royal, York and Hull; and a very celebrated Mimic. He published, in 1791, Memoirs of his own Life, in four duodecimo volumes; and, in 1795, "The Wandering Patentee," a history of the Yorkshire Theatre. These volumes are
well enough.
WILLIAMS, DAVID.
A native of Glamorganshire. He was originally a dissenting minister at Exeter and afterward preached for many years to a small congregation at Highgate. Here he changed his principles, and, being suspected, relinquished the ministerial charge and adopted that of private tuition. While at Highgate, he preached a course of Sermons on Religious Hypocrisy, which he published in two duodecimo volumes. In 1770, he wrote a poignant Letter to Mr. Garrick, on his conduct and talents, as manager and performer; which was followed by polemical dialogues, entitled "The Philosopher." When the Unitarian Clergy met at the Feathers Tavern to petition relief from subscribing the Articles, the able pen of Mr. Williams was solicited in their service; he accordingly drew up some Essays on Public Worship, Projects of Reformation, &c. which were found to contain sentiments of so DEISTICAL a complexion that he was, at once, forsaken by the people whom he had designed to serve. These Essays he published, and afterward added to them an Appendix, principally levelled at the Dissenters, upon whose conduct he was peculiarly severe. Mr. Williams now totally forsook the connection of the Dissenters, and became an avowed advocate of deism, as well as of democracy. In 1774, the time of his establishing a private seminary at Chelsea, he published a Treatise on Education, in a duodecimo volume, which contains some uncommonly acute and judicious remarks on that subject, while it too fully discloses the change in his principles with respect to revealed religion. Two years after this date, Mr. Williams opened a Chapel in Margaret Street, Cavendish Square, on the universal principles of Natural Religion, a scheme to which he was instigated by Dr. Franklin. Dignified with the appellation,
Priest of Nature,
he officiated here for about four years, and thus finally terminated his existence in a clerical capacity; having subsequently employed his talents, which are unquestionably great, chiefly in the composition of political and deistical writings. Beside the works already mentioned, he has published a Sermon, preached at the opening of his Chapel in Margaret Street; a Liturgy for that Chapel; "The Nature and Extent of Intellectual Liberty," a pamphlet; a Plan of Association on Constitutional Principles, a pamphlet written at the time of the riots in London; Letters on Political Liberty, occasioned by the county meetings and associations in 1782; Lectures on Religion and Morality, in two volumes, quarto; Lectures on Education, in three volumes, octavo; Lectures on Political Principles, in an octavo volume; and a History of Monmouthshire, in a quarto volume. Mr. Williams is also understood to be the author of "Royal Recollections," a most indecent satire upon his Majesty; "Lessons to a young Prince;" "An Apology for professing the Religion of Nature in the eighteenth Century;" and the Pamphlets of Mr. Swainson. For an account of his engagement respecting a Continuation of Hume's History of England, we refer the reader to our memoir of Mr. Bowyer.
WILLIAMS, MISS HELEN MARIA,
A fair Democrat of considerable sprightliness and talent. She commenced author in 1782, by publishing, anonymously, "Edwin and Eltruda," a legendary tale, in verse, which was edited by Dr. Kippis. This was followed by some other pretty poetical Pieces, which were reprinted in a Collection, in two duodecimo volumes, published by subscription, in 1786; among which the historical poem, entitled, "Peru," and the Fragment found in a dark passage of the Tower, have peculiar merit. In 1788, Miss Williams published a Poem on the Slave-trade Bill; and, two years afterward, a well written novel, entitled, "Julia." She went to France, for the second time, in the year 1791, and has, since then, resided at Paris. In the year of her departure, she published a Farewell to England, a poem; which has been followed by "Letters from France," relative to the Revolution, in two duodecimo volumes; Letters sketching the Politics of France, from May 31st, 1793, to July 28th, 1794, in four duodecimo volumes; and a Translation of Bernardin. St. Pierre's tale, Paul and Virginia, in a duodecimo volume, the amusement of her hours of confinement in Prison at Paris, under the tyranny of Robespierre. Her LETTERS contain much information, but, too plainly exhibit her want of sensibility, and her political phrenzy. John Hurford Stone is said to have contributed largely to the fourth volume.
WILLIAMS, JOHN, L.L.D.
Formerly a Dissenting Minister at Sydenham. He has published an "Enquiry," intended to disprove the authenticity of Chaps. I & II of St. Matthew's Gospel; Thoughts on Subscription to the thirty-nine Articles; a Concordance to the Greek Testament, it a quarto volume; some single Sermons; and an Enquiry and Observations respecting the Discovery of America. Dr. Williams has been weak enough to enter the lists with the learned and judicious Dr. Bell, Prebendary of Westminster.
WILLIAMS, JOHN.
Alias ANTHONY PASQUIN. A scribbler of the lowest class. Although destitute of every pretension to taste, genius, or information, he has from time to time, obtruded a multiplicity of pompous trash upon the Public, viz. the Children of Thespis, the Brighton Guide, the Pin Basket the Cap, &c. too contemptible to enumerate. In December, 1797, he had the impudence to bring an action against Mr. Faulder, Bookseller in New Bond Street, as the publisher of Mr. Gifford's poem, the Baviad; in one of the notes to which, that gentleman had properly expressed his detestation of
one so lost to every sense of decency and shame, whose acquintance is infamy, and whose touch is poison.
But Mr. Garrow, the counsel for the defendant, shewed that he had libelled every body, from the royal family down almost to the meanest of their subjects, and that his writings were so immoral and infamous that he had no right to come into a court of justice for damages: accordingly Lord Kenyon interposed, and the cause was stopped. The modest pretension, it seems, of this illiterate libeller is, that he will caluminate all the world, and go to law with whoever has the courage to censure or expose him for it!
WILLIAMS, REV. EDWARD, D.D.
A Dissenting Minister at Birmingham. He has published "Antipaedobaptism Examined," in two volumes, duodecimo; and some single Sermons. Dr. Williams is one of the conductors of the Evangelical Magazine.
WILLIAMS, THOMAS WALTER, ESQ.
Barrister at law. This gentleman has published "Original Precedents in Conveyancing," in four volumes octavo; a Digest of the Statute Law, in two volumes, quarto; and "The whole Law relative to the Duty and Office of a Justice of Peace," of which five octavo volumes have made their appearance.
WILLIAMSON, REV. JAMES, B.D.
Of Queen's College, Oxford; Prebendary of Lincoln, and Rector of Winwick, in Northamptonshire. He has published "An Argument for the Christian Religion," the substance of a course of Sermons preached at Boyle's Lecture, in an octavo volume; a pamphlet in Defence of the Church of England; and a volume of Bampton Lecture Sermons of no very distinguished merit.
WILLIAMSON, REV. DAVID.
Of Whitehaven. Author of a sensible octavo volume of Lectures on Civil and Religious Liberty, published in 1792. He has also published Religious Correspondence between himself and Mr. Newton, Rector of St. Mary, Woolnoth.
WILSON, JASPER.—See Currie.
WILSON, REV. WILLIAM, B.D.
Fellow of St. John's College, Cambridge. This gentleman published, in 1797, an Illustration of the Method of explaining the New Testament by the early Opinions of the Jews and Christians concerning Christ, in an octavo volume, a very sensible work.
WINTERBOTHAM, REV. WILLIAM.
A Dissenting Minister. He was sentenced to a four years confinement in Newgate, and to a fine of two hundred pounds, for seditious expressions contained in two Sermons, preached at Plymouth, in 1792. During his imprisonment he compiled an Historical, Geographical, &c. View of America, which was published in four octavo volumes, in 1795. He has also published a similar View of the Chinese Empire, in an octavo volume; and is the editor of a new edition of Dr. Gill's Body of Divinity.
WINTLE, REV. THOMAS, B.D.
Rector of Brightwell in Berkshire, and formerly Fellow of Pembroke College, Oxford. He published, in 1792, a well-executed Attempt at an improved Version of DANIEL, in a quarto volume; and has, since that time, published a volume of sensible Sermons, preached at the Bampton Lecture, in 1794.
WITHERING, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D. F.R.S.
A distinguished Botanist of Birmingham. He has published an arrangement of British Plants, in four octavo volumes, the two first of which made their first appearance, in 1776; a pamphlet on the Scarlet Fever and Sore Throat; a Translation of Bergman's Outlines of Mineralogy; and an Account of the Fox-Glove, in an octavo volume.
WITHERS, THOMAS, ESQ. M.D.
Physician to the York County Hospital. He published, in 1775, an octavo volume of Observations on the Abuse of Medicine; and has, since that time, written Observations on Chronic Weakness; a Treatise on the Asthma; and a Treatise on the Errors and Defects of Medical Education.
WOLLASTON, REV. FRANCIS, L.L.D. F.R.S.
Rector of the united Parishes, St. Vedast Foster, and St. Michael-le-Quern, London. This gentleman is the youngest son of the celebrated William Wollaston, who wrote THE RELIGION OF NATURE DELINEATED. He published, in 1772, an Address to the Clergy, &c. on the Subject of Subscription; since which time he has produced, Queries, relating to the Book of Common Prayer; a Specimen of a General Astronomical Catalogue, in a folio volume; Directions for making an universal Meridian Dial; and three Sermons.
WOOD, REV. JAMES, B.D.
Fellow and Tutor of St John's College, Cambridge. A gentleman of considerable Mathematical Attainments. He undertook, in 1795, to publish, in association with the Rev. Mr. Vince, "The Principles of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy," in four octavo volumes, a work intended to comprise the substance of the Lectures on these subjects which are usually read in the University. The parts drawn up by Mr. Wood are the treatises on Algebra, Mechanics, and Optics, and the manner in they are executed (especially the Algebra) does great credit to the care and talents of their author: they are a most respectable specimen of the elegant science of the Cambridge school, and leave him nothing to fear from a comparison with his better-known coadjutor.
WOODFALL, WILLIAM.
A Reporter of public Debates, highly celebrated for his accuracy, and for a very remarkable tenaciousness of Memory. Mr. Woodfall was, for some time, the editor of the Morning Chronicle, and afterward, relinquishing that concern, set on foot a paper which he called Woodfall's Diary. He is now entirely engaged in making reports of Debates in the Senate, and at the Court of East India Directors. Not long ago he published a Parliamentary Remembrancer, in which the Debates of both Houses are faithfully detailed.
WOODVILLE, WILLIAM, ESQ. M.D.
Author of a useful and well-executed work, entitled, "Medical Botany," of which the first volume (in quarto) was published in 1790, and which has been completed in two more volumes, and a supplementary volume. Dr. Woodville has also published Vol. I. (in octavo) of the History of the Inoculation of the Small Pox in Great Britain, a curious work to be completed in another volume.
WORTHINGTON, REV. HUGH.
A very popular Minister of the Presbyterian persuasion. He has published various single Sermons; a small Essay on the Resolution of plain Triangles; and is the editor of Crabb's Sermons, in two volumes, octavo.
WORTHINGTON, REV. RICHARD, M.D.
This gentleman has published a Letter to the Jews; a duodecimo volume of Disquisitions on several Subjects; Thoughts on the Manifesto of the French, published in 1792; a Treatise on the Dorsel Spasm (his own name for a Disease something like Lumbago); a volume of Sermons; and an Address to the Monthly Reviewers on their
disingenuous
critique on his Sermons.
WRANGHAM, REV. FRANCIS, M.A.
Of Trinity College, Cambridge. A gentleman of very distinguished talents and attainments. He was, formerly a member of Magdalen College, and removed to Trinity Hall on the prospect of succeeding to a very desirable situation. After acquiring honours almost unprecedented in the University, he was rejected, when the looked-for vacancy was made, on the most pitiful and shameful pretences, and, with a spirit becoming his high desert and its scandalous requital, left the society in the utmost detestation of its principles and conduct. Mr. Wrangham has, since that time, obtained church preferment in the county of Yorkshire. His publications have been confined to "Reform," a farce, modernized from Aristophanes by S. Foote, jun. in which Chremylus and Plutus are translated by Thomas Paine and John Bull; and "The Restoration of the Jews," a Seatonian Prize poem. Both of these are highly creditable to his talents and his years.
WRAXALL, NATHANIEL WILLIAM, ESQ.
A writer of very distinguished merit, whose works have been peculiarly approved. He has been a member in several Parliaments, and vacated his seat for the Borough of Wallingford in Berkshire, in the year 1794. Mr. Wraxall's first publication was an octavo volume of "Cursory Remarks" in a Tour through some of the Northern Parts of Europe. This made its appearance in 1775; and was followed, two years afterward, by Memoirs of the Kings of France of the Race of Valois, in two octavo volumes, a work which was republished, in 1785, with many additions, under the title, "The History of France under the Kings of the Race of Valois." Mr. Wraxall has also published a Tour through the Western, Southern, and Interior Provinces of France, in a duodecimo volume, originally annexed to the above-mentioned MEMOIRS; the History of France from the Accession of Henry III. to the Death of Louis XIV, a very valuable work, of which three volumes (in quarto) are published, and three more promised; and "The Correspondence between a Traveller and a Minister of State in October and November, 1792," a translation of a pamphlet written in French by an Englishman. A pamphlet, entitled, "A Short Review of the Political State of Great Britain," which appeared early in the year 1787, and which obtained a considerable share of popularity, was also ascribed, by several persons, to Mr. Wraxall.
As a traveller, he is well known to be a lively and sensible observer of men and manners; as an Historian he has also given proofs of great ability and talents.
WYNDHAM, HENRY PENRUDDOCKE.
Of Salisbury. He published, in 1775, "A Gentleman's Tour through Monmouthshire and Wales," in an octavo pamphlet, which by the help of a second journey over the same ground, was amplified into a quarto volume, in 1781, and republished under the title, "A Tour through Monmouthshire and Wales." In the year 1784, Mr. Wyndham was the editor of the Diary of George Bull Doddington Lord Melcombe; four years after this, he published Wiltshire, extracted from Domesday Book, in an octavo volume; and, in 1794, "A Picture of the Isle of Wight," in an octavo volume. He is a writer of considerable merit in the line of authorship which he has traced.
WYVILL, REV. CHRISTOPHER.
A Clergyman of Yorkshire: formerly Rector of Black Notley in Essex. He was Chairman of the late Committee of Association of the county of York, for obtaining a Parliamentary Reform; and has been a distinguished stickler for efforts of that nature. Mr. Wyvill has published a Visitation Sermon, preached at Kelvedon, in 1772; Thoughts on the Articles of our Religion, a pamphlet; several occasional political Pamphlets, chiefly on the subject of Parliamentary Reform; and a Collection of Political Papers on the same subject, in three volumes, octavo. His counsel and approbation were sought by the Minister in the plans for the purpose of Parliamentary Reform, which he was some years ago preparing to lay before the Public; but their correspondence gradually languished, and, at length, entirely dropt on the part of Mr. Pitt. In 1796, Mr. Wyvill published Parts I. and II. of this Correspondence, in octavo pamphlets.
Y
YEARSLEY, ANN.
ORIGINALLY a Milk-maid of the City of Bristol. Her poetical talent was discoverd by Mrs. Hannah More, who solicited for her the protection, of Mrs. Montagu, in a prefatory Letter prefixed to a collection of her poems, published (in quarto) in 1785. Two years after this, Mrs. Yearsley published another collection of Poems, in quarto; and has, since that time, written a Poem on the Inhumanity of the Slave-trade; "Stanzas of Woe;" Earl Goodwin, an historical play, performed at Bristol; and the Royal Captives, a novel of considerable merit, in four volumes, duodecimo. She has experienced great encouragement from the Public in her literary undertakings; but has unfortunately had a dispute with her original patroness which was carried, on both sides, to a disgusting excess. Her poems, like those of all unlettered poets, abound in imagery, metaphor and personification; but breathe the genuine spirit of poetry. She is a remarkable instance of the observation
poeta nascitur.
YOUNG, ARTHUR, ESQ. F.R.S.
Secretary to the Board of Agriculture, Honorary Member of several Societies at home and abroad, and a writer chiefly conspicuous on Agricultural Subjects. Mr. Young was born at Bradfield in Essex, being a younger son of a good family resident on that spot for nearly two centuries. He began his farming pursuits upon the land which he, at present, occupies, about the year 1761; resided afterward, for nine years, in Hertfordshire, and then returned to his native place. In the years 1776-1779, he made journies to Ireland; and, on an invitation from M. Lazowski, to accompany him and Count de la Rochefoucauld to the Pyrenees, made his first journey into France in 1787. Mr. Young returned to England in the winter of the same year, and attended the Wool Bill then before our Parliament, after which he made a second tour to France, and finished his travels in 1789.
Of Mr. Young's publications, the first was an octavo volume, entitled, "The Farmer's Letters, &c." which appeared in 1767, and to which a second volume was, some years afterward, added. His subsequent productions have been, "A six weeks Tour through the Southern Counties of England and Wales," in an octavo volume; an Essay on the Management of Hogs; a six-months Tour through the North of England, in four volumes, octavo; the Farmer's Guide in Hiring and Stocking Farms, in two volumes, octavo; "Rural Oecon
my," an octavo volume; a Course of Experimental Agriculture, in two volumes, quarto; the Farmer's Tour through the East of England, in four volumes, octavo; "Political Arithmetic," Parts I. and II. pamphlets; a Tour in Ireland, first published in a quarto volume, and afterward reprinted in two volumes, octavo; Annals of Agriculture, in ten volumes, octavo; Travels in France, in two volumes, quarto; "The Example of France a Warning to Britain," an excellent and highly seasonable pamphlet, published in 1793, and which was the origin of the establishment of our Yeomanry Cavalry; an Idea of the
present
State of France, a pamphlet, published in 1795; and "The Constitution Safe without Reform,' a pamphlet.
Though the agricultural pursuits of Mr. Young have been highly laudable, his publications in this class have not been flattered with a reception peculiarly kind, and his judgement on those subjects has been frequently disapproved. In
political arithmetic
he has deservedly gained considerable eminence; and his TRAVELS in France, in which his pursuit was not agriculture, but political oeconomy, have been very eagerly read and highly approved.
YOUNG, SIR WILLIAM, BART. M.P. F.R.A.S.
Son of the late Lieutenant-governor of Dominica, and grandson of the late Dr. Brook Taylor. He published, in 1777, "The Spirit of Athens," in an octavo volume; and, in 1786, the same work considerably enlarged, under the title, "The History of Athens Political and Philosophically considered," in a quarto volume. The style of this work is incorrect, complicated, and uncouth, but it is full of imagination, reflexion, and vigour. In 1788, Sir William Young published a pamphlet on Mr. Gilbert's proposed Amendment of the Poor Laws; and he has written, since that time, "The Rights of Englishmen," a pamphlet; and a Letter to Mr. Pitt on the subject of Poor Houses and Work Houses. A Speech on the Slave-trade, deliverd by him in Parliament, in 1791, has also reached the press; and he has edited, and prefixed a Life of the author, to
Contemplatio Philosophica,
a posthumous work of Dr. Brook Taylor, printed in an octavo volume, but not published.
Z
ZOUCH, REV. THOMAS.
RECTOR of Wycliffe in Yorkshire, and formerly Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. A polite and sensible writer. He gained the Seatonian Prize at the University, in the year 1765, for a poetical essay on the Crucifixion, which was printed according to the conditions of the institution. Mr. Zouch has also, more recently, published two Visitation Sermons; a Visitation Address; an Enquiry into the Prophetic Character of the Romans, as described in Daniel viii. 23-25; a new edition, with notes and a preface, of Isaac Walton's LOVE AND TRUTH, in two letters; and a new edition, with a notes and a Life of the Author, of Walton's LIVES of Donne, Wotton &c. in a quarto volume, an elegant and valuable work.
FINIS.
ERRATA.
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