306 oration of Lomonofsoff. Oct. 35. 
in a triumphant afsembly, to extol the incompara- 
ble deeds of their founder ; but knowing what great 
abilities are necefsary to compose an adequate ora- 
tion, they have hitherto been silent. For of: this 
hero is to be related what is unheard of in others. 
His deeds are unequalled, and there exist no equal 
examples in eloquence, by imitating which, thought 
may safely plunge into their depth and multitude. 
At last however, it is ‘deemed better to be found — 
wanting in eloquence than destitute of gratitude ; 
better to declare sentiments ornamented with since- 
rity, and originating in zealous simplicity, than a- 
mid triumphant acclamations remain silent ; particu- 
larly, when the most high Lord of triumphs has ex- 
alted ours, by giving in the person of our young 
grand duke Paul Petrowitz*, a secure pledge of his 
divine favour, which we acknowledge in prolonging 
the posterity of Peter; we are bound therefore, re- 
prefsing timid doubts, and giving way to zealous 
boldnefs, to employ, or rather exhaust our whole 
force in the praise of our hero. 
Having engaged in this undertaking, where fhall 
,i begin my discourse? From his personal excellen- 
cies , from the superiority of his strength? These 
appear in his arduous labours: labours innumerable. 
From his staturef and heroic countenance united 
with majestic beauty ? But besides many effigies that 
* The present grand duke. v. 
{ 
> Peter was about seven feet high. | 
