TO THE SHADE OF FRANKLIN. 



SHADE OF FRANKLIN", shade of that excel- 

 lent man whose entire life was devoted to useful 

 research, whose sole aim was to ameliorate the 

 condition of his fellow-beings, and who, while he 

 shielded us against the fire of heaven, taught us 

 how to moderate the fire of our passions, thou it 

 is that I invoke. 



A dedication to the living is a petition for pro- 

 tection, and none knew better than thou that flat- 

 tery is the child of selfishness. It is in order to 

 avoid such a stumbling-block that I call upon 

 thee, O generous shade ! 



Protect my feeble essay, which, if it be not 

 eloquent, may at least be useful, a higher merit 

 still : protect my vine, and cause it so to thrive 

 that I shall soon be able to pour forth upon thy 



