( iv ) 



pal grounds on which I rest my hope, that the work, notwith- 

 standing its imperfections, will be found not unworthy of 

 being patronized by a Prince, whose happiness consists in pro- 

 moting that of his subjects. 



On this occasion I cannot but express the deep regret I 

 feel at the decease of that excellent member of Your Royal 

 Highness's cabinet, the Conde de Linhares, whose goodness 

 and greatness of mind encouraged every pursuit tending to 

 the public advantage, with a zeal which true patriotism alone 

 could inspire. Had he lived, I might have presumed on his 

 receiving these pages with that kind and friendly partiality 

 which ever distinguished his conduct towards me. Bereft of 

 that Nobleman's protection, I stand unsupported before Your 

 Royal Highness, to whose patronage I submit this work, as a 

 testimonial of the high respect with which I have the honour 

 to be 



Your Royal Highness's most obliged 



and most humble servant. 



JOHN MAWE. 



