16 
INTRODUCTION. 
for the display of their natural powers, 
the double aim I had in view by the pub- 
lication of the present work will be accom- 
plished, in aid of which, I have culled, from 
favourite authors, such poetic illustrations 
as appeared to me most favourable to the 
object I had so much at heart. 
In the selection of vocalists to adorn the 
work, it was my original intention to have 
portrayed the natives of my own country 
only, but there were so many sweet foreigners 
staring me in the face — seemingly to im- 
plore their share of admiration and notice, 
that I could not resist their humble plea; 
more especially as they enforced it with a 
chorus of their finest notes. 
Fair Reader, such as it is I offer it unto 
thee ; and, generous critic, be indulgent — 
be merciful. 
" For me, when I forget the darling theme, 
Whether the blossom blows, the summer ray 
