― [v] ―
DEDICATION
TO
MRS. W——.
― _______ ―
DEAREST MADAM,
WELL knowing your dislike to publicity, I refrain from the display of a name which I am proud to own as one of the first on my
list of friends; but I cannot forbear endeavouring to convince you, that I have not forgotten the many kind attentions I received
from yourself and all your amiable family during your stay in England.—On the first of May, I crowned yourself "its bright
and peerless queen," and no sooner were you
― vi ―
invested with regal honours, than, in return, you created me
your Laureat—a distinction which SOUTHEY himself might envy me. As a trifling testimony of gratitude, therefore, dear Madam, for
that, and every other gracious act, I offer to your acceptance the following Poem, only wishing it were more deserving of
such a Patroness;—and, with every sentiment of respect, believe me always,
LONDON,
January 2d, 1815.
Dearest Madam,
Your obliged, grateful, and devoted,
ELIZA S. FRANCIS.
― [vii] ―