# The Gentleman's Magazine/Volume 1/Issue 2/A View of the Weekly Essays

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THE Gentleman's Magazine: FEBRUARY, 1731.
A View of the Weekly Disputes and Essays in this Month.
Grub-street Journal. Feb. 4. No.57.
Concordia discors. Luc.
THE Author of this Journal having (No. 51.) in a discourse read to the society, by Wm Bickerfaff, Esq; exposed the common Almanack-makers, by giving a Scheme of their widely differing predictions of the weather for the month of January, as therefore not founded on the rules of art, had subjoin'd and opposed to them Mr Bickerstaff's learned calculations, and call'd on his readers to attend the fulfilling of them: in this paper he takes notice of their exact completion, and sets Mr Bickerstaff's predictions for Feb. against those of 17 common Almanacks, that the reader may judge more easily who is in the right; promises to purfue the same method to the year's end, and a compleat Almanack for 1732 by that gentleman, under the title of, The Grub-street Almanack.
Next, a letter inserted from a correspondent, containing critical observations on Musick, particularly as performed by Organists in Churches, ironically remarks, that they zealously endeavour by the gaiety of their preformances to dissipate that drowsy disposition which good christians are apt to sink into on such occasions. For half an hour together they divert their auditors by scouring up and down the whole compass of the organ, and skipping from one subject to another, till they have given us a different air in every key of the Gamut.
Gives this further reason in defence of the organ-loft; that by this means the pretty gentlemen and fine ladies below, are reliev'd from the danger they were in of growing hideously dull, and an opportunity given them of displaying their fine tastes and rings.
Takes especial notice of their tuning the Psalm; for in the middle of a word, Mr Tweedledumdee forgets the tune, and entertains us with the scrap of a song, or a masquerade dance, to the confusion of the audience; when the next verse, perhaps of confession or deprecation, shall be introduced by Lillebolero, or Jumping Joan.
But their tip-top flourish is reserv'd for the farewel. Here they justly judge, that a pleasant touch is as necessary as a merry epilogue after a dull play; and acquit themselves so facetiously, that we are soon eas'd of any irksome impressions receiv'd from the pulpit.
Concludes, that Church-musick, if rightly manag'd, is capable of raising the noblest hints in the mind, and filling it with the most sublime and worthy conceptions; whilst by this means ​our pleasure and duty might be made to accompany one another; our virtue wou'd be improv'd in proportion to our delight; and a more vigorous and lively devotion created in the heart, than the best form of words without its assistance could effect.
From the Evening Post, Thursday, Feb. 4. No. 3362.
THE Proprietors of this antient paper, to oblige their readers, have added an entertainment called, The Templer, which being design'd for publick amusement, we think ourselves oblig'd to take notice of it, viz.
The Templer, No. 1.
BEgins with mentioning several difficulties that attend his undertaking, but desires the reader to suspend his judgment of the work for a time, and, according as he acquits himself to condemn or absolve him. Next, he gives an account of himself, says, he is nephew, by the mother's side, to the Templer, whom the Spectator mention'd as his intimate friend: that he was educated at the University, and arrived in town when his uncle was a member of that Club; he accompanied Sir Roger in his morning-walks, drank tea with Will. Honeycomb, and smoked a pipe with the Spectator himself.
On the dissolution of that society, his uncle, the Templer, betook himself to close study, but soon after quitted both business and town, and retired to his estate in the country, where he continued writing for his own amusement several essays, as subjects occasionally presented themselves: these he bestow'd on our author, to enable him to undertake a work of this kind, and intended him farther assistauce, but is since dead.
Promises more particulars of his own life and character, and concludes with an invitation to gentlemen of wit and capacity, to second his endeavours with their assistance.
The free-Briton, Thursday, February 4. No 62.
Farther considerations on the late proceedings against the agents of the Craftsman
THE Craftsman having blacken'd the acts of power, which had been exercis'd on his agents, as acts of oppression, the Free Briton in this paper, enters the lists with him in defence of the measures taken by the Government against him and them.
The Craftsman having admitted that the writers for the Government do not contend for any Act of Parliament to restrain the Liberty of the Press, but only for confining this Liberty to narrower bounds, our author allows his complaint to be just; for he insisted on confining every writer to truth, and debarring them from a latitude of lying, without which, he says, the Craftsman could not subsift a week longer.
The Craftsman says, that the privilege we enjoy of examining all matters of religion and government, would be of no advantage to us, if it was confined to panegyrick, and we were not allow'd the liberty of censuring men in power. But our author replies, that he only contends against the abuse of enquiry, by the introduction of defamatory lies.
He proceeds to answer the Craftsman's arguments relating to the opposition and difficulties which the treaty of Seville has met with. Says, that we have suffer'd nothing by delay; the Emperor is more embarassed, his troops wearied; his treasures exhausted; Italy loaded and oppressed; all which con tribute to make the treaty of Seville daily more practicable.
The current of advices having run very strong in favour of a general accommodation, the Craftsman publish'd his Hague-letter, in which he insinuated vile things of the ministry and their negotiations, for which he had no ​vouchers in any paper of intelligence, either foreign or domeftick, and without any foundation in the publick opinion. He first broach'd the scandal, and then makes it his justification that it obtained in publick; and this credulity is become the sanction of falsehood.
The Craftsman pretended to justify himself by saying, that he had only suggested and not asserted. But, says the Free Briton, At this rate we shou'd have a new method of lying, and falsehood might circulate by a sly reservation.
The Craftsman had quoted the King's speech to prove a tendency to an accommodation with the Emperor; but this will not justify him, for the King declares, That unanimity and joint concerted measures is the present case with him and all his allies.
The Craftsman, Saturday Feb. 6. No. 240.
A continuation of remarks on Q. Elizabeth's Reign, from the minutes of Mr. Oldcastle.
HE says, she consider'd herself Q. of a country separated from all others, except Scotland, and conducted herself accordingly.
This reign is an instance that an island may enjoy peace and prosperity while the continent is fill'd with alarms, and wasted by war. The means and objects born of defence and offence are different as they regard an island and the continent, according to their different situations. A navy is necessary to the former, but barrier towns, and standing armies to the latter.
An island has no business with the affairs of the continent, only as a friendly neighbour and a fair trader.
With respect to the continent, Q. Elizabeth made the fewest engagements she possibly could, nor mingled her interests or counsels with theirs, but did both with those of Scotland.
But since the union of the two kingdoms we are one nation, one government, and must have one common interest; and consequently 'tis in our power to take the entire advantage of our situation, and make ourselves be beloved and respected by those who would maintain the just balance of Europe, and be formidable to those who would break it.
Concludes with some reflections on free and arbitrary government, and says, that Q. Elizabeth never wanted power, was supported by the spirit of liberty, and overcame that of faction.
Fog's Journal, Sat. February 6. No. 124.
THIS Journal continues remarks on a pamphlet relating to the Hessian Troops, which, he grants, is not so scurrilous as other writings on the same side. Endeavours to refute several things advanced by the author; particularly his account of the additional forces rais'd by the allies in consequence of the treaty of Hanover, viz. that France increas'd her forces with 30,000 men, and put herself to a considerable expence in auxiliary stores; that in the convention made between the allies of Hanover and the Danes, it was agreed by France to take 12000 Danish troops into her pay, in case of a war; and that 8000 men were rais'd and added to the troops of Great Britain.
Next he confiders some reflections of the author upon the conduct of the imperial ministers; who however, he says, found means to bring the K. of Prussia off from the Hanover alliance, to unite with the Emperor, and also on several occasions to disappoint our good understanding with Russia; which Fog ironically observes did not happen by reason of any unskilfulness, want of knowledge, or address in our ministers; but that old father Time was in the imperial interest.
The London Journal, Sat. Feb. 6. No. 601.
Complains of the present method of managing national controversies, in which truth and decency are so little regarded, and such preference given to personal altercations. Allows, if the Craftsman has the right he claims of examining all matters of religion and government, it does not follow that he has a right to abuse the government.
The Craftsman had insisted that he had as much right to reason on supposition as Mr Osborne. He grants it in like cases, but not in this. Osborne had suppos'd, that one of our allies might insist upon the executing the treaty of Seville in a manner not consistent with the real interest of the other allies; or they might all agree to wait another year for the Emperor's consent; these suppositions were highly probable. On the contrary the Craftsman suppos'd, that we were going to make a treaty with the Emperor, which he asserted could not be done without perfidy and infraction of treaties, and violation of faith. This supposition was but barely probable, that there was any treaty on foot, and absolutely impossible to know what the treaty was, yet such a knowledge was necessary to support the Craftsman's charge of violating treaties, &c. Reason will allow to argue upon supposition in favour of a single person, or a kingdom, but never against them, especially from common report. The practice of the Greeks and Romans was different, who punish'd their subjects for publishing a piece of news pernicious and dishonourable to the common wealth, tho' true.
Orborne quotes the Craftsman as allowing that a reconciliation at Vienna is the most eligible, and most desirable measure, but expressing his apprehensions that it may be attended with great difficulties; and querying, Whether it was not more practicable before the Treaty of Seville was concluded? Osborn replies, No; a way must first be found to divide the Emperor and Spain, which was effected by the treaty of Seville.
Read's Journal, Sat. Feb. 6. No. 307.
OBserves first, that the notion of the passions and desires of mankind being naturally vicious, is absurd, and a high reflection on the wisdom of our Creator; they are good or bad as more or less regulated by reason.
Says, 'tis ridiculous and wicked to go to astrologers to enquire into future events; yet adds, that the desire of prying into futurity, is a principle, if well applied, highly commendable.
Providence acts by second causes; and the same events have been produced by the same means in all ages.
Thales had studied rational philosophy, the course of nature, and the influence of the heavenly bodies; but his learning was derided, because it brought him no money. He refuted this error thus: Foreseeing that olives would be blasted the next year, he preserved a great quantity, which in the scarcity enrich'd him.
An inattention to the regular course of things, cannot have but a suitable event.
The author approves the saying of Jezebel to Jehu,—Had Zimri peace, who slew his master?
The government of France was once almost as free as ours; but Lewis XI. and succeeding Princes, thought their prerogative lessen'd by a dependance on the law, wherefore contriving to abolish it, faction increased upon 'em, and they were embarassed with seditions.
The Ld Morton in Scotland invented a new engine to cut off traytors head's called a Maiden, and suffer'd by it himself.
The Ld Strafford inveighed vehemently against former ministers, and ​the arguments he us'd were turn'd against him with such advantage, as to take off his head.
Concludes with making this last a general maxim.
The Traveller, Feb. 6. No. 22.
Observations on an edition of Milton, publish'd in the Year 1729.
THE restoring of the text of a valuable author to its original sense and reading, is a work of merit, if not undertaken by one unequal to such a task. The Traveller, in this paper, has pointed out a few specimens of the ignorance, want of taste, and silly officiousness of Mr. Fenton in his corrections of Milton, as in the lines following,
Injudiciously alter'd by the editor thus:
In the sixth Book,
The editor would read,
This is a trifling criticism, and not warranted by any copies.
In the tenth Book Adam says,
Perhaps it should be, says the editor,
This is ridiculous.
In the 11th Book, Adam speaking of the Rainbow says,
Mr. Fenton says, perhaps it should be read Bow.
This remark shows more pedantry than judgment, and loses the beauty of the word, which carries so grand an image with it.
All the various readings of this editor are either mean or trifling, wherefore he laments the privilege that rich booksellers have of putting it in the power of any ignorant editor to murder the finest authors.
The Weekly Register, Sat. Feb. 6. No: 43.
An Essay on TASTE in general.
TAste is a peculiar relish for an agreeable object, by judiciously distinguishing its beauties; is founded on truth, or verisimilitude at least; and is acquired by toil and study, which is the reason so few are possessed of it. Nothing is so common as the affectation of, nor any thing so seldom found as Taste. Bad principles of education; an ill choice of acquaintance, the ignorance of instructors, and our prejudices, all contribute to the confirmation of this evil. So much depends on a true Taste, with regard to eloquence, and even morality, that no one can be properly stil'd a gentleman who takes not every opportunity to enrich his own capacity, and settle the elements of Taste, which he may improve at leisure. It heightens every science, and is the polish of every virtue; the friend of society, and the guide to knowledge; 'tis the improvement of pleasure, and the test of merit; it enlarges the circle of enjoyment, and refines upon happiness; it distinguishes beauty, and detects error; it obliges us to behave with decency and elegance, and quickens our attention to the good qualities of others: in a word, 'tis the assemblage of all propriety, and the centre of all that's aimiable.
Truth and beauty include all excellence, and, with their opposites, are ​the objects of cenfure and admiration. The rightly distinguishing of them is the proof of a good Taste, to acquire which we must be impartial in our enquiry, cool in our judgment, quick to apprehend, and ready to determine what is an error, and what a beauty. Beauties have been censured, thro' the want of understanding, and errors extoll'd, because in the masque of truth.
Observes further, that a good Taste is not confin'd only to writings, but extends to painting and sculpture; comprehends the whole circle of civility and good manners, and regulates life and conduct as well as theory and speculation: but now a days, instead of it, pertness passes for wit; dulness for decorum; lewdness for humour; dissimulation for honour; and vanity for every accomplishment.
Says, that the entertainments on the stage and the behaviour of the pit, are too strong proofs of the degeneracy of Taste since Mr. Addison's time, The gaming-table, and the royal diversion at New-market, are the ambition of the majority; and the rest prefer Senesino to Shakespear, as the highest proof of modern politeness.
The Templer Sat. Feb. 6, No. 2.
Tom's Coffee-house Covent Garden.
THE Templer says, he constantly frequents this place for the sake of the agreeable mixture of good company that meet there.———the Wit, the Politician, and the Beau, may be severally entertained in their respective ways.
Describes the characters and conversation of Ned Courtal, and Marforio. Courtal is a man of gallantry and pleasure; intrigue dress and diversions are his chief occupations; delights in musick and is a subscriber to the opera. Marforio is a man of learning, penetration and sagacity; with an exactness of taste, and receives no pleasure unwarranted by his judgment, and has no ear for musick; attacks Courtal on his favourite diversion the opera. Says, nothing is so absurd or unnatural as a drama set to musick; that 'tis monstrous to have all manner of persons, in all situations, perpetually accompanied with the regular responses of symphony; is sick to see a Cæsar, a Scipio, or an Alexander, intent upon crochets, to keep in with the fiddles, and come well off at a close.
To this Courtal replies, that sense has nothing to do at an opera; musick is the business, and nothing more is expected there; and that one may as well find fault with a fine woman for not understanding Mathematicks, or a courtier for not speaking Greek. That musick is as expressive as words, and quotes Dryden, who tells us of a musician, who, by his harmony, could command every passion of the mind; that if he is wrong in his notion, he had rather be happy with the foolish, than discontented with the wise; and that refining too much upon pleasure, destroys it.
The Templer moderates this dispute, by questioning whether a little sense would be prejudicial to the sound of an instrument; and if notes by themselves have that force of expression, might they not receive an additional advantage from a sett of well-chosen words?
The Grubstret Journal, February 11. No. 58.
BY the fashion, figure, and colour of the cloaths, we may form a judgment of the sentiments and qualities of the mind.
Fantasticalness in dress, if introduced by a foreign nation, presages the bringing in the politicks and religion of that nation. Political and religious garments nearly resemble the artificial, being as often changed as the weather suits.
About the latter-end of Queen Anne's reign, a rev. gentleman wrote a treatise call'd, A farewel to French kicks, of which our Journalist gives his rea​ders an abridgment. The author of it dissuades his countrymen from the use of French fashions, since we have a right, power and genius to supply our selves. The imitation of modes, he says, is a tribute paid to some virtue; as to valour, beauty, or to a superior skill in arts and sciences. As to valour the French claimed no preheminence over us, the victories we had obtain'd at that time being too fresh in their memories. The Britons have distinguish'd themselves in this particular. We us'd the Ruff and Fardingal while the Spaniards were highest in reputation; and when France, by our assistance, prevail'd over 'em, we very complaisantly pursued the French thro' many extravagant varieties: but when a war became necessary with France, we disus'd their exotick modes, and our fashions were commodious and graceful.
Beauty, he reckons, as the next quality in directing the modes, which he describes as a sweet reflexion of light, arising from the connexion and aptitude of the parts. Two sorts of it, of national and universal. As to the first, gives a description of a beauty peculiarly French, as to the second, points out the Britons. Opposes a certain likeness, or figure among the French to the beautiful of either kind, which he represents as the symbol of capering, with the knees touching, and the ankles a foot and a half distance from one another, with a broad codebeck, an immense peruke, and an old lac'd coat.
A third quality which influences the modes, is a superior skill in arts and sciences. Depreciates the French poetry, eloquence, knowledge in medals, musick and painting, when compared with the inimitable performances of other nations.
The author proceeds to consider some pleas made in behalf of the French. First as to modes, that they have ever excell'd us in a copiousness and variety of fancy. This is to be imputed to the encouragement given to French taylors, who are priviledg'd with inscribing a new-fashion'd garment to a great man, as an author does a book. Another plea is the civility of the French. To which 'tis answer'd, that they show it when we praise their country, and disregard or undervalue our own. Their third plea is the cheapness of their workmanship: the reason of which is, our workmen find it difficult exactly to imitate the French; as they do to imitate us. Their last plea is, that they exceed all others in vivacity of Temper. This is allow'd, if signifying no more than an impertinent alertness.
The author goes on to make some remarks upon dress, which respect either the head or the body. The attire of the head is either natural, or such as seems so; or additional. The antients used to signify strength by short, bristly hair and effeminacy by long. The French, on the contrary, dress the man in the longest hair, and the woman with hardly any. Allows the French to have succeeded in the female head-dress. Says, there cannot be a better likeness of a Magdalen than a French lady in a state of compunction.
The attire of the body is purely additional.
In the last place takes notice of the qualities requisite to set off dress; such as vivacity in conversation, without levity or impertinence; a beautiful aspect; a just stature, and a genius to dispose the habit according to its proper attitude.
The Templer, Tuesday, February 9. No. 3.
BEgins with observing, that treatises have been wrote concerning rules of argumentation, for the use of combatants in theological, political, or philosophical controversies, ​but never met with any Logick calculated for the service of poetical disputants.
Says, that argument has nothing to do with taste and perception. Controversies in poetry commonly arise more from the consideration that the merit of a piece is unquestionable, than that it is dubious. A poet, undeniably superior, excites the jealousy of his brethren, who, not able to rife to his heighth, would bring him down to a level with themselves; so, the poet, not his performance, occasions the disputes: that, in these cafes, the wit lying all on one side, without some extrinsical helps on the other, must inevitably bear all down before it. The arguments therefore on these occasions are of two kinds, such as relate to the person, or the character of the antagonist. The first is deduced from the topick of the cudgel, and called argumentum bacillinum. This he owns, is not always successful, because an adversary does not always submit to such correction, and the law may shew its resentment.
Another method may be used, that is, of turning the person into ridicule, and exposing his deformity, or natural imperfections, which in a figurative sense may be called threshing.
As to character, the surest way is to track the most private parts of it. If this do's not do, we may expose him to contempt, by examining into his birth and family, and make him the son of a Parish-Clerk, a Popish-Priest, Pettifogger, an Exciseman, or a Tinker, or Filius populi, which signifies that he had no father at all.
Poverty is another topick, which entitles the bearer of it to contempt. But observes, that this weapon in poetical hands may be apt to recoil.
If these attacks should fail, his name may be tortur'd by anagrams, acrosticks, or derided in puns, quibbles, and conundrums.
Grecian Coffee-houfe, Feb. 8.
Takes notice of the srange fondness the world has for a new humour, which they are never tired of till it surfeits. Instances in the Beggar's Opera, and the inundation of ballad-opera's that succeeded it. Tragedies and comedies sink in esteem, and all the play-houses subsist by Ballads and Harlequins. This custom of jading a humour is the high-road to absurdity and folly. When the fancy of verses in burlesque first began in France, it grew to such a heighth, that a book was printed, entitled, La passion de notre Sauveur en vers burlesque.
The Templer, Feb. 16. No. 4.
COmmunicates a letter from Philocœnus, advising the Templer to treat of the excellence, beauty, dignity, pleasure and happiness of virtue.
Observes, that as in particular persons, so with regard to the gross of mankind, in every age there prevail some certain disposition or humour that possesses the minds of the majority, and becomes the characteristick of the times.
In the days of our Norman ancestors the Taste in vogue was eating and drinking, Hospitality was politeness, and an open house as great a distinction of honour, as now a coach and six with half a score liveries.
In the succeeding time the love of arms became the prevailing humour. The care of the beau was in brightening his armour; the management of the lance made way to the heart of the fair; and tilts, justs and tournaments supply'd the place of plays, of operas and masquerades.
At the reformation the taste of the age was turned toward learning. Ladies read Horace, and courtiers understood the classicks; wits study'd grammar, and kings became authors.
In Oliver's time we became a nation of saints. The way to esteem and respect was to give proofs of being regenerate; the judge, general, minister and beau were alike obliged to be gifted in prayer; and ​all Affairs trivial or serious, publick or private, were transacted in the Name of the Lord.
Upon the Restoration, Wit and Intrigue usurp'd the Dominion. Ministers of State became Wits, and Wits Ministers; a Play was more regarded than a Treaty of Peace, and keeping a balance with a set of Mistresses of greater consequence than the Tranquillity of Europe.
Something of each of these humours we still retain, but the reigning taste lies towards Avarice and Luxury. Riches are Merit; an Estate Learning and South Sea Stock, Wit. Want is the only Folly, and Poverty the only Vice. Concludes with advising the Templer to pick and cull out the most select passages from learned Authors to embelish his Work.
The Templer thanks his Correspondent, and gives us a specimen:
Eudamidas of Corinth, had an intimate friendship with Charixenus, and Aretheus. He was poor, they rich; he made his Will and bequeathed to Aretheus the maintenance and support of his Mother in her old Age; to Charixenus, the marriage of his Daughter, with a suitable Portion; that if either of the said Legatees should die, the whole to devolve to the survivor. At his death the Executors readily accepting their respective Legacies, and discharg'd their Trust to admiration.
The Templer, Feb. 13. No. 5.
THE Temple, he says, is convenient for two of the most opposite sorts of people; those who have the most, and those who have the least to do. These Societies were instituted; to serve as Colleges for Students and professors of the Law, tho' now inhabited by such as have no business at all. Here a Poet and a Pleader, a Beau and a Counsellor, a Rake and a Serjeant, dwell together in the same Stair Case, without ever knowing, or perhaps seeing one another.
These Reasons induced the Templer to reside here, as the most retir'd. His Family consists of an old Servant, a Laundress, and an old tabby Cat. Thus he is a kind of Philosopher in practice, and a Man of Business in Theory; and tho' he is neither Lawyer, Physician, Statesman, or Divine, yet, as it falls in his way, may make observations on each of those Professions. Cautions his readers to be careful of mistaking his Name, and that he is a Lawyer only in Theory, and a Templer in nothing but residence.
Tom's Coffee house Covent Garden.
Gives an account of a conversation which he had with Marforio, and of his advising him to enlarge his design, so as to comprehend all that may relate to the improvement of Taste and Politeness in Men or Writings, Characters and Passions, Vice, Folly and Dress; whether in the Closet of the Beau, or the Assemblies of the Ladies.―Here Ned Courtal put in, and bid him beware how he was misled into any attempts against the Ladies, for,
London Journal, Saturday, Feb. 13. No. 602.
IS a Letter from Givicus, congratulating Mr. Osborne on the service he had doen his Country by defending the Administration against the attempts of artful and wicked Men, and desiring him to suspect his Labours of that kind for the present, in behalf of another publick spirited design.
The subject of his Discourse is the multitude of Beggers, and the many Villanies and Robberies committed in this City; the threats of Incendiaries, and those threats actually executed: Boys of 7 or 8 years old, taken in robing a Shop; and some of 13 or 14, robbing in the Streets.
A few years since, London was as remarkable for the safety of its Inhabitants, as it is now notorious for the danger Persons are exposed to who ​walk the Streets after ten at Night. Imputes the cause of these Evils to the number of our Poor, which he divides into two Classes. First, those who are absolutely incapable of working. Secondly, those who are able, but not willing. The first sort are real Objects of Charity, but ought not to be suffered to wander the Streets, exposing their distorted Limbs, and filthy Sores, such fights being frequently attended with the worst consequences to Women with Child.
The second sort of Poor, who are able to work but not willing, are very numerous, and to them, in a great measure, are owing the many Villanies daily committed in the City.
In Paris not a Begger is to be seen. Recommends the Practice of the People call'd Quakers, who maintain none of their Poor in Idleness that are able to work, and suffer none to want that are helpless.
For a Remedy proposes two Methods. First, to oblige the able bodied Poor to Industry. Secondly, to bring up their Children to Labour, not to Learning; and to invent such Punishment for Criminals as may reclaim the Offender, if the Crime is not capital. But the present Punishment for capital Offences has so little solemnity in the manner of it, that it often appears more like a mob-triumph than an execution.
The Universal Spectator, Saturday Feb. 13.
INtroduces his Discourse with observing that a general Neglect, or rather Contempt of Matrimony prevails amongst us, to the great prejudice of the whole Nation; which he illustrates with the humble Petition of Rachel Wishfal, Spinster, Deborah Sprightly, single Woman, Susanna Lovemore, Widow, and 30,000 others, on behalf of themselves, and all the Virgins, Spinsters, Single women, and Widows in Great Britain,
Shewing,
That a multitude of People is the riches and security of a Kingdom; that the means of procuring them has ever been by Matrimony; that the Petitioners are not only duly qualified, but ready to discharge the Duties of it, and thereby enrich their Country: But thro' the neglect and avarice of the Man, who enjoy the sole privilege of professing Love, and proposing Matrimony, are, to their sorrow, left wholly unserviceable to their King and Country; and besides are under great uneasiness of mind for not fulfilling the first command, Increase and Multiply.
The Petitioners therefore desire, Mr. Spectator general to take their case into consideration, and propose some Method to the King and Parliament for their relief.
From this Petition the Spectator takes occasion to observe, that, at a moderate computation, there are, at least, 80,000 Females ripe, and fit for Marriage, in England only; supposes that if but one half of these should prove fruitful, what a noble Recruit would it be for all the Exigencies of State; and recommends it to the Administration as a good piece of Policy to find Husbands for all the Women.
He informs us from History what swarms of Goths and Vandals, Hun, Tartars, Scythians, and other Nations, pour'd in from the North and Eastern Parts, and over ran all Europe; says, this surprising increase of People was owing to the wise management of the Women; for as soon as ever they were fit for Marriage, Husbands were allotted for them, and they were employ'd constantly in breeding for the good of their Country.
A Man among the Jews was exempted from the Wars a whole year after he was married; and nothing was more common among the Romans than for their Censors to impose a heavy fine upon old Batchelors. They highly honour'd Matrimony in giving the precedence to Magistrates who had the greatest number of Children, and several other Privileges.
​Proposes to the Legislature, to enact some Laws to discountenance Celebacy, particularly one to disqualify unmarried Men from holding any Post of Honour, Trust, or Profit, or sitting in either House of Parliament, but in every Parish be oblig'd to serve the Offices of Scavenger and Constable, and nightly keep Watch and Ward about the Houses of married People: That every single Man of the Age of 25, or upwards, on or before the first day of May next, fix his choice on some Woman to be his Wife, on the forfeiture of 10l. then, and 10l. for every year he continues so; exempts those who have not a yearly income of 100l. entire in Estate or Business; and likewise such who can produce Certificates of their inability, or of having suffer'd a refusal from their Mistresses for the space of one whole Year before. That the privilege of Courtship be indulg'd to both Sexes; and that the Man declining to marry the Woman so making known her inclination, unless he be under some prior Engagement, or Inability, shall be deem'd a Batchelor convict, and be fined 10l. That half of the Money so raised, be given as a Reward to such who have the most numerous Offspring, and the other half be apply'd for the support of those who marry purely for Love, and are unprovided of a sufficient Maintenance. [In Answer to this Journal came out the Batchelor's Recantation, &c. Pr. 6 d.
The Craftsman, Saturday, Feb. 13. No. 21.
Contains a Letter from John Freshman, an Oxford Scholar, just arriv'd in town, who wonders that Mr. D'anvers should take the trouble of answering such a stupid old Novice as Mr. Osborne, or such an impertinent young Jackanapes as Mr. Walsingham, and in a formal way advises him to leave these trifling Adversaries to the correction of their equals; so takes up the Cudgels himself: But this Discourse consisting more of Invectives than Argument, we imagin'd our readers would not be pleas'd with such personal altercations.
The Weekly Register, February, 13. No. 44.
DEclares his surprize at the abuses some Gentlemen have met with from reforming Constables. Says, 'tis something like destroying Hereticks for the sake of Religion, and dragooning Men out of their Peace in this World for the sake of their Happiness in another; and adds, that they execute their small power in such a manner as wou'd puzzle a Jury to distinguish it from the insolence of an Highwayman, or the malice of an Assassin.
Agrees, that 'tis the indispensible duty of every Man to conform to the Laws of the Country, yet don't understand that our Constitution allows a set of Ruffians to break into private Companies, and hurry Gentlemen before a Magistrate on a bare suspicion of being criminal; to be committed to Prison over Night, at discretion, only to be discharg'd in the Morning. Grants, that Power is necessary for the Peace of the Community; but no pretence will excuse the least deviation from right and justice.
Observes, that all penal Institutions are intended to remedy a greater Evil; but if the ill consequences are stronger than the Benefits they occasion, they are void of course. Such is the case here; the Design of it was good, but has been perverted to bad uses, of which he enumerates many. Says, a Magistrate is the Mouth of the Law, and if he wilfully errs, is as liable to be prosecuted as the Wretch he condemns, Does not intend to affront the good Magistrate, who, on the contrary, will rejoice to see the Liberties of Mankind asserted, and be ready to engage in the same Cause.
The Grubstreet Journal, Thursday, Feb. 18. No. 59.
MR. Bavius clears up a Passage in an Epigram inserted in one of his former Journals, which had offended some of his Readers. The line referr'd to is this;
This, he says, is so far from a reflection, that it is a complement paid to the Gentlemen of their Society, and marks of Honour given their Members. To prove this, he quotes Kolben's Account of the Cape of Good Hope, and the Custom of the Hottentots initiating a Youth into Manhood, which is in this manner: First, they roundly bedaub him with fat and foot, after which the oldest Man among them pisses with great vigour all over him, which the Youth receives with an eager care; and making furrows with his long Nails in the fat upon his Body, rubs and mixes the piss with the fat. When the old Fellow has dribbled upon him to the last drop, he felicitates him upon the Honour that is done him, and crowns him with many Benedictions which he utters aloud. Then is the young Fellow proclaim'd a Man. The same kind of Honour is made part of the marriage Ceremony, and the Priest pisses upon the Bridegroom and Bride alternately till his whole flock of Urine is exhausted, and then wishes them joy.
They likewise confer the Honour of Knighthood in much the fame manner. One of their Chiefs is deputed to perform the Ceremony, which he does by pissing on him from head to foot; the more Piss the more Honour. Then is the Hero install'd, Knight of the Order of the Piss.
This Ceremony of pissing is again perform'd at their Funerals. Two old Fellows, Friends or Relations of the deceas'd, piss each upon all the Company round 'em, which is receiv'd with the greatest eagerness and veneration.
Concludes with a modern instance of a Rev. Divine, about 20 years ago, who was so highly esteem'd by the fair Sex, that they had their Chamber pots adorn'd with his Picture.
The London Journal, Sat. Feb. 20, No. 603.
THIS Journal is in answer to the Craftsman, No. 241. sign'd Freshman. After having rally'd the Authors of the Craftsman, for their manner of treating their Adversaries with personal Invectives, Mr. Osborne proceeds in reply to Mr. Freshman.
But the Arguments, he here uses, being little more than a recapitulation of the reasons he had before urged, p. 54. we refer our readers thereto.
Universal Spectator, Feb. 20.
IN this Paper the Author treats of good Eating, a fault, he fays, the English are much addicted to. Observes, that till the Flood Mankind had never tasted Flesh, which by many learned Men is reckon'd an unnatural Food: But since the contrary Custom has prevail'd he complies with it, but advises us not to be cruel in its death; nor curious in dressing it. Complains of running a red hot spit through a living Sow, to render the flesh more juicy and sweet, of bruising the Paps of the same Animal when alive, to make it tender; of roasting Lobsters alive, and whipping Pigs to death.
As to the dressing part, he says, the daintiness of our Appetites has made cookery a Science, and the expences of a prety Tradesmen's Kitchen sufficient to have maintain'd the hospitality of an old English 'Efquire.
To this he adds, that nothing contributes so much to the numerous tribe of Pains and Diseases as the Vice of our eating; it dulls the rational Faculties, and oppresses the motions of the Soul.
​Concludes with recounting the advantages of the virtue opposite to this Vice. That Lycurgus oblig'd all the Citizens of Sparta to eat in publick, forbad all Seasonings and Sauces, and did his utmost to prevent Luxury. That the Romans continu'd their grandeur till tainted with this Vice; and that among them to have eat three times a day, was a thing prodigious. That Seneca, tho' worth Millions, was content with a crust of Bread and a draught of Water. And lastly, that as an instance of the Virtue and Vice, Lewis Cornaro, a Venetian, in his Youth was excessively gluttonous, till nature was no longer able to support it, or Physick to supply help; he betook himself to a steady habit of Temperance, by which he recover'd his health, and liv'd to an immense Age.
The Free Brton, Feb. 18. No. 64.
OBserves, that the Authors of the Craftsman have first raised an out-cry against the Administration, and from thence argue, that the Administration is Evil because of that out-cry. Agrees with the Craftsman, that the Reign of Q. Elizabeth is one of the most shining Periods in the English History; but even then there were murmurs and loud outcries against the governing Powers. Libels were written, but are sunk with their Authors into oblivion, except one taken notice of in the writings of the Ld Bacon, where we have a small treatise entitl'd, Observations on a Libel publis'd, anno 1592. The intent of this Libel was to represent the Kingdom in a state of Trouble and Adversity through the weakness or wickedness of the Ministry.
His Lordship acknowledges that the Ld Burleigh was privy to his own Vindication, and was willing that the slanders raised against him might not be passed over in silence.
The Ld Bacon observes, that a Man is not to regard what Libellers affirm or hold; but what they would convey: Then goes on to show what an extravagant and incredible conceit it is, to imagine that one Counsellor shou'd be able to direct all the Actions of State, that had passed during the Queen's whole Reign, or that he was able to make all the World his Instrument; altho' the same thing is now suggested by the Craftsman. Another Artifice in that Libeller, was in magnifying the Strength and Multitude of the Enemies of the State. This method of raifing Disaffection against the Government, says our Author, is exactly copy'd by the Craftsman now.
Again, the ancient Libeller exclaims against the Lord Burleigh for bringing his Son Sir Robert Cecil to be of the Council, who had neither Wit nor Experience (a Calumny); the Craftsman in the same manner reviles the present Ministry for employing their Relations, whom he represents (as falsely) to be the errantest Blunderers and Ideots the World ever saw.
The Templer, Feb. 20. No. 6.
THE Subject that the Templer treats of in this Paper, is the folly of boasting what a Person was formerly, who is of no use at present. Illustrates this in several examples of his acquaintance, who formerly were celebrated for their Knowledge in divers Arts and Sciences, who at present are entirely ignorant of all.
Among the fair Sex, he says, there were numbers who were good for something formerly. Acantha, formerly excell'd in dancing; Melintha was famous for Complexion; Dictiana had the finest Shape; but at present, neither of them has the least pretence to either. Obadiah Greenkat, he says, reckons among his Acquaintance ten quondam Raphaels, and as many Phidiases, five Archimedeses, three Homers, and two Amphions, who have out liv'd their knowledge, and at present know nothing of Painting, Scripture, Architecture, Geometry, Poetry, or Musick.
Concludes with a Letter from a Correspondent who calls himself Nestor, ​who gives an account of the vast progress he made in his Youth in all parts of Learning, and his readiness in attaining every Science; but having retir'd into the Country, and forgot all, desires the privilege of telling what he was, and not what he is.
Craftsman, Feb. 20. No. 242.
HAving in his Paper No. 240, finished his Remarks on the Reign of Q. Elizabeth, in this confiders the management of Affairs under K. James I. Takes notice, that on his accession to the Throne of England, he had the advantage of the example of his Predecessor; that Experience as well as Reason pointed out to him the sole Principle on which he could safely establish his Government, but that he paid as little Regard to her Example, as he did to her Memory; that he seem'd to expect the Love, and demand the Obedience of his Subjects, meerly because he was King; that he pursu'd a particular, separate Interest of his own, whilst be neglected a Union with his People, which he made impracticable by transgressing the bounds prescrib'd him by our Constitution. Interest and Duty, he says, are indivisibly united, and that he who sins against one, sins against the other. Concludes with promising to be more particular in his Remarks another time.
Read's Journal, Feb. 20. No. 309.
HIS Correspondent Crato begins his Letter with confessing himself an Enemy to the unmeaning Productions of modern Authors.
Finds fault with the present Methods of educating young Gentlemen at a Boarding School, where the two chief branches of Knowledge inculcated are French and Dancing.
That considering the prevailing sentiments of the times, he is surpriz'd to find that a Medal has been struck at the Tower in Honour of Sir Isaac Newton.
He proceeds to draw an Encomium on the Abilities of this great Man, his vast Genius and Capacity for the Mathematicks, and unbounded knowledge in the Principles of things, and Phænomena of Nature. Concludes with part of a Poem in his Praise, as follows.
Fog's Journal, Sat. Feb. 20. No. 126.
IN this Journal Fog treats of popular Discontents, which Parasites, he says, maintain, are inseparable from good Government.―Tells us from Machiavel, That the Multitude is generally more judicious than Princes themselves, especially in the choice of Favourites. Quotes the translator of Tacitus, who says, That when a just Administation is once settled, and become familiar to the People, and no violent Innovations attempted, they will not be apt to disturb it, or wish it ill; that they are slow to resist, and bare a thousand hardships before they return one. That 'tis a miserable infatuation of Men in Power, to push that Power, and the People's patience so far as either will go, and leave no room for a retreat. That Men in limited Authority are apt to covet more, and when they have gain'd more, to take all.―The People, who aim chiefly at Protection and Security, are content to keep what they have, nor seek to interfere in Matters of Power, till Power has attempted to rob them of Liberty and Right. Lastly, That perhaps the People are accounted bad, for adhering stubbornly to their Liberties and Laws; that to rail on them for this, is to make them a high Complement and a severe contumely upon ​their Governors, namely, that they would be Oppressors, but their People are too virtuous and brave to let them.
The Weekly Register, Sat. Feb. 10. No. 49.
THE Register, after having set forth the Duty and Authority of a good Justice of the Peace, and given a particular of the great Good and many Benefits that may be justly expected from his superior Knowledge and Power, observes, there is such a thing as political Hypocrisy, as well as Religious. Remembers, that some time ago the People of Ireland detected a nest of these political Hypocrites; a set of Justices was prosecuted there for trespassing on their Authority. Hence the Name of a Justice was as formidable as that of an Inquisition, and as contemptible as that of a Bailiff.
Wishes such a Circumstance may never be ours; but if it should, he would call upon all the Rights of a Briton to his assistance; and, if in vain, would bewail the Constitution he cou'd not defend.
Concludes with saying, that the most effectual way to reform the Community, and do Honour to the Magistracy together, would be to distinguish Men of Education, Fortune and Integrity, by Commissions: Men who from a Love of their Country, would accept of the Employ, and discharge it in a manner suitable to that Principle; so the dignity of the Bench would be maintain'd, and a Justice of Peace, be but a more significant Name for a Man of Honour.
The Traveller, Saturday, Feb. 10. No. 23.
MAkes some Remarks on two Passages in a Pamphlet called, The Case of the Hessian Forces, &c. The first of which, That it is extreamly probably the introduction of six thousand Spaniards into Italy, will be follow'd by Invasions on the Emperor's Dominions, he denies, and says, that common Policy would teach Don Carlos, not to kindle a War where he is to establish his Throne. The second is, where the Author speaks of the Duty of the Elector of Hanover, and the Prince of Hesse Cassel, as Members of the Germanic Body; for which the Traveller rebukes the Author, and says, those Princes know their Obligations to the Emperor, better than to want such an impertiment Scribbler's Instructions.
He next gives us a Supplement to the Life of the Emperor Maximilian II. relating to his Behaviour towards Bucer, a learned Man, who was imprison'd by the Elector of Saxony, for declaring he believ'd in Jesus Christ as God and Man; and for denying the real Presence in the Sacrament.
Maximilian being inform'd of it, and acquainted with the Man, ask'd the Elector whose Prifoner Bucer was and why kept from the Society of Men? The Elector reply'd, I am resolv'd to force him to an Agreement with my own Clergy, in controverted Points of Religion. To which the Emperor answer'd, I never dared nor desired to use any force in matters of Faith, and what relates to the Consciences of Men: I am sensible how vain is the endeavour, and how grievous and dangerous the Consequence.
The Elector then produc'd a letter seiz'd among Bucer's Papers, wherein the Emperor's actions were canvass'd with some freedom; but he return'd it back very calmly with these words, Nothing is said of us but what is true.
Eye-Doctor, Thurs, Feb. 16. No. 10.
COntains a Letter written by Abdel Meles, a Turkish Physician attending the Turkish Nobleman here to his Friend Hamet Ben Omer, as Sentari, near Constantinople, dated ​the 1st of the 2d Moon of the Year 1731, and of the Hegira of the venerable Prophet 1128.
Among other things he informs his Correspondent, that we have in London our Ali Patrons, our snarlers in Politicks, who grin for a Wager at the Administration; there is a grinning Match every Saturday at the English Minister, between two Scribes, called Fog and Caleb; they are practis'd to grin at him as the Scotch Tutor said to his Pupil, when he taught him to speak extempore, Gern Jony; gern again, Jony.―These Gentlemen, he says, are exactly of the Temper of Ali Patron, (ring-leader of the Rebels in the late Insurrection in Turkey) and would copy his Freaks; he flourish'd a Flag, you know, in the great Market place of Constantinople, and bid all the true Believers, that is, such as would believe him, follow him. These Apes of Ali Patron flourish a sheet of foul Paper to muster up their patch'd Battalions of tag, rag, and bob-tail; that Sheet is called a Journal, and they have done penance in it more than once already.
Tells him, that the imitators of Ali Patron here, as well as the People, are damp'd at the intelligence of the unforeseen Destruction in which he involv'd himself and multitudes of his Admirers and Abettors throughout the whole City of Constantinople.
Imagines himself to be among his Brother Turks, and therefore calls all by his own Country Names. Says, the Divan here is compos'd of standing and occasional Memers; Mahomet Fog, and Muly Caleb, are the two writing Clerks to it: Muly Caleb has wrote lately against Pensions, tho' Rustan R-sh-t, Bajazet B-k-e, Pesteli P-t-y, and many others at this very day pension their two Amanuenses, and the Book of their Pay was found with their Hands to it.
That the Kaimachan of London, call'd the L-d M-r, brews the best Beer and the worst Politicks; only with this good quality, that they are rather flat than sour. There was a Clause preparing for the Senate by Ibrahim S-ys, Ognet Ognon T-n-l, and Hagdi W-d-m, that none who had Places in the Government, or received his Majesty's Stipends, should sit in P———t; which was very modestly telling the King, that those whom he judg'd his best Friends, deserv'd to be turn'd our of the House. The English P———t, by its native Constitution, consisted of none but Pensioners; for every Member was to be allow'd a Payment from his Borough, or County. That they who have clamour'd most against Pensions, ever practis'd, and now would be the first that would accept them; they decry them for being out of their reach. That, was even the Suggestion of buying Votes true, Caleb's Party have been considerable Jobbers in that Market; they were arch Wags upon what they call'd Ear-knots; yet they have been fairly jocky'd and dismounted; it was once a Cant amongst them, That no Citizen thought his Goods the worse, because they were paid for.
Proceeds to consider the word Pension in its utmost Latitude, and concludes with a humourous Description of Capt. Tom, one of the supposed Authors of the Craftsman.
The Grubstreet Journal, Thursday Feb. 25. No. 60.
MR. Bavius, in his Journal, entertains his Readers with some Animadversions on a late Performance, call'd Harlequin Horace. Makes mighty merry with the Frontispiece, Title-page, and Dedication, which, says the Grub-street Secretary, is a malicious Ridicule on [Mr. R———ch] an eminent ​member of our society, as well for his own marvelous and delectable compositions; as for the encouragement he has given our brethren, whereby many excellent pieces have been made publick; is was also notorious for the opprobium, it occasionally throws on some other worthy patrons and brethren, such as the sweet savour'd Mr. Heydegger, the Rev. and modest Mr. Henley, and the witty Dr Zoilus. He adds the book is much worse, tho' it had met with unmerited success. Then quotes several verses, and from thence takes occasion to satyrize other dramatick performances, that have been lately introduced upon the stage;
The last couplet he quotes, is,
Confesses, that upon consulting the book of martyrs, he does not find any member of their society amongst them, their brethren always discreetly concluding, that whenever either senfe or religion begun to pinch them, they were immediately to be thrown off, like a straight pair of shoes.
Free Briton, Thursday, Feb. 25. No. 65.
IN this paper the author considers the natural relation of his Majesty's German dominions to the interests of Great Britain. As they are no parcel of the British Crown, nor sway'd by our laws, so they are not entitled to our protection: but as a country in friendship with us, as a barrier against popery, they deserve our support and assistance.
Holland, he says, is a part of our national care, as a bulwark against the princes of the continent, that the King of Great Britain, as Elector of Hanover, can protect this useful and inseparable ally from the attempts of the princes of the Lower Circles of the Empire.
Observes, that K. William thought the house of Hanover, and their dominions, highly serviceable to the liberties of Europe.
That the Act of Settlement is no argument against the truth of his assertion.
That it seems to have been the opinion of the legislature, that a prince succeeding to a great kingdom possess'd of foreign dominions, would rather make the interests of the lesser country subservient to the greater, than the greater to the less.
That the legislature made themselves judges of this interest by limiting the prerogative, and by restraining the King from engaging in any war on account of foreign dominions without the consent of parliament, not that he should never engage in any at all.
That K. James I. was stigmatiz'd with infamy for suffering the Palatine Electorate to be swallow'd up in pursuance of the ban of the Empire.
That the case with respect to the Electorate of Hanover is the same, and more justly claims our care, than ever the Palatinate did. 'Tis a protestant Electorate, threatned by the same power, with the fame usage, and on our account.
That in all our quarrels with the Emperor he will most likely execute his vengeance on such of our allies as are nearest to him, which are this Electorate, and the Dutch republick.
As to the objection of keeping up an army for the defence of an ally, when he was not invaded, he answers, that Q. Elizabeth did the same in the Netherlands, at and after the war between the Dutch and Spaniards.
Refers these objectors to the present state of Sweden, whose King, as Landgrave, never suffers his Hessian and Swedish interests to interfere.
Quotes an argument from a pamphlet, entitled, Considerations on the ​present state of affairs in Europe where the author supposes That if any of our allies were attack'd, whether the Hanover allies would concern themselves in the defence of the ally so attacked? That it would be most absurd to suppose the British Parliament would not defend the foreign dominions of their own Sovereign, as well as those of any other ally; and still more unaccountable would it be, if the King should not, as Elector, find the same assistance from the British nation as he would be sure of having, if he were Elector only, and not King.
The Universal Spectator, Sat. Feb. 27. No. 125.
TAkes for the subject of his discourse, the prayer of Socrates, That the Gods would give him such things themselves know to be most convenient and best for him. Intimating how ignorant mortals are of their own real wants, and what is proper for them to ask of Heaven.
Happiness, he says, is the pursuit of all; but we are so bewilder'd by our passions and ignorance, that with out divine assistance, it is impossible to attain it; that we mistake our own good, and eagerly pursue our sure destruction.
Says, that we have one certain rule to go by, that is, to follow close the steps of virtue.
That the dispensations of providence in giving prosperity to the wicked, and distress to the virtuous, tho' by some reckon'd irregular and unaccountable, yet on a near view we shall find the appearances are fallacious, and that those who are accounted the most happy, are commonly the most miserable.
To illustrate this, quotes a fable from M. De la Motte,―A wretch, says he, that by casting his eyes and his wishes on the circumstances of others, grew uneasy with his own, and wearied heaven with his complaints; Jupiter, to content him, took him up to his store-house, where the fortunes of all mankind stood sealed up in bags, and bid him chuse among them all.———The man, with all his strength, lifted up the first, that of supreme command, in which were conceal'd tormenting cares, but could not support the burden. He try'd a second and a third, but were all too ponderous for his shoulders. At last he lays hold of one lighter than the rest, and desired he might have that.———Take it, says Jupiter, and enjoy it, for indeed it's thy own, and learn from hence never to complain of providence.
Weekly Register, Feb, 27. No. 51.
FAlls upon the Grubstreet Journal, says, 'tis an easy transition from reforming constables to the authors of the Grubstreet; that they both seem to be of the same character, and act on the same principles.
Takes notice, that the first part of their entertainment generally consists of a lampoon, or some little private story. This province is given to Mr Bavius; observes, there is a weekly collection of scurrility, with the fundamental laws of the fociety, deposited in an ass's head at the upper end of the club-room, in opposition to the lyon's head at Button's. When any man is to be call'd names, no body, he says, does it more couragiously than Mr Bavius. Puns and conundrums fall to the share of Mr Quibus; and gentle Mr Poppy is the journalist of the club. Thus assifted, Mr Bavius begins his invective, or panegyrick; for 'till the piece be finish'd, 'tis hard to determine which 'twill prove. This uncertainty, he says, was occasion'd by an author, who desir'd them to recommend his work to the publick, by writing a satyr upon it: for if they condemn'd it, the world would judge it had merit.
Mr. Poppy writes the occurrences of the club. Mr. Quibus is employ'd in making sage remarks, and sprightly witticisms on the common articles of news.
​Lastly, sets forth the method they use of dealing out their labours to the publick. To this purpose they adorn their Journal with prints, that the decoration may atone for other deficiencies, and children admire what men would not read.
Fog's Journal, Sat. Feb. 27. No. 127.
THIS Journal consists of Quotations taken from an author who wrote in K. William's time, some of which are as follows, viz.
The virtues requisite for those qualify'd to handle matters of Government, must have their foundation in virtue, wisdom, and Courage. He whose natural endowments of mind are not sufficient to foresee a long while before, what may be the event of a councel, cannot consult safety for his country; he, who upon all occasions, only consults what interest such, or such an affair will bring to himself, will never give sound advice.
No man can be virtuous or wise for the publick good, without a rich talent of the mind and a virtue which warmly embraces the liberty honour and interest of his country, the want of which some have supply'd by momentary shifts, and short remedies.
Unskilful medlers count it supreme wisdom to answer any single necessity, never regarding whether the manner of doing it, be safe, just or honourable.
Machiavel could never relish that maxim of enjoying the present benefit of time.
Cardinal Richlieu says, it is the duty of ministers to represent to their masters, that 'tis mere necessary to confider the future than the present; that the prevention of an evil is better than the remedy.
Lastly, If in future times, England shou'd have any cause to believe that the treasure of the publick has been embezel'd, if affairs shou'd ever happen to be in confusion and disorder, nothing but the legislative authority will be able to bring any effectual help to set us right, and restore us.
Applebee's Journal, Sat. Feb. 27.
COntains a letter from J. Cant, describing the folly of an old lecher, and the wanton pride of a young prostitute in an instance which he saw at the play-house, where he observ'd an old gentleman very officious in his care of a young girl of fifteen, whom he suppos'd to be his daughter; but enquiring into his character, found that in his youth he had been a kind husband and a tender father; but now nature declined, was grown vicious, and keeps this young creature for his mistress. The girl, is the daughter of one of his intimate acquaintance, who knows it, courted it, gave his consent with the same readiness, as if he had given her in marriage.
Such is his immoderate love of gold, that the sacrifice of his daughter he reckons but a trifle. She, silly and ambitious, sees her old lover's fortune can support her pride, and to that sacrifices her virtue, and every other valuable consideration.
She is imperious to her servants and usurps a saucy sway over the young gentlemen; is so excessively vain presumptuous and giddy, that she is become as odious as despicable to all her acquaintance. She is the common contempt, scorn and abhorrence of all that know her, and having left no room for pity or compassion, every tongue talks liberally and loudly of her infamy.
He then makes some serious reflections on the preceding account. Says, How ridiculous does the grey, hoary head, look bending and ducking it self in mimick bows of courtship and wantonness, to a girlish wench!
The London Journal, Sat. Feb. 27. No. 604.
MR. Osborne, in this paper, attacks the Craftsman, No. 242. Grants that in that paper, which begins the reign of the Stuarts, he has laid down ​some principles which are true: That in a country of freedom, or in a limited monarchy, there may be a faction for the crown, as well as against it. And, to know which is the factious side, we need only enquire, which side is for preserving, and which for altering the constitution. But observes, that the faction in those days was generally for the crown; as it is now against it. Charges Mr. Oldcastle with nonsense and infamy, in saying, That the spirit of liberty, and the British constitution, will, he hopes, remain clear of all imputations.
Declaims against Mr Oldcastle's manner of treating the persons of dead Kings with decency, and scandalously traducing the character of a living Prince.
Next, he guards the people against Mr Oldcastle's false application of true principles.
Lastly, observes that the assertion that the people are on their side, is false; because the people of England are free, examine more, and know more than other people in the world, and are, upon examination, less attach'd to the writings of the Craftsman.
The Craftsman, Saturday Feb. 27. No. 243.
IN this Journal, Mr. D'anvers resumes the topick which he has often treated of, namely, the liberty of the press. Declares he is pleased with some passages, which he quotes, in a Book intitled a Letter to Cleomenes, King of Sparta from Eustace Budgel, Esq; relating to the same subject, in which the author shews the manner in which the Athenians exercised this privilege. The author of this book says, he never heard but that in those Countries, where men are the greatest slaves they might write as much, and in what manner they pleased, upon any subjects but Religion and Politicks: Illustrates his argument with sundry examples. The first he gives, is, of Timoleon, who after the prodigious services which he had done his Country, was publickly traduced by one Demanetus of Syracuse; which, when Timoleon was informed of, he declared in a transport of joy that the Gods had at last, granted him the greatest favour they could have conferr'd upon him, since it had been the constant subject of his prayers, that the Syracusans might enjoy so perfect a state of liberty, that every Man amongst them might Speak freely and with impunity', what ever he thought of another.
Themistocles, after his great successes becoming cruel indolent, and rapacious was attack'd by Timocreon the poet, who charged him; that for three Talents, he call'd Men from banishment; murder'd others, and became profligate enough to laugh at his own Villanies.
The Athenian writers took the same liberty with Pericles, but the tyrant, tho' possessed of the supreme power, durst not destroy this branch of liberty, tho' he had trampled upon every other part of it. The comick poet brought him upon the stage in almost every play, and made no scruple to expose his ridiculous schemes and politicks.
Cleon and Alcibiades, in the height of their power, by the Athenian Wits and Writers; one of whom, says the author, drawing the character of an avaricious, and rapacious Man, in his play, had made him say, that he valued his money more than his country or friends. The Athenians were so offended with this sentiment that they were going to leave the theatre; when the author stept out from behind the scenes, and entreated them that they would only stay to see that villain thoroughly punish'd, who was capable of uttering such a sentence. They did so, and were satisfied with the poetical juftice that was executed upon the wretch.