[399]With respect to the claim of priority, or who first denounced the injustice and horrors of slavery, we believe the following is a correct historical narrative on this important subject.The celebrated De Las Casas (born at Seville in 1474, and who accompanied Columbus in his voyage in 1493) was so deeply impressed with the cruelties and oppressions of slavery, that he returned to Europe, and pleaded the cause of humanity before the Emperor Charles V. This prince was so far moved by his representations as to pass royal ordinances to mitigate the evil; but his intentions were unhappily defeated. The Rev. Morgan Godwyn, a Welshman, is the next in order. About the middle of the last century, John Woolman and Anthony Benezet, belonging to the society of Friends, endeavoured to rouse the public attention. In 1754, the Society itself took up the cause with so much zeal and success, that there is not at this day a single slave in the possession of any acknowledged Quaker in Pennsylvania. In 1776, Granville Sharp addressed to the British public his "Just Limitation of Slavery," his "Essay on Slavery," and his "Law of Retribution, or a Serious Warning to Great Britain and her Colonies." The poet Shenstone also wrote an elegy on the subject, beginning:—"See the poor native quit the Lybian shores," &c. &c.Ramsey and Clarkson bring down the list to the time of Cowper, whose indignant muse in 1782 poured forth his detestation of this traffic in his poem on Charity, an extract of which we shall shortly lay before the reader. The distinguished honour was, however, reserved for Thomas Clarkson, to be the instrument of first engaging the zeal and eloquence of Mr. Wilberforce in the great cause of the abolition of the Slave Trade. The persevering exertions of Mr. Fowell Buxton and those of the Anti-slavery Society achieved the final triumph, and led to the great legislative enactment which abolished slavery itself in the British colonies; and nothing now remains but to associate France, the Brazils, and America, in the noble enterprise of proclaiming the blessings of liberty to five remaining millions of this degraded race.
[399]With respect to the claim of priority, or who first denounced the injustice and horrors of slavery, we believe the following is a correct historical narrative on this important subject.
The celebrated De Las Casas (born at Seville in 1474, and who accompanied Columbus in his voyage in 1493) was so deeply impressed with the cruelties and oppressions of slavery, that he returned to Europe, and pleaded the cause of humanity before the Emperor Charles V. This prince was so far moved by his representations as to pass royal ordinances to mitigate the evil; but his intentions were unhappily defeated. The Rev. Morgan Godwyn, a Welshman, is the next in order. About the middle of the last century, John Woolman and Anthony Benezet, belonging to the society of Friends, endeavoured to rouse the public attention. In 1754, the Society itself took up the cause with so much zeal and success, that there is not at this day a single slave in the possession of any acknowledged Quaker in Pennsylvania. In 1776, Granville Sharp addressed to the British public his "Just Limitation of Slavery," his "Essay on Slavery," and his "Law of Retribution, or a Serious Warning to Great Britain and her Colonies." The poet Shenstone also wrote an elegy on the subject, beginning:—
"See the poor native quit the Lybian shores," &c. &c.
Ramsey and Clarkson bring down the list to the time of Cowper, whose indignant muse in 1782 poured forth his detestation of this traffic in his poem on Charity, an extract of which we shall shortly lay before the reader. The distinguished honour was, however, reserved for Thomas Clarkson, to be the instrument of first engaging the zeal and eloquence of Mr. Wilberforce in the great cause of the abolition of the Slave Trade. The persevering exertions of Mr. Fowell Buxton and those of the Anti-slavery Society achieved the final triumph, and led to the great legislative enactment which abolished slavery itself in the British colonies; and nothing now remains but to associate France, the Brazils, and America, in the noble enterprise of proclaiming the blessings of liberty to five remaining millions of this degraded race.
[400]The trial of Warren Hastings excited universal interest, from the official rank of the accused, as Governor-General of India, the number and magnitude of the articles of impeachment, the splendour of the scene, (which was in Westminster Hall,) and the impassioned eloquence of Mr. Burke, who conducted the prosecution. The proceedings were protracted for nine successive years, when Mr. Hastings was finally acquitted. He is said to have incurred an expense of £30,000 on this occasion, a painful proof of the costly character and delays of British jurisprudence. Some of the highest specimens of eloquence that ever adorned any age or country were delivered during this trial; among which ought to be specified the address of the celebrated Mr. Sheridan, who captivated the attention of the assembly in a speech of three hours and a half, distinguished by all the graces and powers of the most finished oratory. At the close of this speech, Mr. Pitt rose and proposed an adjournment, observing that they were then too much under the influence of the wand of the enchanter to be capable of exercising the functions of a sound and deliberate judgment.
[400]The trial of Warren Hastings excited universal interest, from the official rank of the accused, as Governor-General of India, the number and magnitude of the articles of impeachment, the splendour of the scene, (which was in Westminster Hall,) and the impassioned eloquence of Mr. Burke, who conducted the prosecution. The proceedings were protracted for nine successive years, when Mr. Hastings was finally acquitted. He is said to have incurred an expense of £30,000 on this occasion, a painful proof of the costly character and delays of British jurisprudence. Some of the highest specimens of eloquence that ever adorned any age or country were delivered during this trial; among which ought to be specified the address of the celebrated Mr. Sheridan, who captivated the attention of the assembly in a speech of three hours and a half, distinguished by all the graces and powers of the most finished oratory. At the close of this speech, Mr. Pitt rose and proposed an adjournment, observing that they were then too much under the influence of the wand of the enchanter to be capable of exercising the functions of a sound and deliberate judgment.
[401]The poet addressed some complimentary verses on this occasion to Mr. Henry Cowper, beginning thus:— "Cowper, whose silver voice, tasked sometimes hard," &c. Henry Cowper, Esq. was reading clerk in the House of Lords.
[401]The poet addressed some complimentary verses on this occasion to Mr. Henry Cowper, beginning thus:— "Cowper, whose silver voice, tasked sometimes hard," &c. Henry Cowper, Esq. was reading clerk in the House of Lords.
[402]Private correspondence.
[402]Private correspondence.
[403]The date having been probably written on the latter half of this letter, which is torn off, the editor has endeavoured to supply it from the following to Mrs. King.
[403]The date having been probably written on the latter half of this letter, which is torn off, the editor has endeavoured to supply it from the following to Mrs. King.
[404]Private correspondence.
[404]Private correspondence.
[405]We here beg particularly to recommend the perusal of the Memoirs of Mrs. Hannah More. They are replete with peculiar interest, not only in detailing the history of her own life, and the incidents connected with her numerous and valuable productions, but as elucidating the character of the times in which she lived, and exhibiting a lively portrait of the distinguished literary persons with whom she associated. The Blue Stocking Club, or "Bas bleu," is minutely described—we are present at its coteries, introduced to its personages, and familiar with its manners and habits. The Montagus, the Boscawens, the Veseys, the Carters, and the Pepyses, all pass in review before us; and prove how conversation might be made subservient to the improvement of the intellect, and the enlargement of the heart, if both were cultivated to answer these exalted ends.
[405]We here beg particularly to recommend the perusal of the Memoirs of Mrs. Hannah More. They are replete with peculiar interest, not only in detailing the history of her own life, and the incidents connected with her numerous and valuable productions, but as elucidating the character of the times in which she lived, and exhibiting a lively portrait of the distinguished literary persons with whom she associated. The Blue Stocking Club, or "Bas bleu," is minutely described—we are present at its coteries, introduced to its personages, and familiar with its manners and habits. The Montagus, the Boscawens, the Veseys, the Carters, and the Pepyses, all pass in review before us; and prove how conversation might be made subservient to the improvement of the intellect, and the enlargement of the heart, if both were cultivated to answer these exalted ends.
[406]See Poem on Charity.
[406]See Poem on Charity.
[407]These verses were set to a popular tune, for the purpose of general circulation, and to aid the efforts then making for the abolition of the slave-trade.
[407]These verses were set to a popular tune, for the purpose of general circulation, and to aid the efforts then making for the abolition of the slave-trade.
[408]The slave trade was abolished in the year 1807; declared to be felony, in 1811; and to be piracy, in 1824.
[408]The slave trade was abolished in the year 1807; declared to be felony, in 1811; and to be piracy, in 1824.
[409]The following lines from Goldsmith's "Traveller," have always been justly admired, and are so much in unison with the verses of Cowper, quoted above, that we feel persuaded we shall consult the taste of the reader by inserting them."Fired at the sound, my genius spreads her wing,And flies where Britain courts the western spring;Where lawns extend that scorn Arcadian pride,And brighter streams than famed Hydaspes glide!There all around the gentlest breezes stray,There gentle music melts on every spray;Creation's mildest charms are there combined,Extremes are only in the master's mind.Stern o'er each bosom reason holds her state,With daring aims irregularly great.Pride in their port, defiance in their eye;I see the Lords of human kind pass by;Intent on high designs, a thoughtful band,By forms unfashioned, fresh from Nature's hand;Fierce in their native hardiness of soul,True to imagined right, above control;While e'en the peasant boasts these rights to scan,And learns to venerate himself as man."The celebrated Dr. Johnson once quoted these lines, with so much personal feeling and interest, that the tears are said to have started into his eyes.—SeeBoswell's Life of Johnson.
[409]The following lines from Goldsmith's "Traveller," have always been justly admired, and are so much in unison with the verses of Cowper, quoted above, that we feel persuaded we shall consult the taste of the reader by inserting them.
"Fired at the sound, my genius spreads her wing,And flies where Britain courts the western spring;Where lawns extend that scorn Arcadian pride,And brighter streams than famed Hydaspes glide!There all around the gentlest breezes stray,There gentle music melts on every spray;Creation's mildest charms are there combined,Extremes are only in the master's mind.Stern o'er each bosom reason holds her state,With daring aims irregularly great.Pride in their port, defiance in their eye;I see the Lords of human kind pass by;Intent on high designs, a thoughtful band,By forms unfashioned, fresh from Nature's hand;Fierce in their native hardiness of soul,True to imagined right, above control;While e'en the peasant boasts these rights to scan,And learns to venerate himself as man."
"Fired at the sound, my genius spreads her wing,And flies where Britain courts the western spring;Where lawns extend that scorn Arcadian pride,And brighter streams than famed Hydaspes glide!There all around the gentlest breezes stray,There gentle music melts on every spray;Creation's mildest charms are there combined,Extremes are only in the master's mind.Stern o'er each bosom reason holds her state,With daring aims irregularly great.Pride in their port, defiance in their eye;I see the Lords of human kind pass by;Intent on high designs, a thoughtful band,By forms unfashioned, fresh from Nature's hand;Fierce in their native hardiness of soul,True to imagined right, above control;While e'en the peasant boasts these rights to scan,And learns to venerate himself as man."
The celebrated Dr. Johnson once quoted these lines, with so much personal feeling and interest, that the tears are said to have started into his eyes.—SeeBoswell's Life of Johnson.
[410]"In the seventh year thou shalt let him go free from thee. And when thou sendest him out free from thee, thou shalt not let him go away empty." Deut. xv. 12, 13.
[410]"In the seventh year thou shalt let him go free from thee. And when thou sendest him out free from thee, thou shalt not let him go away empty." Deut. xv. 12, 13.
[411]It is computed that there are two millions of slaves belonging to the United States of America; a similar number in the Brazils; and that the remainder are under the control of other governments.
[411]It is computed that there are two millions of slaves belonging to the United States of America; a similar number in the Brazils; and that the remainder are under the control of other governments.
[412]The force and beauty of this passage will be best understood by the following statement. A slave, of the name of Somerset was brought over to England from the West Indies, by his master, Mr. Stewart. Shortly after, he absented himself, and refused to return. He was pursued and arrested, and by Mr. Stewart's orders forcibly put on board a ship, the captain of which was called Knowles. He was there detained in custody, to be carried out of the kingdom and sold. The case being made known was brought before Lord Chief Justice Mansfield, in the Court of King's Bench, June 22, 1772. The judgment of Lord Mansfield, on this occasion, was as follows:—"A foreigner cannot be imprisonedhere, on the authority of any law existing in his own country. The power of a master over his servant is different in all countries, more or less limited or extensive; the exercise of it therefore must always be regulated by the laws of the place where exercised. The power claimed by this return was never in usehere. No master ever was allowedhereto take a slave by force, to be sold abroad, because he had deserted from his service, or for any other reason whatever. We cannot say the cause set forth by this return is allowed or approved ofby the laws of this kingdom, and therefore the man must be discharged." "In other words," says a report of the case, "a negro slave, coming from the colonies into Great Britain, becomes ipso facto Free."
[412]The force and beauty of this passage will be best understood by the following statement. A slave, of the name of Somerset was brought over to England from the West Indies, by his master, Mr. Stewart. Shortly after, he absented himself, and refused to return. He was pursued and arrested, and by Mr. Stewart's orders forcibly put on board a ship, the captain of which was called Knowles. He was there detained in custody, to be carried out of the kingdom and sold. The case being made known was brought before Lord Chief Justice Mansfield, in the Court of King's Bench, June 22, 1772. The judgment of Lord Mansfield, on this occasion, was as follows:—"A foreigner cannot be imprisonedhere, on the authority of any law existing in his own country. The power of a master over his servant is different in all countries, more or less limited or extensive; the exercise of it therefore must always be regulated by the laws of the place where exercised. The power claimed by this return was never in usehere. No master ever was allowedhereto take a slave by force, to be sold abroad, because he had deserted from his service, or for any other reason whatever. We cannot say the cause set forth by this return is allowed or approved ofby the laws of this kingdom, and therefore the man must be discharged." "In other words," says a report of the case, "a negro slave, coming from the colonies into Great Britain, becomes ipso facto Free."
[413]With what feelings of deep gratitude ought we to record the final emancipation of eight hundred thousand Negroes, in the West India Colonies, by an act which passed the British legislature, in the year 1834, dating the commencement of that memorable event from the first of August. The sum of twenty millions was voted to the proprietors of slaves, as a compensation for any loss they might incur. Mr. Wilberforce was at this time on his dying bed, as if his life had been protracted to witness this noble consummation of all his labours. When he heard of this splendid act of national generosity, he lifted up his feeble hands to heaven, exclaiming, "Thank God, that I have lived to see my country give twenty millions to abolish slavery."The noble grant of the British and Foreign Bible Society (to commemorate this great event) of a copy of a New Testament and Psalter to every emancipated negro that was able to read, deserves to be recorded on this occasion. The measure originated in a suggestion of the Rev. Hugh Stowell. It was computed that, out of a population of eight hundred thousand negroes, one hundred and fifty thousand were capable of reading, and that an expenditure of twenty thousand pounds would be necessary to supply this demand.Forty tons cubic measure of New Testaments were destined to Jamaica alone.The Colonial Department was willing to assist in the transfer, but the Government packets were found to be too small for this purpose. It is greatly to the honour of some ship-owners, distinguished for their benevolence and public spirit, in the city of London, that they offered to convey this valuable deposit, free of freightage and expense, to its place of destination. The sum of fifteen thousand pounds was eventually contributed.
[413]With what feelings of deep gratitude ought we to record the final emancipation of eight hundred thousand Negroes, in the West India Colonies, by an act which passed the British legislature, in the year 1834, dating the commencement of that memorable event from the first of August. The sum of twenty millions was voted to the proprietors of slaves, as a compensation for any loss they might incur. Mr. Wilberforce was at this time on his dying bed, as if his life had been protracted to witness this noble consummation of all his labours. When he heard of this splendid act of national generosity, he lifted up his feeble hands to heaven, exclaiming, "Thank God, that I have lived to see my country give twenty millions to abolish slavery."
The noble grant of the British and Foreign Bible Society (to commemorate this great event) of a copy of a New Testament and Psalter to every emancipated negro that was able to read, deserves to be recorded on this occasion. The measure originated in a suggestion of the Rev. Hugh Stowell. It was computed that, out of a population of eight hundred thousand negroes, one hundred and fifty thousand were capable of reading, and that an expenditure of twenty thousand pounds would be necessary to supply this demand.Forty tons cubic measure of New Testaments were destined to Jamaica alone.The Colonial Department was willing to assist in the transfer, but the Government packets were found to be too small for this purpose. It is greatly to the honour of some ship-owners, distinguished for their benevolence and public spirit, in the city of London, that they offered to convey this valuable deposit, free of freightage and expense, to its place of destination. The sum of fifteen thousand pounds was eventually contributed.
[414]Private correspondence.
[414]Private correspondence.
[415]Cowper's books had been lost, owing to his original illness, and his sudden removal to St. Alban's.
[415]Cowper's books had been lost, owing to his original illness, and his sudden removal to St. Alban's.
[416]Private correspondence.
[416]Private correspondence.
[417]Lady Balgonie.
[417]Lady Balgonie.
[418]Dr. Ford was Vicar of Melton Mowbray, well known and respected, and a particular friend of Mr. Newton's.
[418]Dr. Ford was Vicar of Melton Mowbray, well known and respected, and a particular friend of Mr. Newton's.
[419]The author of this work proved to be Miss Hannah More.
[419]The author of this work proved to be Miss Hannah More.
[420]Well known for his celebrated works, on the "Being and Attributes of God," and the "Evidences of Natural and Revealed Religion."
[420]Well known for his celebrated works, on the "Being and Attributes of God," and the "Evidences of Natural and Revealed Religion."
[421]They were, after all, never appropriated to that purpose.
[421]They were, after all, never appropriated to that purpose.
[422]The interests of commerce were too much at variance with this great cause of humanity not to oppose a long and persevering resistance to its progress in parliament. Though Mr. Pitt supported the measure, it was not made a government question.
[422]The interests of commerce were too much at variance with this great cause of humanity not to oppose a long and persevering resistance to its progress in parliament. Though Mr. Pitt supported the measure, it was not made a government question.
[423]Thoughts on the Manners of the Great.
[423]Thoughts on the Manners of the Great.
[424]Private correspondence.
[424]Private correspondence.
[425]Private correspondence.
[425]Private correspondence.
[426]For his version of Homer.
[426]For his version of Homer.
[427]Mr. Gregson was chaplain to Mr. Throckmorton.
[427]Mr. Gregson was chaplain to Mr. Throckmorton.
[428]He alludes to engravings of these two characters, which had acquired much popularity with the public, especially Crazy Kate, beginning,"There often wanders one, whom better days," &c. &c.
[428]He alludes to engravings of these two characters, which had acquired much popularity with the public, especially Crazy Kate, beginning,
"There often wanders one, whom better days," &c. &c.
[429]Mrs. Montagu.
[429]Mrs. Montagu.
[430]The Blue-stocking Club, or Bas-bleu.The following is the account of the origin of the Blue-stocking Club, extracted from Boswell's "Life of Johnson:" "About this time (1781) it was much the fashion for several ladies to have evening assemblies, where the fair sex might participate in conversation with literary and ingenious men, animated by a desire to please. These societies were denominatedBlue-stocking Clubs, the origin of which title being little known, it may be worth while to relate it. One of the most eminent members of these societies, when they first commenced, was Mr. Benjamin Stillingfleet, (author of tracts relating to natural history, &c.) whose dress was remarkably grave, and in particular it was observed thathe wore bluestockings. Such was the excellence of his conversation, that his absence was felt as so great a loss, that it used to be said, 'We can do nothing without theblue stockings;' and thus by degrees the title was established. Miss Hannah More has admirably described aBlue-stocking Club, in her 'Bas Bleu,' a poem in which many of the persons who were most conspicuous there are mentioned."
[430]The Blue-stocking Club, or Bas-bleu.
The following is the account of the origin of the Blue-stocking Club, extracted from Boswell's "Life of Johnson:" "About this time (1781) it was much the fashion for several ladies to have evening assemblies, where the fair sex might participate in conversation with literary and ingenious men, animated by a desire to please. These societies were denominatedBlue-stocking Clubs, the origin of which title being little known, it may be worth while to relate it. One of the most eminent members of these societies, when they first commenced, was Mr. Benjamin Stillingfleet, (author of tracts relating to natural history, &c.) whose dress was remarkably grave, and in particular it was observed thathe wore bluestockings. Such was the excellence of his conversation, that his absence was felt as so great a loss, that it used to be said, 'We can do nothing without theblue stockings;' and thus by degrees the title was established. Miss Hannah More has admirably described aBlue-stocking Club, in her 'Bas Bleu,' a poem in which many of the persons who were most conspicuous there are mentioned."
[431]A large mansion near Newport Pagnel, formerly belonging to Miss Wright.
[431]A large mansion near Newport Pagnel, formerly belonging to Miss Wright.
[432]The Rev. Mr. Powley married Mrs. Unwin's daughter.
[432]The Rev. Mr. Powley married Mrs. Unwin's daughter.
[433]Poor Kate and the Lace-maker were portraits drawn from real life.
[433]Poor Kate and the Lace-maker were portraits drawn from real life.
[434]Mr. Chester, of Chicheley, near Newport Pagnel.
[434]Mr. Chester, of Chicheley, near Newport Pagnel.
[435]Private correspondence.
[435]Private correspondence.
[436]Mr. Henry Cowper, who was reading-clerk in the House of Lords, was remarkable for the clearness and melody of his voice. This qualification is happily alluded to by the poet, in the following lines:—"Thou art not voice alone, but hast besidesBoth heart and head, and could'st with music sweetOf Attic phrase and senatorial tone,Like thy renown'd forefathers,* far and wideThy fame diffuse, praised, not for utterance meetOf others' speech, but magic of thy own."*Lord-Chancellor Cowper, and Spencer Cowper, Chief-Justice of Chester.
[436]Mr. Henry Cowper, who was reading-clerk in the House of Lords, was remarkable for the clearness and melody of his voice. This qualification is happily alluded to by the poet, in the following lines:—
"Thou art not voice alone, but hast besidesBoth heart and head, and could'st with music sweetOf Attic phrase and senatorial tone,Like thy renown'd forefathers,* far and wideThy fame diffuse, praised, not for utterance meetOf others' speech, but magic of thy own."
"Thou art not voice alone, but hast besidesBoth heart and head, and could'st with music sweetOf Attic phrase and senatorial tone,Like thy renown'd forefathers,* far and wideThy fame diffuse, praised, not for utterance meetOf others' speech, but magic of thy own."
*Lord-Chancellor Cowper, and Spencer Cowper, Chief-Justice of Chester.
[437]This essay contributed very much to establish the literary character of Mrs. Montagu, as a woman of taste and learning, and to vindicate Shakspeare from the sallies of the wit of Voltaire, who comprehended his genius as little as the immortal poem of the "Paradise Lost." It is well known how Young replied to his frivolous raillery on the latter work:—"Thou art so witty, profligate, and thin,At once we think thee Milton's Death and Sin."
[437]This essay contributed very much to establish the literary character of Mrs. Montagu, as a woman of taste and learning, and to vindicate Shakspeare from the sallies of the wit of Voltaire, who comprehended his genius as little as the immortal poem of the "Paradise Lost." It is well known how Young replied to his frivolous raillery on the latter work:—
"Thou art so witty, profligate, and thin,At once we think thee Milton's Death and Sin."
"Thou art so witty, profligate, and thin,At once we think thee Milton's Death and Sin."
[438]Mr. Hill.
[438]Mr. Hill.
[439]Private correspondence.
[439]Private correspondence.
[440]Mr. Van Lier was a Dutch minister, to whom the perusal of Mr. Newton's works had been made eminently useful. We shall have occasion to allude to this subject in its proper place.
[440]Mr. Van Lier was a Dutch minister, to whom the perusal of Mr. Newton's works had been made eminently useful. We shall have occasion to allude to this subject in its proper place.
[441]These verses, "On Mrs. Montagu's Feather Hangings," are characterised by elegant taste and a delicate turn of compliment. We insert an extract from them, as descriptive of her evening parties in Portman-square, the resort of cultivated wit and fashion, and so frequently alluded to in the interesting Memoirs of Mrs. More.To the same patroness resort,Secure of favour at her court,Strong genius, from whose forge of thoughtForms rise, to quick perfection wrought,Which, though new-born, with vigour move,Like Pallas, springing armed from Jove—Imagination, scattering roundWild roses over furrow'd ground,Which Labour of his frowns beguile,And teach Philosophy a smile—Wit, flashing on Religion's side,Whose fires, to sacred Truth applied,The gem, though luminous before,Obtrude on human notice more,Like sun-beams, on the golden heightOf some tall temple playing bright—Well-tutored Learning, from his booksDismiss'd with grave, not haughty, looks,Their order, on his shelves exact,Not more harmonious or compactThan that, to which he keeps confinedThe various treasures of his mind—All these to Montagu's repair,Ambitious of a shelter there.
[441]These verses, "On Mrs. Montagu's Feather Hangings," are characterised by elegant taste and a delicate turn of compliment. We insert an extract from them, as descriptive of her evening parties in Portman-square, the resort of cultivated wit and fashion, and so frequently alluded to in the interesting Memoirs of Mrs. More.
To the same patroness resort,Secure of favour at her court,Strong genius, from whose forge of thoughtForms rise, to quick perfection wrought,Which, though new-born, with vigour move,Like Pallas, springing armed from Jove—Imagination, scattering roundWild roses over furrow'd ground,Which Labour of his frowns beguile,And teach Philosophy a smile—Wit, flashing on Religion's side,Whose fires, to sacred Truth applied,The gem, though luminous before,Obtrude on human notice more,Like sun-beams, on the golden heightOf some tall temple playing bright—Well-tutored Learning, from his booksDismiss'd with grave, not haughty, looks,Their order, on his shelves exact,Not more harmonious or compactThan that, to which he keeps confinedThe various treasures of his mind—All these to Montagu's repair,Ambitious of a shelter there.
To the same patroness resort,Secure of favour at her court,Strong genius, from whose forge of thoughtForms rise, to quick perfection wrought,Which, though new-born, with vigour move,Like Pallas, springing armed from Jove—Imagination, scattering roundWild roses over furrow'd ground,Which Labour of his frowns beguile,And teach Philosophy a smile—Wit, flashing on Religion's side,Whose fires, to sacred Truth applied,The gem, though luminous before,Obtrude on human notice more,Like sun-beams, on the golden heightOf some tall temple playing bright—Well-tutored Learning, from his booksDismiss'd with grave, not haughty, looks,Their order, on his shelves exact,Not more harmonious or compactThan that, to which he keeps confinedThe various treasures of his mind—All these to Montagu's repair,Ambitious of a shelter there.
[442]Miss Theodora Cowper.
[442]Miss Theodora Cowper.
[443]General Cowper was nephew to Ashley Cowper.
[443]General Cowper was nephew to Ashley Cowper.
[444]Private correspondence.
[444]Private correspondence.
[445]The Picts were not our ancestors.
[445]The Picts were not our ancestors.
[446]Private correspondence.
[446]Private correspondence.
[447]The credit of having introduced this regulation is due to the late much respected Sir William Dolben, Bart.
[447]The credit of having introduced this regulation is due to the late much respected Sir William Dolben, Bart.
[448]Lord Thurlow, it will be remembered, pledged himself to make some provision for Cowper, if he became Lord Chancellor.
[448]Lord Thurlow, it will be remembered, pledged himself to make some provision for Cowper, if he became Lord Chancellor.
[449]We have elsewhere observed that they never were printed as ballads, but were inserted in his works.
[449]We have elsewhere observed that they never were printed as ballads, but were inserted in his works.
[450]The Miss Gunnings, the daughters of Sir Robert Gunning, Bart.
[450]The Miss Gunnings, the daughters of Sir Robert Gunning, Bart.
[451]Private correspondence.
[451]Private correspondence.
[452]A book full of blunders and scandal, and destitute both of information and interest.
[452]A book full of blunders and scandal, and destitute both of information and interest.
[453]The celebrated seat of Lord Orford, near Richmond, where Lady Hesketh was then visiting.
[453]The celebrated seat of Lord Orford, near Richmond, where Lady Hesketh was then visiting.
[454]The well-known translator of Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History.
[454]The well-known translator of Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History.
[455]Cowper's strictures on Lavater are rather severe; in a subsequent letter we shall find that he expresses himself almost in the language of a disciple. We believe all men to be physiognomists, that is, they are guided in their estimate of one another by external impressions, until they are furnished with better data to determine their judgment. The countenance is often the faithful mirror of the inward emotions of the soul, in the same manner as the light and shade on the mountain's side exhibit the variations of the atmosphere. In the curious and valuable cabinet of Denon, in Paris, which was sold in 1827, two casts taken from Robespierre and Marat were singularly expressive of the atrocity of their character. The cast of an idiot, in the same collection, denoted the total absence of intellect. But, whatever may be our sentiments on this subject, there is one noble act of benevolence which has justly endeared the name of Lavater to his country. We allude to the celebrated Orphan Institution at Zurich, of which he was the founder. It is a handsome and commodious establishment, where these interesting objects of humanity receive a suitable education, and are fitted for future usefulness. The church is shown where John Gaspar Lavater officiated, surrounded by his youthful auditory; and an humble stone in the churchyard briefly records his name and virtues. His own Orphan-house is the most honourable monument of his fame. It is in visiting scenes like these that we feel the moral dignity of our nature, that the heart becomes expanded with generous emotions, and that we learn to imitate that Divine Master, who went about doing good. The Editor could not avoid regretting that, in his own country, where charity assumes almost every possible form, the Orphan-house is of rare occurrence, though abounding in most of the cities of Switzerland. Where are the philanthropists of Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Norwich, and of our other great towns? Surely, to wipe away the tear from the cheek of the orphan, to rescue want from destitution and unprotected innocence from exposure to vice and ruin, must ever be considered to be one of the noblest efforts of Christian benevolence.
[455]Cowper's strictures on Lavater are rather severe; in a subsequent letter we shall find that he expresses himself almost in the language of a disciple. We believe all men to be physiognomists, that is, they are guided in their estimate of one another by external impressions, until they are furnished with better data to determine their judgment. The countenance is often the faithful mirror of the inward emotions of the soul, in the same manner as the light and shade on the mountain's side exhibit the variations of the atmosphere. In the curious and valuable cabinet of Denon, in Paris, which was sold in 1827, two casts taken from Robespierre and Marat were singularly expressive of the atrocity of their character. The cast of an idiot, in the same collection, denoted the total absence of intellect. But, whatever may be our sentiments on this subject, there is one noble act of benevolence which has justly endeared the name of Lavater to his country. We allude to the celebrated Orphan Institution at Zurich, of which he was the founder. It is a handsome and commodious establishment, where these interesting objects of humanity receive a suitable education, and are fitted for future usefulness. The church is shown where John Gaspar Lavater officiated, surrounded by his youthful auditory; and an humble stone in the churchyard briefly records his name and virtues. His own Orphan-house is the most honourable monument of his fame. It is in visiting scenes like these that we feel the moral dignity of our nature, that the heart becomes expanded with generous emotions, and that we learn to imitate that Divine Master, who went about doing good. The Editor could not avoid regretting that, in his own country, where charity assumes almost every possible form, the Orphan-house is of rare occurrence, though abounding in most of the cities of Switzerland. Where are the philanthropists of Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Norwich, and of our other great towns? Surely, to wipe away the tear from the cheek of the orphan, to rescue want from destitution and unprotected innocence from exposure to vice and ruin, must ever be considered to be one of the noblest efforts of Christian benevolence.
[456]Private correspondence.
[456]Private correspondence.
[457]Cowper's fancy was never more erroneously employed. The portrait he here draws of Mrs. King possessed no resemblance to the original.
[457]Cowper's fancy was never more erroneously employed. The portrait he here draws of Mrs. King possessed no resemblance to the original.
[458]The Dog and the Water-Lily.
[458]The Dog and the Water-Lily.
[459]Private correspondence.
[459]Private correspondence.
[460]It was a singular delusion under which Cowper laboured, and seems to be inexplicable; but it is not less true that, for many years, he doubted the identity of Mr. Newton. When we see the powers of a great mind liable to such instances of delusion, and occasionally suffering an entire eclipse, how irresistibly are we led to exclaim, "Lord, what is man!"
[460]It was a singular delusion under which Cowper laboured, and seems to be inexplicable; but it is not less true that, for many years, he doubted the identity of Mr. Newton. When we see the powers of a great mind liable to such instances of delusion, and occasionally suffering an entire eclipse, how irresistibly are we led to exclaim, "Lord, what is man!"
[461]The late Rev. H. Colbourne Ridley, the excellent vicar of Hambleden, near Henley-on-Thames, distinguished for his parochial plans and general devotedness to his professional duties, once observed that the fruit of all his labours, during a residence of five-and-twenty years, was destroyed in one single year by the introduction of beer-houses, and their demoralizing effects.
[461]The late Rev. H. Colbourne Ridley, the excellent vicar of Hambleden, near Henley-on-Thames, distinguished for his parochial plans and general devotedness to his professional duties, once observed that the fruit of all his labours, during a residence of five-and-twenty years, was destroyed in one single year by the introduction of beer-houses, and their demoralizing effects.
[462]This celebrated oak, which is situated in Yardley Chase, near Lord Northampton's residence at Castle Ashby, has furnished the muse of Cowper with an occasion for displaying all the graces of his rich poetical fancy. The poem will be inserted in a subsequent part of the work. In the meantime, we extract the following lines from "The Task," to show how the descriptive powers of Cowper were awakened by this favourite and inspiring subject...... "The oakThrives by the rude concussion of the storm:He seems indeed indignant, and to feelThe impression of the blast with proud disdain,Frowning, as if in his unconscious armHe held the thunder; but the monarch owesHis firm stability to what he scorns,More fixed below, the more disturb'd above."The Sofa.
[462]This celebrated oak, which is situated in Yardley Chase, near Lord Northampton's residence at Castle Ashby, has furnished the muse of Cowper with an occasion for displaying all the graces of his rich poetical fancy. The poem will be inserted in a subsequent part of the work. In the meantime, we extract the following lines from "The Task," to show how the descriptive powers of Cowper were awakened by this favourite and inspiring subject.
..... "The oakThrives by the rude concussion of the storm:He seems indeed indignant, and to feelThe impression of the blast with proud disdain,Frowning, as if in his unconscious armHe held the thunder; but the monarch owesHis firm stability to what he scorns,More fixed below, the more disturb'd above."
..... "The oakThrives by the rude concussion of the storm:He seems indeed indignant, and to feelThe impression of the blast with proud disdain,Frowning, as if in his unconscious armHe held the thunder; but the monarch owesHis firm stability to what he scorns,More fixed below, the more disturb'd above."
The Sofa.
[463]This has already been inserted.
[463]This has already been inserted.
[464]Private correspondence.
[464]Private correspondence.
[465]Mrs. Battison, a relative of Mrs. King's, and at this advanced age, was in a very declining state of health.
[465]Mrs. Battison, a relative of Mrs. King's, and at this advanced age, was in a very declining state of health.
[466]There is a little memoir of Cowper's hares, written by himself, which will be inserted in his works.
[466]There is a little memoir of Cowper's hares, written by himself, which will be inserted in his works.
[467]Private correspondence.
[467]Private correspondence.
[468]Private correspondence.
[468]Private correspondence.
[469]Mr. Greatheed was now residing at Newport Pagnel, and exercising his ministry there.
[469]Mr. Greatheed was now residing at Newport Pagnel, and exercising his ministry there.
[470]Private correspondence.
[470]Private correspondence.
[471]Author of the "Observer," "the West Indian," and of several dramatic pieces.
[471]Author of the "Observer," "the West Indian," and of several dramatic pieces.
[472]Private correspondence.
[472]Private correspondence.
[473]We have already alluded to Mr. Van Lier, a Dutch minister of the Reformed Church, to whom the perusal of Mr. Newton's writings was made instrumental in leading his mind to clear and saving impressions of divine truth. He communicated to Mr. Newton an interesting account of this spiritual change of mind, in the Latin manuscript here mentioned, which was transmitted to Cowper, and afterwards translated by him, and finally published by Mr. Newton. It is entitled "The Power of Grace Illustrated," and will be more particularly adverted to in a subsequent part of this book.
[473]We have already alluded to Mr. Van Lier, a Dutch minister of the Reformed Church, to whom the perusal of Mr. Newton's writings was made instrumental in leading his mind to clear and saving impressions of divine truth. He communicated to Mr. Newton an interesting account of this spiritual change of mind, in the Latin manuscript here mentioned, which was transmitted to Cowper, and afterwards translated by him, and finally published by Mr. Newton. It is entitled "The Power of Grace Illustrated," and will be more particularly adverted to in a subsequent part of this book.
[474]Sir John Hawkins is known as the author of four quarto volumes on the general History of Music, and by a Life of Johnson. The former is now superseded by Burney's, and the latter by Boswell's.
[474]Sir John Hawkins is known as the author of four quarto volumes on the general History of Music, and by a Life of Johnson. The former is now superseded by Burney's, and the latter by Boswell's.
[475]Private correspondence.
[475]Private correspondence.
[476]The unfortunate malady of George III. is here alluded to, which first occurred, after a previous indisposition, October 22nd, 1788. The nation was plunged in grief by this calamitous event, and a regency appointed, to the exclusion of the Prince of Wales, which occasioned much discussion in parliament at that time. Happily the King's illness was only of a few months' duration: his recovery was announced to be complete, Feb. 27th, 1789. Few monarchs have been more justly venerated than George the Third, or have left behind them more unquestionable evidences of real personal piety. The following lines, written to commemorate his recovery, merit to be recorded.Not with more grief did Adam first survey,With doubts perplext, the setting orb of day;Nor more his joy, th' ensuing morn, to viewThat splendid orb its glorious course renew;Than was thy joy, Britannia, and thy pain,When set thy sun, and when he rose again.
[476]The unfortunate malady of George III. is here alluded to, which first occurred, after a previous indisposition, October 22nd, 1788. The nation was plunged in grief by this calamitous event, and a regency appointed, to the exclusion of the Prince of Wales, which occasioned much discussion in parliament at that time. Happily the King's illness was only of a few months' duration: his recovery was announced to be complete, Feb. 27th, 1789. Few monarchs have been more justly venerated than George the Third, or have left behind them more unquestionable evidences of real personal piety. The following lines, written to commemorate his recovery, merit to be recorded.
Not with more grief did Adam first survey,With doubts perplext, the setting orb of day;Nor more his joy, th' ensuing morn, to viewThat splendid orb its glorious course renew;Than was thy joy, Britannia, and thy pain,When set thy sun, and when he rose again.
Not with more grief did Adam first survey,With doubts perplext, the setting orb of day;Nor more his joy, th' ensuing morn, to viewThat splendid orb its glorious course renew;Than was thy joy, Britannia, and thy pain,When set thy sun, and when he rose again.
[477]Private correspondence.
[477]Private correspondence.
[478]The author of the translation of Aristotle.
[478]The author of the translation of Aristotle.
[479]Private correspondence.
[479]Private correspondence.
[480]We insert these verses, as expressive of the loyal feelings of Cowper.ON THE QUEEN'S VISIT TO LONDON,The Night of the Tenth of March, 1789.When, long sequester'd from his throne,George took his seat again,By right of worth, not blood alone,Entitled here to reign!Then Loyalty, with all her lamps,New trimm'd, a gallant show,Chasing the darkness and the damps,Set London, in a glow.'Twas hard to tell, of streets, of squares,Which form'd the chief display,These most resembling cluster'd stars,Those the long milky way.Bright shone the roofs, the domes, the spires,And rockets flew, self-driven,To hang their momentary firesAmid the vault of heaven.So, fire with water to compare,The ocean serves on high,Up-spouted by a whale in air,To express unwieldy joy.Had all the pageants of the worldIn one procession join'd,And all the banners been unfurl'dThat heralds e'er design'd,For no such sight had England's QueenForsaken her retreat,Where George recover'd made a sceneSweet always, doubly sweet.Yet glad she came that night to prove,A witness undescried,How much the object of her loveWas lov'd by all beside.Darkness the skies had mantled o'erIn aid of her design—Darkness, O Queen! ne'er call'd beforeTo veil a deed of thine!On borrow'd wheels away she flies,Resolved to be unknown,And gratify no curious eyesThat night, except her own.Arriv'd, a night like noon she sees,And hears the million hum;As all by instinct, like the bees,Had known their sov'reign come.Pleas'd she beheld aloft portray'd,On many a splendid wall,Emblems of health and heav'nly aid,And George the theme of all.Unlike the enigmatic line,So difficult to spell,Which shook Belshazzar at his wine,The night his city fell.Soon watery grew her eyes, and dim,But with a joyful tear!None else, except in prayer for him,George ever drew from her.It was a scene in every partLike that in fable feign'd,And seem'd by some magician's artCreated and sustain'd.But other magic there she knewHad been exerted none,To raise such wonders to her view,Save love to George alone.That cordial thought her spirit cheer'd,And, through the cumb'rous throng,Not else unworthy to be fear'd,Convey'd her calm along.So, ancient poets say, sereneThe sea-maid rides the waves,And, fearless of the billowy scene,Her peaceful bosom laves.With more than astronomic eyesShe viewed the sparkling show;One Georgian star adorns the skies,She myriads found below.Yet let the glories of a nightLike that, once seen, suffice!Heaven grant us no such future sight—Such precious woe the price!
[480]We insert these verses, as expressive of the loyal feelings of Cowper.
ON THE QUEEN'S VISIT TO LONDON,
The Night of the Tenth of March, 1789.
When, long sequester'd from his throne,George took his seat again,By right of worth, not blood alone,Entitled here to reign!Then Loyalty, with all her lamps,New trimm'd, a gallant show,Chasing the darkness and the damps,Set London, in a glow.'Twas hard to tell, of streets, of squares,Which form'd the chief display,These most resembling cluster'd stars,Those the long milky way.Bright shone the roofs, the domes, the spires,And rockets flew, self-driven,To hang their momentary firesAmid the vault of heaven.So, fire with water to compare,The ocean serves on high,Up-spouted by a whale in air,To express unwieldy joy.Had all the pageants of the worldIn one procession join'd,And all the banners been unfurl'dThat heralds e'er design'd,For no such sight had England's QueenForsaken her retreat,Where George recover'd made a sceneSweet always, doubly sweet.Yet glad she came that night to prove,A witness undescried,How much the object of her loveWas lov'd by all beside.Darkness the skies had mantled o'erIn aid of her design—Darkness, O Queen! ne'er call'd beforeTo veil a deed of thine!On borrow'd wheels away she flies,Resolved to be unknown,And gratify no curious eyesThat night, except her own.Arriv'd, a night like noon she sees,And hears the million hum;As all by instinct, like the bees,Had known their sov'reign come.Pleas'd she beheld aloft portray'd,On many a splendid wall,Emblems of health and heav'nly aid,And George the theme of all.Unlike the enigmatic line,So difficult to spell,Which shook Belshazzar at his wine,The night his city fell.Soon watery grew her eyes, and dim,But with a joyful tear!None else, except in prayer for him,George ever drew from her.It was a scene in every partLike that in fable feign'd,And seem'd by some magician's artCreated and sustain'd.But other magic there she knewHad been exerted none,To raise such wonders to her view,Save love to George alone.That cordial thought her spirit cheer'd,And, through the cumb'rous throng,Not else unworthy to be fear'd,Convey'd her calm along.So, ancient poets say, sereneThe sea-maid rides the waves,And, fearless of the billowy scene,Her peaceful bosom laves.With more than astronomic eyesShe viewed the sparkling show;One Georgian star adorns the skies,She myriads found below.Yet let the glories of a nightLike that, once seen, suffice!Heaven grant us no such future sight—Such precious woe the price!
When, long sequester'd from his throne,George took his seat again,By right of worth, not blood alone,Entitled here to reign!Then Loyalty, with all her lamps,New trimm'd, a gallant show,Chasing the darkness and the damps,Set London, in a glow.'Twas hard to tell, of streets, of squares,Which form'd the chief display,These most resembling cluster'd stars,Those the long milky way.Bright shone the roofs, the domes, the spires,And rockets flew, self-driven,To hang their momentary firesAmid the vault of heaven.So, fire with water to compare,The ocean serves on high,Up-spouted by a whale in air,To express unwieldy joy.Had all the pageants of the worldIn one procession join'd,And all the banners been unfurl'dThat heralds e'er design'd,For no such sight had England's QueenForsaken her retreat,Where George recover'd made a sceneSweet always, doubly sweet.Yet glad she came that night to prove,A witness undescried,How much the object of her loveWas lov'd by all beside.Darkness the skies had mantled o'erIn aid of her design—Darkness, O Queen! ne'er call'd beforeTo veil a deed of thine!On borrow'd wheels away she flies,Resolved to be unknown,And gratify no curious eyesThat night, except her own.Arriv'd, a night like noon she sees,And hears the million hum;As all by instinct, like the bees,Had known their sov'reign come.Pleas'd she beheld aloft portray'd,On many a splendid wall,Emblems of health and heav'nly aid,And George the theme of all.Unlike the enigmatic line,So difficult to spell,Which shook Belshazzar at his wine,The night his city fell.Soon watery grew her eyes, and dim,But with a joyful tear!None else, except in prayer for him,George ever drew from her.It was a scene in every partLike that in fable feign'd,And seem'd by some magician's artCreated and sustain'd.But other magic there she knewHad been exerted none,To raise such wonders to her view,Save love to George alone.That cordial thought her spirit cheer'd,And, through the cumb'rous throng,Not else unworthy to be fear'd,Convey'd her calm along.So, ancient poets say, sereneThe sea-maid rides the waves,And, fearless of the billowy scene,Her peaceful bosom laves.With more than astronomic eyesShe viewed the sparkling show;One Georgian star adorns the skies,She myriads found below.Yet let the glories of a nightLike that, once seen, suffice!Heaven grant us no such future sight—Such precious woe the price!
[481]The translation of Aristotle.
[481]The translation of Aristotle.
[482]Private correspondence.
[482]Private correspondence.
[483]We regret that we have not succeeded in procuring any traces of these poems of Cowper's brother.
[483]We regret that we have not succeeded in procuring any traces of these poems of Cowper's brother.
[484]Private correspondence.
[484]Private correspondence.
[485]The daughter of General Goldsworthy.
[485]The daughter of General Goldsworthy.