Page [unnumbered]
TO THE READER.
IF every Writer of Verse were to account for his Publications of that kind, I doubt the World would be troubled with worse Apologies than Poems, and Poets more unaccountable than either.
They tell us, however, That the Common Design of their Poetry is to please, but whether That Design be upon themselves or their Readers, is generally questionable; but for my Own part, my Intention herein is only to please my self and that, not with a Satisfaction resulting from Applause, nor with a Fond Conceit that there is any thing wonderful to be met with among the following Performances; but meerly at the having got rid of a parcel of Thoughts, which for some time have play'd with my Mind, and made it useless to me. So that I am under no manner of Concern about the Success of the Verses, nor harbour the least fear of those Half-witted People call'd Cri∣ticks, (who have Sense enough to find fault, but not to mend) for having obtain'd my End already, I care not to what End they apply Them.