_Hallett and Dr. Saxby_ (Vol. vii., p. 41.).--I know nothing of the
parties, but have the book about which S. R. inquires. The title is not
accurately given in the _Literary Journal_. Instead of "An Ode to Virtue,"
by Dr. Morris Saxby, it is _An Ode on Virtue by a Young Author, dedicated
to Dr. William Saxby; with a Preface and Notes, Critical and Explanatory,
by a Friend_--"Mens sibi conscia recti"--A good intention. Printed anno
Domini MDCCXCI, pp. 16.
A more stupid production could not easily be found; but, as it must be
scarce, if the story about the destruction of all but eight copies is true,
I transcribe a part of the dedication:
"Most August Doctor,
"The reputation you have acquired by professional merit, with the
respect which is universally shown to you on account of your practical
observance of moral philosophy, has induced me to select you as a
protector of the following work; which being evidently intended to
promote a cause for which you was always a zealous advocate, I have
nourished the most flattering hopes that you will be rather pleased
than offended by this unwarrantable presumption.
"It is necessary I should deviate from the general rule of celebrating
a patron's virtues in a high strain of panegyric, being sensible how
generally yours are known, and how justly admired."--P. 3.
The ode contains only ten lines:
"Virtue, a mere chimera amongst the fair,
Is now quite vanquished into air;
Formerly it was thought a thing of worth,
But now who thinks of such poor stuff.
It's only put on to deceive,
That us poor mortals on them may crave;
Fall down and swear their beauty far
Surpasses what are ever saw!
Then they who think all's true that's said," &c.