_To the Hon. LADY JERNINGHAM_.
_Madam_,
_The many endearing instances of regard I have experienced since I had
the honor of being known to your Ladyship, while they impress my mind
with gratitude, flatter my hopes with a favourable reception of the
following miscellanies, which, under your patronage, I venture to submit
to the public_.
_Considered as the first essays of an early period of life, and as the
exercises of leisure, my wishes suggest, that they may not, perhaps, be
found wholly unworthy of attention; but whatever be their fate with
others, I shall feel myself much gratified, if, in your Ladyship's
judgment, they may be allowed some merit_.
_Though there cannot be a greater pleasure than dwelling on the
excellencies of a distinguished and amiable character, I know not that
it would be permitted me to indulge my present inclination with
enumerating those virtues and endowments which confessedly distinguish
your Ladyship, but my wishes I may offer, and that you may long, very
long, continue to bless your family, to adorn your rank, and console
the unhappy, is the sincere prayer of_
_Your Ladyship's most obliged humble servant, MATILDA BETHAM_.
_Stonham, Nov. 20, 1797._