The manuscript now reverts to another, and a much more modern period, and
speaks of an individual, surely not less entitled both to admiration and
esteem, than any who have preceded.
When the name of J⸺ B⸺ is introduced, we do not apprehend that our friend
will incur the suspicion of being too lavish in his commendation, or will
be censured for being too circumstantial in his communication.
Unfortunately, there exist too few sources of intelligence. There is
but little more to detail, than that at a very early period, and long
before she was a candidate for literary fame and distinction, our
Sexagenarian met her familiarly at the house of her very excellent,
amiable, and accomplished brother, Dr. B.; as well as at other social
places of intercourse, where literary people were made welcome. The
great characteristic by which she was pre-eminently distinguished, was
an unaffected diffidence and modest reserve; not at all prominent in
conversation, always desirous of information, never making display of the
powers she herself possessed, but courteously and agreeably inviting the
unfolding of those sources of instruction, which she knew appertained to
others.
It does not appear that the high reputation she has deservedly acquired,
has in this particular at all diminished her claims to respect and
esteem. She bears her faculties meekly; or at least she did, when he who
writes had the opportunity of duly appreciating her estimable qualities.
Her talents are before the public; and if this work were intended as an
arena for the display of critical acumen, the opportunity would readily
be embraced, of paying the tribute of esteem which is most unaffectedly
felt, and in this place sincerely acknowledged. But we must be satisfied
with the declaration, that the short and passing acquaintance with J⸺ B⸺,
was a circumstance upon which the Sexagenarian has, in his manuscript
notices, expressed himself with particular earnestness of satisfaction.
Les passions les plus violentes nous laissent quelquefois du
relache, mais la vanité nous agite toujours.