M,DCC,LXXII.
To Dr WILLIAM CULLEN,
Sir,
An address of this nature can add nothing to your reputation. And professions of gratitude are but an inadequate return for real services. When, therefore, I inscribe this performance to you, it is neither my intention to enlarge upon your character, nor to recount the many obligations for which I am indebted to you. But, as I am happy in being favoured with your countenance, and proud of the honour it does me, allow me to take this opportunity of expressing it.
As I have long since adopted the wish, permit me, on this occasion, to use the language of a celebrated English Poet:
O! while along the stream of time thy name
Expanded flies and gathers all its fame;
Say, shall my little bark attendant sail,
Pursue the triumph and partake the gale?