Had such patronage been without effect, there has been reason to believe that Nature had, by some insurmountable impediment, obstructed our proficiency; but the annual improvement of the Exhibitions which Your Majesty has been pleased to encourage, shows that only encouragement had been wanting.
To give advice to those who are contending for royal liberality has been for some years the duty of my station in the Academy; and these Discourses hope for Your Majesty's acceptance, as well-intended endeavours to incite that emulation which your notice has kindled, and direct those studies which your bounty has rewarded.
May it please Your Majesty,
Your Majesty's
Most dutiful Servant
And most faithful Subject,
JOSHUA REYNOLDS.
[1778.]