48 rasrAer. that no perfect account of it can be given in certain rules, withöut such long catalogues of perpetual exceptions as would much exceed the rules them- selves. And after all, too curious and exquisite a nicety in these minute affairs, is not worth the tedious attendance of a reasonable mind, nor the labours of a short life. If what was composed for private use, may be made a public advantage, and may assist my countrymen to a little more decency and proprietyin reading and spelling than heretofore they practised, they will enjoy the benefit, and I shall rejoice to find that the service is more extensive than my first design. Those who have a mind to inform themselves more perfectly of the genius and composition of our language, either in the original derivation of it, or in the presentuse and practice, must consult such treatises as are writ- ten on purpose; amongst which, I knew none equal to that Essay towards a Practical English Grammar, composed by Mr. James Greenwood; wherein he has shown the deep knowledge, without the haughty airs of acritic; and be is preparing a new edition, with great improvements, by the friendly communications of the learned world. When that ingenious author has finished the work he designs, if be would denyhimself so far as to publish a short abstract of the three first parts of it, in two or three sheets, merely for the instruction of common English readers, I am well assured it would give them an easier and better acquaintance with the nature of grammar, and the genius of their native tongue, than any treatise that has ever yet comewithin my notice.
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