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which he tried would have required exclusive cul-
ture. By labour he might have attained dexterity,
and the improved structure of his verse would have
partly compensated for some imperfections.
No sooner did the work make its appearance,
than the songs were hailed with admiration, sung
with applause, and obtained general currency.
The reader has the author's opinion of them in the
following couplet.
" Still I think they too inherit.
Among the dross, some sparks of merit."
Social intercourse, attachment to some indivi-
duals of considerable musical attainments, and .a
taste for music, among the class to which he be-
longed, kindled, or kept alive the flame of the
Poet, and gave it this particular direction. The
gratification of the individual, at the moment of
composition, is a powerful incentive; but an au-
thor proceeds with renewed energy when his opinion
is supported by the approbation of others, and par-
ticularly of those whose opinion has most influence
8