Preface. Ir is altogether unnecessary to apolo gize for the appearance of the following pages. If the sentiments they contain entitle them to public attention, the exertions of the Author should be regarded with approbation: but if the subject is trifling and unimportant, or if it is treated without ability, an apology would be entirely fruitless. No topic can be more interesting than that which relates to the improvement of human society. Political institution is an object of universal concern, and calculated to excite the most ardent solicitude. The general happiness essentially requires, that the authority of civil Government and the rights of the people, should 'be equally established upon solid and rational principles. |