To the illustrious princess, Mary duchess of Richmond and Lennox.

Madam,

I humbly offer your Grace the last sacrifice of this nature that is in my power, having only a hope that it may be received by you with that favour as when it was formerly presented. And so, Madam, I only dare to appear in an address to you, as others to their altars, who by sacrifices get pardon for their defects, if not advance their devotions. This was to your sex indeed a peculiar offering, whilst all either gave as much passion to their adorers, or wished their beauties great enough to do it. Your Grace’s excellencies alone have been by all admirers esteemed at so great and just a value as to create and not reward men’s passions. This with as just a reverence I present to you, hoping for this romantic passion such an entertainment as none durst expect for real ones; your severity would deny a reception to those, which your charity may grant to this. And believe, he that attempts all ways to express his respects and duty has more than fortune will give him leave to show: the unhappy condition at this time of,

Madam,

The most humble of all your Grace’s most obliged servants,

Alexander Gough.