To the fair and virtuous lady, the Lady Southcott.

Madam,

I profess to all the world, that Erminia is more yours then mine. From you I took the pattern of the plot, from you the spirit of writing it, nor am I ever more poet, then when I am with you at Merstham. There, free from the distractions of the town, my mind is recollected. There, it is at repose, free from trouble and molestation: and there it is cheered and delighted, with cheerful and delightsome company. Your green walks are my Parnassus, the spring or fountainhead, my helicon. Nor could all the muses together, more inspire me, then you alone.

I am most glad then, that amongst my other heroic portraits, I made not yours before, that I might do it in a more particular manner now, in that of the fair and virtuous Erminia. And more particularly declare, how much I honour you, and how much I am,

Madam,

Your most devoted servant,

Rich. Flecknoe.