To the right honourable, the countess of Burlington.

Madam,

Applause, that food of scribblers, were it mine, would not satisfy my ambition; nor should I know half the transports I feel, at the honour of approaching you. The sublimest fancy, when it paints a heroine, copies you but faintly. You have reached the bright path of virtue and there you walk secure. It would be equally a pain for you to descend, as it is for the vicious to shake off their mire and climb. I speak the sentiments of the whole world, of all who are dependent on your noble family, of all in whatsoever station who can boast the happiness to know my Lady Burlington.

The past and the returning years count not a day, but what is blessed and crowned with some good action of yours. This you would hourly hear from every joyful tongue, did not the fear to offend another charming grace (your modesty) deter them. That bashful attendant is so nice, it scarce dares whisper to yourself, how good you are. I tremble least I should now offend, but who can quit this lovely team? Such virtues should forever be the poet’s song, the ablest pens should tune your praise, for mean conceptions profane such worth. This ought to check my aspiring and force me silently to admire what I cannot worthily express. Only herein I am emboldened that, as you have an infinity of merit, so, you have of goodness. Under that sweet umbrage I am safe. That gives me hopes, you will pardon this presumption and permit me, with this trifle, to offer my constant vows, for the everlasting prosperity of Your Ladyship and that great man, whom you love most, who most deserves to be beloved, your Lord. May you both be blessed in your illustrious race and long remain the darlings of your friends and fate. Whilst I, at humble distance, beg leave to subscribe myself,

Madam,

Your Ladyship's devoted admirer and most obedient servant,

Mary Pix.