THE

Preface.

The many Fictions which have been lately imposed upon the World, under the specious Titles of Secret Histories, Memoirs, &c. &c. have given but too much room to question the Veracity of every Thing that has the least Tendency that way:  We therefore think it highly necessary to assure the Reader, that he will find nothing in the following Sheets, but what has been collected from Original Letters, Private Memorandums, and the Accounts we have been favoured with from the Mouths of Persons too deeply concerned in many of the chief Transactions not to be perfectly acquainted with the Truth, and of too much Honour and Integrity to put any false Colours upon it.

The Adventures are not so long passed as to be wholly forgotten by many Living Witnesses, nor yet so recent as to give any Reason to suspect us of Flattery in the Relation given of them, the Motive of their Publication being only to encourage Virtue in both Sexes, by showing the Amiableness of it in real Characters. And if it be true (as certainly it is) that Example has more Efficacy than_ Precept, we may be bold to say there are few fairer, or more worthy Imitation.—­The Sons and Daughters of the greatest Families may give additional Lustre to their Nobility, by forming themselves by the Model here presented to them; and those of lower Extraction, attain Qualities to attone for what they want in Birth:—­So that we flatter ourselves this Undertaking will not fail of receiving the Approbation of all who wish well to a Reformation of Manners, and more especially those who have Youth under their Care.—­As for such who may take it up merely as an Amusement, it is possible they will find something, which, by interesting their Affections, may make them better without designing to be so.—­Either way will fully recompense the Pains taken in the compiling by

The EDITORS.

THE CONTENTS.

CHAP.  I.

Contains the Manner in which a Gentleman found two Children:  His Benevolence towards them, and what kind of Affection he bore to them as they grew up; with the Departure of one of them to the Army.

CHAP.  II.

Relates the Offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the Manner of her receiving them.

CHAP.  III.

Dorilaus continues his Importunities, with some unexpected Consequences that attended them.

CHAP.  IV.

Louisa becomes acquainted with a Lady of Quality, Part of whose Adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her.

CHAP.  V.

Horatio’s Reception by the Officers of the Army:  His Behaviour in the Battle:  His being taken Prisoner by the French:  His Treatment among them, and many other Particulars.

CHAP.  VI.

Describes the Masquerade at the Dutchess of Maine’s:  The Characters and Intrigues of several Persons of Quality who were there:  The odd Behaviour of a Lady in regard to Horatio; and Charlotta’s Sentiments upon it.