“It is with particular pleasure that I avail myself of the
opportunity afforded me, by the publication of my ‘History of the Life and Pontificate of Leo
X.,’ of requesting you will do me the honour of accepting a copy,
as a very humble but sincere mark of the respectful esteem and attachment of
the author. In thus venturing to introduce my own productions to your notice, I
am sensible I may be accused of presumption; but from such a charge I find a
sufficient shelter in the reflection, that history is the peculiar study of
those in high stations, whose opinions and conduct have an important influence
on the destiny of mankind. I also flatter myself with the hope that the
principles contained in this
| 322 | LIFE OF WILLIAM ROSCOE. |
“I have transmitted these volumes through the hands of my particular friend, Mr. Ralph Eddowes, of Philadelphia; who some years since left this place to reside with his family in America, and whose talents, integrity, and temperate firmness would do credit to any country.”
