The Tears of Music (Langhorne, 1760)/Dedication

Madam,
No Apology can be necessary for addressing to you a Poem to the Memory of a celebrated Musician. Without the Idea of Harmony, your Name cannot be mention'd: and again, it is impossible to conceive that Idea, without thinking of you. You, Madam, have been long and justly admired, as well on Account of your fine Taste, for one of the most Delightful of the Sciences, as for your generous Patronage of such as excel in it. The first may be esteem'd a Proof of an exalted Genius, but the last is an Indication of a noble Mind. Since to be grateful to those who have, in any Degree, contributed to our Pleasure or Happiness, is a most essential Part of human Virtue. From this Motive, the Poem, now pre​sented to you, Madam, was first written. The Author thought himself obliged to shew every Instance of Gratitude to the Memory of Mr. Handel, in consideration of that Pleasure he had so often received from his Compositions. With what Propriety therefore this Poem is offered to you, no one, acquainted with your Character, will Dispute.

With Respect to the Ode annex'd, as the Subject is meerly personal, and as it is only added by way of Ballast, let it be considered in that Light.