Preface.
IN presenting to the public a new translation of the grand work of an author, universally reprobated as one of the most dangerous and immoral political writers of any age or nation, the ttanslatdf h aware that some .prejudiced individuals may think him liable' to censure for reviving doctrines which are cotaidered inimical to every principle of moral duty or religion.
If the translator esteemed the common opinion of Machiavelli correct, he should feel himself culpable indeed: but when he a vows sentiments directly the reverse; that he believes Machiavelli to have been a patriot in the true sense of the word? that his doctrines evince the soundest policy, and a profound knowledge of the human heart; that he was, if not the author, at least the prophet of the glorious reformation under Luther; and
