Portland Gazette, And Maine Advertiser

Miscellany.

For the Portland Gazette.

STRIPLING--No. I.

With diffidence and modesty, the Stripling introduces himself to the view of his enlightened superiors, and invites their condescension to peruse his undigested researches with humane forbearance.

Although the custom of periodical writers will sanction the use of a term more appellative of pompousness, he chooses to confine himself within due bounds, and not to assume a fictitious character, nor undertake the performance of a part, which his ability may prove insufficient to complete. Emulous, to be distinguished by the native characteristics of candor and humility, he does not hesitate to declare, that the chief inducement which influenced him to appear in the humble garb of adolescence, proceeded from an ambition to excite curiosity, and engage attention. His being a novitiate, happily coincided with his inclination.

As only splendid superlatives, and flowing periods, captivate and ensure respect, he wholly relies on the novelty of his appearance for the success of his first attempt to public indulgence. Should it but partially succeed, his expectation will so abundantly be gratified, that the fearful solicitude which agitates his mind, will entirely be obliterated. But should stern criticism, nurtured in the garden of purity, and perfected by experience, perchance spy its imperfections, and deem it to re-enter the arcanaum of oblivion, tho' humble and candid, tho' disappointed and neglected, with impatience he will wait till puberty shall have corrected his ideas, and improved his understanding; and then endeavor, with solicitous care and unremitted attention, to erase the stigma of his early defect. To receive the charity of all, much less the patronage, is far beyond his most sanguine thought, or even desire. The favorable disposition of the benevolent is all he asks.

Errors, undoubtedly will be detected in every number--their seeds are sown promiscuously, and mar the works of the greatest genius. Perfection from terrestrial beings, would be a nova forma. And shall the writer be condemned, because he is more imperfect in scientific knowledge than others farther advanced?

He does not request those who deign to notice him, to suppress their remarks on any sentiment they may discover to be erroneous or unsatisfactory. On the contrary, he would receive any communication or critic, addressed through a proper channel, with grateful pleasure, and unfeigned acknowledgment.

Affectation, decorated with every artificial elegance, is ever disgusting; while simplicity, unaided by any ornament, "shines the bright mirror of the human mind." Whether they arise from habit or instinct, I shall not presume to determine.

But whatever merit may be ascribed to my observations, will consist in a natural and unaffected openness, free from intrigue and deception. On this account, I hope to receive that approbation, which will do away those unfavorable impressions, conceived from my incorrectness.

Such animadversions as may be made without deep erudition, amusing, instructive or diverting, the most convenient and agreeable, will constitute the peculiar qualities of the Stripling. He now concludes his first number, animated with the hope, that the future ones will increase in improvement, with their numerical progression--and fully persuaded that his readers will favor him with a liberal share of munificence.