The Kentucky Gazette

THE VILLAGE, OF CERVANTES,

Translated from the Spanish.

IT being now a considerable time since I had read any Spanish, I began to find my knowledge of that language greatly to decay; so that falling in company with a native last fall, on his way to New-Orleans, and who staid some days in this town, I scarcely could make myself understood by him. This led me to think of recovering in some degree what I had lost: and with that view, I sent for the works of Cervantes, an author which, it is rather paying a compliment to my own taste, than to his genius, to say I have always greatly admired. Amongst these books I found one which had never been translated, merely I presume, because the scene was laid in humble life. For your people abroad, think little of accidents which do not fall out amongst hidalgoes, or great men; whereas in fact we can see as much of human nature, in the small affairs of a village, as on the higher stage of a kingdom. But in the American republics especially, a book will not be unentertaining, merely because it treats not of lofty themes. The nature and truth of the descriptions, will engage however obscure the characters.

Reading over this little work, entitled the Village, with the view I have mentioned; it was my way, as in the study of other languages, in more early life, to amuse myself, when I became perfectly well master of it, in writing down translations of some parts remarkable observations, particular speeches, and the like; and hence was gradually led to complete the whole: that being done, it occurred to me to give it to the press.

I would wish to acknowledge, that there are some words and even sentences, which I have not been able to make out, in the original; notwithstanding I have had the advantage of Chirurg's Spanish and English dictionary, which is allowed to be the best. This will easily be conceived, because though the literal word may be explained, yet there is a figurative and improved sense, which in a particular sentence it may have which no dictionary can properly, and with sufficient minuteness give. Indeed the delicacy of any language cannot be learned from a dictionary, but from conversation, and the frequent reading of the best authors. However this translation of mine may pass well enough; provided it is kept in view, that I do not mean to compare myself or even think of equaling the ingenious Dr. Smollett who has so well rendered in elegant English, the Don Quixotte of the same author.

I know it has been given out and circulated a good deal in this town, that I was studying Spanish for some time past, for the book had been observed on my table, with a view to remove to New Madrid, or perhaps apply for a government on the Spanish main. But I declare to God that I have no such intention; and it has been in a great degree with a view to refute this calumny, that I have been led to give this candid account of my motive in perusing Spanish authors, and making myself more perfect in the knowledge of that language. I wish well to the Spaniards and their governments, but for my part shall content myself with introducing one of the books of that nation to your acquaintance, which though it may not be so lucrative or honorable to myself, is an object more within my power, and in its nature conferring a great deal of happiness in the amusement it has given me. Who knows but the tongue of malignity may infer, that I do this for the express purpose of recommending myself to Guardóque, and getting a government. I might answer and justify it were it true; for at a time when governments are distributing, why might I not put in my hand, and take one out as well as others? But I aver upon my sacred honor, that, except one letter which I wrote Guardóque last fall, and which was on the subject of logwood, I have held no correspondence with him since he has been Chargé des Affairs at New-York. Governments are not in my view, though I suppose I might stand as good a chance as others, was disposed to push the matter. I hope therefore, the public will do me the justice to believe my mind free from all such ambition. And that meddling with Spaniards and Spanish affairs thus far, has been just as I have said, a mere philological pursuit, and will terminate with the work, which is now offered to the public.