ADVERTISEMENT TO THE FIRST EDITION. THE title of the following pages is, perhaps, their best plea to the indulgence of the reader. It at least embraces a subject which will be regarded as strictly appropriate to a female pen ; and it is hoped that this circumstance may be admitted as at once an apology and a recommendation. Of course, the authoress has written exclusively for her own sex; and to them would she respectfully commit her little book. Happy will she be should it meet with the approbation of those of whom she ever wishes to be the humble follower; happier still, should it tend to recommend their principles and example to others. ON WOMAN, &c. &c. CHAPTER I. CAUSES OF FEMALE INFLUENCE. THE changes wrought by Time are many. It influences the opinions of men as familiarity does their feelings: it has a tendency to do away with superstition of every kind, and to reduce all things to their real worth. It is thus that the sentiment for woman has undergone a change. The romantic passion, which once almost deified her, is on the decline; and it is by intrinsic qualities that she must now inspire respect. She is no longer the queen of song, and the star of chivalry; but if there is less of enthusiasm entertained for B |