The Reason why I appear in this place is, lest the general Reader should conclude I have nothing to say for my self; and truly he’s in the right on’t, for I have but little to say (for my self) at this time: For I have had so large a Journey, and so heavy a Burden to bring _Mary-Land_ into _England_, that I am almost out of breath: I’le promise you after I am come to my self, you shall hear more of me. Good Reader, because you see me make a brief Apologetical excuse for my self, don’t judge me; for I am so self-conceited of my own merits, that I almost think I want none. _De Lege non judicandum ex solâ linea_, saith the Civilian; We must not pass judgement upon a Law by one line: And because we see but a small Bush at a Tavern door, conclude there is no Canary (see note No. 6). For as in our vulgar Resolves ’tis said, _A good face needs no Band, and an ill one deserves none_: So the French Proverb sayes, Bon Vien il n’a faut point de Ensigne, Good Wine needs no Bush. I suppose by this time some of my speculative observers {26} have judged me vainglorious; but if they did but rightly consider me, they would not be so censorious. For I dwell so far from Neighbors, that if I do not praise my self, no body else will: And since I am left alone, I am resolved to summon the _Magna Charta_ of Fowles to the Bar for my excuse, and by their irrevocable Statutes plead my discharge. _For its an ill Bird will befoule her own Nest_: Besides, I have a thousand _Billings-gate_ (see note No. 7) Collegians that will give in their testimony, _That they never knew a Fish-woman cry stinking Fish_. Thus leaving the Nostrils of the Citizens Wives to demonstrate what they please as to that, and thee (Good Reader) to say what thou wilt, I bid thee Farewel. GEO. ALSOP. THE AUTHOR TO HIS BOOK.