In the volume with which it is intended to close this posthumous publication of Mr. Burke's Works, we shall have occasion to enter into a more particular account of the part which he took in the discussion of this great political question. At present it may suffice to say, that the Letter to Mr. Smith, the Second Letter to Sir Hercules Langrishe, and the Letter to his Son, which here follow in order the Fragment on the Popery Laws, are the only writings upon this subject found amongst his papers in a state fit to appear in this stage of the publication. What remain are some small fragments of the Tract, and a few letters containing no new matter of importance. TRACT ON THE POPERY LAWS THE PLAN. I propose, first, to make an Introduction, in order to show the propriety of a closer inspection into the affairs of Ireland; and this takes up the first chapter, which is to be spent in this introductory matter, and in stating the Popery laws in general, as one leading cause of the imbecility of the country. CH. II. states particularly the laws themselves, in a plain and popular manner. CH. III. begins the remarks upon them, under the heads of, 1st, The object,--which is a numerous people; 2ndly, Their means,--a restraint on property; 3rdly, Their instruments of execution,--corrupted morals, which affect the national prosperity. CH. IV. The impolicy of those laws, as they affect the national security. CH. V. Reasons by which the laws are supported, and answers to them. CHAPTER II. In order to lay this matter with full satisfaction before the reader, I shall collect into one point of view, and state as shortly and as clearly as I am able, the purport of these laws, according to the objects which they affect, without making at present any further observation upon them, but just what shall be necessary to render the drift; and intention of the legislature and the tendency and operation of the laws the more distinct and evident.