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N annual Preface, like an annual New-Year's Ode, must be in a great Meafure the same Thing over and over again : And as the one generally tells us, that the Sun still continues to shine, and to warm and

enlighten the World, which · Nobody disputes ; so the other acquaints us, that the MAGAZINE still keeps up its Reputation, and continues to entertain or instruct Mankind, which every Body who buys it, does by that very Act allow. And, indeed, what can be said upon such an Occasion ? To launch out into little spiteful Invectives against our Competitors, or to sit down with the malignant Purpose of depreciating their Labours, and picking out their smallest Faults, is an Employment too despicable and invidious for any one but the meanest Scribbler. It is true, the Enemies which have in general appeared against us, have been such poor, maimed, fickly, and

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