| Citation |
PG-P.739.003
25 Jan-1 Feb 1739:11,12 (529)
From a late Gentleman's Magazine.
Address of a late Chinese Nobleman to the Emperor.
When the pride, luxury, and corruption of the Chinese, had
brought a heavy judgement upon their Kingdom, a certain
nobleman, being deeply affected with the calamities of his
country, took an opportunity to address himself to the
Emperor in the following manner.
Sir, Behold what are the present manners of your Empire!
Riches are in great request, virtue almost in none. . . [1
column] Never were all refinements upon sensual pleasures
carried to such an extravagance. Delicacies for the palate
are now so much improved, that repasts serve no longer the
end of nourishment, but of gluttony and debauchery. Every
day produced new concerts; and musick whose original design
was to calm the emotions of the heart, serves now to kindle
up the most shameful passions: . . . [2 3/4 columns,
suggestions to correct this:] In what regards musick,
confine yourself to the taste of the Great Musician; let it
be grave, solemn and instructive. Recommend a respectful
reverence to the Holy Rites. . .
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