“In the present extraordinary state of human affairs, when the whole frame of society may seem almost in danger of dissolution, from the mischievous ferments occasioned by some novel principles of political and moral philosophy; an endeavour, though from the pen of an obscure individual, to abate these disorders, in a way of all others the most effectual, by directing the minds of men to a view of their duty and interest, has certainly some claim to public indulgence”. (From the Preface)