From this account, some may begin to think that in treating of grammar we are dealing with something too various and changeable for the understanding to grasp; a dodging Proteus of the imagination, who is ever ready to assume some new shape, and elude the vigilance of the inquirer.

But let the reader or student do his part; and, if he please, follow us with attention.

We will endeavour, with welded links, to bind this Proteus, in such a manner that he shall neither escape from our hold, nor fail to give to the consulter an intelligible and satisfactory response.

Be not discouraged, generous youth.

Hark to that sweet far-reaching note: "Sed, quanto ille magis formas se vertet in omnes, Tanto, nate, magis contende tenacia vincla." VIRGIL.Geor.IV, 411.
"But thou, the more he varies forms, beware To strain his fetters with a stricter care." DRYDEN'S VIRGIL.
5.