Note 87 — Chapter X

A marked testimony to the poetic talents of Dr. Watts was shown him by this gentleman, who, in order to excite emulation, and procure for his work productions of real genius, proposed to give certain rewards to his poetical correspondents, and wrote to the Doctor, requesting him to decide upon their respective merits. His natural modesty revolted at the idea of becoming a literary judge; but on being pressed, he gave his opinion with so much candour and judicious discrimination, that all parties expressed their gratitude, and cheerfully acquiesced in his decision. It was this circumstance which first introduced Mr. Browne to the notice of Dr. Watts, who, during the remainder of his life, took a kind and almost parental interest in all his concerns. The extensive learning and poetical abilities, the exemplary piety, the active benevolence, and steady friendship of that excellent man and bright ornament of the Christian Church, were not less the subjects of delightful conversation in the privacy of Mr. Browne’s life, than they have been the theme of just eulogium to an impartial posterity.