On which
ground I build these consequences, That the first and principal point
sought in euerie Language, is that we may expres the Meaning of our
Minds aptly to each other. Next, that we may do it readily and
without more adoe. Then fully, so as others may thoroughly
conceiue us. And last of all, handsomely, that those to whom we
speak may take pleasure in hearing us: So that whateuer Tongue will
gain the Race of Perfection must run upon these four wheeles,
SIGNIFICANCIE, EASINESS, COPIOUSNESS, and SWEETNESS; of which the
two former import a Necessitie, the two latter a Delight. Now if
I can proove, That our English Language for all or the most part
is comparable if not preferable to any other in use at this day,
I hope the assent of any impartial Reader will pass on my side.
And how I indeavor to performe the same, this short labor shall
manifest.
I. To begin then with the SIGNIFICANCIE of the English Tongue,
it consisteth in the Letters, Words, and Phrases. And because the
Greeke and Latine have ever borne away the prerogatiue from all
other Tongues, they shall serue as the Touchstones whereby to make
our Tryall.
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