Page:An Essay on the Dramatic Character of Sir John Falstaff (1777).djvu/9



following sheets were written in consequence of a friendly conversation, turning by some chance upon the Character of, wherein the Writer, maintaining contrary to the general Opinion, that, this Character was not intended to be shewn as a Coward, he was challenged to deliver and support that Opinion from the Press, with an engagement, now he fears forgotten, for it was three years ago, that he should be answered thro’ the