THE

CHARACTER OF WOMAN,

IN

A LECTURE,

DELIVERED AT THE

HANOVER SQUARE ROOMS,

APRIL 13th, 1848,

FOR THE BENEFIT ОР THE

GOVERNESSES BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION.

BY

THE REV. RICHARD COBBOLD, M. A.

AUTHOR OF

ZENON, THE MARTYR," "THE YOUNG MAN'S HOME," &c.

DISS:

PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR BY FRANCIS CUPISS,

AT THE ALBION PRINTING OFFICE,

AND SOLD BY SAUNDERS AND OTLEY, CONDUIT STREET,

LONDON.

1848.

ΤΟ

WOMAN HERSELF,

THIS LECTURE UPON HER CHARACTER

IS, WITH SINCERE RESPECT,

HUMBLY DEDICATED

BY

THE AUTHOR.

PREFACE.

THE reader of this lecture, should understand that it was delivered without a single note, or the perusal of a single quotation. This circumstance, probably gave it a degree of effect, and took off that tediousness, which otherwise might have been an attendant upon its production.

The origin of it, was, in the solicitation made to the Author, to collect shillings from his acquaintance, for the benefit of one specific branch of the Institution. Being but little able, at that time, from domestic affliction, to see many of his friends, he was nevertheless desirous of doing what he could for the Society. He therefore considered in what way he could exert himself more extensively for its benefit. The result of his reflection, was to offer himself and his services to the Society, to deliver a Lecture, upon the Character of Woman, at the Hanover Square Rooms, on any day the Committee might appoint. This offer was accepted; a day was appointed; and the lecture was delivered to a generous assembly, who approved of the exertions of the Author.

The apology for its publication must remain with those kind friends who desired to see it printed. "There is nothing new