Philip, a very ingenious writer, of Irish extraction, if not born in that kingdom. His father was a dignified clergyman in Ireland, being dean of some cathedral; and our author, his son, was also bred to the church, and had a doctor's degree conferred on him. He was more distinguished as a translator than as an original writer. His versions of Horace and Demosthenes have been justly valued: the former is accompanied with notes, and is perhaps as complete and useful a work of its kind as hath yet appeared. He was also a considerable political writer; and in the beginning of the present reign is supposed to have been employed by the government: for which service he was promoted to the rectory of Barrow in Suffolk, and to the chaplainship of Chelsea hospital. He was also the author of two tragedies, Eugenia and Constantia; but as a dramatic writer, not very successful. He died at Bath in March 1773; leaving a son, who was then one of the supreme council at Bengal.