in literature, is an address prefixed to a book, soliciting patronage, or testifying respect for the person to whom it is made. The dedication of the fourth part of Mr Edwards's History of Birds, is curious: To God! the one eternal! the incomprehensible, the omnipresent, omniscient, and almighty Creator of all things that exist! from orbs immeasurably great, to the minutest points of matter!—this Atom is dedicated and devoted, with all possible gratitude, humiliation, and worship, and the highest adoration both of body and mind, by his most resigned, low, and humble creature, G. E.