The origin and progress of letters : an essay, in two parts. The first shewing when, and by whom letters were invented; the formation of the alphabets of various nations; their manner of writing, on what materials, and with what instruments men have written in different ages to the present time. Wherein is considered the great utility of this art with regard to mankind. The second part consists of a compendious account of the most celebrated English penmen, with the titles and characters of the books they have published both from the rolling and letterpress. Interspersed with many interesting particulars by way of notes throughout the first part; and the second is a new species of biography never before attempted in English. The whole collected from undoubted authorities /