Predictions for the year 1708
Written to prevent the People of England from being farther imposed on by vulgar Almanack-Makers.
By Isaac Bickerstaff, Esq;
It is said, that the Author, when he had writ the following Paper, and being at a Loss what Name to prefix to it; passing through Long-Acre, observed a Sign over a House where a Locksmith dwelt, and found the Name Bickerstaff written under it's. Which being a Name somewhat uncommon, be chose to call himself Isaac Bickerstaff. This Name was sometime afterward made Use of by Sir Richard Steele, and Mr. Addison, in the Tatlers; in which Papers, as well as many of the Spectators, it is well known, that the Author had a considerable Part.
HAving long considered the gross Abuse of A strology in this Kingdom; upon debating the Matter with myself, I could not possibly lay the Fault upon the Art, but upon those gross Impostors, who set up to be the Artists. I know, several learn- ed