ABSTRACT
Divested of it’s [sic] fictitious dress, this work is little more than a relation of loose intrigues of gallantry, and plots of knavery. The demon Ashtaroth, condemned to be confined within a piece of silver which passes through various hands, becomes acquainted with many characters, and a witness of many adventures; but the author has contrived to introduce his demon every where into bad company, and consequently to relate stories which, if they convey to the reader any knowledge of the world, only teach us to know the worst part of mankind. The title will perhaps put the reader in mind of the Devil upon Two Sticks, or of the Adventures of a Guinea; but upon the comparison, the work will be found far inferiour to those celebrated productions in wit and satire, as well as in correctness and elegance of style. Simple Facts; or the History of an Orphan. In Two Volumes. By Mrs. Matthews.2
