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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..29937b2 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #66908 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/66908) diff --git a/old/66908-0.txt b/old/66908-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 23f8406..0000000 --- a/old/66908-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,8591 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of Letters of the Late Ignatius Sancho, -an African, by Ignatius Sancho - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: Letters of the Late Ignatius Sancho, an African - To which are Prefixed, Memoirs of his Life - -Author: Ignatius Sancho - -Release Date: December 8, 2021 [eBook #66908] - -Language: English - -Produced by: Tim Lindell and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at - https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images - generously made available by The Internet Archive/American - Libraries.) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LETTERS OF THE LATE IGNATIUS -SANCHO, AN AFRICAN *** - - - - - - Transcriber's note: Italic font is indicated by _underscores_. - Small upper-case letters are indicated by +plus signs+. - - - - -LETTERS - -OF THE LATE - -IGNATIUS SANCHO, - -AN AFRICAN. - -To which are prefixed, - -+MEMOIRS of his LIFE+. - - -THE THIRD EDITION. - - -LONDON: - -PRINTED BY J. NICHOLS; -+And Sold by C. DILLY, in the POULTRY+. - -MDCCLXXXIV. - - - - -ADVERTISEMENT. - - -THE Editor of these Letters thinks proper to obviate an objection, -which she finds has already been suggested, that they were originally -written with a view to publication. She declares, therefore, that no -such idea was ever expressed by Mr. Sancho; and that not a single -letter is here printed from any duplicate preserved by himself, but -all have been collected from the various friends to whom they were -addressed. Her motives for laying them before the publick were, the -desire of shewing that an untutored African may possess abilities equal -to an European; and the still superior motive, of wishing to serve his -worthy family. And she is happy in thus publicly acknowledging she has -not found the world inattentive to the voice of obscure merit. - - - - -THE LIFE - -OF - -IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - - “Quamvis ille niger, quamvis tu candidus esses.” - +Virgil.+ - -THE extraordinary Negro, whose Life I am about to write, was born -A. D. 1729, on board a ship in the Slave trade, a few days after it -had quitted the coast of Guinea for the Spanish West-Indies; and, at -Carthagena, he received from the hand of the Bishop, Baptism, and the -name of Ignatius. - -A disease of the new climate put an early period to his mother’s -existence; and his father defeated the miseries of slavery by an act of -suicide. - -At little more than two years old, his master brought him to England, -and gave him to three maiden sisters, resident at Greenwich; whose -prejudices had unhappily taught them, that African ignorance was the -only security for his obedience, and that to enlarge the mind of their -slave would go near to emancipate his person. The petulance of their -disposition surnamed him Sancho, from a fancied resemblance to the -’Squire of Don Quixote. - -But a patron was at hand, whom Ignatius Sancho had merit enough to -conciliate at a very early age. - -The late Duke of Montagu lived on Blackheath: he accidentally saw the -little Negro, and admired in him a native frankness of manner as yet -unbroken by servitude, and unrefined by education--he brought him -frequently home to the Duchess, indulged his turn for reading with -presents of books, and strongly recommended to his mistresses the duty -of cultivating a genius of such apparent fertility. - -His mistresses, however, were inflexible, and even threatened on angry -occasions to return Ignatius Sancho to his African slavery. The love -of freedom had increased with years, and began to beat high in his -bosom.--Indignation, and the dread of constant reproach arising from -the detection of an amour, infinitely criminal in the eyes of three -Maiden Ladies, finally determined him to abandon the family. - -His noble patron was recently dead.--Ignatius flew to the Duchess -for protection, who dismissed him with reproof.--He retired from her -presence in a state of despondency and stupefaction. - -Enamoured still of that liberty, the scope of whose enjoyment was now -limited to his last five shillings, and resolute to maintain it with -life, he procured an old pistol for purposes which his father’s example -had suggested as familiar, and had sanctified as hereditary. - -In this frame of mind the futility of remonstrance was obvious. The -Duchess secretly admired his character; and at length consented to -admit him into her household, where he remained as butler till her -death, when he found himself, by her Grace’s bequest and his own -œconomy, possessed of seventy pounds in money, and an annuity of thirty. - -Freedom, riches, and leisure, naturally led a disposition of African -texture into indulgences; and that which dissipated the mind of -Ignatius completely drained the purse. In his attachment to women, -he displayed a profuseness which not unusually characterizes the -excess of the passion.--Cards had formerly seduced him; but an -unsuccessful contest at cribbage with a Jew, who won his cloaths, had -determined him to abjure the propensity which appears to be innate -among his countrymen.--A French writer relates, that in the kingdoms -of Ardrah, Whydah, and Benin, a Negro will stake at play his fortune, -his children, and his liberty. Ignatius loved the theatre to such a -point of enthusiasm, that his last shilling went to Drury-Lane, on -Mr. Garrick’s representation of Richard.--He had been even induced to -consider the stage as a resource in the hour of adversity, and his -complexion suggested an offer to the manager of attempting Othello and -Oroonoko; but a defective and incorrigible articulation rendered it -abortive. - -He turned his mind once more to service, and was retained a few months -by the Chaplain at Montagu-house. That roof had been ever auspicious -to him; and the present Duke soon placed him about his person, -where habitual regularity of life led him to think of a matrimonial -connexion, and he formed one accordingly with a very deserving young -woman of West-Indian origin. - -Towards the close of the year 1773, repeated attacks of the gout and a -constitutional corpulence rendered him incapable of farther attendance -in the Duke’s family. - -At this crisis, the munificence which had protected him through various -vicissitudes did not fail to exert itself; with the result of his -own frugality, it enabled him and his wife to settle themselves in a -shop of grocery, where mutual and rigid industry decently maintained -a numerous family of children, and where a life of domestic virtue -engaged private patronage, and merited public imitation. - -In December, 1780, a series of complicated disorders destroyed him. - - -Of a Negro, a Butler, and a Grocer, there are but slender anecdotes -to animate the page of the biographer; but it has been held necessary -to give some sketch of the very singular man, whose letters, with all -their imperfections on their head, are now offered to the public. - -The display those writings exhibit of epistolary talent, of rapid and -just conception, of wild patriotism, and of universal philanthropy, may -well apologize for the protection of the great, and the friendship of -the literary. - -The late Duchesses of Queensberry and Northumberland pressed forward to -serve the author of them. The former intrusted to his reformation a -very unworthy favourite of his own complexion.--Garrick and Sterne were -well acquainted with Ignatius Sancho. - -A commerce with the Muses was supported amid the trivial and momentary -interruptions of a shop; the Poets were studied, and even imitated -with some success;--two pieces were constructed for the stage;--the -Theory of Music was discussed, published, and dedicated to the Princess -Royal;--and painting was so much within the circle of Ignatius Sancho’s -judgement and criticism, that several artists paid great _deference_ to -his opinion. - - -Such was the man whose species philosophers and anatomists have -endeavoured to degrade as a deterioration of the human; and such -was the man whom Fuller, with a benevolence and quaintness of phrase -peculiarly his own, accounted - - “God’s Image, though cut in Ebony.” - -To the harsh definition of the naturalist, oppressions political and -legislative have been added; and such are hourly aggravated towards -this unhappy race of men by vulgar prejudice and popular insult. To -combat these on commercial principles, has been the labour of Labat, -Ferman, and Bennezet--such an effort here would be an impertinent -digression. - -Of those who have speculatively visited and described the slave-coast, -there are not wanting some who extol the mental abilities of the -natives. D’Elbée, Moore, and Bosman, speak highly of their mechanical -powers and indefatigable industry. Desmarchais does not scruple to -affirm, that their ingenuity rivals the Chinese. - -He who could penetrate the interior of Africa, might not improbably -discover negro arts and polity, which could bear little analogy to the -ignorance and grossness of slaves in the sugar islands, expatriated in -infancy, and brutalized under the whip and the taskmaster. - -And he who surveys the extent of intellect to which Ignatius Sancho had -attained by self-education, will perhaps conclude, that the perfection -of the reasoning faculties does not depend on a peculiar conformation -of the scull or the colour of a common integument, in defiance of that -wild opinion, “which,” says a learned writer of these times, “restrains -the operations of the mind to particular regions, and supposes that a -luckless mortal may be born in a degree of latitude too high or too low -for wisdom or for wit.” - - - - -LETTERS. - - - - -LETTER I. - -TO MR. J-- W----E. - - - Charles Street, Feb. 14, 1768. - - MY WORTHY AND MUCH RESPECTED FRIEND, - -POPE observes, - - “Men change with fortune, manners change with climes; - “Tenets with books, and principles with times.” - -+Your+ friendly letter convinced me that you are still the same--and -gave in that conviction a ten-fold pleasure:--you carried out (through -God’s grace) an honest friendly heart, a clear discerning head, and -a soul impressed with every humane feeling.--That you are still the -same--I repeat it--gives me more joy--than the certainty would of -your being worth ten Jaghires:--I dare say you will ever remember -that the truest worth is that of the mind--the best rectitude of the -heart--the conscience unsullied with guilt--the undaunted noble eye, -enriched with innocence, and shining with social glee--peace dancing -in the heart--and health smiling in the face--May these be ever thy -companions!--and for riches you will ever be more than vulgarly -rich--while you thankfully enjoy--and gratefully assist the wants (as -far as you are able) of your fellow-creatures. But I think (and so will -you) that I am preaching. I only meant in truth to thank you, which -I most sincerely do, for your kind letter:--believe me, it gratifies -a better principle than vanity--to know that you remember your -dark-faced friend at such a distance. But what would have been your -feelings--could you have beheld your worthy, thrice worthy father--joy -sitting triumphant in his honest face--speeding from house to house, -amongst his numerous friends, with the pleasing testimonials of his -son’s love and duty in his hands--every one congratulating him, and -joining in good wishes--while the starting tear plainly proved that -over-joy and grief give the same livery? - -You met with an old acquaintance of mine, Mr. G----. I am glad to hear -he is well; but, when I knew him, he was young, and not so _wise_ as -_knowing_: I hope he will take example by what he sees in you--and you, -young man, remember, if you should unhappily fall into bad company, -that example is only the fool’s plea, and the rogue’s excuse, for doing -_wrong_ things:--you have a turn for reflection, and a steadiness, -which, aided by the best of social dispositions, must make your company -much coveted, and your person loved.--Forgive me for presuming to -dictate, when I well know you have many friends much more able, from -knowledge and better sense--though I deny--a better will. - -You will of course make Men and Things your study--their different -genius, aims, and passions:--you will also note climes, buildings, -soils, and products, which will be neither tedious nor unpleasant. -If you adopt the rule of writing every evening your remarks on the -past day, it will be a kind of friendly _tête-a tête_ between you -and yourself, wherein you may sometimes happily become your own -Monitor;--and hereafter those little notes will afford you a rich fund, -whenever you shall be inclined to re-trace past times and places.----I -say nothing upon the score of Religion--for, I am clear, every good -affection, every sweet sensibility, every heart-felt joy--humanity, -politeness, charity--all, all, are streams from that sacred spring;--so -that to say you are good-tempered, honest, social, &c. &c. is only in -fact saying, you live according to your +Divine Master+’s rules, and -are a Christian. - -Your B---- friends are all well, excepting the good Mrs. C----, who is -at this time but so, so. Miss C---- still as agreeable as when you knew -her, if not more so. Mr. R----, as usual, never so happy, never so gay, -nor so much in true pleasure, as when he is doing good--he enjoys the -hope of your well-doing as much as any of your family. His brother John -has been lucky--his abilities, address, good nature, and good sense, -have got him a surgeoncy in the batalion of guards, which is reckoned -a very good thing. - -As to news, what we have is so incumbered with falshoods, I think it, -as Bobadil says, “a service of danger” to meddle with: this I know for -truth, that the late great Dagon of the people has totally lost all his -worshipers, and walks the streets as unregarded as Ignatius Sancho, and -I believe almost as poor--such is the stability of popular greatness: - - “One self-approving hour whole years outweighs - “Of idle starers, or of loud huzza’s,” &c. - -Your brother and sister C--d sometimes look in upon us; her boys are -fine, well, and thriving; and my honest cousin Joe increases in sense -and stature; he promises to be as good as clever. He brought me your -first letter, which, though first wrote, had the fate to come last; the -little man came from Red-Lion Court to Charles Street by himself, and -seemed the taller for what he had done; he is indeed a sweet boy, but I -fear every body will be telling him so. I know the folly of so doing, -and yet am as guilty as any one. - -There is sent out in the Besborough, along with fresh governors, and -other strange commodities, a little Blacky, whom you must either have -seen or heard of; his name is S----. He goes out upon a rational -well-digested plan, to settle either at Madrass or Bengal, to teach -fencing and riding--he is expert at both. If he should chance to fall -in your way, do not fail to give the rattlepate what wholesome advice -you can; but remember, I do strictly caution you against lending him -money upon any account, for he has every thing but--principle; he will -never pay you; I am sorry to say so much of one whom I have had a -friendship for, but it is needful. Serve him, if you can--but do not -trust him.--There is in the same ship, belonging to the Captain’s band -of music, one C-- L--n, whom I think you have seen in Privy Gardens: he -is honest, trusty, good-natured, and civil; if you see him, take notice -of him, and I will regard it as a kindness to me. I have nothing more -to say. Continue in right thinking, you will of course act well; in -well-doing, you will insure the favour of God, and the love of your -friends, amongst whom pray reckon - - Yours faithfully, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER II. - -TO MR. M----. - - - August 7, 1768. - -+Lord+! what is Man?--and what business have such lazy, lousy, -paltry beings of a day to form friendships, or to make connexions? -Man is an absurd animal--yea, I will ever maintain it--in his -vices, dreadful--in his few virtues, silly--he has religion without -devotion--philosophy without wisdom--the divine passion (as it -is called) love too oft without affection--and anger without -cause--friendship without reason--hate without reflection--knowledge -(like Ashley’s punch in small quantities) without judgement--and wit -without discretion.--Look into old age, you will see avarice joined -to poverty--letchery, gout, impotency, like three monkeys, or London -bucks, in a one-horse whisky, driving to the Devil.--Deep politicians -with palsied heads and relaxed nerves--zealous in the great cause of -national welfare and public virtue--but touch not--oh! touch not the -pocket--friendship--religion--love of country--excellent topics for -declamation!--but most ridiculous chimera to suffer either in money or -ease--for, trust me, my M----, I am resolved upon a reform.--Truth, -fair Truth, I give thee to the wind!--Affection, get thee hence! -Friendship, be it the idol of such silly chaps, with aching heads, -strong passions, warm hearts, and happy talents, as of old used to -visit Charles Street, and now abideth in fair G----h House. - -I give it under my hand and mark, that the best receipe for your aching -head (if not the only thing which will relieve you) is cutting off your -hair--I know it is not the _ton_; but when ease and health stand on -the right--ornament and fashion on the left--it is by no means the Ass -between two loads of hay--why not ask council about it? Even the young -part of the faculty were formerly obliged to submit to amputation, -in order to look wise.--What they sacrificed to appearances, do thou -to necessity.--Absalom had saved his life, but for his hair. You -will reply, “Cæsar would have been drowned, but his length of hair -afforded hold to the friendly hand that drew him to shore.” Art, at -this happy time, imitates Nature so well in both sexes, that in truth -our own growth is but of little consequence. Therefore, my dear M--, -part with your hair and head-achs together; and let us see you spruce, -well-shorn, easy, gay, debonnair--as of old. - -I have made enquiry after L----’s letter. My friend R---- went to -demand the reason for omitting to publish it, and to reclaim the copy. -The publisher smiled at him, and bid him examine the M. C. of J. 13, -where he would find L. and the same paper of the 20th instant, where -he would also find P---- B----’s very angry answer.--Indeed the poor -fellow foams again, and appears as indecently dull as malice could with -him. I went to the coffee-house to examine the file, and was greatly -pleased upon the second reading of your work, in which is blended the -Gentleman and the Scholar. Now, observe, if you dare to say I flatter, -or mean to flatter, you either impeach my judgement or honesty--at -your peril then be it.--For your letter of yesterday, I could find -in my conscience not to thank you for it--it gave a melancholy tint -to every thing about me. Pope had the head-ach vilely--Spenser, I -have heard, suffered much from it--in short, it is the ail of true -Geniuses.--They applied a thick wreath of laurel round their brows--do -you the same--and putting the best foot foremost--duly considering the -mansion--what it had suffered through chance, time, and hard use--be -thankfully resigned, humble, and say, “It is well it is no worse!” - -I do not wish you to be any other than nice in what new acquaintance -you make. As to friendship, it is a mistake--real friendships are not -hastily made--friendship is a plant of slow growth, and, like our -English oak, spreads--is more majestically beautiful, and increases -in shade, strength, and riches, as it increases in years. I pity your -poor head, for this confounded scrawl of mine is enough to give the -head-ach to the strongest brain in the kingdom--so remember I quit -the pen unwillingly, having not said half what I meant; but, impelled -by conscience, and a due consideration of your ease, I conclude, just -wishing you as well as I do my dear self, - - Yours, +I. SANCHO+. - - - Your cure, in four words, is - CUT--OFF--YOUR--HAIR! - - - - -LETTER III. - -TO MR. M----. - - - Sept. 17, 1768. - -I AM uneasy about your health--I do not like your silence--let some -good body or other give me a line, just to say how you are.--I will, -if I can, see you on Sunday;--it is a folly to like people, and call -them friends, except they are blest with health and riches.--A very -miserable undone poor wretch, who has no portion in this world’s -goods but honesty and good temper, has a child to maintain, and is -very near in a state of nature in the article of covering, has applied -to me.--I do know something of her--no greater crime than poverty and -nakedness.--Now, my dear M----, I know you have a persuasive eloquence -among the women--try your oratorical powers.--You have many women--and -I am sure there must be a great deal of charity amongst them--Mind, -we ask no money--only rags--mere literal rags.--Patience is a ragged -virtue--therefore strip the girls, dear M----, strip them of what -they can spare--a few superfluous worn-out garments--but leave them -pity--benevolence--the charities--goodness of heart--love--and the -blessings of yours truly with affection, or something very like it, - - I SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER IV. - -TO MR. M----. - - - Sept. 20, 1768. - -OH! my M----, what a feast! to a mind fashioned as thine is to gentle -deeds!--Could’st thou have beheld the woe-worn object of thy charitable -care receive the noble donation of thy blest house!--the lip quivering, -and the tongue refusing its office, thro’ joyful surprize--the heart -gratefully throbbing--overswelled with thankful sensations--I could -behold a field of battle, and survey the devastations of the Devil, -without a tear--but a heart o’ercharged with gratitude, or a deed -begotten by sacred pity--as thine of this day--would melt me, although -unused to the melting mood. As to thy noble, truly noble, Miss ----, -I say nothing--she serves a Master--who can and will reward her as -ample--as her worth exceeds the common nonsensical dolls of the -age;--but for thy compeers, may they never taste any thing less in this -world--than the satisfaction resulting from heaven-born Charity! and -in the next, may they and you receive that blest greeting--“Well done, -thou good and faithful,” &c. &c. Tell your girls that I will kiss them -twice in the same place--troth, a poor reward;--but more than that--I -will respect them in my heart, amidst the casual foibles of worldly -prejudice and common usage.--I shall look to their charitable hearts, -and that shall spread a crown of glory over every transient defect.---- -The poor woman brings this in her hand;--she means to thank you--your -noble L----, your good girls--her benefactors--her saviours. I too -would thank--but that I know the opportunity I have afforded you of -doing what you best love, makes you the obliged party--the obliger, - - Your faithful friend, - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER V. - -TO MR. K----. - - - Richmond, Oct. 20, 1769. - -WHAT, my honest friend K----, I am heartily glad to see you, quoth -I--long look’d for, come at last.--Well, we will have done with -that;--you have made ample amends for your silence--have approved -yourself, what I ever esteemed you--an honest, hearty, good lad.--As -to your apologizing about your abilities for writing--’tis all a -humm--you write sense;--and verily, my good friend, he that wishes -to do better must be a coxcomb.--You say you was thrown from your -horse but once--in my conscience, I think once full oft enough--I am -glad, however, you escaped so well.--The description of your journey -I return you thanks for--it pleased me much--and proved that you -looked rather farther than your horse’s head.--A young man should turn -travel--home--leisure--or employment--all to the one grand end of -improving himself. From your account of Dalkeith, I now view it “in -my mind’s eye” (as Hamlet says), and think it a delightful spot.--I -was wrong, I find, in my notions of the Edinburghers--for I judged -them the grand patterns for--cleanliness--politeness--and generosity. -Your birth-day entertainments made a blaze in our papers, which said, -amongst other things, that the puncheons of rum flood as thick in -your park as the trees--oh; how I licked my lips, and wished the -distance (400 miles) less between us.--You do not say a word about -coming back again.--Poor Pat has paid his last debt--peace and bliss -to his spirit! rest to his bones!--his wife and daughter (both with -child) and his youngest child all came down;--what a scene had I to be -spectator of!--trust me, James, I cry’d like a whipt school-boy!--But -then my noble master--Great God, reward him!--Tell me not of ninety -covers--splendour--and feasting--To wipe away the tears of distress, -to make the heart of the widow to sing for joy--may such actions ever -(as they have long been) be the characteristic of the good Duke of -M----! Dr. James, thy favourite, twice came here:--at his first visit -he gave no hope--the next day he came, and poor Pat had resigned up -his spirit two hours before he got here;--his Grace paid him the -tribute, the rich tribute, of many tears--and ordered me to get a -lodging for his widow and children:--in the evening he ordered me to -go to them for him--and acquaint Mrs. W---- how very sensible he was -of her great loss, as well as his own--that he would ever be a friend -to her--and as to the boy--though he was perfectly well satisfied -with his conduct in his place--yet, if he would like any trade better -than continuing his servant--he would put him out, and support him -through his apprenticeship;--and he would give him a year to consider -it.--Pat has chose to stay, and his Grace promises whoever uses him -ill shall be no servant here:--on the night of his interment, after -all was over, the Duke wrote to the widow himself, and inclosed a -twenty pound bill--and repeated his promises.--Your own heart, my -dear James, will make the best comment--which is grandest--one -such action--or ten birth-days;--though in truth the latter has his -merit--it creates business, and helps the poor.--I suppose you will -expect me to say something of our family. Her Grace, I am truly sorry -to say it, has been but poorly for some time--and indeed is but -indifferent now--God of his mercy grant her better health! and every -good that can contribute to her happiness!--The good Marquiss is with -us--Are not you tired? This is a deuced long letter.--Well, one word -more, and then farewell. Mrs. M---- is grown generous--has left off -swearing and modelling. S---- is turned Jew, and is to be circumcised -next Passover. W---- is turned fine gentleman--and left off work--and -I your humble friend, I am for my sins turned Methodist.--Thank God! -we are all pretty hobbling as to health.--Dame Sancho will be much -obliged to you for your kind mention of her--she and the brats are very -well, thank Heaven! Abraham gives up the stockings--and monkey Tom his -box--they both, with all the rest, join in love and best wishes to -your worship.--I, for my own share, own myself obliged to you--and -think myself honoured in your acknowledging yourself my pupil; were I -an ambitious man, I should never forgive you,--for in truth you by far -excel your master:--go on, and prosper, “Render unto Cæsar the things -which are Cæsar’s;”--laugh at all the tall boys in the kingdom.--I -rest, dear Jemmy, thy true friend and obliged fellow-servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER VI. - -TO MRS. F----. - - - Richmond, Oct. 20, 1769. - -I SENT you a note in Mrs. Sancho’s name this day fortnight--importing -that she would hope for the pleasure of seeing you at Richmond before -the fine weather takes its leave of us:--neither hearing from nor -seeing you--though expecting you every day--we fear that you are not -well--or that Mr. F---- is unhappily ill--in either case we shall -be very sorry--but I will hope you are all well--and that you will -return an answer by the bearer of this that you are so--and also when -we may expect to have the pleasure of seeing you;--there is half a bed -at your service.--My dear Mrs. Sancho, thank God! is greatly mended. -Come, do come, and see what a different face she wears now--to what -she did when you kindly proved yourself her tender, her assisting -tender friend.--Come and scamper in the meadows with three ragged wild -girls.--Come and pour the balm of friendly converse into the ear of -my sometimes low-spirited love! Come, do come, and come soon, if you -mean to see Autumn in its last livery.--Tell your coachman to drive -under the hill to Mr. B----’s on the common, where you will be gladly -received by the best half of your much and greatly obliged friend, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER VII. - -TO EDWARD YOUNG, ESQ. - - - On the death of Lord ----, Son to the Duke of ----. - - Richmond, April 21, 1770. - - HONOURED SIR, - -I +bless+ God, their Graces continue in good health, though as yet -they have not seen any body--I have duly acquainted his Grace -with the anxious and kind enquiries of yourself and other of his -noble friends.--Time will, I hope, bring them comforts. Their -loss is great indeed; and not to them only. The public have a -loss--Goodness--Wisdom--Knowledge--and Greatness--were united in him. -Heaven has gained an Angel; but earth has lost a treasure. Hoping you -are as well as you wish your friends, I am, honoured Sir, - - Your most obedient and grateful - humble servant to command, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER VIII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - March 21, 1770. - - “He, who cannot stem his anger’s tide, - “Doth a wild horse without a bridle ride.” - -IT is, my dear M----, the same with the rest of our passions; we have -Reason given us for our rudder--Religion is our sheet anchor--our -fixed star Hope--Conscience our faithful monitor--and Happiness the -grand reward.--We all in this manner can preach up trite maxims:--ask -any jackass the way to happiness--and like me they will give vent to -picked-up common-place sayings--but mark how they act--why just as -you and I do--content with acknowledging a slight acquaintance with -Wisdom, but ashamed of appearing to act under her sacred guidance.--You -do me much more honour than I deserve, in wishing to correspond with -me--the balance is entirely in your favour--but I fancy you were -under the malady of your country, hypp’d for want of fresh air and -exercise--so, sitting in a pensive attitude, with lack-lustre eye, and -vacant countenance--the thought obtruded on your fancy to give Sancho a -letter--and after a hard conflict ’twixt laziness and inclination--the -deed was done.--I verily believe you commit errors--only for the sake -of handsomely apologizing for them, as tumblers oft make slips to -surprize beholders with their agility in recovering themselves.--I saw -Mr. B-- last night--who by the way I like much--the Man I mean--and -not the Genius (tho’ of the first rate) he chattered and laughed like -a soul ignorant of evil. He asked about a motley creature at ----. I -told him with more truth than wit--that you was hypp’d.--I inclose -you a proof print:--and how does Mad. M----, &c. &c.? Is Miss S---- -better?--Is Mrs. H----, Mrs. T----, Mrs. H----? Lord preserve me! what -in the name of mischief have I to do with all this combustible matter? -Is it not enough for me that I am fast sliding down the vale of years? -Have not I a gout? six brats, and a wife?--Oh! Reason, where art -thou? you see by this how much easier it is to preach than to do! But -stop--we know good from evil; and, in serious truth, we have powers -sufficient to withstand vice, if we will choose to exert ourselves. -In the field, if we know the strength and situation of the enemy, we -place out-posts and centinels--and take every prudent method to avoid -surprize. In common life, we must do the same;--and trust me, my honest -friend, a victory gained over passion, immorality, and pride, deserves -_Te Deums_, better than those gained in the fields of ambition and -blood.--Here’s letter for letter, and so farewell, - - Yours--as you behave, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER IX. - -TO MR. K----. - - - Dalkeith, July 16, 1770. - Sunday. - -ALIVE; alive ho!--my dear boy, I am glad to see you?--Well, and -how goes it?--Badly, sayest thou--no conversation, no joy, no -felicity!--Cruel absence, thou lover’s hell! what pangs, what soul-felt -pangs, dost thou inflict! Cheer up, my child of discretion--and comfort -yourself that every day will bring the endearing moment of meeting, so -much nearer--chew the cud upon rapture in reversion--and indulge your -fancy with the sweet food of intellectual endearments;--paint in your -imagination the thousand graces of your H----, and believe this absence -a lucky trial of her constancy.--I don’t wonder the cricket-match -yielded no amusement--all sport is dull, books unentertaining--Wisdom’s -self but folly--to a mind under Cupidical influence.--I think I behold -you with supple-jack in hand--your two faithful happy companions by -your side--complimenting like courtiers every puppy they meet--yourself -with eyes fixed in a lover-like rumination--and arms folded in sorrow’s -knot--pace slowly thro’ the meadows.--I have done--for too much -truth seldom pleases folks in love.--We came home from our Highland -excursion last Monday night, safe and well--after escaping manifold -dangers.--Mesdames H----, D----, and self, went into the post-coach, -and were honour’d with the freedom of Dumbarton. By an overset, the -ladies shewed their--delicacy--and I my activity[1]--Mr. B---- his -humanity;--all was soon to rights--nothing broke--and no one hurt--and -laughter had its fill.--Inverary is a charming place--the beauties -various--and the whole plan majestic;--there are some worthy souls on -the spot, which I admire more than the buildings and prospects.--We -had herrings in perfection--and would have had mackarel; but the -scoundrels were too sharp for us--and would not be caught. The -Loch-Loman--Ben-Loman--Domiquith--and Arsenhoe--with Hamilton and -Douglas houses--are by much too long for description by letter.--We -paraded to Edinburgh last Friday in a post coach and four;--H---- -D----, Mrs. M----, housekeeper, and self, were the party;--we saw -the usual seeings, and dined at Lord Chief Baron’s, but--dare I tell -you?--H--’s figure attracted universal admiration.--True!--Alas, poor -K----!--but, man, never fret--my honesty to a rotten egg--we bring her -home sound.--We read a shocking account in the papers of a storm of -rain at Richmond Gardens, and distress, &c. &c. is it true? if so, why -did not you mention it? H---- sends her service to you, M---- his best -respects--and all their best wishes to you and birds.--Your confounded -epistle cost me seven pence;--deuce take you, why did not you inclose -it?--So you do not like Eloisa--you are a noddy for that--read it till -you do like it.--I am glad you have seen Cymon;--that you like it, -does but little credit to your taste--for every body likes it--I can -afford you no more time--for I have three letters to write besides this -scrawl.--I hear nothing of moving as yet--pray God speed us southward! -though we have fine weather--fine beef--fine ale--and fine ladies. - -Lady Mary grows a little angel;--the Dutchess gets pretty round--they -all eat--drink--and seem pure merry--and we are all out of mourning -this day--farewell. - - Yours, &c. &c. - I. SANCHO. - -[1] Mr. Sancho was remarkably unwieldy and inactive, and never gave a - greater proof of it than at this overset, when he and a goose-pye - were equally incapable of raising themselves. - - - - -LETTER X. - -TO MISS L----. - - - August, 31, 1770. - -DO not you condemn me for the very thing that you are guilty of -yourself;--but before I recriminate--let me be grateful, and -acknowledge that heartfelt satisfaction which I ever feel from the -praise of the good.--Sterne says--‘every worthy mind loves praise’--and -declares that he loves it too--but then it must be sincere. Now I -protest that you have something very like flattery;--no matter--I -honestly own, it pleases me--Vanity is a shoot from self-love--and -self-love Pope declares to be the spring of motion in the human -breast.--Friendship founded upon right judgement takes the good and bad -with the indulgence of blind love;--nor is it wrong--for as weakness -and error is the lot of humanity--real friendship must oft kindly -overlook the undesigning frailties of undisguised nature.--My dear -Madam, I beg ten thousand pardons for the dull sermon I have been -preaching:--You may well yawn.--So the noble! the humane! the patron! -the friend! the good Duke leaves Tunbridge on Monday--true nobility -will leave the place with him--and kindness and humanity will accompany -Miss L---- whenever she thinks fit to leave it.--Mrs. Sancho is pretty -well, pretty round, and pretty tame! she bids me say, Thank you in the -kindest manner I possibly can--and observe, I say, Thank you kindly.--I -will not pretend to enumerate the many things you deserve our thanks -for:--you are upon the whole an estimable young woman--your heart is -the best part of you--may it meet with its likeness in the man of -your choice!--and I will pronounce you a happy couple.--I hope to hear -in your next--(that is, if--) that you are about thinking of coming -to town--no news stiring but politics--which I deem very unfit for -ladies.--I shall conclude with John Moody’s prayer--“The goodness of -goodness bless and preserve you!”--I am dear Miss L----’s most sincere -servant and friend, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XI. - -TO MR. S----N. - - - Dalkeith, Sept. 15, 1770. - -IT was kindly done of my worthy old friend to give me the satisfaction -of hearing he was well and happy.--Believe me, I very often think of -and wish to be with you;--without malice, I envy you the constant -felicity of being with worthy good children--whose regards and filial -tenderness to yourself--and christian behaviour to each other--reflect -honor to themselves and credit to you. But the thing I have much at -heart you are provokingly silent about--is my sweet Polly married yet? -has she made Mr. H---- happy? May they both enjoy every comfort God -Almighty blesses his children with! And how comes it my dear Tommy does -not give me a line? I hope he is well, hearty, and happy--and honest -downright Sally also;--tell Tommy he has disappointed me in not writing -to me.--I hope Mrs. Sancho will be as good as her word, and soon pay -you a visit.--I will trust her with you, though she is the treasure of -my soul.--We have been a week in the Highlands, and a fine country it -is.--I hear nothing of coming home as yet--but I fancy it will not be -long now.--Mrs. H---- sends her love to you and yours--and I my double -love to self and the four young ones--with my best wishes and respects -to Mrs. B----y, and tell her I am half a Methodist:--here is a young -man preaches here, one of those five who were expelled from Oxford--his -name is M----n; he has a good strong voice--much passion--and -preaches three times a day--an hour and a half each time;--he is -well-built--tall--genteel--a good eye--about twenty-five--a white -hand, and a blazing ring--he has many converts amongst the ladies;--I -cannot prevail on Mrs. H---- to go and hear him--I have been four or -five times, and heard him this day--his text was the epistle in the -communion service.--I am, dear friend, yours sincerely, and all your -valuable family’s sincere well-wisher, and, were it in my power, I -would add friend, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - -Their Graces are all well--and Lady Mary grows every day--she is a -sweet child.--Remember me to Mrs. ----, and tell her Mrs. M---- is -quite the woman of fashion:--she is pretty well in every thing except -her eyes, which are a little inflamed with cold--and she does not -forget they are so. Once more my cordial love to the girls; and to the -worthies, Tommy, Mr. H---- B----, and self. Adieu. - - - - -LETTER XII. - -TO MRS. H----. - - - Richmond, Dec. 22, 1771. - -YOU cannot conceive the odd agreeable mixture of pleasure and pain I -felt on the receipt of your favor;--believe me, good friend, I honor -and respect your nobleness of principle--but at the same time greatly -disapprove of your actions.--My dear Madam, bribery and corruption -are the reigning topics of declamation;--and here, because I happen -to be a well-wisher, you are loading us with presents.--One word -for all, my good Mrs. H---- must not be offended when I tell her it -hurts my pride--for pride I have--too much, God knows. I accept your -present this time--and do you accept dame Sancho’s and my thanks--and -never aim at sending aught again--Your daughter Kate brought me your -letter: she seemed a little surprized at my being favoured with your -correspondence--and I am sure wished to see the contents.--As I -from my soul honor filial feelings--it hurt me not to gratify her -honest curiosity--but I do not chuse to let her know any thing of -the matter--to save her the anxiety of hope and fear. She is very -well, and rules over us--not with an iron sceptre--but a golden one. -We tell her we love her too well--in truth I can never return her -a tithe of the kindnesses she has shewn my family--but what’s all -this to you?--I shall tire you with a jargon of nonsense; therefore -I shall only wish you all many happy returns of this season--good -stomachs--good cheer--and good fires.--My kind remembrance to Madam -Tilda--tell her, if she’s a good girl, I will try to recommend her -to Mr. G---- the painter, for a wife;--he is really, I believe, a -first-rate genius--and, what’s better, he is a good young man--and -I flatter myself will do honor to his science, and credit to his -friends.--Kitty looks like the Goddess of Health--I am sure, every drop -of blood in her honest heart beats for the welfare and happiness of her -parents.--Believe me ever your obliged servant and friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XIII. - -TO MR. B----. - - - London, July 18, 1772. - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -NOTHING could possibly be more welcome than the favor of your truly -obliging letter, which I received the day before yesterday.--Know, my -worthy young man--that it’s the pride of my heart when I reflect that, -through the favor of Providence, I was the humble means of good to so -worthy an object.--May you live to be a credit to your great and good -friends, and a blessing and comfort to your honest parents!--May you, -my child, pursue, through God’s mercy, the right paths of humility, -candour, temperance, benevolence--with an early piety, gratitude, and -praise to the Almighty Giver of all your good?--gratitude--and love -for the noble and generous benefactiors his providence has so kindly -moved in your behalf! Ever let your actions be such as your own heart -can approve--always think before you speak, and pause before you -act--always suppose yourself before the eyes of Sir William--and Mr. -Garrick.--To think justly, is the way to do rightly--and by that means -you will ever be at peace within.--I am happy to hear Sir W---- cares -so much about your welfare--his character is great, because it is -good;--as to your noble friend Mr. Garrick--his virtues are above all -praise--he has not only the best head in the world, but the best heart -also;--he delights in doing good.--Your father and mother called on me -last week, to shew me a letter which Mr. Garrick has wrote to you--keep -it, my dear boy, as a treasure beyond all price--it would do honor to -the pen of a divine--it breathes the spirit of father--friend--and -christian!--indeed I know no earthly being that I can reverence so -much as your exalted and noble friend and patron Mr. Garrick.--Your -father and mother, I told you, I saw lately--they were both well, and -their eyes overflowed at the goodness of your noble patrons--and with -the honest hope that you would prove yourself not unworthy of their -kindness. - -I thank you for your kindness to my poor black brethren--I flatter -myself you will find them not ungrateful--they act commonly from their -feelings: I have observed a dog will love those who use him kindly--and -surely, if so, negroes in their state of ignorance and bondage will not -act less generously, if I may judge them by myself--I should suppose -kindness would do any thing with them;--my soul melts at kindness--but -the contrary--I own with shame--makes me almost a savage.--If you -can with conveniency--when you write again--send me half a dozen -cocoa-nuts, I shall esteem them for your sake--but do not think of it -if there is the least difficulty.--In regard to wages, I think you -acted quite right--don’t seek too hastily to be independent--it is -quite time enough yet for one of your age to be your own master.--Read -Mr. Garrick’s letter night and morning--put it next your heart--impress -it on your memory--and may the God of all Mercy give you grace to -follow his friendly dictates!--I shall ever truly rejoice to hear -from you--and your well-doing will be a comfort to me ever; it is not -in your own power and option to command riches--wisdom and health -are immediately the gift of God--but it is in your own breast to be -good--therefore, my dear child, make the only right election--be good, -and trust the rest to God; and remember he is about your bed, and about -your paths, and spieth out all your ways. I am, with pride and delight, - - Your true friend, - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XIV. - -TO MR. S----E. - - - Richmond, Oct. 11, 1772. - -YOUR letter gave me more pleasure than in truth I ever expected from -your hands--but thou art a flatterer;--why dost thou demand advice -of me? Young man, thou canst not discern wood from trees;--with -awe and reverence look up to thy more than parents--look up to thy -almost divine benefactors--search into the motive of every glorious -action--retrace thine own history--and when you are convinced that -they (like the All-gracious Power they serve) go about in mercy doing -good--retire abashed at the number of their virtues--and humbly beg -the Almighty to inspire and give you strength to imitate them.--Happy, -happy lad! what a fortune is thine!--Look round upon the miserable fate -of almost all of our unfortunate colour. Superadded to ignorance, see -slavery, and the contempt of those very wretches who roll in affluence -from our labours superadded to this woful catalogue--hear the ill-bred -and heart-racking abuse of the foolish vulgar.--You, S----e, tread -as cautiously as the strictest rectitude can guide you--yet must -you suffer from this--but, armed with truth--honesty--and conscious -integrity--you will be sure of the plaudit and countenance of the -good;--if, therefore, thy repentance is sincere--I congratulate thee as -sincerely upon it--it is thy birth-day to real happiness.--Providence -has been very lavish of her bounty to you--and you are deeply in -arrears to her--your parts are as quick as most mens; urge but your -speed in the race of virtue with the same ardency of zeal as you have -exhibited in error--and you will recover, to the satisfaction of your -noble patrons--and to the glory of yourself.--Some philosopher--I -forget who--wished for a window in his breast--that the world might -see his heart;--he could only be a great fool, or a very good man:--I -will believe the latter, and recommend him to your imitation.--Vice -is a coward--;--to be truly brave, a man must be truly good; you hate -the name of cowardice--then, S----e, avoid it--detest a lye,--and shun -lyars--be above revenge;--if any have taken advantage either of your -guilt or distress, punish them with forgiveness--and not only so--but, -if you can serve them any future time, do it--you have experienced -mercy and long-sufferance in your own person--therefore gratefully -remember it, and shew mercy likewise. - -I am pleased with the subject of your last--and if your conversion -is real, I shall ever be happy in your correspondence--but at the -same time I cannot afford to pay five pence for the honour of your -letters;--five pence is the twelfth part of five shillings--the -forty-eighth part of a pound--it would keep my girls in potatoes two -days.--The time may come, when it may be necessary for you to study -calculations;--in the mean while, if you cannot get a frank, direct to -me under cover to his Grace the Duke of ----. You have the best wishes -of your sincere friend (as long as you are your own friend) - - +Ignatius Sancho.+ - - -You must excuse blots and blunders--for I am under the dominion of a -cruel head-ach--and a cough, which seems too fond of me. - - - - -LETTER XV. - -TO MR. M----. - - - Nov. 8, 1772. - -BRAVO! my ingenious friend!--to say you exceed my hopes, would be to -lye.--At my first knowledge of you--I was convinced that Providence -had been partial in the talents entrusted to you--therefore I -expected exertion on your side--and I am not disappointed; go -on, my honest heart, go on!--hold up the mirror to an effeminate -gallimawfry----insipid, weak, ignorant, and dissipated set of -wretches--and scourge them into shame--the pen--the pencil--the -pulpit--oh! may they all unite their endeavours--and rescue this once -manly and martial people from the silken slavery of foreign luxury -and debauchery!--Thou, my worthy M----, continue thy improvements; -and may the Almighty bless thee with the humble mien of plenty and -content!--Riches ensnare--the mediocrity is Wisdom’s friend--and that -be thine!--When you see S----, note his behaviour--he writes me word -that he intends a thorough and speedy reformation;--I rather doubt him, -but should be glad to know if you perceive any marks of it--You do -not tell me that you have seen Mr. G----; if you have not, I shall be -angry with you--and attribute your neglect to pride:--pray render my -compliments most respectful and sincere to Mrs. H----, and the little -innocent laughing rose-bud--my love to my son.--I am heartily tired of -the country;--the truth is--Mrs. Sancho and the girls are in town;--I -am not ashamed to own that I love my wife--I hope to see you married, -and as foolish. - - I am yours, sincerely, &c. &c. - - +Ign. Sancho.+ - - - - -LETTER XVI. - -TO MRS. H----. - - - Charles Street, Nov. 1, 1773. - - MY DEAR AND RESPECTED MADAM, - -I HAVE sincere pleasure to find you honour me in your thoughts--to have -your good wishes, is not the least strange, for I am sure you possess -that kind of soul, that Christian philanthropy, which wishes well--and, -in the sense of Scripture, breathes peace and good-will to all.--Part -of your scheme we mean to adopt--but the principal thing we aim at is -in the tea, snuff, and sugar way, with the little articles of daily -domestic use.--In truth, I like your scheme, and I think the three -articles you advise would answer exceedingly well--but it would require -a capital--which we have not--so we mean to cut our coat according to -our scanty quantum--and creep with hopes of being enabled hereafter to -mend our pace.--Mrs. Sancho is in the straw--she has given me a fifth -wench--and your worthy Kate has offered her the honour of standing for -her sponsor, but I fear it must be by proxy.--Pray make my respects -to Mrs. Matilda--I hope she enjoys every thing that her parents wish -her.--I shall dine with Mr. Jacob some day this week--I saw him at -Dodd’s chapel yesterday--and, if his countenance is to be believed, -he was very well--I could not get at him to speak to him.--As soon as -we can get a bit of house, we shall begin to look sharp for a bit of -bread--I have strong hope--the more children, the more blessings--and -if it please the Almighty to spare me from the gout, I verily think -the happiest part of my life is to come--soap, starch, and blue, with -raisins, figs, &c.--we shall cut a respectable figure--in our printed -cards.--Pray make my best wishes to Mr. H----; tell him I revere his -whole family, which is doing honor to myself.--I had a letter of yours -to answer, which I should have done before, had my manners been equal -to my esteem.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in respectful love and thanks. I -remain ever your much obliged servant to command, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XVII. - -TO MRS. H----. - - - February 9, 1774. - -IT is the most puzzling affair in nature, to a mind that labours under -obligations, to know how to express its feelings;--your former tender -solicitude for my well-doing--and your generous remembrance in the -present order--appear friendly beyond the common actions of those -we in general style good sort of people;--but I will not teaze you -with my nonsensical thanks--for I believe such kind of hearts as you -are blest with have sufficient reward in the consciousness of acting -humanely.--I opened shop on Saturday the 29th of January--and have met -with a success truly flattering;--it shall be my study and constant -care not to forfeit the good opinion of my friends.--I have pleasure -in congratulating you upon Mrs. W----’s happy delivery and pleasing -increase of her family;--it is the hope and wish of my heart--that -your comforts in all things may multiply with your years--that -in the certain great end--you may immerge without pain--full of -hope--from corruptible pleasure--to immortal and incorruptible -life--happiness without end--and past all human comprehension;--there -may you and I--and all we love (or care for) meet!--the follies--the -parties--distinctions--feuds of ambition--enthusiasm--lust--and anger -of this miserable motley world--all totally forgot--every idea lost, -and absorbed in the blissful mansions of redeeming love. - -I have not seen Sir Jacob near a fortnight--but hope and conclude -him well.--R---- is well, and grows very fat--an easy mind--full -purse--and a good table--great health--and much indulgence--all these -conduce terribly to plumpness.--I must beg, when you see Mr. ----, if -not improper or inconvenient, that you will inform him--that where -there is but little--every little helps;--I think he is too humane to -be offended at the liberty--and too honest to be displeased with a -truth.--I am, with greatful thanks to Mr. H----, your sincerely humble -servant and poor friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - -My best half and Sanchonetta’s are all well. - - - - -LETTER XVIII. - -TO MR. S----. - - - Charles Street, Nov. 26, 1774. - -YOUNG says, “A friend is the balsam of life”--Shakespear says,--but -why should I pester you with quotations?--to shew you the depth of my -erudition, and strut like the fabled bird in his borrowed plumage. In -good honest truth, my friend--I rejoice to see thy name at the bottom -of the instructive page--and were fancy and invention as much my -familiar friends as they are thine--I would write thee an answer--or -try, at least, as agreeably easy--and as politely simple.--Mark -that; simplicity is the characteristic of good writing--which I have -learnt, among many other good things, of your Honor--and for which I -am proud to thank you;--in short I would write like you--think like -you (of course); and do like you; but, as that is impossible, I must -content myself with my old trick;--now what that trick is--thou art -ignorant--and so thou shalt remain--till I congratulate you upon -your recovery.--_A propos_, you began your letter ill, as we do -many things in common life;--ten days elapsed before you finished -it--consequently you finished it well.--My dear friend, may you, -thro’ God’s blessing, ever finish happily what you undertake--however -unpromising the beginning may appear to be!--I want you much in -town--for my one sake--that’s a stroke of self-love.--And do you mean -to bring any candles up with you?--that’s another!--I do not wonder -at your making your way amongst the folks of Hull--although there -are four of the same profession;--we love variety.--I will give them -credit for admiring the Artist;--but if they--that is two or three -of them--have penetration to look deeper--and love the Man--then I -shall believe that there are souls in Hull.--So--my cramp epistle fell -into the hands of thy good and reverend farther--_tant pis_--why, -he must think me blacker than I am.--Mons. B---- goes on well:--I -suppose you know he has opened an Academy in St. Alban’s Street--at -two guineas a year--naked figures three nights a week--Mr. Mortimer -and several eminent names upon his list--and room left for yours--he -hops about with that festivity of countenance which denotes peace -and good-will to man.--I have added to my felicity--or Fortune more -properly has--three worthy friends--they are admirers and friends of -Mortimer and Sterne;--but of this when we meet.--You are expected at -B---- House upon your return--and I hope you will call on them, if -consistent with your time--and agreeable to you.--My friend L---- is -in town, and intends trying his fortune among us--as teacher of murder -and neck-breaking--alias--fencing and riding.--The Tartars, I believe, -have few fine gentlemen among them--and they can ride--though they have -neither fencing nor riding masters;--and as to genteel murder--we are -mere pedlars and novices--for they can dispatch a whole caravan--or -a hoorde--and eat and drink--wench and laugh--and, in truth, so far -they can match our modern fine gents.;--they have no acquaintance with -conscience--but what’s all this to you?--nothing--it helps to fill up -the sheet--and looks like moralizing;--the good-natured partiality of -thy honest heart will deem it--not absolutely nonsense.--Alas!--thus it -often happens--that the judgement of a good head is--bum-fiddled--and -wrong-biass’d by the weakness of a too kind heart;--under that same -weakness let me shelter my failings and absurdities--and let me boast -at this present writing--that my heart is not very depraved--and has -this proof of not being dead to virtue;--it beats stronger at the sound -of friendship--and will be sincerely attached to W---- S----, Esq; -while its pulsations continue to throb in the brest of your obliged - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - -Do pray think about returning--the captain--the girls--the house--the -court, stand all--just where they did--when you left them.--Alas! Time -leaves the marks of his rough fingers upon all things--Time shrivels -female faces--and sours small-beer--gives insignificance, if not -impotency, to trunk-hose--and toughness to cow-beef.--Alas! alas! -alas!-- - - - - -LETTER XIX. - -TO MRS. C----. - - - Charles Street, July 4, 1775. - - DEAR MADAM, - -IT would be affronting your good-nature to offer an excuse for the -trouble I am going to give you--my tale is short.--Mrs. O---- is -with us--she was, this day, observing poor Lydia with a good deal of -compassion--and said, she knew a child cured by roses boiled in new -milk;--observed, that you had, at this very time, perhaps bushels of -rose-leaves wasting on the ground.--Now my petition is--that you would -cause a few of them to be brought you--(they will blush to find their -sweetness excelled by your kindness)--they are good dryed, but better -fresh--so when you come to town think of honest Lydia.--Mrs. O---- this -morning saw your picture in Bond Street.--She approves much--and I -fancy means to sit--she thinks that you enriched me with the strongest -likeness--but the whole length the best.--I have the honor to transmit -the compliments of Mesdames A---- and Sancho--to which permit me to -add mine, with the most grateful sensibility for the recent favor of -favors.--I am, dear madam, - - Your most obliged, - humble servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XX. - -TO MISS L----. - - - July 26, 1775. - - DEAR MADAM, - -I HAVE just now had the pleasure of seeing a Gentleman who is honoured -in calling you sister.--He suspended the pain in my foot for full -five minutes, by the pleasing account he gave of your health.--I -delivered my charge[2] safe into his hands--he viewed it with an -eye of complacency--from which I conclude he is not unworthy your -sister’s hand;--we commonly behold those with a sort of partiality who -bring good tidings from our friends--in that view I could not forbear -thinking him a very good kind of man. I have to thank you for a very -obliging and friendly letter--which I should have done much sooner, -could I have complied with your kind wishes in giving a better account -of myself;--my better self has been but poorly for some time--she -groans with the rheumatism--and I grunt with the gout--a pretty -concert!--Life is thick-sown with troubles--and we have no right to -exemption.--The children, thank God! are well--your name-sake gets -strength every day--and trots about amazingly.--I am reading Bossuet’s -Universal History, which I admire beyond any thing I have long met -with: if it lays in your way, I would wish you to read it, if you have -not already--and if you have, it is worth a second perusal. Mrs. Sancho -rejoices to hear you are well--and intrusts me to send you her best -wishes.--I hope you continue your riding--and should like to see your -_etiquette_ of hat, feather, and habit. Adieu.--May you enjoy every -wish of your benevolent heart--is the hope and prayer of your much -obliged humble servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - -If the Universal History of Bossuet, Bishop of Meaux, and Preceptor to -Louis XV. should be difficult to find at Tunbridge--when you return -to town, and give us the pleasure of seeing you--he will be exceeding -proud of the happiness (and what Frenchman would not,--although a -bishop?) of riding to Bond Street in your pockets. - -[2] Miss L----’s picture. - - - - -LETTER XXI. - -TO MISS L----. - - - Charles Street, June 20, 1775. - -I PROTEST, my dear Madam, there is nothing so dangerous to the -calm philosophic temper of fifty--as a friendly epistle from a -pretty young woman;--but when worth--benevolence--and a train of -amiabilities--easier felt than described--join in the attack,--the -happy receiver of such an epistle must feel much in the same manner -as your humble servant did this day;--but I did not mean to write -a starch complimentary letter--and I believe you will think I have -flourished rather too much;--here then I recover my wits--and the first -use I make of them is to thank you, in Mrs. Sancho’s name, for your -friendly enquiries--and to assure you, we both rejoice that you had so -pleasant a passage--and that you enjoy your health. We hope also, that -your young gallant will repay your humane attentions--with grateful -regard--and dutiful attachment.--I beg your pardon, over and over, for -my blundering forgetfulness of your kind order--it was occasioned by -being obliged to say goodbye.--Taking leave of those we esteem is, in -my opinion, unpleasant!--the parting of friends is a kind of temporary -mourning. Mrs. Sancho is but indifferent--the hot weather does not -befriend her--but time will, I hope;--if true worth could plead an -exemption from pain and sickness--Miss L---- and Mrs. Sancho would, -by right divine, enjoy the best health--but, God be blessed! there -is a reward in store for both, and all like them--which will amply -repay them for the evils and cross accidents of this foolish world. I -saw Miss and Mrs. S----, and Johnny, at church last Sunday--they all -looked pleasant, and told me they had heard you were well.--I would -recommend a poem, which, if you have not, you should read--it is called -Almeria; I have not read it--but have heard such an account of it as -makes me suspect it will be worth your notice. This end of the town -is fairly Regatta-mad--and the prices they ask are only five shillings -each seat.--They are building scaffoldings on Westminster-hall--and the -prayers of all parties is now for a fine evening--May your evenings be -ever fair--and mornings bright! I should have said nights happy--all in -God’s good time! which, you must be convinced, is the best time.--Lydia -mends--she walks a little--we begin to encourage hope--Kitty is as -lively as ever--and almost goes alone--the rest are well.--Mrs. Sancho -joins me in cordial wishes for your health and wealth.--I am, dear -Madam, - - Your most sincere friend, - and obliged humble servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXII. - -TO MR. R----. - - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -THOU hast an honest sympathizing heart--and I am sure will feel -sorrow to hear poor Mr. W---- has paid the debt to Nature:--last -Sunday heaven gained a worthy soul--and the world lost an honest -man!--a Christian!--a friend to merit--a father to the poor and -society--a man, whose least praise was his wit--and his meanest virtue, -good-humour;--he is gone to his great reward;--may you, and all I love -and honor, in God’s good time, join him!--I wish to hear about you--how -you all do--when you saw Johnny--and whether Mrs. O---- holds in the -same mind--if so, she is on the road for London, and Johnny on the -road for B----. Pray have you heard from Mr. L----? A spruce Frenchman -brought me a letter from him on Thursday; he left him well and in -spirits--he wishes we would enquire for a place for him--he longs to be -in England;--he is an honest soul, and I should feel true pleasure in -serving him;--pray remember he wants a place.--I know not what words to -use in way of thanks to Mrs. C----, for the very valuable present of -her picture.--I have wrote to her--but my pen is not able to express -what I feel--and I think Mr. Gardner has hit off her likeness exceeding -well;--my chimney-piece now--fairly imitates the times--a flashy fine -outside--the only intrinsic nett worth, in my possession, is Mrs. -Sancho--whom I can compare to nothing so properly as to a diamond in -the dirt--but, my friend, that is Fortune’s fault, not mine--for had -I power, I would case her in gold.--When heard you from our friend -Mr. J---- N----? when you see or write to him--tell him we still care -for him--and remember his easy good-nature and natural politeness,--I -will trouble you with the inclosed without any ceremony--for I have -been so often obliged to you, that I begin now to fancy I have a -right to trouble you. Commend me to squire S----, and all worthy -friends.--Lydia sends her love to you--she trots about amazingly--and -Kitty imitates her, with this addition, that she is as mischievous as -a monkey.--Mrs. Sancho, Mrs. M----, and Mrs. B----, all think well of -you, as well as yours. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXIII. - -TO MRS. C----. - - - Charles Street, July 31, 1775. - - DEAR MADAM, - -IF aught upon earth could make mortals happy--I have the best right to -believe myself so.--I have lived with the great--and been favoured by -beauty--I have cause to be vain--let that apologize for my boasting. -I am to thank you for the best ornament of my chimney-piece--your -picture, which I had the joy to receive from Mr. Gardner, and which -(exclusive of the partiality I have to your resemblance) I think a very -good one;--it proves, unquestionably, three things--your goodness--Mr. -Gardner’s skill--and my impudence!--in wishing so pleasing a prize.--If -Kitty should live to woman’s estate--she will exultingly tell -folks--that’s my godmother’s picture!--and the next generation will -swear the painter was a flatterer--and scarce credit there was ever a -countenance so amiably sweet--in the days of George the Third--except a -Hamilton or Lady Sarah.--Mrs. Sancho desires her thanks may be joined -with mine--as the thanks of one flesh.--Mr. M---- is well--and hopes, -in concert with the Sanchos, that you had a pleasant journey--and -good health your companion.--That health and pleasure--with love and -friendship in its train--may ever accompany you--is the wish, dear -Madam, of your greatly obliged humble servant, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXIV. - -TO MISS L----. - - - Charles Street, August, 7, 1775. - -I NEVER can excuse intolerable scrawls--and I do tell you, that for -writing conversable letters you are wholly unfit--no talent--no -nature--no style;--stiff--formal and unintelligible;--take that--for -your apology--and learn to be honest to yourself.--The Dutchess -of Kingston and Mr. Foote have joined in a spirited paper-war--(I -should have said engaged)--but I fear her Grace will have the worst -of it:--had she either the heart or head of our friend Miss L----, I -should pity her from my soul--and should muster up gallantry enough -to draw a pen (at least) in her defence; as it is--I think--in -principles they are well-matched;--but as her Grace appears to me to -want temper--I think the Wit will be too hard for her. I am pleased -with the Tunbridgians for their respectful loyalty on his Royal -Highness’s birth day;--it is too much the fashion to treat the Royal -Family with disrespect.--Zeal for politics has almost annihilated good -manners.--Mrs. Sancho feels the kindness of your good wishes;--but -we hope you will be in town before she tumbles in the straw, when a -Benjamin mess of caudle will meet your lips with many welcomes.--Mrs. -Sancho is so, so--not so alert as I have known her;--but I shall -be glad she holds just as well till she is down--My silly gout is -not in haste to leave me--I am in my seventh week--and in truth am -peevish--and sick of its company.--As to Dr. D----, the last I heard -of him was, that he was in France;--he has not preached for these nine -Sundays at Pimlico.--You did not tell me the name of your Suffolk -preacher;--I fancy it is Dr. W--ll--ton--who is reckoned equal to -D----; I am glad you have him--as I would wish you to have every thing -that God can give you conducive to your love and pleasure.--Mrs. -Sancho joins me in respects and thanks--good wishes, &c. &c. - - I am, dear Madam, - Your ever obliged, humble servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXV. - -TO MR. B----. - - - August 12, 1775. - - DEAR SIR, - -IF I knew a better man than yourself--you would not have had this -application--which is in behalf of a merry, chirping, white-toothed, -clean, tight, and light, little fellow!--with a woolly pate--and face -as dark as your humble;--Guiney-born, and French-bred--the sulky -gloom of Africa dispelled by Gallic vivacity--and that softened again -with English sedateness--a rare fellow!--rides well--and can look -upon a couple of horses--dresses hair in the present taste--shaves -light--and understands something of the arrangement of a table and -side-board;--his present master will authenticate him a decent -character--he leaves him at his own (Blacky’s) request:--he has served -him three years--and, like Teague, would be glad of a good master--if -any good master would be glad of him.--As I believe you associate -chiefly with good-hearted folks--it is possible your interest may be of -service to him.--I like the rogue’s looks, or a similarity of colour -should not have induced me to recommend him.--Excuse this little scrawl -from your friend, &c. - - +Ignatius Sancho.+ - - - “For conscience, like a fiery horse, - “Will stumble if you check his course; - “But ride him with an easy rein, - “And rub him down with worldly gain, - “He’ll carry you through thick and thin, - “Safe, although dirty, to your Inn.” - - - - -LETTER XXVI. - -TO MRS. C----. - - - August 14, 1775. - - DEAR MADAM, - -I AM happy in hearing that the bathing and drinking has been of -real service to you.--I imagine you rise out of the waves another -Venus--and could wish myself Neptune, to have the honor of escorting -you to land.--Mr. P---- has sent me a pretty turtle, and in very good -condition.--I must beg you will do me the honor to accept of it;--it -will attend you at Privy Gardens, where (had turtles a sense of -ambition) it would think itself happy in its destination.--Pray my best -respects to their honors R---- and Squire S----. I live in hopes of -seeing you all next week. - - I am, dear Madam, - Your much obliged, - humble servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXVII. - -TO MISS L----. - - - August 27, 1775. - -JUST upon the stroke of eleven--as I was following (like a good -husband) Mrs. Sancho to bed--a thundering rap called me to the -street-door--A letter from Tunbridge, Sir!--thanks many thanks--good -night.--I hugged the fair stranger--and--as soon as up stairs--broke -open the seal with friendly impatience--and got decently trimmed, for -what? why, truly, for having more honesty than prudence.--Well, if -ever I say a civil thing again to any of your sex--but it is foolish -to be rash in resolves--seriously, if aught at any time slips from my -unguarded pen, which you may deem censurable--believe me truly and -honestly--it is the error of uncultivated nature--and I will trust -the candour of friendship to wink at undesigned offence;--not but -I could defend--and would against any but yourself--the whole sad -charge of flattery--but enough.--I paid a visit in Bond Street this -morning.--Your sister looked health itself--she was just returned -from the country, and had the pleasure to hear from you at her first -entrance. - -Your friendly offer for the little stranger is in character--but if I -was to say what my full heart would dictate--you would accuse me of -flattery.--Mrs. Sancho is more than pleased--I won’t say what I am--but -if you love to give pleasure, you have your will.--Are you not pleased -to find Miss Butterfield innocent?--It does credit to my judgement, -for I never believed her guilty--her trial proves undeniably that one -half of the faculty are very ignorant.--I hear she intends suing for -damages--and if ever any one had a right to recover, she certainly -has;--and were I to decree them--they should not be less than 400_l._ -a year for life, and 5000 pound down by way of smart-money.--In my -opinion, the D----ss of K---- is honoured, to be mentioned in the same -paper with Miss Butterfield--You should read the St. James’s Evening -papers for last week--you will easily get them at any coffee-house--the -affair is too long for a letter--but I will send you some black poetry -upon the occasion: - - With Satire, Wit, and Humour arm’d, - Foote opes his exhibitions; - High-titled Guilt, justly alarm’d, - The Chamberlain petitions. - - My Lord, quoth Guilt, this daring fiend - Won’t let us sin in private; - To his presumption there’s no end, - Both high and low he’ll drive at. - - Last year he smoak’d the cleric[3] gown; - A D----ss now he’d sweat. - The insolent, for half a crown, - Would libel all the Great. - - What I can do, his Lordship cries, - Command you freely may: - Don’t licence him, the Dame replies, - Nor let him print his play. - -Poor Lydia is exceedingly unwell.--They who have least sensibility -are best off for this world.--By the visit I was able to make this -morning--you may conclude, my troublesome companion is about taking -leave. May you know no pains but of sensibility!--and may you be ever -able to relieve where you wish!--May the wise and good esteem you more -than I do--and the object of your heart love you, as well as you love -a good and kind action!--These wishes--after the trimming you gave in -your last--is a sort of heaping coals on your head--as such, accept it -from your sincere--aye, and _honest_ friend, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - -Mrs. Sancho says little--but her moistened eye expresses--that she -feels your friendship. - -[3] Dr. Dodd. - - - - -LETTER XXVIII. - -TO MISS. L----. - - - Sept. 12, 1775. - -THERE is nothing in nature more vexatious than contributing to the -uneasiness of those, whose partiality renders them anxious for our -well-doing--the honest heart dilates with rapture when it can happily -contribute pleasure to its friends. You see by this that I am coxcomb -enough to suppose me and mine of consequence!--but if it is so--it -is such as you whose partial goodness have grafted that folly on -my natural trunk of dulness.--I am, in truth, in a very unfit mood -for writing--for poor Lydia is very so, so--Mrs. Sancho not very -stout;--and for me, I assure you, that of my pair of feet--two are -at this instant in pain! This is the worst side--but courage! Hope! -delusive cheating Hope! beckons Self-love, and enlists him of her -side--and, together, use their friendly eloquence to persuade me that -better times are coming.--Your beloved wife (cries Self-love) will have -a happy time, and be up soon, strong and hearty.--Your child (cries -Hope) will get the better of her illness--and grow up a blessing and -comfort to your evening life--and your friend will soon be in town, -and enliven your winter prospects.--Trust, trust in the Almighty--his -providence is your shield--’tis his love, ’tis his mercy, which has -hitherto supported and kept you up.--See, see! cries Hope! look where -Religion, with Faith on her right, and Charity on her left, and a -numerous train of blessings in her rear, come to thy support.--Fond -foolish mortal, leave complaining--all will be right--all is -right.--Adieu, my good friend--write me something, to chase away idle -fears, and to strengthen hope.--Too true it is, that where the tender -passions are concerned, our sex are cowards. - - Yours sincerely, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Mrs. Sancho sends her best wishes. - - - - -LETTER XXIX. - -TO MISS L----. - - - Charles Street, Oct. 4, 1775. - - Just as the twig is bent, the tree’s inclin’d, - ’Tis education forms the tender mind. - - So says +Pope+. - - Children like tender osiers take the bow, - And as they first are fashoned, always grow. - - +Dryden.+ - -THE sense of each is just the same, and they both prove an opinion -which I have long been grounded in--that the errors of most children -proceed in great part from the ill cultivation of the first -years.--Self-love, my friend, bewitches parents to give too much -indulgence to infantine foibles;--the constant cry is, “Poor little -soul, it knows no better!”--if it swears--that’s a sign of wit and -spirit;--if it fibs--it’s so cunning and comical;--if it steals--’tis -only a paw trick--and the mother exultingly cries--My Jacky is so -sharp, we can keep nothing from him!--Well! but what’s all this to -you?--You are no mother.--True, my sincerely esteemed friend, but -you are something as good--you are perhaps better--much better and -wiser I am sure than many mothers I have seen.--You, who believe -in the true essence of the gospel--who visit the sick, cover the -naked, and withdraw not your ear from the unfortunate:--but I did -not intend to write your elogium--it requires the pen of one less -interested--and perhaps less partiality and more judgement would also -be requisite.--Jacky S---- is the occasion of this prefatory vast shew -of learning. I do believe him a fine child spoil’d for want of proper -management--he is just now in high disgrace--he is wrong enough in all -conscience, I believe--but are they, who are about him, right?--We will -talk about this matter when I have the pleasure of seeing you;--you -shall forgive my impertinent meddling--I will ask pardon, and sin -again--so we serve Heaven--so complain, if you dare.--Mrs. Sancho is -yet up;--if I pray at all, it’s for the blessing of a happy moment, -with little pain for her;--as to what she brings, I care not about its -sex--God grant health to the mother!--and my soul and lips shall bless -his holy name.--We cannot remove till after Mrs. Sancho is up.--The -house will not be ready till towards Christmas, which is not the most -desirable time of the year for moving--but we must do as we can, not as -we would. - -At Charlotte Chapel, we had last Sunday a most excellent discourse -from Mr. H----n, whom I suppose you have heard preach--if not, he is -well worth hearing--to please me--for to the best of my knowledge, -he reads prayers better than most--Mr. B---- not excepted; there -is a dignity of expression in his Psalms, which catches the whole -attention--and such an animated strength of devotion in his Litany, -as almost carries the heart to the gates of Heaven--he is fine in the -pulpit;--but comparisons are unfair--if H---- reads prayers, and D---- -preaches, at the same church--I should suppose greater perfection -could not be found in England.--I have to thank you for the honor of -your correspondence--and can laugh in my sleeve like a Dutch Jew--to -think that I get sterling sense for my farrago of absurdities--but you -will, I hope, soon be in town.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in every sentiment -of gratitude and sincerity.--I am, as much as a poor African can be, -sincerely - - Yours to command, - - IGN. SANCHO - - -We are in great hopes about poor Lydia.--An honest and ingenious -motherly woman in our neighbourhood has undertaken the perfect cure of -her--and we have every reason to think, with God’s blessing--she will -succeed--which is a blessing we shall owe entirely to the comfort of -being poor--for, had we been rich, the doctors would have had the honor -of killing her a twelvemonth ago.----Adieu. - - - - -LETTER XXX. - -TO MISS L----. - - - Thursday Morning, Oct. 16, 1775. - -MY worthy and respected friend, I hear, has protracted her stay.--I -am greatly obliged to Miss L----’s goodness, who has given me this -opportuity of addressing my good friend.--I am very low in heart--poor -Mrs. Sancho is so indifferent--and Lydia, though upon the whole better, -yet weak and poorly.--I am sufficiently acquainted with care--and I -think fatten upon calamity.--Philosophy is best practised, I believe, -by the easy and affluent.--One ounce of practical religion is worth -all that ever the Stoics wrote.--Mrs. Sancho smiles in the pains which -it has pleased Providence to try her with--and her belief in a better -existence is her cordial drop,--Adieu; bring health with you, and the -sight of you will glad us all. - - Yours, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXXI. - -TO MR. R----. - - - Oct. 18, 1775. - -I BEGIN to fear with you that our friend L---- is sick or -married--or--what I would rather hope--is on his way to England.--Thanks -to our Suffolk friends--you take care we shall not starve.--I -was for five minutes, when dinner was on table, suspended, in -inclination, like the ass between the two loads of hay--the turtle -pulled one way, and a sweet loin of pork the other--I was obliged to -attack both in pure self-defence;--Mrs. Sancho eat--and praised the -pork--and praised the giver.--Let it not, my worthy R----, mortify -thy pride--to be obliged to divide praise with a pig; we all echoed -her--O---- and R---- were the toasts--I know not in truth two honester -or better men--were your incomes as enlarged as your hearts, you would -be the two greatest fortunes in Europe. But I wrote merely to thank -you--and to say Mrs Sancho and Mrs. M---- are both better than when -I wrote last night--in short, Mrs. M---- is quite well--I pray God -to send my dear Mrs. Sancho safe down and happily up--she makes the -chief ingredient of my felicity--whenever my good friend marries--I -hope he will find it the same with him--My best respects to Mesdames -C. and C. and take care of my brother.--I fear this will be a raking -week.--Compliments to Master S---- and the noble Mr. B----. - - Yours, &c. - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXXII. - -TO MR. L----. - - - Friday, Oct. 20, 1774. - -IN obedience to my amiable friend’s request--I, with gratitude to the -Almighty--and with pleasure to her--(I am sure I am right)--acquaint -her, that my ever dear Dame Sancho was exactly at half past one -this afternoon delivered of a--child.--Mrs. Sancho, my dear Miss -L----, is as well as can be expected--in truth, better than I feared -she would be--for indeed she has been very unwell for this month -past--I feel myself a ton lighter:--In the morning I was crazy with -apprehension--and now I talk nonsense through joy.--This plaguy scrawl -will cost you I know not what--but it’s not my fault--’tis your foolish -godson’s--who, by me, tenders his dutiful respects. I am ever yours to -command, sincerely and affectionately, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXXIII. - -TO MISS L----. - - - Charles Street, Dec. 14, 1775. - -THERE is something inexpressibly flattering in the notion of your -being warmer--from the idea of your much obliged friend’s caring -for you;--in truth we could not help caring about you--our thoughts -travelled with you over-night from Bond Street to the Inn.--The next -day at noon--“Well, now she’s above half way--alas! no, she will not -get home till Saturday night--I wonder what companions she has met -with--there is a magnetism in goodnature, which will ever attract its -like--so if she meets with beings the least social--but that’s as -chance wills!”--Well, night arrives--“And now our friend has reached -the open arms of parental love--excess of delightful endearments gives -place to tranquil enjoyments--and all are happy in the pleasure they -give each other!”--Were I a Saint or a Bishop, and was to pass by your -door, I would stop, and say, “Peace be upon this dwelling!”--and what -richer should I leave it?--for I trust, where a good man dwells, there -peace makes its sweet abode.--When you have read Bossuet, you will -find at the end, that it was greatly wished the learned author had -brought the work down lower--but I cannot help thinking he concluded -his design as far as he originally meant.--Mrs. Sancho, thank Heaven, -is as well as you left her, and your godson thrives;--he is the type -of his father--fat--heavy--sleepy;--but as he is the head of the -noble family, and your godson, I ought not to disparage him.----The -Dutchess of K---- is so unwell, that she has petitioned for a longer -day:--they say that her intellects are hurt;--though a bad woman, she -is entitled to pity.--Conscience, the high chancellor of the human -breast, whose small still voice speaks terror to the guilty--Conscience -has pricked her;--and, with all her wealth and titles, she is an -object of pity.--Health attend you and yours!--Pleasure of course will -follow.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in all I say, and the girls look their -assent.--I remain--God forgive me! I was going to conclude, without -ever once thanking you for your goodness in letting us hear from you -so early:--there is such a civil coldness in writing, a month perhaps -after expectation has been snuffed out, that the very thought is enough -to chill friendship;--but you--like your sister Charity, as Thomson -sweetly paints her (smiling through tears)--delight in giving pleasure, -and joy in doing good.--And now farewell--and believe us, in truth, -our dear Miss L----’s - - obliged and grateful friends, - - +ANNE+ and +I. SANCHO+. - - - - -LETTER XXXIV. - -TO MR. M----. - - - Jan. 4, 1776. - -I KNOW not what predominates in my worthy friend--pride or -good-nature;--don’t stare--you have a large share of both:--happy it -is for you--as well as your acquaintance--that your pride is so well -accompanied by the honest ardor of youthful benevolence.--You would, -like the fabled pelican--feed your friends with your vitals. Blessed -Philanthropy!--Oh! the delights of making happy--the bliss of giving -comfort to the afflicted--peace to the distressed mind--to prevent the -request from the quivering lips of indigence!--But, great God!--the -inexpressible delight--the not-to-be-described rapture, in soothing, -and _convincing_ the tender virgin that “_You alone_,” &c. &c. &c. -(Prior’s Henry and Emma see.)--But I think you dropt a word or two -about flattery.--Sir,--honest friend,--know, once for all--I never yet -thought you a coxcomb:--a man of sense I dare not flatter, my pride -forbids it;--a coxcomb is not worth the dirty pains.--You have (through -the bounty of your great Creator) strong parts, and, thank the Almighty -Goodness, an honest sincere heart;--yes, you have many and rare -talents, which you have cultivated with success:--you have much fire, -which, under the guidance of a circumspect judgement, stimulates you to -worthy acts;--but do not say that I flatter in speaking the truth;--I -can see errors even in those I half reverence;--there are spots in the -Sun--and perhaps some faults in Johnny M----, who is by far too kind, -generous, and friendly, to his greatly obliged friend, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - -P. S. I tell you what--(are you not coming to town soon?)--F---- and -venison are good things; but by the manes of my ancestors--I had rather -have the pleasure of gossipation with your sublime highness.--What -sketches have you taken?--What books have you read?--What lasses -gallanted?--The venison is exceeding fine, and the cleanest I ever -saw;--to-morrow we dress it;--a thankful heart shall be our sweet -sauce:--were you in town, your partaking of it would add to its -relish.--You say I was not in spirits when you saw me at G----; why, -it might be so--in spight of my philosophy--the cares and anxieties -attendant on a large family and small finances sometimes overcloud the -natural chearfulness of yours truly, - - I. SANCHO. - - -N. B. A very short P---- S----. - - - - -LETTER XXXV. - -TO MR. R----. - - - June 25, 1776. - -YOU had a pleasant day for your journey--and after five or six miles -ride from town--you left the dust behind you;--of course the road and -the country also improved as you drew nearer B----. I will suppose you -there--and then I will suppose you found Mrs. C---- well in health, and -the better for the preceding day’s motion;--she and Miss C---- meet -you with the looks of a Spring-morning--I see you meet in fancy;--I -wish I could see you in reality;--but of that hereafter.--I want to -know how Mrs. C---- does--and what Miss C---- does;--what you intend -to do--and what Mr. S---- will never do.--This letter is a kind of -much-ado-about--what--I must not say nothing--because the ladies -are mentioned in it.--Mr. and Mrs. B---- have a claim to my best -respects.--Pray say what’s decent for me--and to the respectable table -also--beginning with my true friend Mrs. C----, and then steering right -and left--ending at last with your worship. Tell Mrs. C---- that Kitty -is as troublesome as ever; that Billy gets heavier and stronger.--Mrs. -Sancho remains, thank God, very well--and all the rest ditto.--Let -me know how you all do--and how brother O---- does.--As to news, -all I hear is about Wilkes;--he will certainly carry his point--for -Administration are all strongly in his interest:--betts run much in -his favor:--for my part, I really think he will get it--if he can once -manage so--as to gain the majority.--I am, my dear R----, yours--(much -more than Wilkes’s--or indeed any man’s, O----’s excepted) in love and -zeal, - - Ever faithfully, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXXVI. - -TO MR. STERNE. - - - July, 1776. - - REVEREND SIR, - -IT would be an insult to your humanity (or perhaps look like it) to -aplogize for the liberty I am taking.--I am one of those people whom -the vulgar and illiberal call “_Negurs_.”--The first part of my life -was rather unlucky, as I was placed in a family who judged ignorance -the best and only security for obedience.--A little reading and -writing I got by unwearied application.--The latter part of my life -has been--through God’s blessing, truly fortunate, having spent it in -the service of the best families in the kingdom.--My chief pleasure -has been books.--Philanthropy I adore.--How very much, good Sir, am I -(amongst millions) indebted to you for the character of your amiable -uncle Toby!--I declare, I would walk ten miles in the dog-days, to -shake hands with the honest corporal.--Your Sermons have touched me -to the heart, and I hope have amended it, which brings me to the -point.--In your tenth discourse, page seventy-eight, in the second -volume--is this very affecting passage:--“Consider how great a part of -our species--in all ages down to this--have been trod under the feet -of cruel and capricious tyrants, who would neither hear their cries, -nor pity their distresses.--Consider slavery--what it is--how bitter -a draught--and how many millions are made to drink it!”--Of all my -favourite authors, not one has drawn a tear in favour of my miserable -black brethren--excepting yourself, and the humane author of Sir George -Ellison.--I think you will forgive me;--I am sure you will applaud -me for beseeching you to give one half-hour’s attention to slavery, -as it is at this day practised in our West Indies.--That subject, -handled in your striking manner, would ease the yoke (perhaps) of -many;--but if only of one--Gracious God!--what a feast to a benevolent -heart!--and, sure I am, you are an Epicurean in acts of charity.--You, -who are universally read, and as universally admired--you could -not fail.--Dear Sir, think in me you behold the uplifted hands of -thousands of my brother Moors.--Grief (you pathetically observe) is -eloquent;--figure to yourself their attitudes;--hear their supplicating -addresses!--Alas!--you cannot refuse.--Humanity must comply--in which -hope I beg permission to subscribe myself, - - Reverend Sir, &c. - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXXVII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - August 12, 1776. - - “We have left undone the things we should have done,” &c. &c.---- - -THE general confession--with a deep sense of our own frailties--joined -to penitence--and strong intentions of better doing--insures poor -sinners forgiveness, obliterates the past, sweetens the present, and -brightens the future;--in short, we are to hope that it reconciles us -with the Deity;--and if that conclusion is just, it must certainly -reconcile us in part to each other.--Grant me that, dear M----, -and you have no quarrel towards me for epistolary omissions:--look -about you, my dear friend, with a fault-searching eye--and see what -you have left undone!--Look on your chair!--those cloaths should -have been brushed and laid by--that linen sent to wash--those shoes -to be cleaned.--Zooks! why you forget to say your prayers--to take -your physick--to wash your ----. Pray how does Mrs. H----? Lord what -a deal of rain! I declare I fear it will injure the harvest.--And -when saw you Nancy?--Has the cat kittened?--I suppose you have -heard the news:--great news!--a glorious affair! (and is two _ff’s_ -necessary?)--O! Lord, Sir!--very little bloodshed--pity _any_ -should--how!--do not you admire!--How so?--Why this, Sir, is writing, -’tis the true sublime--and this the stuff that gives my friend -M---- pleasure:--thou vile flatterer! blush! blush up to thine -eyelids!--I am happy to think I have found a flaw in thee:--thou art -a flatterer of the most dangerous sort, because agreeable.--I have -often observed--there is more of value in the manner of doing the -thing--than in the thing itself--my mind’s eye follows you in the -selecting the pretty box--in arranging the pickled fruit.--I see you -fix on the lid, drive the last nail, your countenance lit up with -glee, and your heart exulting in the pleasure you were about giving -to the family of the Sancho’s--and then snatch the hat and stick, and -walk with the easy alacrity of a soul conscious of good.--But hold, -Sir, you were rather saucy in a part or two of your letter:--for which -reason I shall not thank you for the fruit;--the good woman and brats -may--and with reason; for they devoured them: the box, indeed, is worth -thanks; which, if God, gout, and weather permit, you may probably hear -something of on Sunday next, from yours, with all your sins, &c. &c. - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XXXVIII. - -TO MR. K----. - - - August 28, 1776 - - MY WORTHY FRIEND, - -I SHOULD have answered your billet as soon as received--but I wanted -to know the quantum that I was to wish you joy of--as nothing has yet -for certainty transpired.--I will hope your legacy from Mrs. ---- is -handsome:--you can easily imagine the pleasure I felt--in finding -she had so amply remembered poor Mrs. M----. That one act has more -true generosity in it, aye, and justice perhaps, than any thing I -ever knew of her in her long life:--it has removed an anxiety from -me which (in spite of self-felt poverty--and the heart-felt cares -of a large family) troubled me greatly;--as to myself, she used to -promise largely formerly, that she would think of me:--as I never -believed--I was not disappointed.--More and more convinced of the -futility of all our eagerness after worldly riches, my prayer and hope -is only for bread, and to be enabled to pay what I owe. I labour up -hill against many difficuties; but God’s goodness is my support, and -his word my trust.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in her best wishes, and gives -you joy also: the children are well--William grows, and tries his -feet briskly--and Fanny goes on well in her tambour-work;--Mary must -learn some business or other--if we can possibly atchieve money;--but -we have somehow no friends--and, bless God!--we deserve no enemies. -Trade is duller than ever I knew it--and money scarcer;--foppery runs -higher--and vanity stronger;--extravagance is the adored idol of this -sweet town.--You are a happy being;--free from the cares of the world -in your own person--you enjoy more than your master--or his master into -the bargain.--May your comforts know no diminution, but increase with -your years!--and may the same happen, when it shall please God, to your -sincere friend I. Sancho and his family! - - - - -LETTER XXXIX. - -TO MR. M----. - - - September 1, 1776. - -YOU have the happiest manner of obliging!--How comes it that--without -the advantages of a twentieth generationship of noble blood flowing -uncontaminated in your veins--without the customary three years -dissipation at college--and the (nothing to be done without) four -years perambulation on the Continent--without all these needful -appendages--with little more than plain sense--sheer good-nature--and a -right honest heart--thou canst-- - - “Like low-born Allen, with an aukward shame, - “Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame!” - -Now, by my grandame’s beard--I will not thank you for your -present--although my ears have been stunned with your goodness and -kindness--the best young man!--and, good Lord! how shall we make him -amends? &c. &c.--Pshaw! simpleton, quoth I, do you not plainly ken, -that he himself has a satisfaction in giving pleasure to his friends, -which more than repays him?--so I strove to turn off the notion of -obligation--though, I must confess, my heart at the same time felt -a something--sure it was not envy--no, I detest it--I fear it was -pride--for I feel within myself this moment, that I could turn the -tables in repaying principal with treble interest--I should feel -gratified--though perhaps not satisfied.--I have a long account to -balance with you--about your comments upon the transcript:--you are -a pretty fellow, to dare put in your claim--to better sense--deeper -thinking--and stronger reasoning than my wise self.--To tell you the -truth (though at my own expence) I read your letter the first time with -some little chagrin;--your reasoning, though it hurt my pride--yet -almost convinced my understanding.--I read it carefully a second -time--pondered--weighed--and submitted--Whenever a spark of vanity -seems to be glowing at my heart--I will read your letter--and what -then?--Why then, humbled by a proper sense of my inferiority, I shall -still have cause for pride--triumph--and comfort--when I reflect that -my valued Censor--is the true friend of his sincerely affectionate - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XL. - -TO MR. M----. - - - Dec. 4, 1776. - -I FORGOT to tell you this morning--a jack-ass would have shewn more -thought--(are they rationals or not?)--the best recipe for the gout, -I am informed--is two or three stale Morning-Posts;--reclined in -easy chair--the patient must sit--and mull over them--take snuff at -intervals--hem--and look wise;--I apply to you as my pharmacopolist--do -not criticize my orthography--but, when convenient, send me the -medicine--which, with care and thanks, I will return. - - Yours, - - Dismal +SANCHO+. - - -Pray how do you do? - - - - -LETTER XLI. - -TO MR. M----[4]. - - - January 4, 1777. - -I HAVE read, but have found nothing of the striking kind of sentimental -novelty--which I expected from its great author--the language is good -in most places--but never rises above the common pitch.--In many of our -inferior tragedies--I have ever found here and there a flower strewn, -which has been the grace and pride of the poetic parterre, and has made -me involuntarily cry out, Bravo!--From dress--scenery--action--and -the rest of play-house garniture--it may shew well and go down--like -insipid fish with good sauce;--the Prologue is well--the Epilogue -worth the whole--such is my criticism--read--stare--and conclude your -friend mad--though a more Christian supposition would be--what’s true -at the same time--that my ideas are frozen, much more frigid than the -play;--but allowing that--and although I confess myself exceeding cold, -yet I have warmth enough to declare myself yours sincerely, - - I. SANCHO. - - - Love and many happy new years to the ladies. - -[4] On reading the Tragedy of Semiramis, _from the French of Mons. - Voltaire_. - - - - -LETTER XLII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - February 9, 1777. - -ZOUNDS! if alive--what ails you? if dead--why did you not send me -word?--Where’s my Tristram?--What, are all bucks alike!--all promise, -and no--but I won’t put myself in a passion--I have but one foot, -and no head--go-to--why, what a devil of a rate dost thou ride at -anathematizing and reprobating poor ----! pho! thou simpleton--he -deserves thy pity--and whoever harbours a grain of contempt for his -fellow-creatures--either in the school of poverty or misfortune--that -Being is below contempt--and lives the scorn of men--and shame of -devils.--Thou shalt not think evil of ----; nor shall he, either by -word or thought, dispraisingly speak or think of M----. - -In regard to thy N----, thou art right--guard her well--but chiefly -guard her from the traitor in her own fair breast, which, while it -is the seat of purity and unsullied honor--fancies its neighbours to -be the same--nor sees the serpent in the flowery foliage--till it -stings--and then farewell sweet peace and its attendant riches. - -I have only time to thank you for the leaves, and to lament your want -of perspicuity in writing.--My love to George when you see him--and two -loves to Nancy--tell her I could fold her to my bosom with the same -tender pressure I do my girls--shut my eyes--draw her to my heart--and -call her Daughter!--and thou, monkey-face, write me a decent letter--or -you shall have another trimming from yours, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Look’ye Sir, I write to the ringing of the shop-door bell--I -write--betwixt serving--gossiping--and lying. Alas! what cramps to poor -genius! - - - - -For THE GENERAL ADVERTISER. - - The outline of a plan for establishing a most respectable body of - Seamen to the number 20,000, to be ever ready for the manning a - fleet upon twelve days notice. - - -THE proposer is humbly of opinion, that his plan is capable of many -wholesome improvements, which he thinks would prove no unprofitable -study, even to the Lords of the Admiralty. - -Ist, Let the number of seamen, now upon actual service, be each man -inrolled upon his Majesty’s books, at the rate of 5_l._ _per annum_ for -life; let them also receive the same quarterly, or half-yearly, upon -personal application. - -IIdly, Let books be opened for them in all his Majesty’s different -yards and sea ports, and there their dwelling, age, time they have -served, &c. to be fairly entered; each man to bring a certificate from -his ship, signed by the captain, or some one he shall please to depute. - -IIIdly, As an encouragement to his Majesty’s service and population at -the same time, let there be instituted in each of the ship-yards, or -ports, &c. of these Kingdoms, a kind of asylum, or house of refuge, -for the sons of these honest tars, to be received therein at the age -of six years; there to be taught navigation, or, after the common -school learning, to be bound to such parts of ship-building as they by -nature are most inclined to; such as chuse sea service, to be disposed -on board his Majesty’s ships at fifteen years old, and to be enrolled -upon the pension-books after ten years faithful service, unless better -provided for. - -Might not there be some plan hit on to employ the daughters, as well -as sons of poor sailors? Does not our Fisheries (if they should ever -happen to be attended to) open many doors of useful employment for both -sexes? - -To defray the above, I would advise the following methods: - -First, The pension of 5_l._ _per_ man for 20,000, amounts only to -100,000_l._: let this be taken from the Irish list; it will surely be -better employed, than in the present mode for Pensioners of noble blood. - -Secondly, Let the book and office keepers at the different yards, -ports, &c. be collected from under-officers who have served with -reputation; it will be a decent retreat for them in the evening of -life, and only a grateful reward for past service. - -May some able hand, guided by a benevolent heart, point out and -strongly recommend something of this sort, that the honoured name of -England may be rescued from the scandalous censure of man-stealing, and -from the ingratitude also of letting their preservers perish in the -time of peace! - - I am, Sir, yours, &c. - - +Africanus.+ - - - - -LETTER XLIII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - July 27, 1777. - -GO-TO!--the man who visits church twice in one day, must either -be religious--curious--or idle--whichever you please, my dear -friend;--turn it the way which best likes you, I will cheerily -subscribe to it.--By the way, H----n was inspired this morning; his -text was from Romans--chapter the--verse the--both forgot;--but the -subject was to present heart, mind, soul, and all the affections--a -living sacrifice to God;--he was most gloriously animated, and seemed -to have imbibed the very spirit and manners of the Great Apostle. Our -afternoon Orator was a stranger to me--he was blest with a good, clear, -and well-toned articulate voice:--he preached from the Psalms--and took -great pains to prove that God knew more than we--that letters were -the fountain of our knowledge--that a man in Westminster was totally -ignorant of what was going forward in Whitechapel--that we might have -some memory of what we did last week--but have no sort of conjecture of -what we shall do to-morrow, &c. &c.--Now H----n’s whole drift was, that -we should live the life of angels here--in order to be so in reality -hereafter:--the other good soul gave us wholesome matter of fact;--they -were both right--(but I fear not to speak my mind to my M----, who, -if he condemns my head, will, I am sure, acquit my heart.)--You have -read and admired Sterne’s Sermons--which chiefly inculcate practical -duties, and paint brotherly love--and the true Christian charities--in -such beauteous glowing colours--that one cannot help wishing to feed -the hungry--cloathe the naked, &c. &c.--I would to God, my friend, -that the great lights of the church would exercise their oratorical -powers upon Yorick’s plan:--the heart and passions once listed under -the banners of blest philanthropy--would naturally ascend to the -redeeming God--flaming with grateful rapture.--Now I have observed -among the modern Saints--who profess to pray without ceasing--that they -are so fully taken up with pious meditations--and so wholy absorbed -in the love of God--that they have little if any room for the love of -man:--if I am wrong, tell me so honestly--the censure of a friend is -of more value than his money--and to submit to conviction, is a proof -of good sense.--I made my bow to-night to Mrs. H----; the rest of the -rogues were out--bright-eyed S---- and all.--Mrs. H---- says that you -are hypped--nonsense!--few can rise superior to pain--and the head, -I will allow, is a part the most _sensible_, if affected;--but even -then you are not obliged to use more motion than you like--though I -can partly feel the aukward sensations and uneasy reflections, which -will often arise upon the least ail of so precious a member as the -eye--yet certain I am, the more you can be master of yourself (I mean -as to chearfulness, if not gaiety of mind) the better it will of course -be with you.--I hope G---- is well--and that you ride often to see -him I make no doubt.--I like the monkey--I know not for why, nor does -it signify a button--but sure he is good-tempered and grateful;--but -what’s that to me?--Good-night:---- the clock talks of eleven. - - Yours, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XLIV. - -TO MR. M----. - - - July 23, 1777. - -YES--too true it is--for the many (aye, and some of those many carry -their heads high) too true for the miserable--the needy--the sick--for -many, alas! who now may have no helper--for the child of folly poor -S----, and even for thy worthless friend Sancho.--It is too true, that -the Almighty has called to her rich reward--she who, whilst on earth, -approved herself his best delegate.--How blind, how silly, is the -mortal who places any trust or hope in aught but the Almighty!--You -are just, beautifully just, in your sketch of the vicissitudes of -worldly bliss.--We rise the lover--dine the husband--and too oft, -alas! lay down the forlorne widower.--Never so struck in my life;--it -was on Friday night, between ten and eleven, just preparing for my -concluding pipe--the Duke of M----’s man knocks.--“Have you heard the -bad news?”--No.--“The Dutchess of Queensbury died last night!”--I felt -fifty different sensations--unbelief was uppermost--when he crushed my -incredibility, by saying he had been to know how his Grace did--who was -also very poorly in health.--Now the preceding day, Thursday (the day -on which she expired) I had received a very penitential letter from -S----, dated from St. Helena;--this letter I inclosed in a long tedious -epistle of my own--and sent to Petersham, believing the family to be -all there.--The day after you left town her Grace died;--that day week -she was at my door--the day after I had the honour of a long audience -in her dressing-room.--Alas! this hour blessed with health--crowned -with honors--loaded with riches, and encircled with friends--the -next reduced to a lump of poor clay--a tenement for worms!--Earth -re-possesses part of what she gave--and the freed spirit mounts on -wings of fire:--her disorder was a stoppage--she fell ill the evening -of the Friday that I last saw her--continued in her full senses to -the last.--The good she had done reached the skies long before her -lamented death--and are the only heralds that are worth the pursuit -of wisdom:--as to her bad deeds, I have never heard of them.--Had it -been for the best, God would have lent her a little longer to a foolish -world, which hardly deserved so good a woman;--for my own part, I have -lost a friend--and perhaps ’tis better so.--“Whatever is,” &c. &c.--I -wish S---- knew this heavy news, for many reasons.--I am inclined to -believe her Grace’s death is the only thing that will most conduce -to his reform.--I fear neither his gratitude nor sensibility will be -much hurt upon hearing the news--it will act upon his fears, and -make him do _right_ upon a _base_ principle.--Hang him! he teazes me -whenever I think of him.--I supped last night with St----; he called -in just now, and says he has a right to be remembered to you.--You -and he are two old monkeys--the more I abuse and rate you, the better -friend you think me.--As you have found out that your spirits govern -your head--you will of course contrive every method of keeping your -instrument in tune;--sure I am that bathing--riding--walking--in -succession--the two latter not violent--will brace your nerves--purify -your blood--invigorate its circulation:--add to the rest -_continency_--yes, again I repeat it, _continency_;--before you -reply, think--re-think--and think again--look into your _Bible_--look -in _Young_--peep into your own breast--if your heart warrants what -your head counsels--act then boldly.--Oh! _apropos_--pray thank my -noble friend Mrs. H---- for her friendly present of C-- J--; it -did Mrs. Sancho service, and does poor Billy great good--who has -(through his teeth) been plagued with a cough--which I hope will not -turn to the whooping sort;--the girls greet you as their respected -school-master.--As to your spirited kind offer of a F----, why when you -please--you know what I intend doing with it. - -Poor Lady S----, I find, still lingers this side the world.--Alas! -when will the happy period arrive, that the sons of mortality may -greet each other with the joyful news, that sin, pain, sorrow, -and death, are no more; skies without clouds, earth without -crimes, life without death, world without end!--peace, bliss, and -harmony, where the Lord God--All in all--King of kings--Lord of -lords--reigneth--omnipotent--for ever--for ever!--may you, dear M----, -and all I love--yea the whole race of Adam, join with my unworthy weak -self, in the stupendous--astonishing--soul-cheering Hallelujahs!--where -Charity may be swallowed up in Love--Hope in Bliss--and Faith in -glorious Certainty!--We will mix, my boy, with all countries, colours, -faiths--see the countless multitudes of the first world--the myriads -descended from the--Ark--the Patriarchs--Sages--Prophets--and Heroes! -My head turns round at the vast idea! we will mingle with them, and -try to untwist the vast chain of blessed Providence--which puzzles and -baffles human understanding. Adieu. - - Yours, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XLV. - -TO MR. M----. - - - August 8, 1777. - - “Know your own self, presume not God to scan; - “The only science of mankind, is man.” - -THERE is something so amazingly grand--so stupendously affecting--in -the contemplating the works of the Divine Architect, either in the -moral or the intellectual world, that I think one may rightly call -it the cordial of the soul--it is the physic of the mind--and the -best antidote against weak pride--and the supercilious murmurings -of discontent.--Smoaking my morning pipe, the friendly warmth of -that glorious planet the sun--the leniency of the air--the chearful -glow of the atmosphere--made me involuntarily cry, “Lord, what is -man, that thou in thy mercy art so mindful of him! or what the son -of man, that thou so parentally carest for him!” David, whose heart -and affections were naturally of the first kind (and who indeed had -experienced blessings without number), pours forth the grateful -sentiments of his enraptured soul in the sweetest modulations of -pathetic oratory;--the tender mercies of the Almighty are not less to -many of his creatures--but their hearts, unlike the royal disposition -of the Shepherd King, are cold, and untouched with the sweet ray -of gratitude.--Let us, without meanly sheltering our infirmities -under the example of others--perhaps worse taught--or possessed -of less leisure for self-examination--let us, my dear M----, look -into ourselves--and, by a critical examination of the past events -of our lives, fairly confess what mercies we have received--what -God in his goodness hath done for us--and how our gratitude and -praise have kept pace in imitation of the son of Jesse.--such a -research would richly pay us--for the end would be conviction--so -much on the side of miraculous mercy--such an unanswerable proof -of the superintendency of Divine Providence, as would effectually -cure us of rash despondency--and melt our hearts--with devotional -aspirations--till we poured forth the effusions of our souls in -praise and thanksgiving.--When I sometimes endeavour to turn my -thoughts inwards, to review the power or properties the indulgent -all-wise Father has endow’d me with, I am struck with wonder and with -awe--worm, poor insignificant reptile as I am, with regard to superior -beings--mortal like myself.--Amongst, and at the very head of our -riches, I reckon the power of reflection:--Where? where, my friend, -doth it lie?--Search every member from the toe to the nose--all--all -ready for action--but all dead to thought--it lies not in matter--nor -in the blood--it is a party, which though we feel and acknowledge, -quite past the power of definition--it is that breath of life which -the Sacred Architect breathed into the nostrils of the first man--image -of his gracious Maker--and let it animate our torpid gratitude--it -rolls on, although diminished by our cruel fall, through the whole -race.--“We are fearfully and wonderfully made,” &c. &c. were the -sentiments of the Royal Preacher upon a self-review--but had he been -blessed with the full blaze of the Christian dispensation--what would -have been his raptures?--The promise of never, never-ending existence -and felicity, to possess eternity--“glorious, dreadful thought!” to -rise, perhaps, by regular progression, from planet to planet--to behold -the wonders of immensity--to pass from good to better--increasing -in goodness--knowledge--love--to glory in our Redeemer--to joy in -ourselves--to be acquainted with prophets, sages, heroes, and poets -of old times--and join in symphony with angels!--And now, my friend, -thou smilest at my futile notions--why preach to thee?--For this very -good and simple reason, to get your thoughts in return.--You shall -be my philosopher--my Mentor--my friend;--you, happily disengaged -from various cares of life and family, can review the little world of -man with steadier eye, and more composed thought, than your friend, -declining fast into the vale of years, and beset with infirmity -and pain.--Write now and then, as thought prompts, and inclination -leads--refute my errors--where I am just, give me your plaudit.--Your -welfare is truly dear in my sight;--and if any man has a share in my -heart, or commands my respect and esteem, it is I---- M----. - - Witness my mark, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XLVI. - -TO MR. M----. - - - August 14, 1777. - -MY dear M----, I know full well thy silence must proceed from ill -health. To say it concerns me, is dull nonsense--self-love without -principle will inspire even Devils with affection;--by so much less -as thou apprehendest thy friend has diabolical about him--so may’st -thou judge of his feelings towards thee.--Why wilt thou not part -with thy hair? most assuredly I do believe it would relieve thee -past measure--thou dost not fancy thy strength (like Sampson’s the -Israelite) lieth in thy hair. Remember he was shorn thro’ folly--he -lost his wits previous to his losing his locks--do thou consent to -lose thine, in order to save thy better judgement,--I know no worse -soul sinking pain than the head-ach, though (thank heaven) I am not -often visited with it.--I long to see thee--and will soon, if in -my power:--some odd folks would think it would have _been_ but good -manners to have thanked you for the fawn--but then, says the punster, -that would have _been_ so like _fawn_-ing--which J. M---- loves not, -_no_, nor Sancho either;--’tis the hypocrite’s key to the great man’s -heart--’tis the resource of cowardly curs--and deceitful b--p--s--it is -the spaniel’s sort--and man’s disgrace--it is--in short, the day is so -hot--that I cannot say at present any more about it--but that the fawn -was large, fresh, and worthy the giver, the receiver, and the joyous -souls that eat it.--Billy has suffered much in getting his teeth--I -have just wished him joy by his mother’s desire, who says that he took -resolution at last, and walked to her some few steps quite alone. -Albeit it gave me no small pleasure--yet, upon consideration, what I -approve of now, perhaps, (should I live to see him at man’s estate) I -might then disapprove--unless God’s grace should as ably support him -through the quick-sands--rocks--and shoals of life--as it has happily -the honest being I am now writing to.--God give you health!--your own -conduct will secure peace--your friends bread.--As to honors, leave it -with titles--to knaves--and be content with that of an honest man, - - “the noblest work of God.” - -Shave--shave--shave. - - Farewell, yours sincerely, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XLVII. - -TO MISS C----. - - - August 15, 1777. - -I WAITED, in hopes that time or chance might furnish me with -something to fill a sheet, with better than the praises of an old -man.--What has youth and beauty to do with the squabbling contentions -of mad ambition?--Could I new-model Nature--your sex should rule -supreme:--there should be no other ambition but that of pleasing the -ladies--no other welfare but the contention of obsequious lovers--nor -any glory but the bliss of being approved by the Fair.--Now, confess -that this epistle opens very gallant, and allow this to be a decent -return to one of the best and most sensible letters that L---- Wells -has produced this century past.--I much wish for the pleasing hopes -raised by your obliging letter--that my good friend’s health is -restored so fully, that she has by this time forgot what the pains -in the stomach mean,--that she has sent all her complaints to the -lake of Lethe--and is thinking soon to enliven our part our world, -enriched with health--spirits--and a certain bewitching benignity of -countenance--which cries out--‘Dislike me if you can!’--I want to -know what conquests you have made--what savages converted--whom you -have smiled into felicity, or killed by rejection;--and how the noble -Master of Ceremonies acquits himself, John S---- Esq; I mean.--I hear -my friend R---- will be in town this week, to my great comfort;--for, -upon my conscience, excepting my family, the town to me is quite -empty.--Mrs. R---- is gone to Bury--and the good man is toiling a -lonely and forlorne object.--Mrs. Sancho joins in every good and -grateful wish for your amiable friend, with, dear Miss C----, your -obliged friend and humble servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XLVIII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - August 25, 1777. - - +Jack-asses.+ - -MY gall has been plentifully stirred--by the barbarity of a set of -gentry, who _every morning_ offend my feelings--in their cruel parade -through Charles Street, to and from market:--they vend potatoes -in the day--and thieve in the night season.--A tall lazy villian -was bestriding his poor beast (although loaded with two panniers -of potatoes at the same time), and another of his companions was -good-naturedly employed in whipping the poor sinking animal--that the -gentleman-rider might enjoy the two-fold pleasure of blasphemy and -cruelty:--this is a too common evil--and, for the honor of rationality, -calls loudly for redress.--I do believe it might be in some measure -amended--either by a hint in the papers, of the utility of impressing -such vagrants for the king’s service--or by laying a heavy tax upon -the poor Jack-asses.--I prefer the former, both for thy sake and -mine:--and, as I am convinced we feel instinctively the injuries of our -_fellow creatures_; I do insist upon your exercising your talents in -behalf of the honest sufferers.--I ever had a kind of sympathetic (call -it what you please) for that animal--_and do I not love you?_--Before -Sterne had wrote them into respect, I had a friendship for them--and -many a civil greeting have I given them at casual meetings:--what has -ever (with me) stamped a kind of uncommon value and dignity upon the -long-ear’d kind of the species, is that our Blessed Saviour, in his -day of worldly triumph, chose to use that in preference to the rest -of his own blessed creation--“meek and lowly, riding upon an ass.” I -am convinced that the general inhumanity of mankind proceeds--first, -from the cursed false principle of common education;--and, secondly, -from a total indifference (if not disbelief) of the Christian -faith;--a heart and mind impressed with a firm belief of the Christian -tenets, must of course exercise itself in a constant uniform general -philanthropy:--such a being carries his heaven in his breast!--and such -be thou! therefore write me a bitter Philippick against the misusers of -Jack-asses;--it shall honor a column in the Morning Post--and I will -bray--bray my thanks to you:--thou shalt figure away the champion of -poor friendless asses here--and hereafter shalt not be ashamed in the -great day of retribution. - -Mrs. Sancho would send you some tamarinds.--I know not her reasons;--as -I hate contentions, I contradicted not--but shrewdly suspect she -thinks you want cooling.--Do you hear, Sir? send me some more good -news about your head.--Your letters will not be the less welcome for -talking about J---- M----; but pray do not let vanity so master -your judgement--to fancy yourself upon a footing with George for -well looking:--if you were indeed a proof-sheet--you was marred in -the taking-off--for George (ask the girls) is certainly the fairest -impression. - -I had an order from Mr. H---- on Thursday night to see him do -Falstaff;--I put some money to it, and took Mary and Betsy with me:--it -was Betty’s first affair--and she enjoyed it in truth--H----’s Falstaff -is entirely original--and I think as great as his Shylock;--he kept the -house in a continual roar of laughter:--in some things he falls short -of Quin--in many I think him equal.--When I saw Quin play, he was at -the height of his art, with thirty years judgement to guide him. H----, -in seven years more, will be all that better--and confessedly the first -man on the English stage, or I am much mistaken. - -I am reading a little pamphlet, which I much like: it favours an -opinion which I have long indulged--which is the improbability -of eternal Damnation--a thought which almost petrifies one--and, -in my opinion, derogatory to the fullness, glory, and benefit -of the blessed expiation of the Son of the Most High God--who -died for the sins of all--all--Jew, Turk, Infidel, and -Heretic;--fair--sallow--brown--tawney--black--and you--and I--and every -son and daughter of Adam.--You must find eyes to read this book--head -and heart--with a quickness of conception thou enjoyest--with -many--many advantages--which have the love--and envy almost of yours, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Respects in folio to Mrs. H----. - - - - -LETTER XLIX. - -TO MR. R----. - - - August 27, 1777. - - DEAR FRIEND, - -WHETHER this finds your officially parading on Newmarket turfs--or -in the happier society of the good geniuses of B---- house--may it -find you well--in good joyous spirits--gay, debonnair--happy at -heart--happy as I have seen my meaning expressed in the countenance -of my friend Mrs. C----, where humanity--humility--and goodwill--have -outshone beauty--in one of the finest faces of your country--but this -between ourselves;--and pray how does the aforesaid lady do?--does she -ride, walk, and dance, with moderation?--and can you tell me that she -continues as well as when she first went down--and still finds good -from her western expedition?--And the little Syren Miss C----?--Have -there no letters, sent by Cupid’s post, sticking on the arrow’s point, -been picked up about your grounds, blown by western breezes across the -country?--Tell her nothing can ever hurt her but Love and Time.--May -Love bring her happiness, and Time honour!--As to wealth--may she -have no more than she can manage with comfort and credit!--Monsieur -L----’s letter is a good one--and I think it would make one laugh -even in the gout.--God bless this old boy--for he is a true type of -beggarly pride--cunning--narrow-hearted--vain and mean--one of Satan’s -dupes--who do his dirty work for a little worldly trash--and cheat -themselves at last.--I know a man who delights to make every one he -can happy--that same man treated some honest girls with expences for -a Vauxhall evening.--If you should happen to know him--you may tell -him from me--that last night--three great girls--a boy--and a fat old -fellow--were as happy and pleas’d as a fine evening--fine place--good -songs--much company--and good music--could make them.--Heaven and -Earth!--how happy, how delighted, were the girls!--Oh! the pleasures -of novelty to youth!--We went by water--had a coach home--were gazed -at--followed, &c. &c.--but not much abused.--I must break off before I -have half finished--for Mr. ---- is just come in--you are not the first -good friend that has been neglected for a fop. - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER L. - -TO MR. M----. - - - September 3, 1777. - -I FEEL it long since I heard from you--very long since I saw you--and -three or four days back had some notion, I should never, in this paltry -world, see thee again--but (thanks to the Father of Mercies!) I am -better, and have a higher relish of health and ease, from contrasting -the blessings with the pains I have endured.--Would to God you could -say that your dizzy dismal headachs were flown to the moon, or -embarked for Lapland--there to be tied up in a witch’s bag--and sold to -Beelzebub with a cargo of bad winds--religious quarrels--politics--my -gout--and our American grievances!--But what are you about in your last -(where you dropt the candid friend and assumed the flatterer)?--You -hinted as if there was a chance of seeing you in Charles Street: I wish -it much.--My friend, I have had a week’s gout in my hand, which was -by much too hard for my philosophy.--I am convinced, let the Stoics -say what they list--that pain is an evil;--in short, I was wishing for -death--and little removed from madness--but (thank Heaven)! I am much -better--my spirits will be mended if I hear from you--better still to -see you.--I find it painful to write much, and learn that two hands -are as necessary in writing as eating.--You see I write, like a lady, -from one corner of the paper to the other.--My respects--and love--and -admiration--and compliments--to Mrs. ----, and Mrs. and Miss ----. Tell -M----l, he kept his word in calling to see us before he left town!--I -hope--confound the ink!--what a blot! Now don’t you dare suppose I was -in fault--no, Sir, the pen was disabled--the paper worse--there was a -concatenation of ill-sorted chances--all--all--coincided to contribute -to that fatal blot--which has so disarranged my ideas--that I must -perforce finish before I had half disburthened my head and heart:--but -is N---- a good girl?--and how does my honest George do? Tell Mrs. -H---- what you please in the handsome way of me.--Farewell, I will -write no more nonsense this night--that’s flat. - - IGN. SANCHO. - - -How do you like the print:--Mr. D---- says, and his wife says the -same--that you are exceedingly clever--and they shall be happy -to do any thing which is produced by the same hand which did the -original--and if Mr. D---- can be of any service to you in the -etching--you may command him when you please. - - - - -LETTER LI. - -TO MR. M----. - - - September 16, 1777. - -SIR, he is the confounded’st dunderhead--sapscull--looby--clodpate, -nincompoop--ninnyhammer--booby-chick--farcical--loungibuss-- -blunderbuss--this good day in the three kingdoms!--You would -bless yourself, were it possible for you to analyze such a being--not -but his heart is susceptible of a kind of friendly warmth--but then -so cursed careless--ever in a hurry--ever in the wrong, at best but -blundering about the right.--Why now, for example, when you sent -the ----, I can make oath, if need be--that the dunce I speak of -longed more for a letter than the animal. The basket was searched -with hurry--not care;--no letter? well, it can’t be help’d--his head -ach’d--he had not time, &c. &c.--the P---- was disengaged from the -basket--the straw consigned to the chimney:--this being rather a -coolish morning, a little fire was thought necessary--and in raking -up the loose dirty waste stuff under the grate, there appeared a -very bloody letter, which seemed unopened:--your hand-writing was -discernible through the dirt and blood;--curiosity and affection ran -a race to pick up and examine it--when, behold, it proved to be the -companion of the P----, but so effaced with blood--that very--very -little of my friend’s good sense could be made out.--Your poor letter -is a type of what daily happens--merit oppressed and smothered by -rubbish.--Alas, poor letter! it shared the fate the poor world, which -we inhabit, will hereafter undergo:--one bright gleam of imitation -of the mind that dictated it--some few sparks.--Alas! alas! my poor -letter--pass but a few years--perhaps a few months--thy generous -friendly compost may--thy friend whose heart glows while he writes--who -feels thy worth--yea, and reveres it too.--Nonsense, why we know the -very hinges of our last cradles will rust and moulder;--and that, -in the course of another century, neither flesh, bone, coffin, nor -nail--will be dicernible from mother earth.--Courage--while we live, -let us live--to Virtue--Friendship--Religion--Charity--then drop (at -death’s call) our cumbrous (you are thin) load of flesh, and mount -in spirit to our native home.--Bless us, at what a rate have I been -travelling!--I am quite out of breath--Why! my friend, the business -was to thank you for the pig.--Had you seen the group of heads--aye, -and wise ones too--that assembled at the opening of the fardel--the -exclamations--Oh! the finest--fattest--cleanest--why, Sir, it was a -pig of pigs;--the pettitoes gave us a good supper last night--they -were well dressed--and your pig was well eat--it dined us Sunday and -Monday.--Now, to say truth, I do not love pig--merely pig--I like -not--but pork corned--alias--salted--either roast or boiled--I will eat -against any filthy Jew naturalized--or under the bann.--On Saturday -night the newsman brought me two papers of J---- 13th and 20th;--right -joyful did I receive them:--I ran to Mrs. Sancho--with, I beg you -will read my friend’s sensible and spirited defence of--of, &c.--She -read--though it broke in upon her work--she approved;--but chance or -fortune--or ill-luck--or what you ever mean by accident--has -played us a confounded trick;--for since Saturday they have--both -papers--disappeared--without hands--or legs--or eyes--for no one has seen -them;--bureau--boxes--cupboards--drawers--parlour--chamber--shop--all--all -has been rummaged--pockets--port-folio--holes--corners--all been -searched;--Did you see them?--did you?--where can they be?--I know -not--nor I--nor I--but God does!--Omnipotence knoweth all things.--It -has vexed me--fretted dame Sancho--teazed the children--but so it -is;--hereafter I suppose they will be found in some obvious (though now -unthought of) place, and then it will be, Good Lord, who could have -thought it! - -Where is the _Jack-ass_ business?--do not be lazy--I feel myself a -party concerned--and when I see you, I have a delicious morsel of true -feminine grace and generosity to shew you.--I shall not apologize for -this crude epistle;--but mark and remark--I do thank you in the name -of every Sancho but self--they eat, and were filled;--I have reason to -thank you;--but as I do not affect pig--in a piggish sense--I hold -myself excepted;--and, although I did eat--and did also commend, yet I -will not thank you, that’s poss. - - I. SANCHO. - - -The papers are found, as you will see:--here is one and a piece; it has -suffered through ignorance;--but what cannot be cured, must be endured. - - - - -LETTER LII. - -TO MR. R.----. - - - September 17, 1777. - - MY RESPECTED FRIEND, - -I FEEL myself guilty of an unmannerly neglect, in delaying to give my -good Mrs. C---- some account of the little commissions she honoured -me with.--You must exert your friendly influence, in making my peace -with her;--not but that I well know mercy has the blest preponderancy -in her scale--nor can kindness or mercy be lodged in a fairer -breast;--in faith, I am scarce half alive;--yet what really is alive -about me--hungers to hear news from B----: first, how Mrs. C---- got -down--and her good companion;--how her health is: tell her, I hope -she left all her pains behind her;--if so, I believe I have taken -possession of them all. Alas, my friend, I never was but half so bad -before;--both feet knocked up at once; plenty of excruciating pains, -and a great lack of patience.--Mrs. Sancho has had a blessed week of -it;--for my companion did not contribute much to the sweetening my -temper--it was the washing-week, which you know made it a full chance -and half better.--she was forced to break sugar, and attend shop.--God -bless her, and reward her!--she is good--good in heart--good in -principle--good by habit--good by Heaven! God forgive me, I had almost -sworn.--Tell me how the ladies got down--how they do; and what they -do;--how you do;--and how ---- feels, now the broom is hung on his door -top.--The certainty that B---- and his connexions are all alive and -merry--will be a cure for my gout--and thou shalt be sole doctor, as -well as first friend, to thy ever obliged true friend. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LIII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - September 20, 1777. - - “What Reason warrants, and what Wisdom guides, - “All else is tow’ring frenzy, or rank folly.” - -SO says Addison-- - ---And so well knoweth my friend I. M----. Well, and what then? why -it follows of course--that, instead of feeling myself delighted and -gratefully thankful, for--I will and must speak out--yet if these -kindnesses cost the pocket of my friend--they are not kindnesses -to the Sanchos.--For innate goodness of heart--greatness of -spirit--urbanity--humanity--temperance--justice--with the whole sweet -list of heaven-born manly virtues--I do, without flattery, give thee -(and with pride do I avouch it) credit--I respect thy person, and -love thy principles;--but, my good M----, there is a prior duty--which -I dare believe you will never willingly be deficient in--and yet -your generosity of soul may let even such a worm as I break into -it;--now, that should not be--for--take me right--I do not mean any -thing derogatory to your rank in the world--or to the strength of your -finances--what Sterne said of himself that think I of you--that you -are as good a gentleman as the King--but not quite so rich.--I honor -thy feelings--and am happy that I can honestly say, that I conceive -them;--the joy of giving and making happy is almost the attribute of a -God--and there is as much sweetness conveyed to the senses by doing a -right well-natured deed, as our frame can consistently bear--_So much -for chastisement--a pretty way of thanking!_--Well, I have critically -examined thy song--some parts I like well--as it is a maidenhead, it -should be gently treated--But why N---- Oh! Nature! A true passion -is jealous even of the initials of its mistress’s name.--Well, N---- -let it be--I will certainly attempt giving it a tune--such as I -can--the first leisure--but it must undergo some little pruning -when we meet.--I have had another little visit from the gout--and -my hand yet remembers the rough salute; my spirits have been rather -low.--Young’s ninth night, the Consolation, has been my last week’s -study. It is almost divine;--how many times has it raised, warmed, and -charmed me!--and is still new. I hope you found your mother and honest -George as well as you wished--and had the full enjoyment of maternal -and filial affections.--The girls are rampant-well--and Billy gains -something every day.--The rogue is to excess fond of me--for which I -pity him--and myself more.--My respects and kind enquiry to your old -horse.--Tell him, I wish him better--and am a real friend to honest -brutes--some I could almost envy.--To say I am rejoiced to hear you -are better, is telling you no news--be but as well as I wish you--as -rich--and as good--Sampson, Solomon, and the Duke de Penthievre, will -never be comparisons more.--Adieu. - - Yours, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - -I am as melancholy--as a tea-kettle when it sings (as the maidens calls -it) over a dead fire. - -Oh!--but is it N---- indeed?--now don’t you be after humming me; -believe me, honey--if I never find out the truth, I shall know it for -all that. - - - - -LETTER LIV. - -TO MR. S----. - - - October 24, 1777. - -I DENY it. That I ought to have acknowledged your favour two weeks ago -I confess--but my silence was not so long--nor broad--nor rusty--nor -fusty as yours.--Blithe health--festive hours--and social mirth--be -thine, my friend! Thy letter, though late, was truly welcome--it -unbended the brow of care--and suspended, for some hours, disagreeable -thoughts.----By St. Radagunda! quoth I--(ramming my nostrils with -Hardham) he has catched the mantle.--Alas, poor Yorick! oh! that thou -hadst, by divine permission, been suffered a little--little longer, -amongst the moonstruck children of this namby-pamby world! Father of -light and life! thy will be done;--but surely--half the wit--half the -good sense--of this present age--were interred in Sterne’s grave. His -broad philanthropy--like the soul-cheering rays of the blessed sun, -invested his happy spirit, and soared into Heaven with it--where, in -progressive rise from bliss to bliss, he drinks in large draughts of -rapture, love, and knowledge, and chants the praises of redeeming love, -with joy unbounded, and unceasing vigour.--Your invocation has mounted -me, Merry-Andrew like, upon stilts.--I ape you as monkeys ape men, by -walking upon two.--That you have recovered the true tone of your health -and spirits, I rejoice--to be happy in despight of fortune, shews the -Philosopher--the Hero--the Christian. I must confess, my fortitude -(which is wove of very flimsy materials) too oft gives way in the -rough and unfriendly jostles of life:--Madam Fortune, who by the way -is a bunter (and such I love not), has been particularly cross and -untoward to me since you left us. They say she is fond of fools--’tis -false and scandalous--she hates me--and I have the vanity to say and -believe--that if folly, sheer folly, had any charms--I should stand -as fair in her esteem--as A. B. C. D. E. F.--or any of Folly’s family -through the whole alphabet.--You halted at Burleigh--you did just -what I wished you to do--and left it, I trust, as well in health as -you entered that sweet mansion--stopp’d at Retford--and found your -venerable parents well--and contributed to their happiness--increased -their felicity by the many nice little attentions of filial love--which -the good heart delights in--and even angels approve.--And how do the -worthy souls of Hull and its environs?--Do they credit themselves -by esteeming a good-enough kind of mortal?--You cannot imagine what -hold little Billy gets of me--he grows--prattles--and every day -learns something new--and by his good-will would be ever in the -shop with me. The monkey! he clings round my legs--and if I chide -him or look sour--he holds up his little mouth to kiss me;--I know -I am the fool--for parent’s weakness is child’s strength:--truth -orthodox--which will hold good between lover and lovee--as well as -- - - - - - - - - - - - - -. Mrs. Sancho and her virgins are so, so. -Mr. Sancho, the virgins, well as youth and innocence, souls void of -care and consciences of offence, can be.--Dame Sancho would be better -if she cared less.--I am her barometer--if a sigh escapes me, it is -answered by a tear in her eye;--I oft assume a gaiety to illume her -dear sensibility with a smile--which twenty years ago almost bewitched -me;--and _mark_!--after twenty years enjoyment--constitutes my highest -pleasure!--Such be your lot--with a competency--such as will make -œconomy a pleasant acquaintance--temperance and exercise your chief -physician--and the virtues of benevolence your daily employ--your -pleasure and reward! And what more can friendship wish you?--but to -glide down the stream of time--blest with a partner of congenial -principles, and fine feelings--true feminine eloquence--whose very -looks speak tenderness and sentiment.--Your infants growing--with the -roseate bloom of health--minds cultured by their father--expanding -daily in every improvement--blest little souls!--and happy--happy -parents!--such be thy lot in life--in marriage;--but take a virgin--or -a maiden--to thy arms;--but--be that as thy fate wills it.--Now -for news.--Two hours ago (in tolerable health and cheary spirits) -considering his journey not so fatigued as might be expected--followed -by four superb carriages--their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Dutchess -of Gloucester arrived in town. As to America, if you know any thing -at Hull, you know more than is known in London.--Samuel Foote, Esq; -is dead--a leg was buried some years since--and now the whole _foote_ -follows.--I think you love a pun.--Colman is the gainer, as he -covenanted to give him 1600_l._ _per annum_, for his patent;--in short, -Colman is happy in the bargain--and I trust Foote is no loser.--I have -seen poor Mr. de Groote but once--and then could not attend to speak -with him, as I had customers in the shop.--I waited by appointment for -Mr. ----, to get your honor’s address--and then three weeks before I -could get the franks--a fortnight since for Mr. ---- writing to you--I -call this a string of beggarly apologies.--I told M---- you expected a -line from him--he wanted faith.--I made him read your letter--and what -then? “truly he was not capable--he had no classical education--you -write with elegance--ease--propriety.”----Tut, quoth I, pr’ythee give -not the reins to pride--write as I do--just the effusions of a warm -though foolish heart:--friendship will cast a veil of kindness over thy -blunders--they will be accepted with a complacent smile--and read with -the same eye of kindness which indulges now the errors of his sincere -friend, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - -A true Genius will always remember to leave a space unwritten--to come -in contact with the wax or wafer--by which means the reader escapes -half an hour’s puzzle to make out a sentence;--and ever while you -live--never omit--no--not that--what?--what!--dates! dates!--am not I a -grocer?----Pun the Second. - - - - -LETTER LV. - -TO MRS. C----. - - - Charles Street, Nov. 5, 1777. - -NOW, whether to address--according to the distant, reserved, cold, -mechanical forms of high-breeding--where polished manners, like a horse -from the manage, prances fantastic--and, shackled with the rules of -art, proudly despises simple nature;--or shall I, like the patient, -honest, sober, long-ear’d animal, take plain Nature’s path, and address -you according to my feelings?--My dear friend--you wanted to know the -reason I had never addressed a line to you;--the plain and honest truth -is, I thought writing _at_--was better than writing _to_ you;--that’s -one reason:--now a second reason is--I know my own weakness too well to -encounter with your little friend--whom I fear as a critic--and envy -as a writer:--another reason is--a case of conscience--which some time -or other you may have explained:--reason the fourth--a secret--and so -must be--till the blessed year 1797;--and then, if you will deign -to converse with an old friend--you shall know all.--Kitty sends her -respects to Nutts--and her duty to her godmother.--Billy looks wisely -by turns--and will speak for himself--if you should ever come to town -again.--The girls all improve in appetite. Mrs. Sancho is tolerably -well--and I am yours very seriously, - - I. SANCHO. - - -P. S. I wrote to my friend R----, and then made some modest demands -upon your good-nature--There are a sort of people in the world (one or -two in a large extent of country) rare enough to meet with--and you -are one whom nature hath left entirely defenceless to the depredations -of knaves;--for my part, I own I have no remorse when I tax your -good-nature--which proceeds from your having obliged me so much--that I -think with the street paupers--when they cry--“Good your Ladyship, give -me something--you always used to remember your poor old woman!”--Well -but to conclude--we courtiers are all alive upon this great good -news--the Queen, God bless her--safe;--another Princess--Oh the cake -and cawdle!--Then the defeat of Washintub’s army--and the capture of -Arnold and Sulivan with seven thousand prisoners;--thirteen counties -return to their allegiance;--all this news is believed--the delivery of -her Majesty is certain--pray God the rest may be as certain--that this -cursed carnage of the human species may end--commerce revive--sweet -social peace be extended throughout the globe--and the British empire -be strongly knit in the never-ending bands of sacred friendship and -brotherly love!--Her good Grace of P---- is just arrived:--the gardens -would look as they were wont--but for you. But to conclude--the little -dance (which I like because I made it)--I humbly beg you will make -Jacky play--and amongst you contrive a figure.--The Dutchess of ---- -visits the Queen this evening--which being a piece of news you may -credit--and of the utmost consequence--I close my very sensible decent -epistle with--And so God bless you!--Pray tell Mr. K---- my thanks for -his obliging letter--and that I join him and all his friends in honest -gladness--upon his brother’s account.--I fear, also, he has had, and -still has, too much practice.--I have this opinion of him, that his -humanity will ever be found equal to his skill--and that he will be a -credit to his profession--as well as a blessing to his patients.--My -humble respects and best wishes attend Miss ---- and Messieurs B---- -and S----, &c. - -The grand news is not yet officially authenticated--as no express is -yet arrived from the Howes--the Isis man of war, which is supposed -to have the dispatches, not being got in;--but the K---- and Cabinet -believe the news to be true, though brought by hear-say--at sea. - - - - -LETTER LVI. - -TO MR. S----. - - - December 20, 1777. - -WITH the old story of the Season, &c. &c. most sincerely, and amen. - -When Royal David--in the intoxication of success and fullness of -pride--imprudently insisted upon the numbering of his people--we are -told, the Prophet was sent to announce the Divine displeasure--and to -give him the choice of one of the three of the Almighty’s heaviest -punishments:--in his choice--he shewed both wisdom and true piety--you -know the rest.--Now, my friend--thou knowest my weakness;--I -sincerely believe the Sacred Writ--and of course look upon war in -all its horrid arrangements as the bitterest curse that can fall -upon a people; and this American one--as one of the very worst--of -worst things:--that it is a just judgement, I do believe;--that the -eyes of our rulers are shut, and their judgements stone-blind, I -believe also.--The Gazette will give you a well-drest melancholy -account--but you will see one thing in it which you will like--and -that is, the humane solicitude of General Burgoyne--for the safety -and good treatment indiscriminately of all his camp-artificers and -attendants:--he is certainly a man of feeling--and I regard him -more for the grandeur of his mind in adversity--than I should in -all the triumphal pomp of military madness.--But let me return, if -possible, to my senses:--for God’s sake! what has a poor starving -Negroe, with six children, to do with kings and heroes, and armies and -politics?--Aye, or poets and painters!--or artists--of any sort? quoth -Monsieur S----. True--indubitably true.--For your letter, thanks--It -should have come sooner--better late, &c. &c.--What have I to do with -your good or evil fortune--health or sickness--weal or woe?--I am -resolved from henceforth to banish feelings--Misanthrope from head -to foot!--_Apropos_--not five minutes since I was interrupted, in -this same letter of letters, by a pleasant affair--to a man of no -feelings.--A fellow bolted into the shop with a countenance in which -grief and fear struggled for mastery.--“Did you see any body go to my -cart, Sir?”--“No, friend, how should I? you see I am writing--and how -should I be able to see your cart or you either in the dark?”--“Lord in -heaven pity me! cries the man, what shall I do? oh! what shall I do?--I -am undone!--Good God!--I did but go into the court here--with a trunk -for the lady at Captain G----’s (I had two to deliver), and somebody -has stole the other;--what shall I do?--what shall I do?”--“Zounds, -man!--who ever left their cart in the night with goods in it, without -leaving some one to watch?”--“Alack, Sir, I left a boy, and told him I -would give him something to stand by the cart, and the boy and trunk -are both gone!”--Oh nature!--oh heart!--why does the voice of distress -so forcibly knock at the door of hearts--but to hint to pride and -avarice our common kindred--and to alarm self-love?--Mark, I do think, -and will maintain it--that self-love alone, if rightly understood, -would make man all that a dying Redeemer wills he should be.--But this -same stolen trunk;--the ladies are just gone out of my shop--they have -been here holding a council--upon law and advertisements;--God help -them!--they could not have come to a worse--nor could they have found -a stupider or sorrier adviser:--the trunk was seen parading between -two in the Park--and I dare say the contents by this time are pretty -well gutted.--Last Sunday I met, coming from church, Mr. C----; he -looks well, better than when you left him.--I took occasion, as we were -prating about and about your worship--to pin Mr. de Groote’s interest -upon the skirts of his feelings;--he desired, when I saw him next, -I would send him into Crown-street--which I religiously performed, -but have not seen Mr. de Groote since;--in truth, there is (despight -of his nose) so much of the remains of better times--somewhat of the -gentleman and artist in ruins--something creative of reverence as well -as pity--that I have wished to do more than I ought--though at the -same time too little for such a being to receive without insult from -the hands of a poor Negroe--(pooh, I do not care for your prancings, I -can see you at this distance).--We have agreed upon one thing;--which -is, I have undertaken to write to Mr. G---- for him, in the way of -local relief;--I will wager a tankard of porter I succeed in some -sort;--I will aim at both sides of him--his pity and his pride--which, -alas!--the last I mean, finds a first-floor in the breast of every -son of Adam. S---- called on me this day, and left a picture for you -at your lodgings--and a very spirited head in miniature, of your own -doing, with me--which I like so well--you will find it difficult to get -it from me--except you talk of giving me a copy--Self-love again!--How -can you expect business in these hard times--when the utmost exertions -of honest industry can scarce afford people in the middle sphere of -life daily provisions?--When it shall please the Almighty that things -shall take a better turn in America--when the conviction of their -madness shall make them court peace--and the same conviction of our -cruelty and injustice induce us to settle all points in equity--when -that time arrives, my friend, America will be the grand patron of -genius--trade and arts will flourish--and if it shall please God to -spare us till that period--we will either go and try our fortunes -there--or stay in Old England and talk about it.--While thou hast -only one mouth to feed--one back to cloath--and one wicked member to -indulge--thou wilt have no pity from me--excepting in the argument of -health. May that cordial blessing be thine--with its sweet companion -ease!--Peace follows rectitude--and what a plague would’st thou have -more?--Write soon if thou dar’st--retort at thy peril--boy--girls--and -the old Duchess, all pretty well--and so, so, is yours, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LVII. - -TO J. S----, Esq. - - - Charles Street, December 26, 1777. - -I HAD the favor of a letter--replete with kindness which I can never -deserve--and have just now received the valuable contents--of which -said letter was harbinger--without either surprize or emotion--save a -kind of grateful tickling of the heart--the child of respect--and I -believe twin-brother of gratitude.----Now had I heard of an A--hb--p -(at this sacred season especially)--gladdening the hearts of the -poor, aged and infirm--with good cheer--informing the minds of the -young with Christian precepts, and reforming his whole See by his -pious example--that would have surprized me:--had I been informed of -a truly great man--who, laying aside party and self-interest, dared -to step forth the advocate of truth, and friend to his country; or -had any one told me of a lord--who was wise enough to live within -bounds--and honest enough to pay his debts--why it would have surpriz’d -me indeed.--But I have been well informed there is a Mr. S---- at -Bury--and I think I have seen the gentleman--who lives in a constant -course of doing beneficent actions--and, upon these occasions, the -pleasure he feels constitutes him the obliged party.--You, good -Sir, ought of course to thank me--for adding one more to the number -you are pleased to be kind to--so pray remember, good Sir, that my -thanks--(however due in the eye of gratitude) I conceive to be an act -of supererogation--and expect that henceforth you will look upon the -Sancho’s--as a family that have a rightful call upon your notice.--Mrs. -Sancho joins me in repetition of the customary wishes.--Give me credit -for having a heart which feels your kindness as it ought.--That Heaven -may lengthen your days for the good of mankind--and grant every wish of -your heart--is the true conclusion of - - Your greatly obliged - and respectful humble servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LVIII. - -TO MR. F----. - - - Charles Street, January 27, 1778. - -FULL heartily and most cordially do I thank thee, good Mr. F----, for -your kindness in sending the books--that upon the unchristian and most -diabolical usage of my brother Negroes--the illegality--the horrid -wickedness of the traffic--the cruel carnage and depopulation of the -human species--is painted in such strong colours--that I should think -would (if duly attended to) flash conviction, and produce remorse, in -every enlightened and candid reader.--The perusal affected me more -than I can express;--indeed I felt a double or mixt sensation--for -while my heart was torn with the sufferings which--for aught I -know--some of my nearest kin might have undergone--my bosom, at the -same time, glowed with gratitude and praise toward the humane--the -Christian--the friendly and learned Author of that most valuable -book.--Blest be your sect!--and Heaven’s peace be upon them!--I, who, -thank God! am no bigot--but honour virtue and the practice of the -great moral duties equally in the turban or the lawn-sleeves--who -think Heaven big enough for all the race of man--and hope to see -and mix amongst the whole family of Adam in bliss hereafter--I with -these notions (which, perhaps, some may style absurd) look upon the -friendly Author--as a being far superior to any great name upon your -continent.--I could wish that every member of each house of parliament -had one of these books.--And if his Majesty perused one through before -breakfast--though it might spoil his appetite--yet the consciousness -of having it in his power to facilitate the great work--would give -an additional sweetness to his tea.--Phyllis’s poems do credit to -nature--and put art--merely as art--to the blush.--It reflects nothing -either to the glory or generosity of her master--if she is still his -slave--except he glories in the _low vanity_ of having in his wanton -power a mind animated by Heaven--a genius superior to himself. The list -of splendid, titled, learned names, in confirmation of her being the -real authoress, alas! shews how very poor the acquisition of wealth -and knowledge are--without generosity--feeling--and humanity.--These -good great folks all knew--and perhaps admired--nay, praised Genius in -bondage--and then, like the Priests and the Levites in sacred writ, -passed by--not one good Samaritan amongst them.--I shall be ever glad -to see you--and am, with many thanks, - - Your most humble servant. - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LIX. - -TO MR. W----E. - - - Charles Street, March 12, 1778. - -WILL you forgive me--if I take the liberty to trouble you with getting -my enclosed plan inserted in the General Advertiser, or Morning -Intelligencer, as speedily as they conveniently can, if after you have -perused it, you think it admissable?--if not, destroy it; for I have -not yet vanity sufficient to think whatever I privately approve must -of course be approveable.--I send you the copy of what real affection -made me draw up for the late unfortunate Dr. Dodd[5] (which, as it -never was inserted, I must believe the learned editor thought it too -insignificant for the laudable service it was meant to help).--My -respects attend your whole family.--I am, dear Sir, - - Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - -I prefer Mr. Parker’s paper for many reasons;--let me have your opinion -of my plan--for, in serious truth, I think it ought to be put in -execution. - -[5] Mr. Sancho also wrote to Dr. Dodd when in prison. - - - - -For THE GENERAL ADVERTISER. - - - Palace Yard, March 12, 1778. - - SIR, - -THE Romans were wont to decree public honors on the man who was so -fortunate as to save the life of a citizen; a noble act of policy, -founded on true humanity, to stimulate the endeavours of every -individual towards acts of benevolence and brotherly regard to each -other. Actuated by zeal to my prince, and love to my country--I mean -to deserve well of both, by publishing, through the channel of your -paper, a plan for greatly diminishing the national debt; or, in case -a war with the House Bourbon should be inevitable, for raising three -or four years supplies, without oppresing the merchant, mechanic, -or labouring husbandman; in short, without abridging one needful -indulgence, or laying any fellow-subject under the least self-denying -restraint. - -Mr. Editor, we all know that in noble families plate is merely ideal -wealth--and in very many houses of your first connexions and over-grown -fortunes, there are vast quantities of it old and useless, kept merely -for the antiquity of its fashion, and the ostentatious proof of the -grandeur of ancestry. Our neighbours the French (if I mistake not) in -the last war had the spirit (when the treasures of their Grand Monarque -were nearly exhausted) to send their plate generously to the mint, -in aid of national honour and security. Their churchmen have often -shewn the laity the glorious example of aiding the state. We, to our -immortal honour, have never yielded them the palm in courage, wisdom, -or gallantry. Let every gentleman, whose landed property exceeds -500_l._ _per annum_, give up, without reserve, his useful family plate, -all except knives, forks, and spoons, which may be deemed useful and -necessary. I trust, such is the exalted spirit of the British nobility -and gentry, that they will resign with chearfulness what they can so -well do without. Should this meet (as I hope it will) with the chearful -assent of the public, let the quantities, so nobly given, be printed -against the names of the patriotic donors, as a lasting testimony of -their zeal for the public good, and a glorious proof of the internal -riches of this queen of isles! - - +Africanus.+ - - - - -To the Editor of the MORNING POST. - - - SIR, - -I AM one of the many who have been often edified by the graceful -eloquence and truly Christian doctrine of the unfortunate Dr. Dodd.--As -a Divine, he had, and still has, my love and reverence; his faults I -regret; but, alas! I feel myself too guilty to cast a stone: justice -has her claims;--but Mercy, the anchor of my hope, inclines me to -wish he might meet with Royal clemency--his punishments have already -been pretty severe!--the loss of Royal favor--the cowardly attacks of -malicious buffoonry--and the over-strained zeal for rigid justice in -the prosecution.--Oh! would to God the reverend bishops, clergy, &c. -would join in petitioning the Throne for his life!--it would save the -holy order from indignity, and even the land itself from the reproach -of making too unequal distinctions in punishments. He might, by the -rectitude of his future life, and due exertion of his matchless -powers, be of infinite service--as chaplain to the poor convicts -on the river, which would be a punishment, and, at the same time, -serve for a proof or test of his contrition--and the sincerity of a -zeal he has often manifested (in the pulpit) for the service of true -Religion--and he may rise the higher by his late fall--and do more real -service to the thoughtless and abandoned culprits, than a preacher, -whose character might perhaps be deemed spotless. If this hint should -stimulate a pen, or heart, like the good B----p of Chester’s, to exert -itself in the behalf of a man who has formerly been alive to every act -of heaven-born charity--the writer of this will have joy, even in his -last moments, in the reflection that he paid a mite of the vast debt he -owes Dr. Dodd as a preacher. - - I---- S----. - - - - -LETTER LX. - -TO MRS. H----. - - - Charles Street, April 9, 1778. - - DEAR MADAM, - -I HAVE to thank you for repeated favors--and I do most sincerely.--You -have a pleasure in doing acts of kindness--I wish from my soul that -your example was more generally imitated.--I have given to the care -of Mr. W---- one of Giardini’s benefit-tickets--which I present not -to you, Madam, but to Mr. H----, that he may judge of fidlers’ taste -and fidlers’ consequence in our grand metropolis--the ticket was a -present from the great Giardini to the lowly Sancho--and I offer it as -a tribute of musical affection to thy worthy partner--and with it, to -both, the sincereest best wishes and respects of their much obliged -servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXI. - -TO MR. J---- W----E. - - - May 4, 1778. - - MY DEAR W----E, - -YOUR short letter gave me much pleasure--which would have been -enlarged, had your epistle been longer;--but I make allowances--as I -ought--for the number of friends who wish equally with me--and expect -to be gratified. You are greatly fortunate in enjoying your health--for -which I doubt not but you are truly thankful to the Almighty Giver.--As -to your success, it is the best comment upon your conduct;--for -rectitude of principle and humble deportment, added to strict attention -and good-nature, must make even fools and knaves wish you well--though -envy will mix itself with the transient kindness of such--but with -such noble natures as you went out happily connected with, you are -every day sowing the good seeds of your future fortune.--I hope to -live to see you return--the comfort and honor of your good father and -family;--but observe--I do not wish you half a million, clogged with -the tears and blood of the poor natives;--no--a decent competence got -with honesty--and that will keep increasing like the widow’s cruse, -and descend down to posterity with accumulated blessings.--You desire -to transfer your share in me to your brother Joe;--now be it known to -you--Joe has interest sufficient in his own natural right with me, to -secure him every attention in my poor power. But you flatter, my good -friend--though your flattery carries a good excuse with it--you flatter -the poor. - -I say nothing of politics--I hate such subjects;--the public papers -will inform you of mistakes--blood--taxes--misery--murder--the -obstinacy of a few--and the madness and villainy of a many.--I expect -a very, very long letter from you--in answer to a sermon I wrote you -last year.--Miss ---- is still divinely fair;--she is a good girl, but -no match for Nabobs.--Mrs. C---- is as handsome as ever--and R---- as -friendly. God bless them! feasting or fasting! sleeping or waking! -May God’s providence watch over and protect them--and all such!--Your -brother Frank is a sweet boy--a painter, who would wish to draw a -cherub, will find no fitter subject.--The C----ds--but what have I to -do with good people, who will of course all write for themselves?--so -let them.--Your father--Oh Jack! what a cordial!--what a rich luxury is -it to be able to contribute, by well-doing, to a father’s, nay a whole -family of kindred love, and heart-felt affection! what a bliss to add -to all their happiness--and to insure your own at the same time!--May -this high pleasure be thine! and may the God of truth and fountain of -all good enrich thy heart and head with his spirit and wisdom--crown -your labours with success--and guard you from avarice--ambition--and -every Asiatic evil--so that your native land may receive you with -riches and honor--your friends with true joy--heightened with sincere -respect! So wishes--so prophesies--thy true friend and obliged servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXII. - - - Charles Street, May 9, 1778. - -TO MISS C----. - -THE Sanchos--in full synod--humbly present their respectful compliments -to the good Mrs. C---- and Miss ---- (what a C----!) are happy in -hearing they got well into Suffolk--that they continue so--and -enjoy the beauties of this sweetest of seasons--with its attendant -dainties--fresh butter--sweet milk--and the smiles of boon nature--on -hill and dale--fields and groves--shepherds piping--milk-maids -dancing--and the chearful respondent carolings of artless joy in the -happy husbandmen--Should you perchance rise early in pursuit of May -dew--I earnestly make it my request--you will save--and bring to town -a little bottle of it for my particular use.--Happy--thrice happy -nymphs--!--be merciful to the poor hapless swains. The powerful little -god of mischief and delight now--at this blest season--prunes his -beauteous wings--new feathers and sharpens his arrows--tight strings -his bow--and takes too sure his aim.--Oh! lads, beware the month of -May. For you, blest girls--nature, decked out as in a birth-day suit, -courts you with all its sweets where-e’er you tread--the grass and -wanton flowerets fondly kiss your feet--and humbly bow their pretty -heads--to the gentle sweepings of your under-petticoats--the soft and -amorous southern breezes toy with your curls, and uncontroul’d steal -numberless kisses--the blackbirds and thrushes suspend their songs--and -eye beauty and humanity with pleasure;--and, could their hearts be -read, thank most sincerely the generous fair hands that fed them in the -winter;--the cuckoo sings on every tree the joys of married life--the -shrubbery throws out all its sweets to charm you--though, alas! an -unlucky parciplepliviaplemontis seizes my imagination--my brains are -on the ferment--Miss C---- will excuse me.--Make my best wishes to -Mrs. C----, tell her I hope she rides and walks in moderation--eats -heartily, and laughs much--sleeps soundly, dreams happily--that -she--you--my R---- and your connexions--may enjoy the good of this life -without its evil--is the true Black-a-moor wish of - - I. SANCHO. - - -Now mark, this is not meant as a letter--no--it is an address to the -ladies.--Pray our best respects to Mr. and Mrs. B----; it is an address -to Spring-birds and flowers--and when you see Johnny, our loves--it -is a caution to the swains against the popery of Love.--The K---- and -Q---- are just now returned from Portsmouth.--I said nothing in regard -to the month by way of advice to the ladies.--The Spectator--blessings -on his memory--has.--They say the Royal chaise was covered with -dirt--even the very glasses.--Quistus Quirini--was found very late last -night.--Nothing broke--except the hemmings of advantage.--They say the -Queen never looked better.--But what amaz’d most people--both the Royal -postillions rode the off-horses--which it is expected the Gazette of -this night will explain--Adieu. - - Is not that--_a good one_. - - - - -From the PUBLIC ADVERTISER of May 13th, 1778. - -Inserted unknown to Mr. Sancho. - -TO MR. B----. - - - DEAR SIR, - -I COULD not see Mr. de Groote till this morning--he approached the -threshold--poor man--in very visible illness;--yet, under the pressure -of a multitude of infirmities--he could not forget his recent humane -benefactor. With faultering speech he enquired much who you were;--and, -in the conclusion, put up his most earnest petitions to the Father of -Mercies in your behalf--which (if the prayers of an indigent genius -have as much efficacy as those of a fat bishop) I should hope and -trust you may one day be the better for.--He is in direct descent -from the famous Hugo Grotius by the father’s side.--His own mother -was daughter to Sir Thomas Hesketh. He married the widow Marchioness -de Melaspina.--His age is 86; he had a paralytic stroke--and has a -rupture.--His eyes are dim, even with the help of spectacles.--In -truth, he comes close to Shakspeare’s description in his last age of -man--“Sans teeth--sans eyes--sans taste--sans every thing.” - -He has the honour to be known to Dr. Johnson--and the luck to be -sometimes remembered by Mr. Garrick.--If you help him--you do yourself -a kindness--me a pleasure--and he, poor soul, a good--which he may one -time throw in your teeth--in that country where good actions are in -higher estimation than stars--ribbons--or crowns. - - Yours, most respectfully, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - -He lodges at Nᵒ. 9, New Pye-Street, Westminster. - - - - -LETTER LXIII. - -TO MR. R----. - - -MY good friend, take my thanks for your kind attention;--and, -believe me, I am exceedingly mortified at being thus thrust forward -in the public prints.--You may observe, by what has happened to me, -how very difficult it is to do even a right thing, so as to escape -uneasiness.--Trust me, this same letter (though wrote, I dare say, -with the kindest intention imaginable) will do me hurt in the opinion -of many;--I therefore repeat, I like it not--and dare own to my friend -R---- it hurts my pride.--You may laugh--but it’s truth.--The drawing -was gone to my friend S----, but I recovered it in time.--Hope the -ladies are well--and that it will amuse them for a few moments. The -young man who invented the design is no artist--but I think he has -genius. - - - - -LETTER LXIV. - -TO MISS C----. - - - May 14, 1778. - -WHAT terms shall I find to express my gratitude to the obliging, the -friendly Miss C----, for the pleasure we enjoyed from the contents -of the best letter that has been wrote this good year?--You, who -delight to please, will also feel high satisfaction in knowing -you have succeeded.--We hope the change of weather has had no ill -effect upon our friend--and that she will adhere to her promise in -remembering how ill she has been--and that it is too probable any -cold got by over-exertion or fatigue may occasion a relapse. We have -had much thunder and rain this morning--and, if old saws say true, we -are to expect a continuance of about thirty-seven days good ducking -weather;--we will leave it to the all-wise Disposer of events, with -this comfortable reflection--that whatever he wills--is best.--We are -happy to hear such an account of the ----; she especially, as very -likely a good course of fatigue, sweetened with gain, may contribute as -much to her health as her pleasure, and re-establish her perfectly.--We -have nothing stirring in the news way, or any other way:--the town -is literally empty, saving a few sharks of both sexes, who are too -poor to emigrate to the camps or watering-places, and so are forced -to prey upon one another in town.--I protest, it is to me the most -difficult of things to write to one of your female geniuses;--there is -a certain degree of cleverality (if I may so call it), an easy kind of -derangement of periods, a gentleman-like--fashionable--careless--seesaw -of dialogue--which I know no more of than you do of cruelty.--I write -as I think--foolishly--and you write well--why?--because you think -well.--So much for praise--compliment--flattery, &c.--My respects -attend Mr. B---- and Mrs. S---- and Mrs. ----. Tell Miss A----s, one -of us will come to see her--perhaps.--I have received a kind letter -from my good friend the doctor--and one also for the surgeon to the -guards, dated New York, June 12:--he thinks the commissioners might -have saved themselves the trouble, as they are like to come back just -as wise as they went.--The Panton-Street good folks are well, for what -I know--not having seen them since I last had the honor of addressing -Mrs. C----. Adieu.--Our best respects--with Kitty’s and Billy’s in -particular--attend Monsieur Nuts[6];--pray tell him so--with all -civility;--he deserves it on the score of his own merits--were it not -even so--yet surely, I think, we should regard him for the sake of our -friend. - -Mrs. Sancho joins me, in every thing to Self and Co. - - Yours, dear Miss C----, - with zeal and esteem, - - IGN. SANCHO. - -[6] A favourite Spaniel. - - - - -LETTER LXV. - -TO MR. I----. - - - May 22, 1778. - - DEAR SIR, - -I CLAIM your indulgence--and modestly insist upon your help.--The -companions to this billet are the hobby-horses of a young man that I -respect.--Darley has used him with less attention than he ought--having -kept the press affair above a month--and done nothing--so he is (of -course) out of favor.--I want first your approbation--that gained, I -wish your interest, to get them speedily into the world;--there are -some inaccuracies in both--which any regular artist will amend.--As -my friend is self-taught, his errors must be excused.--I wish I could -wait upon you;--but my stiff joint--my leg--is so unwell, that at -present I must give up any hopes of that pleasure.--I hope Mrs. -I----’s health is perfectly restored.--I should wish to win her over -to our interests in the affairs before you: in good faith, I like the -subject myself--and can fancy I discern something like wit in both of -them.--Forgive and assist yours faithfully, - - +Sancho+ the Big. - - - - -LETTER LXVI. - -TO MR. H----. - - - Charles Street, Westminster, May 31, 1778. - -THE Sanchonian chapter of enquiries, dictated by an esteem nearly -bordering upon affection (perhaps as warmly sincere as most modern -friendships), runs thus--How do you do? Are you the better for your -journey? Did the exercise create any amendment of appetite? Was your -travelling party agreeable? And how did you find the good couple?--The -sweet sensations arising from the sight of those we love, the reviewing -the places, either houses, fields, hedges, stiles, or posts, of -our early morn of life acquaintance, the train of pleasurable ideas -awakened, are more salutary than the college of grave faces.--Tell -me much about yourself--and more about your honored parents, whom I -hope you found as well as you wished--your kindred at Lancaster, to -whom my hearty wishes--and to all who have charity enough to admit -dark faces into the fellowship of Christians.--Say much for me to -your good father and mother--in the article of respect thou canst not -exaggerate;--excepting conjugal, there are no attentions so tenderly -heart-soothing as the parental.--Amidst the felicity of thy native -fields, may’st thou find health, and diffuse pleasure round the -respectable circle of thy friends!--No news--but that Keppel is in -chace of de-Chartres. - - Yours truly, - - I. SANCHO. - - -If you can afford a line, inclose it in the inclosed.--Mrs. Sancho and -girls wish you every pleasure. - - - - -LETTER LXVII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - June 10, 1778. - - “’Tis with our judgements as our watches--none - “Go just alike--yet each believes his own.” - +Pope.+ - -SO, my wise critic--blessings on thee,--and thanks for thy sagacious -discovery!--Sterne, it seems, stole his grand outline of character from -Fielding--and who did Fielding plunder? thou criticizing jack-ape!--As -to S----, perhaps you may be right--not absolutely right--nor quite -so very _altogether_ wrong--but that’s not my affair.--Fielding and -Sterne both copied Nature--their pallettes stored with proper colours -of the brightest dye--these masters were both great originals--their -outline correct--bold--and free--Human Nature was their subject--and -though their colouring was widely different, yet _here_ and there -some features in each might bear a little resemblance--some faint -likeness to each other--as for example--in your own words--Toby -and Allworthy--the external drapery of the two are as wide as the -poles--their hearts--perhaps--twins of the same blessed form and -principles;--but for the rest of the Dramatis Personæ, you must -strain hard, my friend, before you can twist them into likeness -sufficient to warrant the censure of copying.--Parson Adams is yet -more distant--his chief feature is absence of thought. The world -affords me many such instances--but in the course of my reading, I -have not met with his likeness, except in mere goodness of heart--in -that, perhaps, Jack M---- may equal him--but then he is so confounded -jingle-headed!--Read, boy, read--give Tom Jones a second _fair_ -reading!--Fielding’s wit is obvious--his humour poignant--dialogue -just, and truly dramatic--colouring quite nature--and keeping -chaste.--Sterne equals him in every thing; and in one thing excels -him and all mankind--which is the distribution of his lights; which -he has so artfully varied throughout his work, that, the oftener they -are examined, the more beautiful they appear.--They were two great -masters, who painted for posterity--and, I prophesy, will charm to the -end of the English speech.--If Sterne has had any one great master in -his eye--it was Swift, his countryman--the first wit of this or any -other nation;--but there is this grand difference between them--Swift -excels in grave-faced irony--whilst Sterne lashes his whips with jolly -laughter.--I could wish you to compare (after due attentive reading) -Swift and Sterne--Milton and Young--Thomson and Akenside--and then give -your free opinion to yours ever. - - I. SANCHO. - - -I want a handful or two of good fresh peach leaves--contrive to send -me them when opportunity serves--and word, at the first leisure -period, how Miss _Anne Sister-like_--_George Grateful-look_--Mrs. &c. -&c.--and how your worship’s hip does.--You had set up my bristles in -such guise--in attacking poor Sterne--that I had quite forgot to give -you a flogging for your punning grocery epistle--but omittance is no -quittance.--Swift and Sterne were different in this--Sterne was truly -a noble philanthropist--Swift was rather cynical;--what Swift would -fret and fume at--such as the petty accidental _sourings_ and _bitters_ -in life’s cup--you plainly may see, Sterne would laugh at--and parry -off by a larger humanity, and regular good-will to man. I know you will -laugh at me--do--I am content;--if I am an enthusiast in any thing, it -is in favor of my Sterne. - - - - -LETTER LXVIII. - -TO MR. J---- W----. - - - 1778. - -YOUR good father insists on my scribbling a sheet of absurdities, -and gives a notable reason for it--that is, ‘Jack will be pleased -with it.’--Now be it known to you--I have a respect both for father -and son--yea, for the whole family, who are every soul (that I have -the honour or pleasure to know any thing of) tinctured and leavened -with all the obsolete goodness of old times--so that a man runs some -hazard, in being seen in the W----e’s society, of being biassed to -Christianity.--I never see your poor father--but his eyes betray his -feelings--for the hopeful youth in India--a tear of joy dancing upon -the lids--is a plaudit not to be equalled this side death!--See the -effects of right-doing, my worthy friend; continue in the tract of -rectitude--and despise poor paltry Europeans--titled Nabobs.--Read your -Bible--as day follows night, God’s blessing follows virtue;--honour and -riches bring up the rear--and the end is peace.--Courage, my boy--I -have done preaching.--Old folks love to seem wise--and if you are silly -enough to correspond with grey hairs--take the consequence.--I have had -the pleasure of reading most of your letters, through the kindness of -your father.--Youth is naturally prone to vanity: such is the weakness -of human nature, that pride has a fortress in the best of hearts.--I -know no person that possesses a better than Johnny W----;--but although -flattery is poison to youth, yet truth obliges me to confess that your -correspondence betrays no symptom of vanity--but teems with truths of -an honest affection--which merits praise--and commands esteem. - -In some of your letters which I do not recollect, you speak -(with honest indignation) of the treachery and chicanery of the -natives[7].--My good friend, you should remember from whom they learnt -those vices:--the first Christian visitors found them a simple, -harmless people--but the cursed avidity for wealth urged these first -visitors (and all the succeeding ones) to such acts of deception--and -even wanton cruelty--that the poor ignorant natives soon learnt to turn -the knavish and diabolical arts which they soon imbibed--upon their -teachers. - -I am sorry to observe that the practice of your country (which as -a resident I love--and for its freedom, and for the many blessings -I enjoy in it, shall ever have my warmest wishes--prayers--and -blessings;) I say, it is with reluctance that I must observe your -country’s conduct has been uniformly wicked in the East--West -Indies--and even on the coast of Guinea.--The grand object of -English navigators--indeed of all Christian navigators--is -money--money--money--for which I do not pretend to blame -them.--Commerce was meant, by the goodness of the Deity, to diffuse the -various goods of the earth into every part--to unite mankind in the -blessed chains of brotherly love--society--and mutual dependence:--the -enlightened Christian should diffuse the riches of the Gospel of -peace--with the commodities of his respective land.--Commerce, attended -with strict honesty--and with Religion for its companion--would be a -blessing to every shore it touched at.--In Africa, the poor wretched -natives--blessed with the most fertile and luxuriant soil--are -rendered so much the more miserable for what Providence meant as a -blessing:--the Christians’ abominable traffic for slaves--and the -horrid cruelty and treachery of the petty Kings--encouraged by their -Christian customers--who carry them strong liquors, to enflame their -national madness--and powder and bad fire arms, to furnish them with -the hellish means of killing and kidnapping.--But enough--it is a -subject that sours my blood--and I am sure will not please the friendly -bent of your social affections.--I mention these, only to guard my -friend against being too hasty in condemning the knavery of a people, -who, bad as they may be--possibly were made worse by their Christian -visitors.--Make human nature thy study wherever thou residest--whatever -the religion or the complexion, study their hearts.--Simplicity, -kindness, and charity, be thy guide;--with these, even Savages will -respect you--and God will bless you! - -Your father--who sees every improvement of his boy with -delight--observes that your hand-writing is much for the better;--in -truth, I think it as well as any modest man can wish:--if my long -epistles do not frighten you--and I live till the return of next -spring--perhaps I shall be enabled to judge how much you are improved -since your last favour.--Write me a deal about the natives--the -soil and produce--the domestic and interior manners of the -people--customs--prejudices--fashions--and follies.--Alas! we have -plenty of the two last here--and what is worse, we have politics--and -a detestable Brothers war--where the right hand is hacking and hewing -the left--whilst Angels weep at our madness--and Devils rejoice at the -ruinous prospect. - -Mr. R---- and the ladies are well.--Johnny R---- has favourd me with -a long letter; he is now grown familiar with danger--and can bear the -whistling of bullets--the cries and groans of the human species--the -roll of drums--clangor of trumpets--shouts of combatants--and thunder -of cannon--all these he can bear with soldier-like fortitude--with now -and then a secret wish for the society of his London friends--in the -sweet blessed security of peace and friendship. - -This, young man, is my second letter;--I have wrote till I am stupid, -I perceive--I ought to have found it out two pages back.--Mrs. Sancho -joins me in good wishes--I join her in the same;--in which double -sense believe me, - - Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - Postscript. (Very short.) - -It is with sincere pleasure I hear you have a lucrative -establishment--which will enable you to appear and act with -decency;--your good sense will naturally lead you to proper œconomy--as -distant from frigid parsimony, as from a heedless extravagancy;--but as -you may possibly have some time to spare upon your hands for necessary -recreation--give me leave to obtrude my poor advice.--I have heard it -more than once observed of fortunate adventurers--they have come home -enriched in purse--but wretchedly barren in intellects:--the mind, my -dear Jack, wants food--as well as the stomach;--why then should not one -wish to increase in knowledge as well as money?--Young says--“Books are -fair Virtue’s advocates and friends:”--now my advice is--to preserve -about 20_l._ a year for two or three seasons--by which means you may -gradually form a useful, elegant, little library.--Suppose now the -first year you send the order and the money to your father--for the -following books--which I recommend from my own superficial knowledge as -useful.--A man should know a little of Geography--History, nothing more -useful, or pleasant. - - Robertson’s Charles the Fifth, 4 vols. - Goldsmith’s History of Greece, 2 vols. - Ditto, of Rome, 2 vols. - Ditto, of England, 4 vols. - -Two small volumes of Sermons--useful--and very sensible--by one Mr. -Williams, a dissenting minister--which are as well as fifty--for I -love not a multiplicity of doctrines--a few plain tenets--easy--simple -and directed to the heart--are better than volumes of controversial -nonsense.--Spectators--Guardians--and Tatlers--you have of -course.--Young’s Night-Thoughts--Milton--and Thomson’s Seasons were my -summer companions for near twenty years--they mended my heart--they -improved my veneration to the Deity--and increased my love to my -neighbours. - -You have to thank God for strong natural parts--a feeling humane -heart;--you write with sense and judicious discernment. Improve -yourself, my dear Jack, that if it should please God to return -you to your friends with the fortune of a man in upper rank, the -embellishments of your mind may be ever considered as greatly superior -to your riches--and only inferior to the goodness of your heart. I give -you the above as a sketch--your father and other of your friends will -improve upon it in the course of time--I do indeed judge that the above -is enough at first--in conformity with the old adage----“A few Books -and a few Friends, and those well chosen.” Adieu. Yours, - - I. SANCHO. - -[7] Extracts of two letters from Mr. W----e to his Father, dated - Bombay, 1776 and 1777. - - “1776. I have introduced myself to Mr. G----, who behaved very - friendly in giving me some advice, which was very necessary, as the - inhabitants, who are chiefly Blacks, are a set of canting, - deceitful people, and of whom one must have great caution.” - - “1777. I am now thoroughly convinced, that the account which Mr. - G---- gave me of the natives of this country is just and true; that - they are a set of deceitful people, and have not such a word as - Gratitude in their language, neither do they know what it is;--and - as to their dealings in trade, they are like unto Jews.” - - - - -LETTER LXVIII. - -TO MR. R----. - - - July 16, 1773. - - DEAR M----, - -S*** is a riddle--I will serve him if I can--were I rich, he should -have no reason to despise me--but he must learn to try to serve -himself--I wish you would throw your good sense upon paper for -him--advice from one of his own years would sink deeper than the fusty -phlegmatic saws of an old man--do, in charity, give him half an hour’s -labour--I do really think that you and S*** have sense enough for a -dozen young fellows--and if it pleased God it were so divided--they -would each be happier, wiser, and richer, than S*** or M----. And this -by the way of thanking you--pooh--will do that when I see you--and if -that never happens, a good action thanks itself.--Mr. Garrick called -upon S---- on Tuesday night, and won his heart; he called to pay poor -de Groote’s lodgings, sat with him some time, and chatted friendly. - -I admire your modesty in grudging me two letters for one--and greasing -me with the fulsoms of sneering praise--Sirrah, be quiet--what, -you Snoodle-poop! have you any care--wife--or family? You ought to -write volumes--it gives expansion to your thoughts--facility to your -invention--ease to your diction--and pleases your Friend, - - SANCHO. - - -Write, Knave--or--or--or-- - - - - -LETTER LXIX. - -TO MRS. C----. - - - July 23, 1778. - - DEAR MADAM, - -SHALL I acknowledge myself a weak superstitious Fool? Yes, I will tell -the honest truth--you have this foolish letter in consequence of a last -night’s dream--Queen Mab has been with me--aye, and with Mrs. Sancho -too--for my part, I dare not reveal half my dream--but upon telling -our night’s visions over the tea-table at breakfast--it was judged -rather uncommon for us all to dream of the same party.--Now, I own, I -have great reason to dream of you waking--for you have been a true and -uncommon friend to me and mine--neither have I the least objection to -these nightly visits, so as I have the pleasure to meet you (though but -in vision) in good health. Thy health is the very thing that I doubt -about--therefore graciously let us know by the next post that you are -well, and mean to take every prudent step so to continue. That you -have left off tea, I do much approve of--but insist that you make your -visitors drink double quantity--that I may be no loser. I hope you find -cocoa agree with you--it should be made always over-night, and boiled -for above fifteen minutes; but you must caution Miss C---- not to -drink it--for there is nothing so fattening to little folks. The R--ns -waylaid my friend R----, and pressed Dame Sancho and self into the -service last Sunday--we had a good and social dinner; and Mrs. Sancho -forced me to stay supper--I think the Doctor looks as well as I ever -saw him--indeed I could read in his chearful countenance that he left -you well--I do not doubt but you have paid a visit to the camp--and -seen brother O---- in his glory--I hope he will have regard to his -health, and for profit I do think it must answer better to him than to -(almost) any other man in the country. Pray be so kind to make our best -respects to Miss A----s, and to every one who delighteth in Blackamoor -greetings.--We have no news but old lies--scoured and turned like -misers coats which serve very well. We gape and swallow--wonder and -look wise--conjurers over a news-paper, and blockheads at home.--Adieu! -let me hear that you are very well; it will please Mrs. Sancho; and, if -I know any thing of her husband, it will be no less pleasing to your -much obliged humble servant and friend, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - -N. B. I walk upon two legs now. - -Our best respects to Miss C----, hope she is intent upon camp fashions; -but caution her, in my name, to be on her guard. Cupid resides in camp -by choice. Oh, Miss C----! beware--beware of the little God. - - I. S. - - -Now this is writing to Miss C----. - - - - -LETTER LXX. - -TO MR. K----. - - - July 23, 1778. - -I RECEIVED yours with satisfaction, as it gave me a certainty of -your being (upon the whole) much better. As to your saying you are -not girlishly inclined--why, I give you credit for it.--Thou must -watch--and pray--for Satan is artful, and knoweth all our weak -parts--and that dirty little blind feathered-shouldered scoundrel of -a boy, master Cupid--lurks couchant--in the pupil of an eye--in the -hollow of a dimple--in the cherry-ripe plumpness of a pair of lips--in -the artfully timid pressure of a fair hand--in the complimentary -squeeze of a farewell--in short, and in one word, watch--watch. - -So you forgot all I said about Charles the Fifth--well, you gave -your reasons--but when you have got through your sugar-works--I hope -you will give due attention to Robertson:--his first volume is the -most learned, and the dryest, yet absolutely necessary to be read -with great attention--as it will render the other much more easy, -clear, and intelligible--make yourself tolerably acquainted with -the feudal system of Europe, which you will find explained in his -first volume--the rest will amply reward you.--I recommend to you to -make extracts upon the passages which strike you most--it will be of -infinite use to you--as I trust you will find it as much a history of -Europe during two centuries, as of Charles the Fifth.--After all, I -shall fume and scold if you do not read this work--and abuse you if -you do not relish it.--You flatter my vanity very agreeably--in ever -supposing that any hints of mine should conduce to the culture of your -little farm:--be that as it may--I am happy in the certainty of never -intentionally misleading or misadvising any male youth--I wish I could -say, Virgin!--Farewell! read, reflect! then write, and let me have your -opinions. - - Yours sincerely, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXI. - -TO MR. R----. - - - July 31, 1778. - - DEAR FRIEND, - -THANKS for your very valuable letter, and its obliging companion:--your -brother writes in good spirits--but I fear the m--n--ty members were -right in their predictions of the success of the commissioners.--Alas! -what desolation, destruction, and ruin, bad hearts or bad heads have -brought upon this poor country!--I must, however, give Mr. J-- R---- -another letter, he fluctuates so terribly in his opinions--as you will -see by the contents of his letter to me, which I hope you will soon -enable me to shew you.--Yes, I must and will give him a flogging, -which you will say is extremely grateful, and a civil return for his -kindness in thinking of me.--I have had a very kind and good letter -from the little wren;--we were pleased to hear Mrs. C---- had enjoyed -so great a share of health;--she, who is lovely even in sickness, -with the additional roseate bloom of health and flow of spirits, -will be almost too much for meer mortals to bear:--tell her from me, -to get sick before she comes up, in pity to the beaux.--Mrs. Sancho -is better;--poor Kitty goes on after the old sort;--the happiest, -my R----, in this life, have something to sigh for!--alas! I have -enough!--I feel much pleasure in the happy view Mr. and Mrs. R--n have -before them;--I have no sort of doubt but they will be successfully -happy--I should have true pleasure to see my friend Mr. J. R---- in -as likely a road.--I have spoke and wrote to Mr. W---- to look out -sharp.--Time, which ripens revolutions, and murders empires--Time will, -I hope, produce happiness and content to us all.--Your coming to town -will give me spirits; for, large as the town is, I cannot say I have -more than one friend in it:--come, you and I shall be rich indeed; for, -I believe, few of the sons of Adam can boast of having more than two -real friends.--The best respects to Mrs. C----, and the amiable little -C----, from - - Yours, &c. - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXII. - -TO MISS C----. - - - Sept. 4, 1778. - -FOR this month past, we have wished to hear something about you;--and -every day, for these two past weeks, have I had it in serious -contemplation to put the question not to the amiable Miss C----, but -to my friend R----, who, notwithstanding your friendly excuse, is, I -do think, rather culpable for his silence.--But hang recrimination; -your goodness is more than sufficient to exculpate a thousand such -sinners. We thank you, with heart-felt pleasure, for the information -of our and your dear friend Mrs. C----’s health, which I hope she will -be careful of, for our and many sakes.--I have a favour to beg of -her, through your mediation, which is this--I have a pair of Antigua -turtles--the gift of Mr. P----, who kindly burthened himself with the -care of them. The true property is vested in Kitty;--but so it is--we -having neither warmth nor room, and Kitty’s good godmother having -both, and that kind of humanity withal which delighteth in doing good -to orphans--I, in the name of Kate and her doves, do through you--our -trusty council--petition Mrs. C---- in behalf of said birds.--Were I -poetically turned--what a glorious field for fancy flights--such as -the blue-eyed Goddess with her flying carr--her doves and sparrows, -&c. &c.--Alas! my imagination is as barren as the desart sands of -Arabia;--but, in serious truth, the shop (the only place I have to -put them in) is so cold, that I shall be happy to billet them to -warmer quarters, which shall be done as soon as Mrs. C---- announces -her consent, and empowers Molly to take them in.--As to news--we have -none worth heeding!--your camps have ruined all trade--but that of -hackney-men. You much surprize us in the account of your late fair -visitant--but pleased us more in the account of O----’s success: -the season has been, through God’s blessing, as favourable as his -friends;--he is a lucky soul.--The S----s are both well, I hope, to -whom pray be so kind to remember us:--as to friend R----, tell him, -that whatever censure his omissions in writing may draw upon him, when -the goodness of his heart, and urbanity of soul, is flung into the -other scale, the faulty scale kicks the beam--we forgive, because we -love--and love sees no faults. - -Mrs. Sancho joins me in love and good wishes to both of you.--Kitty has -been very poorly for above a month past, and continues but very so, -so.--Betsy mends fast;--Billy needs no mending at all--the rest are -well--and all join in respects and compliments to Nutts. - - I am, - Dear Miss C-- and Co’s - Most obliged, - humble servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXIII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - Sept. 16, 1778. - - DEAR M----, - -YOURS just received--and by great good luck I have found Mr. B--’s -list, which I inclose--and God speed your labours! Poor ---- sets off -this evening for ----, to take one parting look of his ----, and on -Monday sets off fresh for ----. Mr. H--’s anxieties end in good luck -at last; he also on Monday enters in one of the best houses in the -city.--On Thursday I hope you will succeed in your affair--and then -my three Geniuses will be happy;--I have had plague and perplexity -enough with two of you.--When do you think of coming to town? In my -last was some of the best poetry--that has--or was--aye, aye. Pray, -Sir, read it over once more. Well, what do you, or can you, say to -it? Oh, envy--envy!--but, Mr. Monkey, the wit and true poetry of that -billet must make amends for the shortness of it.--This is Saturday -night--consequently it must be esteemed a favour that I write at -all:--my head aches--and, though my invention temes with brilliancies, -I can only remember that I am very much - - Yours, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXIV. - -TO MISS C----. - - - October 1, 1778. - -IT is recorded of some great personage, I forget who, that they had -so pleasing a manner in giving a refusal, that the _Refused_ has -left _them_ with more satisfaction under a rejection--than many -have experienced from receiving a _favour_ conferred with perhaps -more kindness than _grace_.--So it fares with me--I had anticipated -the future happiness of my new friends--the comforts of warmth--the -pleasures of being fed and noticed, talked to and watched by the best -heart and finest face within a large latitude--but I am content--I am -certain of the _inconveniency_--and my best thanks are due, which I -pray you make with our best wishes.--I am sorry, both for O---- and my -friend’s sake, that the camp breaks up so soon--as to brother O----, -his harvest has, I hope, been plentiful and well got in--my friend -poor S----, like most modest men of merit, is unlucky--he set out -before I got either my friend R----’s or your letter--his best way is -to turn about--and may good luck over take him--detain him--fill his -pockets--and send him in glee home again!--This is more to be wished -than expected.--If he falls in your way, I shall envy him--he will meet -Hospitality and the Graces.--Betsy and Kitty are both invalids--Mrs. -Sancho is well, and joins me in every good wish.--Next month I hope -brings you all to town--bring health and spirits with you.--We have no -news--no trade! consequently no money or credit. - -Give Mr. R---- my thanks for his friendly letter in your kindest -manner--and say all to our worthy esteemed friend Mrs. C---- that -gratitude can conceive and friendship dictate--in the names of all the -Sanchos, and at the head place - - Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXV. - -TO MR. S----, - - - Yours just received, Thursday, - Oct. 4, 1778. - - “Whatever--is--is right--the world, ’tis true, - “Was made for Cæsar--and for Billy too.” - -POVERTY and Genius were coupled by the wisdom of Providence, for -wise and good ends no doubt--but that’s a mystery.--I feel for and -pity you.--A pox upon pity and feelings--say I, they neither fill -the belly, nor cloath the body--neither will they find lodging or -procure an inside birth in a rascally stage--Thee and I too well -know all this--but as I am at this present moment, thank fortune! -not quite worth ten shillings, pity--cursed foolish pity--is, with -as silly wishes, all I have to comfort you with.--Were I to throw -out my whole thoughts upon paper, it would take a day’s writing, and -thou would’st be a fool to read it--one dawn of hope I enjoy from the -old saw--that “gloomy beginnings are for the most part blessed with -bright endings:”--may it be so with you, my friend!--at the worst, -you can only face about--and your lodgings and old friends will -cordially receive you--for my part, I have use for every mite of my -philosophy--my state at present is that of suspense--God’s will be done! - -This letter will reach you by the hands of a friend indeed--the best -and truest I ever found--a man who, if the worth of his heart were -written in his face, would be esteemed by the whole race of Adam--he -will greet you kindly from the benevolence of his nature--and perhaps -will not dislike you the more for the attachment which for thee is -truly felt by thy sincere friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Mrs. Sancho is well--Kitty mends very slow--Billy improves in -sauciness--the girls are pretty good--Monsieur H---- rides -uneasily--his saddle galls him--his beast is restive--I fear he will -never prosecute long journies upon him--he is for smoother roads--a -pacing tit--quilted saddle--snaffle bridle with silken reins--and gold -stirrups.--So mounted we all should like; but I query albeit, though it -might be for the ease of our bodies, whether it would be for the good -of our souls! Adieu. - -Should you be so lucky to see B----, the house of the worthy Baronet -Sir C---- B----, mind I caution thee to guard thy heart; you will there -meet with sense that will charm exclusive of beauty--and beauty enough -to subdue even were sense wanting--add to this good-nature and all the -charities in one fair bosom.--Guard! guard thy heart! - - - - -LETTER LXXVI. - -TO MR. S----. - - - October 15, 1778. - -YOU want a long letter--where am I to find subject? My heart is sick -with untoward events--poor Kitty is no better--the Duke of Queensbury -ill, dangerously I fear--the best friend and customer I have. M---- is -just now come in--nay he is at my elbow--you know I wish you well--and -that we all are well, Kitty excepted--so let M---- conclude for your -loving friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - -The above you are to consider as bread and cheese. M---- will give you -goose stuffed with grapes[8]. Mr. H---- called here last night, and -read yours:--he is worked sweetly--what with his office late hours, and -his family’s odd humours--but all is for the best. - -[8] Alluding to Mr. S----’s last letter, wherein he had informed Mr. - Sancho, that that epicurean morsel was one of the many dishes with - which he had been regaled at a place where he had lately dined. - - - - -LETTER LXXVII. - -TO MR. R----. - - - October 16, 1778. - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -ACCEPT my thanks--my best thanks--for your kind readiness in obliging -and serving my friend S----. He has sense, honour, and abilities--these -we should naturally suppose would insure him bread--but that is -not always the case:--in the race of fortune, knaves often win the -prize--whilst honesty is distanced--but then mark the end--whilst -the knave full often meets his deserved punishment, Honesty yoked -with Poverty hugs Peace and Content in his bosom.--But truce with -moralizing--though in serious truth my heart and spirits are low--the -noble and good Duke of Queensbury is, I fear, very dangerously ill: -exclusive of gratitude for past favours, and my own interest in -the hope of future, I grieve for the public loss in him--a man who -ennobled his titles, and made greatness lovely by uniting it with -goodness:--if he dies--his gain is certain, for he has served a Master -who will not wrong him--but the world will lose a rare example, and -the poor a friend! He never knew a day’s illness till now for fifty -years past--his regularity of life and serenity of mind are in his -favour--but his advanced life is against him--80 odd--the great fear is -a mortification in his leg--The K--g and Q--n paid him a visit, as the -prints must have informed you--he came to town on purpose to present -himself at the levee--to thank them for the honour done him--he was -taken ill the Sunday after their Majesties visit--and came to town the -Tuesday after. I have been or sent daily to enquire about him--and was -there about two hours ago. The faculty are pouring in the bark--and -allow his Grace strong wines as much as he can drink.--_God’s will be -done!_ - -Mr. S----n writes in raptures of you all.--I wonder not at him--I only -wish, for the good of mankind, such characters as B---- house contains -were more plenty.--Poor Kitty continues much the same--the rest are, -thank God, well.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in cordial wishes to self and -ladies. Adieu, - - Yours sincerely and gratefully, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXVIII. - -TO MR. S----. - - - October 22, 1778. - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -HAVE you never beheld a bust with double--no, not double--but with two -very different profiles--one crying, and one laughing?--That is just my -situation at present:--for poor de Groote--huzza!--is presented to the -Charter-house--by--bless him!--the good Archbishop of Canterbury;--but, -by a standing law, he cannot be admitted till a fresh quarter -begins--and, as he says, he may be dead by that time;--we will hope -not;--well, this is the laughing side.--The Duke of Queensbury died -this morning:--Alas! “I ne’er shall look upon his like again!”--the -clearest head, and most humane of hearts:--I have in common with -many--many--a heavy loss--I loved the good Duke--and not without -reason:--he is gone to reap a reward--which St. Paul could not conceive -in the flesh--and which, I will be bold to say, they both perfectly -enjoy at this moment.--God of his mercy grant!--that thee and I--and -all I love--yea--and all I know--may enter eternity with as promising -hopes--and realize the happiness in store for such as the Duke of -Queensbury! - -Lord Lincoln died on his passage;--the news came last night; but he has -left a son and daughter. - -T---- is well--but still plagued with his uncouth kinsfolk. - - Adieu, Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - -Kitty very poorly, the rest all well. - - - - -LETTER LXXIX. - -TO MR. S----. - - - Charles Street, Nov. 29, 1778. - - DEAR S----, - -YOURS, dated from Madrass, came safe to hand.--I need not tell you -that your account pleased me--and the style of your letter indicated -a mind purged from its follies, and a better habit of thinking, which -I trust happily preceded a steadier course of action.--I know not -whether or not Providence may not, in your instance, produce much good -out of evil.--I flatter myself you will yet recover, and stand the -firmer in your future life, from the reflection (bitter as it is) of -your former.--I have no doubt but you received my letter charged with -the heavy loss of your great, your noble, friendly benefactress and -patroness, the good Dutchess of Q----y: she entered into bliss, July -17, 1777, just two days after you sailed from Portsmouth.--I have now -to inform you, that his Grace followed her October 21st this year; just -fifteen months after his good Dutchess, full of years and honors: he is -gone to join his Dutchess, and share in the rewards of a righteous God, -who alone knew their merits, and alone could reward them. - -Thus it has pleased God to take your props to himself;--teaching you a -lesson, at the same time, to depend upon an honest exertion of your own -industry--and humbly to trust in the Almighty. - -You may safely conclude now, that you have not many friends in -England:--be it your study, with attention, kindness, humility, and -industry, to make friends where you are.--Industry, with good-nature -and honesty, is the road to wealth.--A wise œconomy--without avaricious -meanness, or dirty rapacity--will in a few years render you decently -independent. - -I hope you cultivate the good-will and friendship of L----. He is a -jewel--prize him--love him--and place him next your heart;--he will -not flatter or fear you--so much the better--the fitter for your -friend:--he has a spirit of generosity--such are never ungrateful;--he -sent us a token of his affection, which we shall never forget.--Let -me counsel you, for your character’s sake, and as bound in honour, -the first money you can spare, to send over 20_l._ to discharge your -debt at Mr. P----’s the sadler:--it was borrowed money, you know.--As -for me, I am wholly at your service to the extent of my power;--but -whatever commissions you send over to me, send money, or I stir -none;--thou well knowest my poverty--but ’tis an honest poverty--and -I need not blush or conceal it.--You also are indebted to Mr. O----, -Bond-street:--what little things of that kind you can recollect, pay -as soon as you are able;--it will spunge out many evil traces of -things past from the hearts and heads of your enemies--create you -a better name--and pave the way for your return some years hence -into England with credit and reputation.--Before I conclude, let me, -as your true friend, recommend seriously to you to make yourself -acquainted with your Bible:--believe me, the more you study the word of -God, your peace and happiness will increase the more with it.--Fools -may deride you--and wanton youth throw out their frothy gibes;--but -as you are not to be a boy all your life--and I trust would not be -reckoned a fool--use your every endeavour to be a good man--and leave -the rest to God.--Your letters from the Cape, and one from Madeira, -I received; they were both good letters, and descriptions of things -and places.--I wish to have your description of the sort and town -of Madrass--country adjacent--people--manner of living--value of -money--religion--laws--animals--fashions--taste, &c. &c.--In short, -write any thing--every thing--and, above all, improve your mind with -good reading--converse with men of sense, rather than the fools -of fashion and riches--be humble to the rich--affable, open, and -good-natured to your equals--and compassionately kind to the poor.--I -have treated you freely in proof of my friendship.--Mrs. S----, -under the persuasion that you are really a good man, sends her best -wishes--when her handkerchief is washed, you will send it home--the -girls wish to be remembered to you, and all to friend L----n. - - Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXX. - -TO MR. I----. - - - Jan. 1, 1779. - -IN compliance with custom, I beg leave to wish Mr. and Mrs. I---- -happy years--many or few, as the Almighty shall think fit--but may -they be happy! As I wish it sincerely, their obligation is of course -the greater--and, to oblige them yet more, I will put it in their -power to oblige me, which they can do by lending me the volume of -Annual Registers (I think it is that of 1774) which has Goldsmith’s -Retaliation in it.--I hope Mr. and Mrs. I---- have no complaints but -the general one, extreme coldness of the weather, which though happily -extempted themselves from much suffering, by good fires and good cheer, -yet I am sure their sympathizing hearts feel for the poor.--I find upon -inquiring, that ten o’clock in the morning will best suit Mr. L----; I -will be in Privy Gardens just five minutes before Mr. and Mrs. I---- -and Mr. Mortimer.--I hope Mrs. I---- will not pretend to repent--Sunday -is a lazy morning. If Mrs. I---- has not read Ganganelli, it is time -she should. I therefore take the liberty to send them--_them_, Mr. -I---- will say, is bad grammar--he is, madam, a good natured critic--I -address myself to you therefore, because my heart tells me you will be -a successful advocate for the blunders of a true Blackamoor.--I have -had the confidence to mark the passages that pleased me most in my -post-haste journey through the good Pontiff’s letters--and I shall be -vain, if Mrs. I---- should like the same passages, because it would -give a sanction to the profound judgement of her most obedient servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Note, The sixteenth letter, 1st verse, is a kind of stuff which would -almost turn me to the Romish--there is every thing in it which St. Paul -had in his heart. - - - - -LETTER LXXXI. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Charles Street, Jan. 1779. - - “Beyond the fix’d and settled rules - “Of Vice and Virtue in the schools, - “Beyond the letter of the Law, - “Which keeps mere formalists in awe, - “The better sort do set before ’em - “A Grace--a manner--a decorum; - “Something that gives their acts a light; - “Makes ’em not only just--but bright, - “And sets ’em in such open fame, - “Which covers--_quality_--with shame.” - -JUDICIOUSLY elegant Prior has befriended me--and described my honoured -friend Mr. S----. I wish I knew which way to shew my gratitude--the -only method I think of is to enjoy the benefits with a thankful heart, -and leave God in his own good time to reward you. - -I should last night have gratefully acknowledged the receipt of your -letter and note--but I hoped for a frank--I am disappointed, and a long -delay would be unpardonable.--Be assured, dear Sir, I shall (with all -the alacrity of a heavy man) bestir myself in the execution of your -generous order.--I hope Mrs. S----, and every one of your family, enjoy -health and every good.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in respects and thanks to -Mrs. S---- and yourself. - - I remain, dear Sir, - Your very obliged - and faithful servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXXII. - -TO MR. F----. - - - Jan. 1779. - - DEAR SIR, - -I HAVE just received your favour of the 20th instant. As to the -letters in question; you know, Sir, they are not now mine, but the -property of the parties they are addressed to.--If you have had their -permission, and think that the simple effusions of a poor Negro’s heart -are worth mixing with better things, you have my free consent to do -as you please with them--though in truth there wants no increase of -books in the epistolary way, nor indeed in any way--except we could -add to the truly valuable names of Robertson--Beattie--and Mickle--new -Youngs--Richardsons--and Sternes.--Accept my best thanks for the very -kind opinion you are so obliging to entertain of me--which is too -pleasing (I fear) to add much to the humility of, - - Dear Sir, - Yours, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXXIII. - -TO MRS. I----. - - - Charles Street, Jan. 22, 1779. - - DEAR MADAM, - -MY wife wishes to see Cymon--and my wishes (like a civil husband) -perfectly correspond with hers.--I had rather be obliged to you than -any good friend I have;--for I think you have an alacrity in doing -good-natured offices--and so I would tell the Q----n if she dared -dispute it: you are not so great indeed--but I am sure you are as -good--and I believe her to be as rich in goodness as she is high in -rank. If my request is within the limits of your power, you will -favour us with the order soon in the day. I have looked abroad for the -wonder you wished to be procured for you--but have met with nothing -likely hitherto. - - Yours most gratefully, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXXIV. - -TO MRS. H----. - - - Charles Street, Feb. 9, 1779. - - DEAR MADAM, - -I FELICITATE you in the first place--on the pleasing success of your -maternal care in restoring your worthy son to good health--he looks -now as well, fresh, and hearty, as love and friendship can wish -him.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in hearty thanks for your kind attention to -our well-doing--and your goodness in the very friendly order, which I -have endeavoured to execute with attention and honesty.--As to news, -there is none good stiring--trade is very dull--money scarce beyond -conception--fraud! perfidy! villainy! from the highest departments to -the lowest. The K--g, God bless him, is beset by friends, which he -ought to fear.--I believe he has one true friend only; and that is the -Q--n, who is the ornament and honour to the sex. Pray, dear Madam, make -my best respects to your good son and daughter, Mr. J----, and all I -have the honour to know; our best thanks and wishes attend Mr. H---- -and yourself; and believe me - - Yours, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXXV. - -TO MR. G----. - - - Feb. 1779. - - SIR - -THE very handsome manner in which you have apologized for your -late lapse of behaviour does you credit.--Contrition--the child of -conviction--serves to prove the goodness of your heart--the man of -levity often errs--but it is the man of sense alone who can gracefully -acknowledge it.--I accept your apology--and, if in the manly heat of -wordy contest aught escaped my lips tinged with undue asperity, I ask -your pardon, and hope you will mutually exchange forgiveness with - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXXVI. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - March 9, 1779. - -IT has given me much concern, dear Sir, the not having it in my power -to make my grateful acknowledgements sooner, for your very kind letter, -and friendly present which accompanied it.--My first thanks are due to -Heaven, who, for the example as well as service of mortals, now and -then blesses the world with a humane, generous Being.--My next thanks -are justly paid to you, who are pleased to rank me and mine in the -honourable class of those you wish to serve.--For these six past weeks, -our days have been clouded by the severe illness of a child, whom it -has pleased God to take from us: and a cowardly attack of the gout at -a time when every exertion was needful.--I have as yet but very little -use of my hand;--but I am thankful to have sufficient to exculpate me -from the vice of ingratitude--which my long silence might lay me under -the imputation of.--Mrs. Sancho begs me to express her sense of your -kindness; and joins me cordially in the most respectful sensations and -best wishes to Mrs. S---- and yourself. I am, dear Sir, - - (and with very great reason) - Your much obliged - humble servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXXVII. - -TO MR. S----. - - - March 11, 1779. - - DEAR FRIEND, - -I RECEIVED yours about three hours since.--I give you due credit -for your sympathizing feelings on our recent very distressful -situation--for thirty nights (save two) Mrs. Sancho had no cloaths -off;--but you know the woman. Nature never formed a tenderer -heart--take her for all in all--the mother--wife--friend--she does -credit to her sex--she has the rare felicity of possessing true virtue -without arrogance--softness without weakness--and dignity without -pride:--she is ----’s full sister, without his foibles--and, to my -inexpressible happiness, she is my wife, and truly best part, without a -single tinge of my defects--Poor Kitty! happy Kitty I should say, drew -her rich prize early--wish her joy! and joy to Mortimer! He left life’s -table (before he was cloyed or surfeited with dull sickly repetitions) -in prime of years, in the meridian of character as an artist, and -universally esteemed as a man:--he winged his rapid flight to those -celestial mansions--where Pope--Hogarth--Handel--Chatham--and Garrick, -are enjoying the full sweets of beatific vision--with the great -Artists--Worthies--and Poets of time without date.--Your father has -been exceeding kind--this very day a Mr. W----, of Retford, called on -me, a goodly-looking gentleman: he enquired after you with the anxious -curiosity of a friend;--told me your father was well, and, by his -account, thinks by much too well of me.--Friend H---- shall produce -the things you wot of--and brother O---- bring them in his hand: H---- -is a very silly fellow--he likes silly folks; and, I believe, does -not hate Sancho.--To-morrow night I shall have a few friends to meet -brother O----; we intend to be merry:--were you here, you might add -to a number, which I think too many for our little room.--So I hear -that the ---- No, hang me! if I say a word about it.--Well, and how do -you like the company of Monsieur Le Gout? Shall I, in compliance with -vulgar custom, wish you joy? Pox on it, my hand aches so, I can scrawl -no longer.--Mrs. Sancho is but so, so;--the children are well.--Do -write large and intelligible when you write to me. I hate fine hands -and fine language;--write plain honest nonsense, like thy true friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER LXXXVIII. - -TO MR. W----E. - - - Charles Street, March 31, 1779. - -YOU wish me to writ a consolatory letter to Mrs. W----e. My good -friend, what can I possibly write but your good sense must have -anticipated? The soul-endearing soothings of cordial love have the best -and strongest effects upon the grief-torn mind:--you have of course -told her that thanks are due, greatly so! to a merciful God, who might -have bereaved her of a child, instead of a worthy cousin;--or that she -ought to feel comfort--and to acknowledge divine mercy--that it was not -her husband:--that to lament the death of that amiable girl, is false -sorrow in the extreme:--why lament the great bliss and _choice prize_ -of what we love?--what is it she has not gained by an early death?--You -will say--she was good--and will suppose that in the tender connexions -of wife--friend--and mother--she would have been an honoured and -esteemed example.--True, she might--and it is as true, she might have -been unhappily paired, ill-matched to some morose, ill-minded, uneven -bashaw;--she might have fell from affluence to want--from honour to -infamy--from innocence to guilt:--in short, we mistake too commonly the -objects of our grief;--the living demand our tears--the dead (if their -lives were virtuous) our gratulations;--in your case, all that can be -said is--earth has lost an opening sweet flower (which, had it lasted -longer, must of course soon fade)--and heaven has gained an angel, -which will bloom for ever--so let us hear no more of grief. We all must -follow.--No! let us rejoice, with your worthy friend Mrs. ----[9]. Joy -to the good couple! May they each find their respective wishes! May he -find the grateful acknowledgement of obliged and pleasing duty!--and -she, the substantial, fond, solid rewards due to a rectitude of -conduct, marked strongly with kindness and wisdom! And may you, my -friend!--but my leg aches--my foot swells--I can only say, my love to -the C--ds, and to poor Joe and Frank.--Read this to Mrs. W----e. My -silly reasoning may be too weak to reach her;--but, however, she may -smile at my absurdities;--if so, I shall have a comfort--as I ever wish -to give pleasure to her dear sex--and the pride of my heart is ever to -please one--alas!--and that one a wife.--So writes thy true friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Mr. W----e comes as far as P---- Gardens--but cannot reach Charles -Street. - -_How’s that?_ - -I hear my scheme of taxation was inserted directly, and should be glad -to see the paper if easily got. - -_Vanity._ - -[9] This union was remarkable for disparity of years; the bridegroom - being 78, the bride in the bloom of youth. - - - - -LETTER LXXXIX. - -TO MR. L----. - - - May 4, 1779. - - MY DEAR CHILD, - -I AM truly sorry to address this letter to you at this season in the -English Channel.--The time considered that you have left us, you ought -in all good reason to have been a seasoned Creole of St. Kitt’s;--but -we must have patience:--what cannot be cured, must be endured.--I dare -believe, you bear the cruel delay with resignation--and make the best -and truest use of your time, by steady reflection and writing.--I -would wish you to note down the occurrences of every day--to which -add your own observation of men and things--the more you habituate -yourself to minute investigation, the stronger you will make your -mind;--ever taking along with you in all your researches the word of -God--and the operations of his divine providence.--Remember, young -man--nothing happens by chance.--Let not the levity of frothy wit, -nor the absurdity of fools, break in upon your happier principles, -your dependence upon the Deity--address the Almighty with fervor, -with love and simplicity--carry his laws in your heart--and command -both worlds;--but I meant mere fatherly advice, and I have wrote a -sermon.--Dear boy, ’tis my love preaches; N---- begged me to write a -line for him, as he said you wanted news--I have none but what you -know as well as myself--such as the regard and best wishes of Mrs. -Sancho--the girls and myself--such as wishing a happy end to your -long-protracted voyage--and a joyful meeting with your worthy and -respectable family;--and in order to leave room for friend N----, I -here assure you I am your affectionate friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XC. - -TO MR. R----. - - - May, 1779. - - MY DEAR WORTHY R----, - -YOUR letter was a real gratification to a something better principle -than pride--it pleased my self-love--there are very few (believe -me) whose regards or notice I care about--yourself, brother, and -O----, with about three more at most--form the whole of my _male_ -connexions.--Your brother is not half so honest as I thought him--he -promises like a tradesman, but performs like a lord.--On Sunday -evening we expected him--the hearth was swept--the kettle boiled--the -girls were in print--and the marks of the folds in Mrs. Sancho’s -apron still visible--the clock past six--no Mr. R----. Now to tell -the whole truth, he did add a kind of clause, that in case nothing -material happened of hospital business, he would surely do himself -the--&c. &c. &c.--So, upon the whole, I am not quite clear that he -deserves censure--but that he disappointed us of a pleasure, I am -very certain.--You don’t say you have seen Mr. P----. I beg you will, -for I think he is the kind of soul congenial to your own.--Apropos, -the right hand side (almost the bottom) of Gray Street, there is a -Mrs. H----, an honest and very agreeable northern lady, whom I should -like you to know something of--which may easily be done--if you will -do me the credit just to knock at her door when you go that way--and -tell her, there is a Devil that has not forgot her civilities to -him--and would be glad to hear she was well and happy.--Mr. R---- -called on me in the friendly style--when I say that, I mean in the -R---- manner--he asked a question--bought some tea--looked happy--and -left us pleased:--he has the Graces.--The gout seized me yesterday -morning--the second attempt--I looked rather black all day:--tell Mrs. -C----, I will lay any odds that she is either the handsomest or ugliest -woman in Bath--and among the many trinkets she means to bring with -her--tell her not to forget health.--May you all be enriched with that -blessing--wanting which, the good things of this world are trash!--You -can write tiresome letters! Alas! will you yield upon the recept of -this?--if not--that palm unquestionably belongs to your friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XCI. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Charles Street, June 16, 1779. - - DEAR SIR, - -IN truth, I was never more puzzled in my life than at this present -writing--the acts of common kindness, or the effusions of mere -common-will, I should know what to reply to--but, by my conscience, -you act upon so grand a scale of urbanity, that a man should possess a -mind as noble, and a heart as ample, as yourself! before he attempts -even to be grateful upon paper.--You have made me richer than ever I -was in my life--till this day I thought a bottle of good wine a large -possession. Sir, I will enjoy your goodness with a glad heart--and -every deserving soul I meet with shall share a glass with me, and join -in drinking the generous donor’s health. Mrs. Sancho’s eyes betray her -feelings--she bids me think for her--which I do most sincerely, and for -myself, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XCII. - -TO MRS. H----. - - - June 17, 1779. - - DEAR MADAM, - -YOUR son, who is a welcome visitor wherever he comes, made himself -more welcome to me by the kind proof of your regard he brought in his -hands.--Souls like yours, who delight in giving pleasure, enjoy a -heaven on earth; for I am convinced that the disposition of the mind -in a great measure forms either the heaven or hell in both worlds.--I -rejoice sincerely at the happiness of Mrs. W----, and may their -happiness increase with family and trade!--and may you both enjoy the -heartfelt delight of seeing your children’s children walking in the -track of grace!--I have, to my shame be it spoken, intended writing to -you for these twelve months past--but in truth I was deterred through -a fear of giving pain: our history has had little in it but cares and -anxieties--which (as it is the well-experienced lot of mortality) we -struggle with it, with religion on one hand, and hope on the other. - -Mr. W----, whose looks and address bespeak a good heart and good sense, -called on me.--I will not say how much I was pleased--pray make my -kindest respects to your good partner, and tell him, I think I have -a right to trouble him with my musical nonsense.--I wish it better -for my own sake--bad as it is, I know he will not despise it, because -he has more good-nature:--I hear a good report of Mr. S----, and -that his humanity has received the thanks of a community in a public -manner.--May he! and you! and all I love, enjoy the blissful feelings -of large humanity!--There is a plaudit--as much superior to man’s as -heaven is above earth! Great God, in thy mercy and unbounded goodness, -grant that even I may rejoice through eternity with those I have -respected and esteemed here!--Mrs. Sancho joins me in love to yourself -and Mr. H----. Your son Jacob is the delight of my girls--whenever he -calls on us, the work is flung by, and the mouths all distended with -laughter: he is a vile romp with children.--I am, dear Madam, with true -esteem and respect, - - Your obliged servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XCIII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - June 29, 1779. - -A LITTLE fish--which was alive this morn--sets out this eve for -Bury--ambitious of presenting itself to Mrs. S----: if it should -come good, the Sancho’s will be happy;--in truth, Mr. S---- ought not -to be displeased--neither will he, I trust, if he considers it as it -really is--a grain of salt, in return for favors received of princely -magnitude, and deeply engraven in the hearts of his much obliged and -faithful servants, - - He and She +Sancho’s+. - - - - -LETTER XCIV. - -TO MR. M----. - - - August 1, 1779. - Coat and Badge. - -BRAVO! So you think you have given me the retort-courteous--I admit -it.--Go to! you are seedy, you are sly--true son, in the right direct -line, of old Gastpherious Sly.--Your letter to S--n makes ample amends -for your impudence in presuming to mount my hobby:--yes, I do affirm it -to be a good, yea, and a friendly letter.--The leading-string thought -is new, and almost poetic;--I watched him while he read it;--he read -it twice.--I judge he felt the force of your argumentation.--May he -avail himself of your friendly hints! and may you have the heart-felt -satisfaction of finding him a wiser being than heretofore! How doth -George’s mouth?--I honour you for your humane feelings--and much more -for your brotherly affection;--but do not Namby-Pamby with the manly -exertions of benevolence:--what I mean is--ah me! poor George--to be -sure ’tis well its no worse;--but the loss of a tooth and a scar are so -disfiguring!--Pooh, simpleton, if his heart is right, and God blesses -him with health--his exterior will ever be pleasing, in spight of the -gap in his gums, or scar above his chin. G---- is likely--the rogue has -a pleasing cherry phiz: neither so old nor so mouldy as some folks, not -having been rocked in the cradle of flattery--he has consequently more -modesty than his elders.--I could easily fill the sheet in contrasting -the merits of the two lads;--but then it would (I plainly foresee) turn -out so much to the advantage of Prince Jacky--that in mere charity I -forbear--and shall conclude with wishing both your heads to agree, as -well in good health, as in the many good qualities which I have not -time to enumerate. - -Mrs. Sancho is pretty well--the girls and Billy well,--I am sometimes -better--sometimes so, so.--I should have answered you sooner; but -yesterday was obliged to write all day--though fast asleep the whole -time:--perhaps you will retort--that it is the case with me at this -present writing. False and scandalous! I declare I was never more -awake.--Remember me to Mr. S----, the ladies, and to thyself, if thou -knowest him. - - Farewell. Thine, &c. &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XCV. - -TO MR. I----. - - - August 3, 1779. - - DEAR SIR, - -I MUCH wish to hear that Mrs. I---- is quite recovered--or in the best -possible way towards it. I have next to thank you for your princely -present--and to say I feel myself rich and happy in the splendid proofs -I have of your regard. - -You love a pun almost as well as Dennis.--I shall contrive to be in -your debt as long as I live--and settle accounts hereafter--where, I -know no more than the Pope;--but you, Sterne, and Mortimer, are there, -sure I am, it will be the abode of the blest.--But to business--I am -commissioned to get as good an impression as possible of St. Paul -preaching to the Britons:--shall esteem it a fresh obligation, if you -will be kind enough to chuse one, and send by the bearer.--I return -faith for pudding--and Mr. Sharpe’s strictures upon Slavery;--the one -may amuse, if not edify--the other I think of consequence to every one -of humane feelings.--Do, pray, let me know how Mrs. I---- does;--with -thanks, respects; and why not friendship? - - I am dear Sir, - Yours, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XCVI. - -TO MR. M----. - - - August 14, 1779. - -YOU kindly gave me liberty to bring Mrs. S----: the proposal did -honour to your heart--and credit to your judgement;--but an affair has -rendered that part of your invitation inadmissible,--Now pox take bad -quills--and bad pen-makers!--Sir, it was fifty pound to a bean-shell, -but that you had had a blot as big as both houses of parliament in the -very fairest, yea and handsomest, part of this epistle:--my pen, like -a drunkard, sucks up more liquor than it can carry, and so of course -disgorges it at random.--I will that ye observe the above simile to -be a good one--not the cleanliest in nature I own--but as pat to the -purpose as dram-drinking to a bawd--or oaths to a serjeant of the -guards--or--or--dullness to a Black-a-moor;--good--excessive good:--and -pray what--(oh, this confounded pen!)--what may your Worship’s chief -employ have been?--You have had your Devil’s dance--found yourself -in a lazy fit--the ink-stand, &c. staring you full in the face--you -yawned--stretched--and then condescended to scold me for omitting what -properly, and according to strict rule, you should have done yourself -a month ago.--Zounds!--God forgive us!----this thought oversets the -patience--coat and lining--of your right trusty friend, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER XCVII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - August 20 1779. - -IN all doubtful cases, it is best to adhere to the side of least -difficulty.--Now whether you ought to have shewn the _politesses_ of -the _Ton_ in making enquiry after my Honour’s health and travels--or -whether my Honour should have anticipated all enquiry--by sending a -card of thanks for more than friendly civilities--is a very nice -point, which, for my part, I willingly leave to better casuists;--and -as I honestly feel myself the obliged party--so I put pen to paper as -a testimonial of the same.--I will suppose your head improved--I mean -physically: I will also hope your heart light--and all your combustible -passions under due subordination;--and then adding the fineness of the -morning--from these premises I will believe that my good friend is well -and happy. - -I hope George effected his wish in town: if he has to do with people of -feeling--there is a something in his face which will command attention -and love--the boy is much handsomer than ever you were; and yet you -never look better than when you look on him:--would to God you were as -well settled! - -The stage contained five good souls, and one huge mass of -flesh[10]:--they, God bless them, thought I took up too much room--and -I thought there was too little:--we looked at each other, like folks -dissatisfied with their company--and so jolted on in sullen silence -for the first half hour;--and had there been no ladies, the God or -Goddess of silence would have reigned the whole way:--for my part, -quoth I to myself, I have enjoyed true pleasure all day--the morning -was bright, refreshing, and pleasant; the delicious bowl of milk, the -fresh butter, sweet bread, cool room, and kind hostess--the friendly -converse, the walk--the animated flow of soul in I-- M----; the little -but elegant treat, high-seasoned with welcome.--Oh, Sancho, what more -could luxury covet, or ambition wish for? True, cries Reason--then be -thankful:--Hold! cries Avarice, with squinting eyes and rotten stumps -of teeth--hungry, though ever cramming;--it cost thee one shilling and -nine pence--one shilling and nine pence I say.--What of that, cries -Œconomy, we eat fairly half a crown’s worth.--Aye, cries Prudence, -that alters the case--od-so, we are nine pence in pocket, besides the -benefit of fresh air, fresh scenes, and the pleasure of the society -we love.--The sky was cloudless, and, to do me a particular favour, -the moon chose to be at full--and gave us all her splendor;--but our -envious mother Earth (to mortify our vanity) rose up--rolling the whole -way in clouds of dust.--Contention flew in at the coach-windows, -and took possession of both the females:--“Madam, if you persist in -drawing up the glass, we shall faint with heat.”--“Oh dear! very sorry -to offend your delicacy; but I shall be suffocated with dust--and my -cloaths--” “I have cloaths to spoil as well as other folks, &c. &c. -&c.” The males behaved wisely, and kept a stricter neutrality than the -French with the Americans.--I chewed the cud of sweet remembrance, -and, with a heart and mind in pretty easy plight, gained the castle of -peace and innocence about nine o’clock.--Well, Sir, and how do you find -yourself by this time?--I sweat, I protest--and then the bright God of -day darts his blessings full upon my shop-window--so intensely, that I -could fancy myself St. Bartholomew broiling upon a gridiron. - -Oh! thou varlet--down--down upon thy knees, and bless thy indulgent -stars for the blessings--comforts--beauties, &c. of thy situation--the -Land of Canaan in possession milk and honey--shady trees--sweet walks -covered with the velvet of nature--pleasant views--cool house--and -the superintendency of the sweet girls--to whom my love and -blessings--and, sirrah! mark what I say, and obey me without reply: -there is a plump good-natured looking soul--I think you called her -Patty--my conscience tells me, that I owe her something more than -kind words and cool thanks!--therefore tell her, a man that notes -particularly the welcome of the eye--and saw plainly good-will and -good-nature in the expression of her honest countenance--sends her -a dish of tea--which she must sweeten by her cheery acceptance of -it--from one who knows not how to return the many, many obligations he -has received from the he’s and she’s of P---- house--exclusive of what -he owes--and shall be content ever to owe--the saucy rogue he addresses. - - Farewell. Yours, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - -[10] Mr. Sancho was remarkable for corpulency. - - - - -LETTER XCVIII. - -TO MRS. C----. - - - Charles Street, Aug. 25, 1779. - - MA CHERE AMIE, - -IN the visions of the night--Behold I fancied that Mrs. Sancho was -in Suffolk--that she saw strange places--fine sights--and good -people--that she was at B---- amongst those I love and honor--that she -was charmed and enraptured with some certain good folks who shall be -nameless--that she was treated, caressed, and well pleased--that she -came home full of feasts, kindness, and camps--and in the conclusion -dunned me for a whole month to return some certain people thanks--for -what?--why, for doing as they ever do--contrive to make time and place -agreeable--truly agreeable to those who are so lucky to fall in their -way: in truth, so much has been said, and description has ran so high, -that, now I am awake, I long for just such a week’s pleasure. But time -and chance are against me.--I awake to fears of invasion, to noise, -faction, drums, soldiers, and care:--the whole town has now but two -employments--the learning of French--and the exercise of arms--which is -highly political--in my poor opinion--for should the military fail of -success--which is not impossible--why, the ladies must take the field, -and scold them to their ships again.--The wits here say our fleet is -outlawed--others have advertised it--the republicans teem with abuse, -and the K--g’s friends are observed to have long faces--every body -looks wiser than common--the cheating shop-counter is deserted, from -the gossiping door-threshold--and every half-hour has its fresh swarm -of lies.--What’s to become of us? “We are ruined and sold!” is the -exclamation of every mouth--the monied man trembles for the funds--the -landholder for his acres--the married men for their families--old -maids--alas! and old fusty batchelors--for themselves. For my part, -I can be no poorer--I have no quarrel to the Romish religion--and -so that you come to town in health and spirits, and occupy the old -spot--so that the camp at Cavenham breaks not up to the prejudice -of Johnny O----, and my worthy R---- is continued clerk at ----: in -short, let those I love be uninjured in their fortunes, and unhurt in -their persons--God’s will be done! I rest perfectly satisfied, and very -sincerely and cordially, - - Dear Madam, Yours, - and my sweet little Miss C----’s - most obedient - and obliged servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - -I should have said a deal about thanks and your kindness--but I am -not at all clear it would please you.--Mrs. Sancho certainly joins me -in every good wish--the girls are well--and William thrives--our best -respects attend Mr. B---- and his good Lady--Mr. and Mrs. S----. Adieu! - -Pray make Mr. William Sancho’s and my compliments acceptable to -Nutts.--We hope he is well, and enjoys this fine weather unplagued by -flies, and unbitten by fleas. - - - - -LETTER XCIX. - -TO MR. S----. - - - August 31, 1779. - -YOU have made ample amends for your stoical silence--insomuch -that, like Balaam, I am constrained to bless--where, peradventure, -I intended the reverse.--For hadst thou taken the wings of the -morning--and searched North, East, South, and West--or dived down -into the sea, exploring the treasures of old Ocean--thou could’st -neither in art or nature have found aught that could have made me -happier--gift-wise--than the sweet and highly finished portrait of my -dear Sterne. But how you found it--caught it--or came by it--Heaven and -you know best!--I do fear it is not thy own manufacturing.--Perhaps -thou hast gratified thy finer feeling at an expence which friendship -would blush for.--“But what have you to do with that?” True--it may -appear impertinent; but could aught add to the value of the affair--it -would be--its having you--for its father;--but I must hasten to a -conclusion.--I meant this--not as an epistle of cold thanks--but the -warm ebullitions of African sensibility.--Your gift would add to the -pride of Cæsar--were he living, and knew the merits of its original--it -has half turned the head of a Sancho--as this scrawl will certify. -Adieu! The hen and chicks desire to be remembered to you--as I do--to -all!--all!--all! - - I. S. - - - - -LETTER C. - -TO MR. I----. - - - Sept. 2, 1779. - -IN truth I know myself to be a very troublesome fellow--but as it -is the general fate of good-nature to suffer through the folly they -countenance--I shall not either pity or apologize.--I have to beg you -just to examine my friend Laggarit’s petition: Mr. P---- does not seem -to approve of it, but is for expunging almost the best half.--My -friend has tried to get the great E---- B----’s opinion, but has -met with a negative--he being too busy to regard the distresses of -the lowly and unrecommended:--for my part, I have as much faith in -Mr. I----’s judgement as in ----, and a much higher opinion of his -good-will;--and as Mr. P---- may be partly hurried away by leaning -rather too much to republican modes, I dare say, if he finds that -your opinion coincides with the sense of the petition as it now -stands, he will not be offended at its being presented without his -mutilations.--Mr. Laggarit is fearful of offending any way, and has -every proper sense of Mr. P----’s zeal and good-will.--I dare say, it -will strike you as it does me--that in the petitionary style every term -of respect is necessary; and although some of the titles are rather -profane, and others farcical, yet custom authorizes the use, and it is -a folly to withstand it. - - Yours to command, - - I. SANCHO. - - -I hope Mrs. I---- is well as you would wish her. - - - - -LETTER CI. - -TO MR. S----. - - - Charles Street, Sept. 2, 1779. - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -YOU can hardly imagine how impatient I was to hear how they behaved to -you at B--h. I must confess, you give a rare account of your travels. -I am pleased much with all the affair, excepting the cellar business, -which I fear you repented rather longer than I could wish.--I had -a letter from my honest L----n, who takes pride to himself in the -honour you did him, and says Mr. S---- pleases himself in the hope -of catching you on your return--when they flatter themselves the -pictures will merit a second review:--but beware of the cellar!--I -hope you are as well known at Scarborough as the Wells, and find more -employment than you want, and that you get into friendly chatty parties -for the evenings.--If I might obtrude my silly advice--it should be -to dissipate a little with the girls--but, for God’s sake, beware of -sentimental ladies! and likewise be on thy guard against the Gambling -Dames, who have their nightly petite-parties at quadrille--and, with -their shining faces and smooth tongues, drain unwary young men’s -pockets, and feminize their manners.--But why do I preach to thee, who -art abler to instruct grey hairs than I am to dust my shop?--Vanity, -which has gulled mighty statesmen, misled poor me; and for the sake of -appearing wiser than I am, I pray you, “set me down an ass!” I inclosed -a petulant billet to your Reverend Sire, which I hope he did not send -you.--There is no news worth talking about in town, excepting that it -rains frequently, and people of observation perceive that the days are -shorter.--Mrs. Sancho and children are all well--and, I dare swear, -wish you so; in which they are heartily seconded by - - Yours sincerely, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - -How shall I know whether you get this scrawl, except you send me word? - - - - -LETTER CII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - Sept. 4, 1779. - -THE _Lamb_[11] just now kindly delivered to the _Bear_[12] the -_Monkey’s_[13] letter.--I am glad at heart that the forced exercise did -thy hip no hurt--but that M-- of thine--I do not like such faces!--if -she is half what she looks, she is too good for any place but heaven, -where the hallelujahs are for ever chanting by such cherub-faced sluts -as she! Thank God! she is neither daughter nor sister of mine--I should -live in perpetual fear.--But why do I plague myself about her? She has -a protector in you--and foul befall the being (for no man would attempt -it) that wishes to injure her!--Mrs. D---- I could like so well, that -I wish to know but very little of her!--strange, but true!--and when -you have been disappointed in your schemes of domestic happiness, and -deceived in your too hasty-formed judgements to the age of fifty, as -oft as your friend, you will fully enter into any meaning. - -She looks open--honest--intelligently sensible--good-natured--easy--polite -and kind;--knowledge enough of the world to render her company -desireable--and age just sufficient to form her opinions, and fix -her principles;--add to all this an agreeable face, good teeth, and -a certain _Je ne sai quoi_ (forgive the spelling, and do not betray -me):--but I say again, and again--when one has formed a great opinion -of either male or female, ’tis best, for that opinion’s sake, to look -no further--there, rogue! - -I shall take no notice of the tricking fraudulent behaviour of the -driver of the stage--_as how_ he wanted to palm a bad shilling upon -us--and _as how_ they stopped us in the town, and most generously -insulted us--and _as how_ we took up a fat old man--his wife _fat_ -too--and child;--and after keeping us half an hour in sweet converse -of the--of the _blasting_ kind--how that the fat woman waxed wrath -with her plump master, for his being serene--and how that he caught -choler at her friction, tongue-wise;--how he ventured his head out of -the coach-door, and swore liberally--whilst his ---- in direct line -with poor S----n’s nose--entertained him with _sound_ and sweetest of -exhalations.--I shall say nothing of being two hours almost on our -journey--neither do I remark that S----n turned sick before we left -G----, nor that the child p-- upon his legs:--in short, it was near -nine before we got into Charles Street. - -Sir, the pleasures of the day made us more than amends for the nonsense -that followed.--Receipt in full. - - I. SANCHO. - - -My best respects to Mr. Y----; and my love, yea, cordial love to -Nancy:--tell her--no, if I live to see her again, I will tell her -myself. - -Observe, we were seven in the coach;--the breath of the old lady, in -her heat of passion, was not rose-scented;--add to that, the warmth -naturally arising from crowd and anger--you will not wonder at S--t--’s -being sick--And he, S----, wanted to be in town rather sooner.--My -compliments to George.--Mr. L---- is so kind to promise to call for -this scrawl:--thank him for me, as well as for thyself.--Adieu.--Mrs. -S---- pretty well, the two Fanny’s and Kitty but indifferent. - -[11] A Mr. Lamb. - -[12] Meaning himself. - -[13] Mr. M----, to whom he often gave that title. - - - - -LETTER CIII. - -TO MRS. W----E. - - - Charles Street, Sept. 5, 1779. - - DEAR MADAM, - -YOUR wonder will be equal to your indignation--when--(after due -apologies for the liberty of this address--and a few good-natured -protestations of friendship and so forth--with an injunction to -strict secresy) I inform you that it is absolutely necessary for your -immediate setting out for Red-lion Court.--Your good man is only -running after all the young gypsies about the neighbourhood--all -colours--black or fair--are alike;--this is the effect of country -air--and your nursing.--The good man made his appearance on Thursday -evening last--the glow of health in his face--joy in his eyes.--“Wife, -Joe, and little Frank all well, and myself never better in my life;”--a -pretty girl he led by the hand--and, as if one petticoat plague was -not enough, he insisted upon taking away two of mine--and carried -his point against every reasonable odds: away they all went to the -play--and God only knows where else--I threatened him with a modest -report to Melchbourn, but he seemed to care very lightly about it;--so -I humbly advise, as your best method of taming him, either to insist -upon his speedily coming down to you--or else your immediate setting -out for home:--at present he only attempts our daughters--but, should -you be absent a month longer, I tremble for our wives;--for my part, -I have some reason, for here both wife and daughters are as fond of -Mr. W----e as they dare own--Seriously, I think, you should coax him -down, if only for a fortnight; for it is amazing how much better -he is for the short time he was absent--and this I take to be the -pleasantest and wholesomest time for the country, if the evening dews -are carefully guarded against--I shall advise him strongly to take the -other trip--and I trust your documents, with the innocent simplicity -of all around him--fine air--exercise--new milk--and the smell of new -hay--will make him ten thousand times worse than he is--you won’t like -him the worse for that. My love attends cousins I---- and F----. - - I am, dear Madam, - most sincerely yours to command, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - -Mrs. Sancho joins me in every thing but the abuse of Mr. W----e. - - - - -LETTER CIV. - -TO MR. R----. - - - Sept. 7, 1779. - - DEAR FRIEND, - -WE are all in the wrong--a _little_.--Admiral Barrington is arrived -from the West India station--and brings the pleasant news, that -d’Estaigne fell in with five of our ships of the line with the -best part of his fleet. We fought like Englishmen, unsupported by -the rest:--they fought till they were quite dismasted, and almost -wrecked;--and at last gave the French enough of it, and got away all, -though in plight bad enough:--but the consequence was, the immediate -capture of the Grenadas.--Add to this--Sir Charles Hardy is put into -Portsmouth, or Gosport;--and, although forty odd strong in line of -battle ships, is obliged to give up the sovereignty of the channel -to the enemy.--L--d S----h is gone to Portsmouth, to be a witness -of England’s disgrace--and his own shame.--In faith, my friend, the -present time is rather _comique_--Ireland almost in as true a state -of rebellion as America--Admirals quarrelling in the West-Indies--and -at home Admirals that do not chuse to fight--The British empire -mouldering away in the West, annihilated in the North--Gibraltar -going--and England fast asleep.--What says Mr. B---- to all this?--he -is a ministerialist,--for my part, it’s nothing to me, as I am only a -lodger, and hardly that.--Give my love and respect to the ladies--and -best compliments to all the gentlemen--with respects to Mr. and Mrs. -I----. - -Give me a line to know how you all do.--The post is going--only time to -say God bless you.--I remain - - Yours affectionately, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Past eleven at night. - - - - -LETTER CV. - -TO MISS. L----, - - - Charles Street, Sept. 11, 1779. - -I CANNOT forbear returning my dear Miss L---- our united thanks for her -generous present--which came exactly in time to grace poor Marianne’s -birth-day, which was yesterday:--the bird was good, and well dressed; -that and a large apple-pye feasted the whole family of the Sancho’s. -Miss L---- was toasted; and although we had neither ringing of -bells, nor firing of guns, yet the day was celebrated with mirth and -decency--and a degree of sincere joy and urbanity seldom to be seen on -R----l birth-days.--Mary, as queen of the day, invited two or three -young friends--her breast filled with delight unmixed with cares--her -heart danced in her eyes--and she looked the happy mortal.--Great God -of mercy and love! why, why, in a few fleeting years, are all the gay -day dreams of youthful innocence to vanish? why can we not purchase -prudence, decency, and wisdom, but at the expence of our peace? Slow -circumspect caution implies suspicion--and where suspicion dwells, -confidence dwells not.--I believe I write nonsense--but the dull -weather, added to a dull imagination, must, and I trust will, incline -you to excuse me:--if I mistake not, writing requires--what I could -tell you, but dare not--for I have smarted once already.--In short, I -write just what I think--and you know Congreve says somewhere, that - - “Thought precedes the will,” - -and - - “Error lives ere Reason can be born.” - -Now Will--Reason--and Gratitude, all three powerfully impel me to thank -you--not for your goose--nor for any pecuniary self-gratifying marks -of generosity--but for the benevolent urbanity of your nature--which -counsels your good heart to think of the lowly and less fortunate.--But -what are my thanks, what the echoed praises of the world, to the -heart-approving sensations of true charity!--which is but the prelude -to the divine address at the last day--“Well done, thou good,” &c. -&c--That you and all I love--and even poor me--may hear those joyful -words, is the prayer of - - Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CVI. - -TO MR. I----. - - - October 3, 1779. - - DEAR SIR, - -YOU will make me happy by procuring me an order from Mr. H---- for -three, any night this week--’tis to oblige a worthy man who has more -wants than cash;--believe me, there is more of vanity than good-nature -in my request--for I have boasted of the honour of being countenanced -by Mr. I----, and shall ostentatiously produce your favor, as a proof -of your kindness, and my presumption:--thanks, over and over, for Sir -H---- Freeman’s letters, which I will send home in a day or two:--I -return the Sermons, which I like so well, that I have placed a new set -of them by Yorick’s, and think they will not disagree.--I pray you -to send by the bearer the bit of honored Mortimer you promised for -friend M----, who, though he called some few mornings since on purpose, -yet was so plagued with the _mauvaise hondt_ (I believe I spell it -Yorkshirely, but you know what I mean), that the youth could not for -his soul say what he was looking after:--if you accompany it with the -sea-piece you kindly offered me, I shall have employment in cleansing -and restoring beauties which have escaped your observation--and I shall -consider myself - - Your much more obliged, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CVII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - October 5, 1779. - -YOU mistake--I am neither sick--idle--nor forgetful--nor hurried--nor -flurried--nor lame--nor am I of a fickle mutable disposition.--No! -I feel the life-sweetening affections--the swell of heart-animating -ardor--the zeal of honest friendship--and, what’s more, I feel it for -thee.--Now, Sir, what have you to say in humble vindication of your -hasty conclusions? what, because I did not write to you on Monday -last, but let a week pass without saying--what in truth I know not how -to say, though I am now seriously set about it? In short, such arts -and minds (if there be many such, so much the better), such beings I -say, as the one I am now scribbling to, should make elections of wide -different beings than Black-a-moors, for their friends:--the reason is -obvious;--from Othello to Sancho the big, we are either foolish, or -mulish--all, all without a single exception.--Tell me, I pray you--and -tell me truly--were there any Black-a-moors in the Ark?--Pooh! why -there now--I see you puzzled:--Well--well--be that as the learned shall -hereafter decide.--I will defend and maintain my opinion--simply--I -will do more--wager a crown upon it--nay, double that--and if my simple -testimony faileth, Mrs. Sancho and the children, five-deep, will -back me--that Noah, during his pilgrimage in the blessed Ark, never, -with wife and six children, set down to a feast upon a bit of finer -goodlier--fatter--sweeter salter--well-fed pork: we eat like hogs. - -When do your nobles intend coming home?--The evenings get long, and the -damps of the Park after sun-set--but a word to the wise. - -Oh! I had like to have almost forgot--I owe you a dressing for your -last letter.--There were some saucy strokes of pride in it--the -ebullitions of a high heart--and tenderly over-nice feelings. -Go-to--what have I found you? My mind is not rightly at ease--or -you should have it--and so you would not give me a line all the -week--because--but what? I am to blame--a man in liquor--a man -deprived of reason--and a man in love--should ever meet with pity and -indulgence:--in the last class art thou!--nay, never blush--plain as -the nose in thy face are the marks--refute it if you are able--dispute -if you dare--for I have proofs--yea, proofs as undeniable as is the -sincerity of the affection and zeal with which thou art ever regarded -by thy - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - -How do the ladies--and Mr. M--? Mind, I care not about ----; so tell -her, and lye.--You may tell George the same story;--but I should like -to hear something about you all. - - - - -LETTER CVIII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - October 9, 1779. - -MY friend Mr. I----, who--_like_ a simple fellow with a palish -phiz--crazy head--and hair of a pretty colour--an aukward loon--whom -I do sometimes care about--who has more wit than money--more good -sense than wit--more urbanity than sense--and more pride than some -princes--a chap who talks well--writes better--and means much better -than he either speaks or indites--a careless son of nature, who rides -without thinking--tumbles down without hurt--and gets up again without -swearing--who can--in short, he is such an excentric phizpoop--such -a vessel!--a new skin full of old wine is the best type of him--know -you such a one? No! I guessed as much--nay--nay--if you think for a -twelvemonth and a day, you will never be a jot the nearer--give it up, -man.--Come, I will solve the mystery--his name is ----. I will tell -you anon;--but as I was saying--for I hate prolixity--as I was saying -above--Mr. I---- (in imitation of the odd soul I have laboured to -describe) wishing to do me honour as well as pleasure--came in person -twice, to insist on my accompanying _he_ and _she_, and two more, to -see Mr. H---- take possession of the throne of Richard. Into the boxes -(I believe box is properer) we went--the house as full, just as it -could be, and no fuller--as hot as it was possible to bear--or rather -hotter.--Now do you really and truly conceive what I mean? Alas! there -are some stupid souls, formed of such phlegmatic, adverse materials, -that you might sooner strike conception into a flannel petticoat--or -out of one--(now keep your temper, I beg, sweet Sir) than convince -their simple craniums that six and seven makes thirteen.--It was a -daring undertaking--and H---- was rather awed with the idea of the -great man, whose very robes he was to wear--and whose throne he was to -usurp.--But give him his due--he acquitted himself well--tolerably -well;--he will play it much better next time--and the next better -still; Rome was not built in six weeks--and, trust me, a Garrick will -not be formed under seven years.--I supped with his Majesty and Mr. and -Mrs. I----, where good-nature and good-sense mixed itself with the most -chearful welcome. - -And pray, how is your head by this time?--I will teach you to wish -for pleasure from Black-a-moor dunderheads:--why, Sir, it is a broken -sieve to a ragged pudding-bag, by the time you have gone through -this scrawl--you will be as flat, dull, and tedious, as a drunken -merry-andrew--or a methodist preacher--or a tired poor devil of a -post-horse; or, to sum up all in one word, as your most--what you -please, - - I. SANCHO. - - _Is pesorpher Quidois._ - - Your true friend, and so forth. - - -Zounds, Sir! send me a good handsome epistle--such as you were wont to -do in peaceful days, before * * * had warped your faculties, and made -you lazy.--Why you--but I will not put myself in a passion.--Oh! my -M----, I would thou wert in town--but it’s no matter--I am convinced, -in our next habitation there will be no care--love will possess our -souls--and praise and harmony--and ever-fresh rays of knowledge, -wonder, and mutual communication will be our employ. Adieu. - -The best of women--the girls--the boy--all well. I could really write -as long a letter on a taylor’s measure, as your last hurry-begotten -note. - - - - -LETTER CIX. - -TO MR. M----. - - - October 17, 1779. - -NO! you have not the least grain of genius.--Alas! description is a -science--a man should in some measure be born with the knack of it. -Poor blundering M----, I pity thee: once more I tell thee--thou art -a bungler in every thing--ask the girls else.--You know nothing -of figures--you write a wretched hand--thou hast a nonsensical -style--almost as disagreeable as thy heart--thy heart, though better -than thy head--and which I wish from my soul (as it now is) was the -worst heart in the three kingdoms.--Thy heart is a silly one--a poor -cowardly heart--that would shrink at mere trifles--though there were no -danger of fine or imprisonment:--for example--come, confess now--could -you lie with the wife of your friend? could you debauch his sister? -could you defraud a poor creditor? could you by gambling rejoice in -the outwitting a novice of all his possessions?--No! why then thou -art a silly fellow, incumbered with three abominable inmates;--to -wit--Conscience--Honesty--and Good-nature--I hate thee (as the Jew -says) because thou art a Christian. - -And what, in the name of common sense, impelled thee to torment -my soul, with thy creative pen-drawing of sweet A--r--bn--s? I -enjoyed content at least in the vortex of smoak and vice--and -lifted up my thoughts no higher than the beauties of the park -or----gardens.--What have I to do with rural deities? with -parterres--fields--groves--terraces--views--buildings--grots-- -temples--slopes--bridges and meandering streams--cawing rooks--billing -turtles--happy swains--the harmony of the woodland shades--the -blissful constancy of rustic lovers?--Sir, I say you do wrong, to -awaken ideas of this sort:--besides, as I hinted largely above--you -have no talent--no language--no colouring--you do not groupe well--no -relief--false light and shadow--and then your prespective is so -false--no blending of tints--thou art a sad fellow, and there is an end -of it. - -S----n, who loves fools (he writes to me) but mum; S----n wishes to -have the honour of a line from quondam friend M----: now M---- is an -ill-natured fellow, but were it contrariwise--and M---- would indulge -him--I would enclose it in a frank--with something clever of my own to -make it more agreeable.--Sirrah! refuse if you dare--I will so expose -thee--do it--’tis I command you:--S----n only intreats--you have need -of such a rough chap as Sancho to counterpoise the pleasures of your -earthly paradise.--Pray take care of your Eve--and now, my dear M----, -after all my abuse, let me conclude - - Yours affectionately, - - I. SANCHO. - - - Postscript, - -The tree of knowledge has yielded you fruit in ample abundance:--may -you boldly climb the tree of life--and gather the fruits of a happy -immortality--in which I would fain share, and have strong hope, through -the merits of a blessed Redeemer--to find room sufficient for self and -all I love--which, to say what I glory in, comprehend the whole race -of man--and why not Namby-Pamby M----? I cannot write to S----n till I -have your letter to enclose to him--if there is any delay, the fault is -not mine. - - - - -LETTER CX. - -TO MR. R----. - - - October 20, 1779. - -ZOUNDS, Sir! would you believe--Ireland has the * * * to claim the -advantages of a free unlimited trade--or they will join in the -American dance!--What a pack of * * * are * * *! I think the wisest -thing administration can do (and I dare wager they will) is to stop the -exportation of potatoes--and repeal the act for the encouragement of -growing tobacco * * *. It is reported here (from excellent authority) -that the people at large surrounded the Irish parliament, and made the -members--the courtiers--the formists and non-cons--cats--culls--and -pimp-whiskins--all--all subscribe to their--. Well, but what says your -brother--no better news I much fear from that quarter.--Oh, this poor -ruined country!--ruined by its success--and the choicest blessings -the Great Father of Heaven could shower down upon us--ruined by -victories--arts--arms--and unbounded commerce--for pride accompanied -those blessings--and like a canker-worm has eaten into the heart of -our political body.--The Dutch have given up the Serapis and the -Scarborough, and detained Paul Jones twenty-four hours after their -sailing:--how they will balance accounts with France, I know not; but I -do believe the Mynheers will get into a scrape. - -Tell Mr. B---- the Pyefleets fluctuate in price like the stocks, -and were done this morning at Billingsgate change, at 1_l._ 6_s._ -8_d._ _per_ bushel; but I have sent them this evening properly -directed--also a book of _Cogniscenti dilitanti divertimenti_.--As for -the ladies, I cannot say any thing in justice to their merits or my -own feelings:--therefore I am silent--write soon--a decent, plain, and -intelligible letter--a letter that a body may read with pleasure and -improvement--none of your circumroundabouts for - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXI. - -TO MR. R----. - - - Nov. 1, 1779. - - DEAR FRIEND, - -I SHOULD on Sunday night have acknowledged your kindness, but was -prevented by weakness!--idleness! or some such nonsense!--Were you -here, Mrs. Sancho would tell you I had quacked myself to death.--It -is true, I have been unwell--from colds and from a purging!--which -disorder prevails much in our righteous metropolis--and perhaps from -quacking; but of this when we meet.--I was much pleased with my -letter from Sir John--in which there is very little news--and less -hope of doing any thing to the purpose, either in the conquering or -conciliating mode, than in any letter I have been favoured with.--He -makes no mention of receiving any packets from me, and I have wrote -six or eight times within the last twelve months--so you see plainly -the packets are either lost, or his letters stopt.--I shall give him -a line by Wednesday’s post--and let it try its fortune.--I enclose -you some American congress notes--for he does not say he has sent you -any--though he mentions the news-papers. - -We talk of sending over a vast force next spring. Why G--m--t will -so madly pursue a losing game, is amongst the number of things that -reason can never account for--and good sense blushes at:--it is -reported in the city, that our safety this summer was purchased of -d’Orvilliers and Monsieur Sartin:--it is certain (although a vote -of credit was granted for a million) that there is no money in the -Exchequer--and that the civil list is 800,000_l._ in arrears.--This -looks dark--whilst Ireland treats us rather laconic--Scotland not too -friendly--America speaks but too plainly:--But what a plague is all -this to you or me? I am doomed to difficulty and poverty for life--and -let things go as they will, if the French leave us Newmarket--they will -not ruin my friend.--I hope the good ladies are well and preparing -for London.--Squire S---- and his good woman well also, he in the -enjoyment of his gun--and she in the care of the sweet children.--My -best respects to Mr. and Mrs. B----, and I should be a beast to neglect -my worthy friend Mr. S----k. Now I have a scheme to propose to the -electors of Great Britain, to take Sir C---- and Mr. S---- for their -patterns--and at the general election (if they can find as many) to -return 300 such--it would immortalize them in the annals of this -country for their wisdom of choice--and what’s much better, it would -perhaps (with God’s blessing) save Old England. We want, alas!--only a -few honest men of sound principles and good plain understandings--to -unite us--to animate with one mind!--one heart!--one aim!--and to -direct the rouzed courage of a brave people properly--then we might -hope for golden times--and the latter end of the present reign emulate -the grand close of the last. - -I got a very pretty young lady to chuse this inclosed ticket--meaning -to baffle ill-luck; for, had I chose it myself, I am certain a blank -would have been the consequence.--May it be prosperous!--Mrs. Sancho -joins me in every thing--love to O----; the girls giggle their respects -to Mr. R----; Billy joins in silence, but his love to Nutts is plain. -How does he do? - - Yours, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXII. - -TO MR. S----. - - - Nov. 14. 1779. - - DEAR FRIEND, - -YOURS by my brother gave me money--and, what was more pleasing -to me, a tolerable account of your success--the lateness of the -season considered.--Come, brighten up; my brother P---- has left -us much happier than he found us.--We have succeeded beyond our -expectation--humility is the test of Christianity--and parent of -many if not of all the virtues;--but we will talk this over, when -you return from grape-stuffed geese and fine girls.--H---- seems to -be in better favour with her goddessship Lady-Fortune:--his affair -will do--he will stand a fair chance of rising.--I wish from my soul -something good in the same line was destined for you;--but have -courage--time and patience conquer all things.--I hope you will come -home soon--and leave a foundation for better fortune next year at -B----, and its friendly neighbourhood.--Kitty is very poorly--God’s -will be done!--I have a horrid story to tell you about the--Zounds! I -am interrupted.--Adieu! God keep you! - - Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - -Mrs. Sancho, and girls, and Billy, send their compliments, &c. and pray -all our respective loves and best wishes to the friendly circle at -B----, and every where else. - - - - -LETTER CXIII. - -TO MR. S----. - - - Nov. 16, 1779. - -YOU have missed the truth by a mile--aye and more:--it was not -neglect--I am too proud for that;--it was not forgetfulness, Sir--I am -not so ungrateful;--it was not idleness, the excuse of fools;--nor -hurry of business, the refuge of knaves:--it is time to say what it -was.--Why, Mrs. D---- was in town from Tuesday to Monday following--and -then--and not till then--gave me your letter--and most graciously did -I receive it--considering that both my feet were in flannels, and are -so to this luckless minute.--Well, Sir, and what have you to say to -that? Friend H---- has paid for them.--I pay him again--and shall draw -upon you towards Christmas--never poorer since created--but ’tis a -general case;--blessed times for a poor Blacky grocer to hang or drown -in!--Received from your good reverend parent (why not honoured father?) -a letter, announcing the approach of a hamper of prog, which I wish -you was near enough to partake.--Your good father feels a satisfaction -in doing--I think a wrong thing--his motive is right--and, like a true -servant of Christ, he follows the spirit, not the letter:--he will be -justified in a better world--I am satisfied in this--and thou wilt -in thy feelings be gratified.--Huzza!--we are all right--but your -father pays the piper. How doth Squire G----? odso--and his pretty -daughter?--kiss the father for me--and drink a bottle with the fair -lady.--I mean as I have wrote--so tell them--and do what’s best in -thy own and their eyes.--When you see brother O----, my love to him -and his houshold.----I have no spirits when the gout seizes me--pox -on him!--Great news from Sir Charles Hardy--huzza for ever!--all -mad--nothing but illuminations;--out with your lights--bells ringing, -bonfires blazing--crackers bouncing--and all for what?--what?--The -girls open-mouthed--Billy stares--Mrs. Sancho rubs her hands;--the -night indeed is cold, but Billy must go to bed:--the noisy rogues with -the Gazette-extra stun our ears. Adieu! - - Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - -I should have inclosed a paper, but it will cost the devil and all.--My -family all join in customary customs. - - - - -LETTER CXIV. - -TO I---- S----, ESQ. - - - Charles Street, Nov. 21, 1779. - - DEAR SIR, - -WE are happy to hear, by brother O----, that you and Mrs S---- enjoy -good health--may God preserve it, and increase your every comfort! - -I am far from being sorry that you have not been in town this -Autumn;--for London has been sickly--almost every body full -of complaint; add also that the times are equally full of -disease.--Luxury! Folly! Disease! and Poverty! you may see daily riding -in the same coach--the doors ornamented with the honours of a virtuous -ancestry topped with coronets, surrounded with mantle ermined;--and, -alas! Corruption for the supporters. - -Now, my good Sir, you can have no real pleasure but what must arise -from your own heart, were you amongst us--and that would be in pitying -our weakness, and sighing over distresses your benevolence of heart -could not alleviate!--and yet I fear--if you keep from town till times -mend--I shall have no chance of seeing you this side eternity.--You -should come up for a day or two, were it only to be witness to the -roguery of M----rs and lottery-office-keepers--and the madness of -the dupes of each.--I have much to thank you for--which I will not -forget in a better world, if I see you not in this.--We have eat your -turkey to-day;--it is a joke to say it was good--bad things seldom, -if ever, come from Mr. S----. Mrs. Sancho joins me in thanks to Mrs. -S----, who we hope will not be always unknown.--The customary wishes -of the approaching sacred season to you and all your connexions.--Pray -excuse blunders; for I am forced to write post, as I expect O---- -every moment. As I write first, and think afterwards, my epistles are -commonly in the Irish fashion. You, who prefer the heart to the head, -will overlook the error of the man who is, and ever will be, very -sincerely and gratefully, - - Your much obliged - friend and servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - -It is expected the whole M----y will run from their posts before Friday -next, L--d S--h and Lord N--h excepted: Now, I have a respect for L--d -N--h: he is a good husband! father, friend, and master--a real _good -man_--but, I fear, a bad _m----r_. - - - - -LETTER CXV. - -TO THE REV. MR. S----. - - - Dec. 5, 1779. - - REV. AND HON. SIR, - -I HAVE just now received your too valuable favor:--forgive me, good -Sir, if I own I felt hurt at the idea of the trouble and cost you -(from a spirit too generous) have been put to--and for what, my good -Sir? Your son shewed me many kindnesses--and his merits are such as -will spontaneously create him the esteem of those who have the pleasure -of knowing him--it is honouring me to suppose I could be of service to -him.--Accept then, good Sir, of my thanks, and Mrs. Sancho’s--and be -assured you have sevenfold overpaid any common kindness I could render -your deserving son and my friend.--I wish he was here to partake of -your bountiful treat--for well do I know his filial heart would exult, -and his eyes beam with love and respect.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in -respectful acknowledgements and thanks to Mrs. S---- and self. - - We are, dear Sir, - Your most obliged servants, - - +IGN.+ and +A. SANCHO+. - - - - -LETTER CXVI. - -TO MR. S----. - - - Dec. 14, 1779. - - SIR, - -I EXPECT an answer. - - Yours, - - I. S. - - -Our friend H----’s head and heart are fully occupied with schemes, -plans, resolves, &c. &c. in which (to his immortal honour) the -weal and welfare of his S---- are constantly considered:--the -proposal which accompanies this letter, from what little judgement -I have, I think promises fair.--You will, however, give it a fair -examination--and of course determine from the conviction of right -reason.--If, as a friend, I might presume to offer my weak opinion--I -freely say, I think in every light it seems eligible. The circle of -your acquaintance is at present circumscribed--I mean in the artist -line:--now in case you connect yourself in a business which requires -constant daily perambulation--the chances are on your side for forming -acquaintance--perhaps friendships--with men of genius and abilities, -which may happily change the colour of your fortunes--the old proverb -is on your side--“two heads,” &c.--and very fortunately in your -case, where in fact one has _wit_, and the other _judgement_,--the -_chair_ of _interest_ will have its compleat furniture in the two top -ornaments--and _honesty_ for its _basis_. So much for Mons. H----, -and now I have to reckon with you. How could you be so preposterously -wrong, to trouble the repose of your worthy father and mother about -me? Surely you must think me exceedingly interested--or your heart -must be a very proud one; if either--in the first instance you did me -a wrong--in the last, perhaps, I may wrong you;--be it as it may--I -know it gave me real vexation.--Your father sent such a basket, as -ten times repaid the trifling service I had the honour as well as -pleasure in rendering a man of merit, and my friend;--believe me, I -never accepted any present with so ill a will;--with regard to them, -every thankful acknowledgement was due.--I wrote a very embarrassed -letter of thanks--with a resolution to give you a chastisement for -laying me under the necessity.--I hear with pleasure that you have -enough to do. H---- declares he is sorry for it--as he wants and -wishes you in town. Pray give my best wishes to Mess. B---- and -S----w, and my love to O----. If you should happen to know a Miss -A----, a rich farmer’s daughter, remember me to her--were you not -widow-witched, she or some other heavy-pursed lass might be easily -attainable to a man of your--aye, aye, but that, says ----, will not -be, I fear.--For I verily believe, that * * * * * for the * * * * and -by the same token do you not * * * * * * *? But this is matter of mere -speculation.--God bless you! Yours sincerely--cordially--and sometimes -offensively--but always friendly, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXVII. - -TO D---- B----E, ESQ. - - - Dec. 17, 1779. - - GOOD SIR, - -A STRANGER to your person (not to your virtues) addresses you--will -you pardon the interested intrusion? I am told, you delight in doing -good.--Mr. W----e (who honours me with his friendships, by whose -persuasion I presume to trouble you) declares--you are no respecter of -country or colours--and encourages me further--by saying, that I am so -happy (by the good offices of his too partial friendship) to have the -interest and good wishes of Mr. B----. - -Could my wish be possibly effected to have the honour of a General -post-office settled in my house, it would certainly be a great -good--as (I am informed) it would emancipate me from the fear of -serving the parish offices, for which I am utterly unqualified -through infirmities--as well as complexion--Figure to yourself, -my dear Sir, a man of a convexity of belly exceeding Falstaff--and -a black face into the bargain--waddling in the van of poor thieves -and pennyless prostitutes--with all the supercilious mock dignity of -little office--what a banquet for wicked jest and wanton wit--as, -_Needs must_, _when_, &c. &c.--Add to this, my good Sir, the chances of -being summoned out at midnight in the severity of easterly winds and -frosty weather--subject as I unfortunately am to gout six months in -twelve--the consequence of which must be death:--death! now I had much -rather live--and not die--live indebted to the kindness of a few great -and good--in which glorious class, you, dear Sir, have the pre-eminence -in the idea of - - Your most respectful - and obliged humble servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXVIII. - -TO MR. B----. - - - Charles Street, Dec. 20, 1779. - - DEAR SIR, - -THE Park guns are now firing, and never was poor devil so puzzled -as your humble Sancho is at this present moment.--I have a budget -of fresh news--aye, and that of consequence--and a million of stale -thanks, which perhaps you will think of no consequence.--Impelled -by two contrary passions, how should a poor Negro know precisely -which to obey? Your turkey and chine are absolutely as good, as -fine, and as welcome--as nobly given--and as gratefully accepted--as -heart can wish, or fancy conceive:--then on the other hand--the news -is as glorious--as well timed and authenticated--as pleasing,--as -salutary in the ministerial way--as much wanted--and as welcome--as -the turkey and chine to a certain sett, I mean--of king’s friends and -national * * * * *. The said turkey and chine will keep fresh and -good--and chear some honest hearts (I trust) on Christmas-day.--The -news, good as it is, may half of it prove false by Christmas--and the -true part will be stale news by that time--much of it will be liable -to doubt and malicious disquisition:--now, on the other hand, the -turkey and its honest fat companion are bettering every day--and feast -us by anticipation.--But again, the news will come with a handsome -face--attested by a Gazette extraordinary, garnished by the happy -flourishes of news-paper invention. Then there is the speech of the -noble Sir C----; I meant to say much upon that score; you have read -it without doubt--so have I more than once or twice--and I find the -same fault with it that the majority and minority do--which is neither -more nor less than what’s exceeding natural to both parties.--The -majority detest it for its truth--the minority would have better liked -it, had it not been so d--n’d _honest_. Now (between ourselves) I do -confess to you, my worthy friend, strip this famed speech of its truth -and honesty, there will very little worth notice remain, excepting -candour, a spice of benevolence, and perhaps too much charity;--but -as the above are the vices only of a very few, we may the better -endure it in Sir C----. There is certainly an express arrived this -day with very comfortable news--plenty of killed and wounded--plenty -of prisoners--and (as it always happens) with little or no loss on -our side;--but, dear me! how I have run on!--I protest, the sole -business of this letter was to ease my mind--by unburthening my head -and heart of some weighty thanks, which, for aught I know, except -very decently managed, are more likely to give pain than pleasure to -some odd-constructed minds, men who fatten upon doing good, and feel -themselves richer in proportion to their kindness:--such beings are the -S----’s, the B----s, the R----hs, O----ns, &c. &c.--whom God mend--in -the next world I mean:--so, wishing you every felicity in this, and -every comfort attendant on the approaching festival, with love and -good-will to all friends, especially to Mrs. B----n, the worthy Mr. -S----’s family, Squire S----ns, and his mate, in which Mrs. Sancho -claims her full share, I remain, dear Sir, (I fear I tire you) - - Your most obliged - humble servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXIX. - -TO MR. B----. - - - Dec. 24, 1779. - -LOSERS have the privilege to rail--I was taking the benefit of the act -upon my seeing Johnny O----, when he abruptly (and not disagreeably) -stopped my mouth--with saying, he had just loaded a stout lad--in the -name of Mr. B----, and dispatched him to Charles Street:--now this -same spirit of reparation may suit well with both the in and out side -of Mr. B----; and those who know the man will not marvel at the deed. -For my own part, I have been long convinced of the blindness, and more -than Egyptian stubbornness, of repiners of every sect.--For how can -we say but that seeming evils in the seed, with the cultivation of -benevolence--mark that--may yield an abundant crop of real substantial -good?--The confounded lurches, and four by honours, trimmed me of ten -pieces:--Ten pieces; quoth I as I was preparing for bed--better been -at home:--Ten pieces! quoth Prudence, you had no business to play:--So -much good money flung away! cries Avarice.--Avarice is a lying old -grub--I have pork worth twice the money--and the friendly wishes of -a being who looks hospitality and good-will.--The blessings of the -season attend you!--May you have the pleasure and exercise of finding -out want, and relieving it! and may you feel more pleasure than the -benefited!--which I believe is mostly the case in souls of a kind, -generous, enlarged structure.--My respects attend the gun and dog of -Squire S----, which, being the things of most consequence, I name -before Mrs. S---- or himself.--They and every one connected with B---- -house have my best wishes--and you, my good Sir, the thanks of - - Your most humble servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXX. - -TO MRS. M----. - - - Christmas-day, 1779. - -MAY this blest season bring every pleasure with it to my kind and -worthy Mrs. M----! and may the coming year bless the good and happy man -of her heart with the possession of her person! and may every future -one, for a long period of time, bring an increase to her joys and -comforts!--So pray the Sancho’s--and all join in thanks to Mrs. M---- -for her friendly present.--Will Mrs. M---- be so kind to say all that’s -civil and thankful to Mrs. W----e, for her kindness in sending me a -bottle of snuff?--and also make my respectful compliments to Mr. L----? -God keep you all! - - Yours I remain, much - obliged and thankful, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXXI. - -TO MR. W----E. - - - Dec. 26, 1779. - -IT is needless, my dear Sir, to say how pleasingly the news of your -great good fortune affected us:--for my part, I declare (self excepted) -I do not know, in the whole circle of human beings, two people whom -I would sooner wish to have got it;--neither, in my poor judgement, -could it have fallen with a probability of being better used in any -other hands. The blessings of decent competency you have been used to -from early childhood:--your minds have been well cultivated--virtuous -and prudent in your conduct, you have enjoyed the only true riches (a -good name) long;--your power of doing good will certainly be amply -increased; but, as to real wealth, I will maintain it, you were as rich -before.--You must now expect a decent share of envy;--for, as every one -thinks pretty handsomely of self, most of the unfortunate adventurers -of your acquaintance will be apt to think how much pleasanter it would -have been to have had twenty thousand pounds to themselves.--Avarice -will groan over his full bags, and cry, “Well, I never had any luck!” -Vanity will exclaim, “It is better to be born lucky than rich!” Whilst -Content, sheltered in her homely hovel, will cry, “Blessing on their -good hearts! aye, I knew their good parents;--they were eyes to the -blind, and feet to the lame, and made the orphan’s and the widow’s -hearts sing for joy; God will prosper the family.”--But, while I am -prating away, I neglect to thank you, which was the chief business -of this letter--to thank you, and to admire that rectitude of temper -which could, in the full tide of worldly good fortune, remember the -obscure, the humble old friend.--Accept my thanks, and the plaudit also -of a heart too proud to court opulence--but alive to the feelings of -truth, sacred friendship, and humanity.--Mine and Mrs. Sancho’s thanks -for your genteel present attend you, Mrs. W----, and the worthy circle -round!--May every year be productive of new happiness in the fullest -sense of true wisdom, the riches of the heart and mind!--So wishes thy -obliged sincere friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXXII. - -TO D. B----E, ESQ. - - - Dec. 30, 1779. - - HONOURED SIR, - -PERMIT me to thank you--which I do most sincerely--for the kindness -and good-will you are pleased to honour me with.--Believe me, dear -Sir, I was better pleased with the gracious and soothing manner of -your refusal--than I have been in former times with obligations less -graciously conferred.--I should regret the trouble I have given -you--but that my heart feels a comfort, and my pride a gratification, -from the reflection, that I am cared for--and not unnoticed--by a -gentleman of the first worth and highest character. I am dear Sir, with -profound respect and gratitude, - - Your most obliged - and humble servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXXIII. - -TO MR. I----. - - - Dec. 1779. - - DEAR SIR, - -THE bearer of this letter gives himself a very good report--he -is certainly the best judge--he can cook upon occasion--dress -and shave--handle a salver with address--and clean it too:--he -is but little in make--and I hope not great in opinion:--examine -his morals--if you can see through so opaque a composition as a -Bengalian.--Was he an African--but it’s no matter, he can’t help the -place of his nativity!--I would have waited upon the worthy circle -yesterday; but the day was so unfriendly, I had not the heart to quit -the fire-side.--I hope you and Mrs. I---- have as much health and -spirits as you can manage.--I have had a pretty smart engagement with -the gout, of which I can give a better account than Sir Charles Hardy -can of the combined fleet.--I wish to place you, Sir, in the Censor’s -chair--for the which purpose, I most pressingly beg the favor of your -company to-morrow, Friday the 19th, in the afternoon--to meet a young -unfledged genius of the first water--who, as well as myself, is fool -enough to believe you possess as much true taste as true worth:--be -that as God pleases--if you delight to do me honor, comply with this -request, and imagine Sterne would have done as much for - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXXIV. - -TO MR. R----. - - - Last Day, 1779. - - DEAR FRIEND, - -I WISH I could tell you how much pleasure I felt in the reading your -chearful letter--I felt that you was in good health, and in a flow -of chearfulness, which pray God continue to you!----I shall fancy -myself amongst you about the time you will get this--I paint in my -imagination the winning smiles, and courteously kind welcome, in the -face of a certain lady, whom I cannot help caring for with the decent -pleasing demure countenance of the little C---- Squire B----, with -the jovial expression of countenance our old British freeholders were -wont to wear--the head and heart of Addison’s Sir Roger de Coverley; -S---- tipsy with good will, his eyes dancing in his head, considering -within his breast every species of welcome to do honor to his noble -master, and credit to the night; and, lastly, my friend looking more -kindness than his tongue can utter and present to every individual, -in offices of love and respect. My R----, what would I give to -steal in unseen--and be a happy spectator of the good old English -hospitality--kept up by so few--and which in former times gave such -strength and consequence to the ancestry of the present frivolous race -of Apostates!--Honoured and blest be Sir C---- and his memory, for -being one of those golden characters that can find true happiness in -giving pleasure to his tenants, neighbours, and domestics!--where-ever -such a being moves--the eyes of love and gratitude follow after -him--and infant tongues, joining the voice of youth and maturer years, -fill up the grand chorus of his praise.--I inclose without apology -a billet for ----: he well knows how prone I naturally am to love -him;--but love is untractable, there is no forcing affections--but -I, perhaps, too quickly feel coldness. ---- has a noble soul--and he -has his foibles;--for me, I fling no stone--I dare not; for, of all -created beings, I know none so truly culpable, so full of faults, as is -your very sincere friend and obliged servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - -As we commonly wish well to ourselves, you may believe that we -cordially join in wishing every good, either in health, wealth, -or honour, to the noble owner of B---- Hall; to the thrice dearly -respected--guess who!--to you and all--and all and you. Billy loves -flesh--Kitty is a termagant--Betsy talks as usual--the Fanny’s work -pretty hard. Adieu! I conclude 1779 with the harmony of love and -friendship. - - - - -LETTER CXXV. - -TO ---- MR. S----. - - - 1780, January the 4th day. - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -YOU have here a kind of medley, a heterogeneous, ill-spelt, heteroclite -(worse) excentric sort of a--a--; in short, it is a true Negroe -calibash--of ill-sorted, undigested chaotic matter. What an excellent -proem! what a delightful sample of the grand absurd!--Sir--dear -Sir--as I have a soul to be saved (and why I should not, would puzzle -a Dr. Price), as I have a soul to be saved, I only meant to say about -fifteen words to you--and the substance just this--to wish you a happy -New-year--with the usual appendages--and a long et cætera of cardinal -and heavenly blessings:--à propos, blessings--never more scanty--all -beggars by Jove--not a shilling to be got in London;--if you are better -off in the country, and can afford to remit me your little bill, I -inclose it for that good end. H---- is--but he can better tell you -himself what he is; for in truth I do think he is in love: which puts -the pretty G---- into my head--and she brings her father in view.--My -love and respects to each.--Mrs. Sancho joins me; and the girls, -her--and God keep you! - - Yours sincerely, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXXVI. - -TO MR. J---- W----E. - - - Charles Street, Jan. 5, 1780. - - DEAR W----E, - -WERE I as rich in worldly commodity as in hearty will--I would thank -you most princely for your very welcome and agreeable letter;--but, -were it so, I should not proportion my gratitude to your wants;--for, -blessed be the God of thy hope!--thou wantest nothing--more -than--what’s in thy possession--or in thy power to possess:--I would -neither give thee _Money_--nor _Territory_--_Women_--nor _Horses_--nor -_Camels_--nor the height of Asiatic pride--_Elephants_;--I would give -thee _Books_-- - - “_Books_, fair Virtue’s advocates and friends;” - -but you have books plenty--more than you have time to digest:--after -much writing--which is fatiguing enough--and under the lassitude -occasioned by fatigue, and not sin--the cool recess--the loved -_book_--the sweet pleasures of imagination poetically worked up -into delightful enthusiasm--richer than all your fruits--your -spices--your dancing-girls--and the whole detail of Eastern, effeminate -foppery--flimsy splendour--and glittering magnificence;--so thou -thinkest--and I rejoice with thee and for thee. Shall I say what my -heart suggests? No, you will feel it praise--and call it flattery. -Shall I say, Your worthy parent read your filial letter to me--and -embalmed the grateful tribute of a virtuous son with his precious -tears?--Will you believe?--he was for some minutes speechless through -joy!--Imagine you see us--our heads close together--comparing -notes;--imagine you hear the honest plaudits of love and friendship -sounding in thy ears;--’tis glory to be proud on such occasions--’tis -the pride of merit:--and as you allow me to counsel you with freedom--I -do strongly advise you to love praise--to court praise--to win it -by every honest, laudable exertion--and be oft, very often jealous -of it:--examine the source it proceeds from--and encourage and -cherish it accordingly.--Fear not--mankind are not too lavish of -it--censure is dealt out by wholesale--while praise is very sparingly -distributed:--nine times in ten mankind may err in their blame--but in -its praises the world is seldom, if ever, mistaken.--Mark--I praise -thee _sincerely_, for the _whole_ and every _part_ of thy _conduct_ -in regard to my two sable brethren[14]. I was an ass--or else I might -have judged from the national antipathy and prejudice through custom -even of the Gentoos towards their woolly-headed brethren, and the -well-known dignity of my Lords the Whites, of the impropriety of my -request.--I therefore not only acquit thee honourably--but condemn -myself for giving thee the trouble to explain a right conduct.--I fear -you will hardly make out this scrawl, although it is written with a -pen of thy father’s--a present mended from a parcel of old quills by -his foreman, or brother C----d.--Your honest brother Joseph came post -with your letters--good-will shining in his face--joy in his innocent -eyes:--he promises to be as much a W---- as his Indian brother:--you -flatter my vanity in supposing my friendship of any utility to Joe;--he -has in his good father Moses and the Prophets--which you have had, -and availed yourself well of the blessing--and I trust Joe will do -the same--besides having precept and example from a worthy and loving -brother.--Poor M----, your favourite--I scarce knew her;--she was -as pure within, as amiable without:--she enriches the circle of the -blest--and you have a friend in heaven. - -I hope you sometimes--aye often--consult with Dr. Young’s Night -Thoughts--carry him in your pockets--court him--quote him--delight -in him--make him your own--and laugh at the wit, and wisdom, and -fashion of the world:--that book, well studied, will make you know -the value of death--and open your eyes to the snares of life; its -precepts will exalt the festive hour, brighten and bless the gloom of -solitude, comfort thy heart, and smooth thy pillow in sickness, and -gild with lustre thy prosperity--disarm death itself of its terrors, -and sweetly soften the hour of dissolution.--I recommend to all young -people, who do me the honour to ask my opinion--I recommend, if their -stomachs are strong enough for such intellectual food, Dr. Young’s -Night Thoughts--the Paradise Lost--and the Seasons;--which, with -Nelson’s Feasts and Fasts, a Bible and Prayer-book, used for twenty -years to make my travelling library--and I do think it a very rich one. -I never trouble my very distant friends with articles of news--the -public prints do it so much better--and then they may answer for their -untruths;--for among the multitude of our public prints, it is hard to -say which lyes most. - -Your enclosed trust was directly delivered to the fair hands it was -addressed to:--I have the authority to say, it gave great pleasure to -both the ladies and your friend Mr. R----, who wears the same cordial -friendly heart in his breast as when you first knew him.--Your friend -Mr. John R---- is still at New York with the guards--where he is very -deservedly honoured, loved, and esteemed:--he corresponds with his -old acquaintance--and does me the honour to remember me amongst his -friends:--our toast in P. Gardens is often the three Johns--R----, -W----e, and O----, an honest--therefore a noble triumvirate. - -I feel old age insensibly stealing on me--and, alas! am obliged to -borrow the aid of spectacles, for any kind of small print:--Time keeps -pacing on, and we delude ourselves with the hope of reaching first this -stage, and then the next; till that ravenous rogue Death puts a final -end to our folly. - -All this is true--and yet I please and flatter myself with the hope -of living to see you in your native country--with every comfort -possessed--crowned with the honest man’s best ambition, a fair -character.--May your worthy, your respectable parents, relations, and -friends, enjoy that pleasure! and that you may realize every fond hope -of all who love you, is the wish of - - Your sincere friend, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - - Postscript. - -This letter is of a decent length--I expect a return with -interest.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in good wishes, love, and compliments. - -[14] Mr. W----e having wrote word, that if any European in India - associated with those of that complexion, it would be considered as - a degradation, and would be an obstacle to his future preferment; - he laments, in very strong terms the cruelty of such an opinion; - hopes not to forfeit Mr. Sancho’s good opinion from being compelled - to comply with the custom of the country, with repeated assurances - of serving them, if in his power, though he must remain unknown to - them. - - - - -LETTER CXXVII. - -TO MR. S----. - - - Charles Street, Jan. 11, 1780. - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -MR. R---- faithfully discharged his commission--paid me the -desirable--and intrusted me with ten guineas, to pay on demand; and -here he comes, faith--as fresh as May, and warm as friendly zeal can -make mortality--to demand the two letters, which he will deliver -himself, for his own satisfaction.--I wish from my soul, that -Chancellors--Secretaries of State--Kings--aye--and Bishops--were as -fond of doing kind things--but they are of a higher order.--Friend -R---- is only a Christian.--I give you credit for your promises of -reformation in the epistolary way--and very glad am I to hear of your -success.--Know your own worth--honour yourself, not with supercilious -pride, but with the decent confidence of your own true native -merit--and you must succeed in almost any thing you chuse to undertake: -so thinks Sancho.--As to what you request me to do by way of inspecting -your goods and chattels in your late lodging--I must beg to decline -it--as I feel it aukward, to insinuate the least deficiency in point of -attention to your interests in such a heart as H--s; a heart which, to -my knowledge, feels every sentiment of divine friendship for you; an -heart, animated with the strongest zeal and flowing ardor to serve you, -to love you. - -The kindness of you and your two friends exceedingly embarrasses -me.--I would not wish to appear to any one either arrogant, vain, -or conceited;--no--nor servile, mean, or selfish:--I grant your -motive is friendly in the extreme--and those of your companions as -nobly generous;--but--but what?--Why this--and the truth--were I -rich, I would accept it, and say “Thank ye,” when I chose it;--as -I am poor, I do not chuse to say “Thank ye”--but to those I know -and respect. You must forgive me--and call it the error of African -false principle--call it any thing but coldness and unfeeling -pride, which is in fact ingratitude in a birth-day suit.--As to -the grand Turk of Norfolk, if it comes--we will devour it--and -toast Don S---- and the unknown giver.--Thou, my S----, hast -(oh! prostrate, and thank the Giver) a noble and friendly heart, -susceptible of the best, the greatest feelings. H---- is thy -twin-brother--perhaps he has more fire in his composition:--Woman -apart, he is a glorious fellow; * * * * apart--alas! alas! alas! -* * * * * * * * apart, what might not be hoped, expected, from -* * * * * * *! So the poor boy flew his kite--but the tail was -lost.--Poor H---- has a book and a fair one to manage;--ticklish--very -ticklish subjects--either:--and your worship has a book to -castrate--and a Fandango to dance--with a _Tol de le rol, de le -rol_.--Your reason for postponing your journey to town is wisely great, -or greatly wise;--it does you honour, because it is founded in equity. -I am glad to hear the Rev. Mr. S---- is better.--I love and venerate -that good man:--not because he begat you, but for his own great parts -and many virtues--by the bye, I know more of him than you think -for.--Tell brother O---- I am glad to hear he is well, and Mrs. O---- -better;--and tell him the name of the Bishop’s lady’s dog (that was -lost, and has been missing these two months) is Sherry[15]. When you -see Mr. S----, the good, the friendly, generous Mr. S----, my and mine -make the respects of--we wish him many happy years and his family.--To -Mr. G---- and his amiable daughter, say all that’s right for me. And -now to conclude with thanks, &c. &c. I and we--that’s spouse and -self--remain, &c. &c. &c. &c. &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - -[15] Mr. O---- had promised Mr. Sancho two months before to send him - immediately a present of Sherry. - - - - -LETTER CXXVIII. - -TO MR. M----. - - - Charles Street, Jan. 17, 1780. - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -I RECEIVED, as you taught me to expect last week, a very fine * * *, -and after it as kind a letter--in name of a Mr. E---- W---- of Norfolk, -near Houghton-Hall, &c.--I have bespoke a frank, and mean to thank -him--as I also thank you, whom I look upon as the grand friendly -mover of the generously handsome act.--You have your reward, for you -had a pleasure in doing it;--and Mr. W---- has his, if he believes -me honest.--Could I any way retaliate, I should feel lighter--that’s -pride, I own it. Humility should be the poor man’s shirt--and -thankfulness his girdle;--be it so--I do request you to thank Mr. W---- -for me, and tell him he has the prayers--not of a raving mad whig--nor -fawning deceitful tory--but of a coalblack, jolly African, who wishes -health and peace to every religion and country throughout the ample -range of God’s creation!--and believes a painter may be saved at the -last day, maugre all the Miss G----’s and widows in this kingdom. I -have done nothing in the shoe affair yet--for which I ought to ask poor -C----’s pardon as well as yours:--the rogue has left the court, and -gone to live in Fish-market, Westminster bridge;--I shall ferret him -out, and make him bless his old master. - -I inclose your receipts in proof of my honesty--a rare virtue as times -go!--M---- has wrote to you--left his letter with me--and I, like a -what you please, let it slip into the fire--with a handful of company -he had no business to be amongst:--he shall write you another--you will -both be angry--but you will both forgive, as good Christians ought, -accidents.--I am sorry. I will say no more, but God keep you, and -direct your goings; - - Yours, &c. &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - -When you see the honourable Mr. B----, give our loves and best -wishes to him and Mrs. B----, and Squire S---- and his good dame -also.--Salute the home of G---- for me. - - - - -LETTER CXXIX. - -TO MR. W----E. - - - Charles Street, March 1, 1780. - - MY GOOD FRIEND, - -I WISH to interest you in behalf of the inclosed book--wrote by a -greatly-esteemed friend--a young man of much merit--and a heart -enriched with every virtue--the book I beg you will snatch time to -read with attention.--It is an answer (as you will see) to a flaming -bigoted Mongrel against Toleration.--Swift says, “Zeal is never so -pleased as when you set it a tearing.” He says truly. Could you get -the pamphlet (whose title I forget), you would be better enabled to -judge of the force, truth, and strength of my friend’s answer:--for my -part, I love liberty in every sense, whilst connected with honesty and -truth:--it has been shewn a bookseller, but he happened to be the very -man who had just published a flimsy answer to the same; consequently -would not encourage my friend’s, lest it should injure the sale of -his other.--Understand, my good friend, that the author is very -ill-calculated for booksellers’ and printers’ jockeyship; which, to a -liberal mind fraught with high and generous ideas, is death and the -devil. - -I own, I was guilty of teazing him into the finishing this little work, -with a view of having it printed.--Now, my friend is not richer than -poets commonly are--and, in short, will not run any risks.--I would -gladly stand the expence of printing; but I am not richer than he;--I -want it printed, and request of you, if, upon perusing it, you do not -find it inimical, either to Religion, Country, or Crown, that you -contrive to push it into the world without delay; but if, upon mature -deliberation, you find it dangerous, with washed hands send it me -back, and set me down for an ass, in the trouble I have given thee and -myself.--Perhaps, jaundiced by prejudice, I behold it with too partial -eyes; for I verily believe it will not discredit the printer:--suppose -you shew it in confidence to the greatly amiable, the good Mr. B----e. -I mention him in particular; for sure I am his nobly benevolent soul -would start at the bare idea of religious persecution:--he would, I -trust, feel the full force of my friend’s reasoning--and his good -opinion would be the best sanction for endeavouring to push the work -forward. - -I had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman in our street one day last -week, who seemed to be so goodly a personage, that I said to myself, -There’s Sir Charles Grandison! His figure was noble--his eye brightened -with kindness--the man of fashion and of sense was conspicuous in -him:--think how I stared, when the gentleman accosted me--said, he knew -me through my friend W----e;--his name was * * * *. I bowed, and -stammered some nonsense--I was taken by surprize.--I am in such a -hurry, and the pen is naught, that I fear you will scarcely understand -this scrawl.--Remember I give you full powers over this work;--do what -you can, but do it soon, and make your report to your friend, - - I. SANCHO[16]. - -[16] The book alluded to in this letter was printed under the title of, - “An Answer to the Appeal from the Protestant Association.” - - - - -LETTER CXXX. - -TO MRS. H----. - - - Charles Street, March 25, 1780. - - DEAR MADAM, - -I AND mine have a thousand things to thank you for--shall I say the -plain truth, and own I am proud to know that you care for me and my -little ones? your friendly attention to our interests proves it--but -mortals of your cast are oftener envied than loved:--the majority, -who are composed chiefly of the narrow-minded or contracted hearts, -and of selfish avidity, cannot comprehend the delight in doing as -they would be done by--and consequently cannot love what they do not -understand.--Excuse my nonsense, I ever write just what I think:--my -business was to give you some account why I delayed the teas, and -to thank you for your very noble order.--Sir Jacob was here this -afternoon, and, if his looks tell truth, he is exceeding well. H---- -desires his love to you and the worthy partner of your heart, to whom -I join with my spouse in wishing every earthly felicity--heavenly -you have both insured, by being faithful stewards.--Sir Jacob sent a -parcel--which accompanies the teas--which I hope will reach you safe -and right, as they set out to-morrow noon--Tell Mr. H----, I pray you, -that the winter has used me as roughly as it has him--I never have been -so unwell for these four months past;--but, alas! one reason is, I do -believe, that I am past fifty;--but I hope with you, that spring will -set us all right.--As to complaints in trade, there is nothing else--we -are all poor, all grumblers, all preaching œconomy--and wishing our -neighbours to practise it;--but no one but the quite undone begins -at home. We are all patriots, all politicians, all state-quacks, and -all fools:--the ladies are turned orators, and declaim in public, -expose their persons, and their erudition, to every Jackanapes who -can throw down half a crown:--as to the men, they are past saving;--as -I can say no good, I will stop where I am. And is my good friend Mr. -S---- unmarried still? Fie, fie upon him! how can he enjoy any good -alone? He should take a partner, to lead him gently down the hill of -life--to superintend his linen and his meat;--to give sweet poignancy -to his beverage--and talk him to sleep on nights.--Pray tell him all I -say--and also that the majority are killing up the minority as fast as -they can:--nothing but duels, and rumours of duels.--But is it now time -to finish? Dear Madam, forgive all my impertinences; and, believe me, -dame Sancho and self have a true sense of your goodness, and repeatedly -thank you both for your kindness to, - - Yours in sincerity, - and greatly obliged friends, - - +ANNE+ and +IGN. SANCHO+. - - - - -LETTER CXXXI. - -For the +General Advertiser+. - - - August 29, 1780. - - FRIEND EDITOR, - -“IN the multitude of Counsellors there is wisdom,” sayeth the -preacher--and at this present crisis of national jeopardy, it -seemeth to me befitting for every honest man to offer his mite of -advice towards public benefit and edification.--The vast bounties -offered for able-bodied men sheweth the zeal and liberality of our -wise lawgivers--yet indicateth a scarcity of men. Now, they seem -to me to have overlooked one resource (which appears obvious); a -resource which would greatly benefit the people at large (by being -more usefully employed), and which are happily half-trained already -for the service of their country, by being _powder-proof_, light, -active, young fellows:--I dare say you have anticipated my scheme, -which is to form ten companies at least, out of the very numerous -body of hair-dressers:--they are, for the most part, clean, clever, -young men--and, as observed above, the utility would be immense:--the -ladies, by once more getting the management of their heads into their -own hands, might possibly regain their native reason and œconomy--and -the gentlemen might be induced by mere necessity to comb and care for -their own heads;--those (I mean) who have heads to care for.--If the -above scheme should happily take place, among the many advantages too -numerous to particularize, which would of course result from it, one -not of the least magnitude would be a prodigious saving in the great -momentous article of time; people of the _ton_ of both sexes (to speak -within probability) usually losing between two or three hours daily on -that important business.--My plan, Mr. Editor, I have the comfort to -think, is replete with good;--it tends to serve my king and country in -the first instance--and to cleanse, settle, and emancipate from the -cruel bondage of French, as well as native frizeurs, the heads of my -fellow-subjects. - - Yours, &c. - - +Africanus.+ - - - - -LETTER CXXXII. - -TO MRS. H----. - - - Charles Street, May 20, 1780. - - DEAR MADAM, - -YOUR goodness is never tired with action!--How many, very many times -have I to thank you, for your friendly interesting yourself in our -behalf!--You will say thanks are irksome to a generous mind--so I -have done--but must first ask pardon for a sin of omission.--I never -sent you word that your good son, as friendly as polite, paid me -the note directly, and would not suffer it to run its sight:--they -that know Sir Jacob will not wonder; for he is a Christian, which -means, in my idea, a gentleman not of the modern sort.--Trade is at -so low an ebb, the greatest are glad to see ready money:--in truth, -we are a ruined people--let hirelings affect to write and talk as -big as they please! and, what is worse, religion and morality are -vanished with our prosperity--every good principle seems to be -leaving us:--as our means lessen, luxury and every sort of expensive -pleasure increases.--The blessed Sabbath-day is used by the trader for -country excursions--tavern dinners--rural walks--and then whipping -and galloping through dust and over turnpikes drunk home.--The poorer -sort do any thing--but go to church;--they take their dust in the -field, and conclude the sacred evening with riots, drunkenness, and -empty pockets:--the beau in upper life hires his whisky and beast -for twelve shillings; his girl dressed _en militaire_ for half a -guinea, and spends his whole week’s earnings to look and be thought -_quite the thing_.--And for upper tiptop high life--cards and music -are called in, to dissipate the chagrin of a tiresome, tedious -Sunday’s evening.--The example spreads downwards from them to their -domestics;--the laced valet and the livery beau either debauch the -maids, or keep their girls:--thus profusion and cursed dissipation -fill the prisons, and feed the gallows.--The clergy--hush! I will not -meddle with them--God forbid I should!--they are pretty much the same -in all places;--but this I will affirm, where-ever a preacher is in -earnest in his duty, and can _preach_, he will not want for crouded -congregations.--As to our politics--now don’t laugh at me--for every -one has a right to be a politician; so have I; and though only a poor, -thick-lipped son of Afric! may be as notable a Negro state-botcher -as * * * * *, and so on for five hundred:--I do not mean B--e, S--le, -B--é, nor D--n--g. Mind that----no, nor N--th, G--m--e, J--k--n, nor -W--dd--ne, names that will shine in history when the marble monuments -of their earthly flatterers shall be mouldering into dust.--I have -wrote absolute nonsense--I mean the monuments of N--th, G--m--e, &c. -and not of their flatterers--but it is right I should give you an -apology for this foolish letter.--Know then, my dear Madam, I have -been seriously and literally fast asleep for these two months;--true, -upon the word of a poor sufferer, a kind of lethargy.--I can sleep -standing, walking, and feel so intolerably heavy, and oppressed with -it, that sometimes I am ready to tumble when walking in the street.--I -am exceeding sorry to hear Mr. H---- is so poorly--and hope, through -God’s mercy, the waters will have the wished effect. For my own part, -I feel myself ten years older this year than the last.--Time tries -us all--but, blessed be God! in the end we shall be an over-match -for Time, and leave him, scythe and all, in the lurch--when we shall -all enjoy a blessed Eternity.--In this view, and under the same -hope, we are as great, yea, as respectable and consequential--as -Statesmen! Bishops! Chancellors! Popes! Heroes! Kings! Actors of -every denomination--who must all drop the mask--when the fated minute -arrives--and, alas! some of the very high be obliged to give place to -Mr. and Mrs. H----. May you and yours enjoy every felicity here! every -blessing hereafter! wish thy much obliged friends! - - The +SANCHOS+. - - - - -LETTER CXXXIII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Charles-Street, June 6, 1780. - - DEAR AND MOST RESPECTED SIR, - -IN the midst of the most cruel and ridiculous confusion--I am now set -down to give you a very imperfect sketch of the maddest people--that -the maddest times were ever plagued with.--The public prints have -informed you (without doubt) of last Friday’s transactions;--the -insanity of Ld. G. G. and the worse than Negro barbarity of the -populace; the burnings and devastations of each night--you will also -see in the prints;--this day, by consent, was set apart for the -farther consideration of the wished-for repeal;--the people (who had -their proper cue from his lordship) assembled by ten o’clock in the -morning.--Lord N--h, who had been up in council at home till four in -the morning, got to the house before eleven, just a quarter of an -hour before the associators reached Palace-yard:--but, I should tell -you, in council there was a deputation from all parties;--the S---- -party were for prosecuting Lord G----, and leaving him at large;--the -At--y G----l laughed at the idea, and declared it was doing just -nothing;--the M----y were for his expulsion, and so dropping him -gently into insignificancy;--that was thought wrong, as he would still -be industrious in mischief;--the R----m party, I should suppose, -you will think counselled best, which is, this day to expel him the -house--commit him to the Tower--and then prosecute him at leisure--by -which means he will lose the opportunity of getting a seat in the next -parliament--and have decent leisure to repent him of the heavy evils -he has occasioned.--There is at this present moment at least a hundred -thousand poor, miserable ragged rabble, from twelve to sixty years of -age, with blue cockades in their hats--besides half as many women -and children--all parading the streets--the bridge--the park--ready -for any and every mischief.--Gracious God! what’s the matter now? I -was obliged to leave off--the shouts of the mob--the horrid clashing -of swords--and the clutter of a multitude in swiftest motion--drew me -to the door--when every one in the street was employed in shutting up -shop--It is now just five o’clock--the ballad-singers are exhausting -their musical talents with the downfall of Popery, S--h, and N--h. -Lord S--h narrowly escaped with life about an hour since;--the mob -seized his chariot going to the house, broke his glasses, and, in -struggling to get his lordship out, somehow have cut his face; the -guards flew to his assistance--the light-horse scowered the road, got -his chariot, escorted him from the coffee-house, where he had fled -for protection, to his carriage, and guarded him bleeding very fast -home. This--this--is liberty! genuine British liberty!--This instant -about two thousand liberty boys are swearing and swaggering by with -large sticks--thus armed in hopes of meeting with the Irish chairmen -and labourers--all the guards are out--and all the horse;--the poor -fellows are just worn out for want of rest--having been on duty -ever since Friday. Thank heaven, it rains; may it increase, so as -to send these deluded wretches safe to their homes, their families, -and wives! About two this afternoon a large party took it into their -heads to visit the King and Queen, and entered the Park for that -purpose--but found the guard too numerous to be forced, and after some -useless attempts gave it up. It is reported, the house will either be -prorogued, or parliament dissolved, this evening--as it is in vain to -think of attending any business while this anarchy lasts. - -I cannot but felicitate you, my good friend, upon the happy distance -you are placed from our scene of confusion.--May foul Discord and -her cursed train never nearer approach your blessed abode! Tell Mrs. -S----, her good heart would ach, did she see the anxiety, the woe, in -the faces of mothers, wives, and sweethearts, each equally anxious for -the object of their wishes, the beloved of their hearts. Mrs. Sancho -and self both cordially join in love and gratitude, and every good -wish--crowned with the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, -&c. - - I am, dear Sir, - Yours ever by inclination, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - Postscript, - -The Sardinian ambassador offered 500 guineas to the rabble, to save -a painting of our Saviour from the flames, and 1000 guineas not to -destroy an exceeding fine organ: the gentry told him, they would burn -him if they could get at him, and destroyed the picture and organ -directly. I am not sorry I was born in Afric.--I shall tire you, I -fear--and, if I cannot get a frank, make you pay dear for bad news. -There is about a thousand mad men, armed with clubs, bludgeons, and -crows, just now set off for Newgate, to liberate, they say, their -honest comrades.--I wish they do not some of them lose their lives -of liberty before morning. It is thought by many who discern deeply, -that there is more at the bottom of this business than merely the -repeal of an act--which as has yet produced no bad consequences, and -perhaps never might.--I am forced to own, that I am for an universal -toleration. Let us convert by our example, and conquer by our meekness -and brotherly love! - -Eight o’clock. Lord G---- G---- has this moment announced to my Lords -the mob--that the act shall be repealed this evening:--upon this, they -gave a hundred chears--took the horses from his hackney-coach, and -rolled him full jollily away:--they are huzzaing now ready to crack -their throats. - - _Huzza!_ - -I am forced to conclude for want of room--the remainder in our next. - - - - -LETTER CXXXIV. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Charles Street, June 9, 1780. - - MY DEAR SIR, - -GOVERNMENT is sunk in lethargic stupor--anarchy reigns--when -I look back to the glorious time of a George II. and a Pitt’s -administration--my heart sinks at the bitter contrast. We may now -say of England, as was heretofore said of Great Babylon--“the beauty -of the excellency of the Chaldees is no more;”--the Fleet Prison, -the Marshalsea, King’s-Bench, both Compters, Clerkenwell, and -Tothill-Fields, with Newgate, are flung open;--Newgate partly burned, -and 300 felons, from thence only, let loose upon the world. Lord -M----’s house in town suffered martyrdom; and his sweet box at Caen -Wood escaped almost miraculously, for the mob had just arrived, and -were beginning with it, when a strong detachment from the guards and -light-horse came most critically to its rescue--the library, and, -what is of more consequence, papers and deeds of vast value, were all -cruelly consumed in the flames. Ld. N--’s house was attacked; but they -had previous notice, and were ready for them. The Bank, the Treasury, -and thirty of the chief noblemen’s houses, are doomed to suffer by the -insurgents. There were six of the rioters killed at Ld. M----’s, and, -what is remarkable, a daring chap, escaped from Newgate, condemned to -die this day, was the most active in mischief at Ld. M----’s, and was -the first person shot by the soldiers; so he found death a few hours -sooner than if he had not been released.--The ministry have tried -lenity, and have experienced its inutility; and martial law is this -night to be declared.--If any body of people above ten in number are -seen together, and refuse to disperse, they are to be fired at without -any further ceremony--so we expect terrible work before morning.--The -insurgents visited the Tower, but it would not do:--they had better -luck in the Artillery-ground, where they found and took to their use -500 stand of arms; a great error in city politics, not to have secured -them first.--It is wonderful to hear the execrable nonsense that is -industriously circulated amongst the credulous mob, who are told his -M----y regularly goes to mass at Ld. P--re’s chaple--and they believe -it, and that he pays out of his privy purse Peter-pence to Rome. Such -is the temper of the times--from too relaxed a government;--and a King -and Queen on the throne who possess every virtue. May God, in his -mercy, grant that the present scourge may operate to our repentance and -amendment! that it may produce the fruits of better thinking, better -doing, and in the end make us a wise, virtuous, and happy people!--I -am, dear Sir, truly, Mrs. S----’s and your most grateful and obliged -friend and servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - -The remainder in our next. - -Half past nine o’clock. - -King’s-Bench prison is now in flames, and the prisoners at large; two -fires in Holborn now burning. - - - - -LETTER CXXXV. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - June 9, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -HAPPILY for us, the tumult begins to subside:--last night much -was threatened, but nothing done--except in the early part of the -evening, when about four-score or an hundred of the reformers got -decently knocked on the head;--they were half killed by Mr. Langdale’s -spirits--so fell an easy conquest to the bayonet and butt-end.--There -are about fifty taken prisoners--and not a blue cockade to be -seen:--the streets once more wear the face of peace--and men seem once -more to resume their accustomed employments.--The greatest losses have -fallen upon the great distiller near Holborn-bridge, and Lord M----; -the former, alas! has lost his whole fortune;--the latter, the greatest -and best collection of manuscript writings, with one of the finest -libraries in the kingdom. Shall we call it a judgement?--or what shall -we call it? The thunder of their vengeance has fallen upon Gin and -Law--the two most inflammatory things in the Christian world.--We have -a Coxheath and Warley of our own; Hyde Park has a grand encampment, -with artillery, Park, &c. &c. St. James’s Park has ditto--upon a -smaller scale. The Parks, and our West end of the town, exhibit the -features of French government. This minute, thank God! this moment -Lord G. G. is taken. Sir F. Molineux has him safe at the horse-guards. -Bravo! he is now going in state in an old hackney-coach, escorted by a -regiment of militia and troop of light horse, to his apartments in the -Tower. - - “Off with his head--so much--for Buckingham.” - -We have taken this day numbers of the poor wretches, in so much we -know not where to place them. Blessed be the Lord! we trust this -affair is pretty well concluded.--If any thing transpires worth your -notice--you shall hear from - - Your much obliged, &c. &c. - - IGN. SANCHO. - - -Best regards attend Mrs. S----. His lordship was taken at five o’clock -this evening--betts run fifteen to five, Lord G-- G-- is hanged in -eight days:--he wished much to speak to his Majesty on Wednesday, but -was of course refused. - - - - -LETTER CXXXVI. - -TO J. S----, ESQ. - - - June 13, 1780. - - MY DEAR SIR, - -THAT my poor endeavours have given you information or amusement, -gratifies the warm wish of my heart; for, as I know not the man to -whose kindness I am so much indebted, I may safely say, I know not the -man whose esteem I more ardently covet and honour.--We are exceeding -sorry to hear of Mrs. S----’s indisposition; and hope, ere this reaches -you, she will be well, or greatly mended.--The spring with us has been -very sickly--and the summer has brought with it sick times;--sickness! -cruel sickness! triumphs through every part of the constitution:--the -State is sick--the Church (God preserve it!) is sick--the Law, -Navy, Army, all sick--the people at large are sick with taxes--the -Ministry with Opposition, and Opposition with Disappointment.--Since -my last, the temerity of the mob has gradually subsided;--numbers -of the unfortunate rogues have been taken:--yesterday about thirty -were killed in and about Smithfield, and two soldiers were killed in -the affray.--There is no certainty yet as to the number of houses -burnt and gutted--for every day adds to the account--which is a proof -how industrious they were in their short reign.--Few evils but are -productive of some good in the end:--the suspicious turbulence of the -times united the royal brothers;--the two Dukes, dropping all past -resentment, made a filial tender of their services;--his Majesty (God -bless him!) as readily accepted it--and on Thursday last the brothers -met;--they are now a triple cord--God grant a blessing to the union! -There is a report current this day, that the mob of York city have -rose, and let 3000 French prisoners out of York-castle--but it meets -with very little credit.--I do not believe they have any thing like the -number of French in those parts--as I am informed the prisoners are -sent more to the western inland counties--but every hour has its fresh -cargo of lies. The camp in St. James’s Park is daily increasing--that -and Hyde Park will be continued all the summer.--The K--g is much among -them--walking the lines--and examining the posts:--he looks exceeding -grave. Crowns, alas! have more thorns than roses. - -You see things, my dear Sir, with the faithful eye which looks, through -nature, up to Nature’s God--the sacred page is your support--the word -of God your shield and armour--well may you be able so sweetly to -deduce good out of evil--the Lord ordereth your goings--and gives the -blessings of increase to all your wishes. For your kind anxiety about -me and family, we bless and thank you.--I own, at first I felt uneasy -sensations--but a little reflection brought me to myself.--Put thy -trust in God, quoth I.--Mrs. Sancho, whose virtues out-number my vices -(and I have enough for any one mortal), feared for me and for her -children more than for herself.--She prayed too, I dare say--and her -prayers were heard. - -America seems to be quite lost or forgot among us;--the fleet is -but a secondary affair.--Pray God send us some good news, to chear -our drooping apprehensions, and to enable me to send you pleasanter -accounts;--for trust me, my worthy friend, grief, sorrow, devastation, -blood, and slaughter, are totally foreign to the taste and affection of - - Your faithful friend - and obliged servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Our joint best wishes to Mrs. S----, self, and family. - - - - -LETTER CXXXVII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - June 15, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -I AM exceeding happy to inform you, that at twelve this noon Lord L---- -arrived express from Sir H-- C----, with the pleasing news, that, on -the 12th of April, Charles Town with its dependencies capitulated -to his Majesty’s arms, with the loss of 200 men on our side: by -which fortunate event, five ships of war, besides many frigates, and -one thousand seamen, were captured; and seven thousand military, -which compose the garrison.--You will have pleasure, I am sure, in -finding so little blood shed--and in the hope of its accelerating the -so-much-wished-for peace. Inclosed is a list of the prisoners, which -is from Lord Lincoln’s account--at least I am confidently told so--and -more than that, it is said the late terrible riot was on a plan -concerted between the French and Americans--upon which their whole hope -of success was founded--they expected universal bankruptcy would be the -consequence, with despair and every sad concomitant in its train. By -God’s goodness, we have escaped. May we deserve so great mercy! - - Prays sincerely yours, - - I. SANCHO. - - -The Gazette will not be out in time, but you shall have one to-morrow -without fail.--As soon as this news was announced, the Tower and Park -guns confirmed it--the guards encamped in the Parks fired each a grand -_feu de joye_--to-night we blaze in illuminations--and to-morrow get -up as poor and discontented as ever. I wish, dear Sir, very much to -hear Mrs. S---- is quite recovered--it would indicate more than a -common want of feeling, were not my wife and self anxious for the -health and repose of such very rare friends.--Indulge us, do, dear Sir, -with a single line, that we may joy in your joy upon her amendment, -or join our wishes with yours to the God of mercy and love, for her -speedy recovery.--I inclose you an evening paper--there is not much -in it. Upon consideration, I have my doubts concerning the French -and Americans being so deep in the plan of our late riots;--there -requires, I think, a kind of supernatural knowledge to adjust their -motions so critically--but you can judge far better than my weak -intellects;--therefore I will not pretend to affirm any thing for -truth, except my sincere desire to approve myself most gratefully - - Your obliged servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXXXVIII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - June 16, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -AS a supplement to my last--this is to tell you a piece of private -news--which gives ministry high hopes in the future. General -Washington, who was anxiously watching Sir H. Clinton, no sooner saw -with certainty his intention, but he struck his camp, and made the -most rapid march to New York--they expected it;--but, as he was in -superior force, they felt their danger.--Sir H. Clinton, as soon as -he could possibly settle the garrison of Charles Town, embarked with -seven thousand men, and got to New York in time to save it;--and -if he can possibly bring Washington to a battle, it is thought the -fate of America will be soon decided.--Thank God! the sky clears in -that quarter--but we look rather louring at home.--Ministry wish -now too plainly to disarm the subjects. Last year, under dread of -French invasion, the good people were thanked for their military -favour.--Master tradesmen armed their journeymen and apprentices--and -the serjeants of the guards absolutely made little fortunes in teaching -grown gentlemen of all descriptions their exercise--in fancied -uniforms, and shining arms, they marched to the right, wheeled to the -left, and looked battle-proof;--but now, it seems, they are not only -useless, but offensive. How the affair will end, God only knows!--I -do not like its complexion.--Government has ordered them to give up -their arms. If they do, where is British liberty? If they refuse, -what is Administration? Many are gentlemen of large property--Inns -of Court Members, Lawyers, &c. dangerous people.--Time will unveil -the whole--May its lenient powers pour the balm of healing councils -on this once glorious spot!--and make it as heretofore the nurse of -freedom--Europe’s fairest example--the land of truth, bravery, loyalty, -and of every heart-gladdening virtue! That you and Mrs. S---- may, -surrounded with friends, and in the enjoyment of every good, live to -see the completion of my wishes--is the concluding prayer of, - - Dear Sir, - Yours ever, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXXXIX. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - June 19, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -I AM sorry to hear by brother O---- that Mrs. S---- yet continues but -poorly--may she be soon perfectly well--and health attend you both! We -remain pretty quiet--the military are so judiciously placed, that in -fact the whole town (in despight of its magnitude) is fairly overawed -and commanded by them. His M----y went this day to the house--and gave -them the very best speech, in my opinion, of his whole life: I have the -pleasure to inclose it.--If I err in judgement, I know you more the -true candid friend, than the severe critic--and that you will smile at -the mistake of the head, and do justice to the heart, of - - Your ever obliged, - - I. SANCHO. - - -There is a report, that the Quebec fleet, escorted by two frigates, -are entirely captured by a French squadron.--I hope this will prove -premature. - - - - -LETTER CXL. - -TO MR. J---- W----E. - - - Charles Street, Westm. June 23, 1780. - - MY DEAR FRIEND, - -HOW do you do? is the blessing of health upon you? do you eat -moderately? drink temperately, and laugh heartily? sleep soundly? -converse carefully with one eye to pleasure, the other fixed upon -improvement? The above is the hope and wish of thy friend, friend to -thy house, and respecter of its character.--You, happy young man, by as -happy a coincidence of fortune, are like to be the head of the W---- -family:--may riches visit you, coupled with honour and honesty!--and -then sweet peace of mind shall yield you a dignity--which kings have -not power to confer:--then will you experience that the self-ennobled -are the only true noble:--then will you truly feel those beautiful -lines of Pope: - - “One self-approving hour whole years outweighs - “Of idle starers, or of loud huzza’s; - “What can ennoble sots, or slaves, or cowards? - “Alas! not all the blood of all the Howards.” - -Your father, I trust, will send you some public prints, in which -he will see the blessed temper of the times:--we are (but do not -be frightened), or at least two thirds of us, run mad--through too -much religion;--our religion has swallowed up our charity--and the -fell demon Persecution is become the sacred idol of the once free, -enlightened, generous Britons.--You will read with wonder and horror -the sad, sad history of eight such days as I wish from my soul could be -annihilated out of Time’s records for ever. - -That poor wretched young man I once warned you of is (I find from -under his own hand) now resident at Calcutta:--’tis not in the power -of friendship to serve a man who will in no one instance care for -himself:--so I wish you not to know him--but whatever particulars you -can collaterally glean of him, I shall esteem it a favour if you would -transmit them to - - Your sincere friend, - - IGNATIUS SANCHO. - - -Mrs. Sancho joins me cordially in every wish for your good. - - - - -LETTER CXLI. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - June 27, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -THERE is news this day arrived, which, I believe, may be depended -upon--that Rodney brought the French admiral to a second engagement -about the 26th of May; it unluckily fell calm, or the affair would have -been decisive.--The van of Rodney, however, got up to Mons. Guichen’s -fleet’s rear, and gave it a hearty welcome.--Rodney still keeps the -seas, and prevents the French fleet getting into Martinique.--The -account says, the enemy had the advantage of six ships of the line more -than Rodney;--and a report runs current, that Walsingham has fallen-in -with the Dominica fleet, consisting of thirty merchantmen and two -frigates, and taken most of them--but this wants confirmation.--Dear -Sir, I hope Mrs. S---- is better than mending--quite well--to whom -our most sincere respects.--Your order, good Sir, is compleated, and, -please God, will be delivered to to-morrow’s waggon. - -Excuse my scrawling hand--in truth my eyes fail me; I feel myself since -last winter an old man all at once--the failure of eyes--the loss of -teeth--the thickness of hearing--are all messengers sent in mercy and -love, to turn our thoughts to the important journey which kings and -great men seldom think about:--it is for such as you to meditate on -time and eternity with true pleasure--looking back, you have very much -to comfort you;--looking forward, you have all to hope.--As I have -reason to respect you in this life, may I and mine be humble witnesses -in the next of the exceeding weight of bliss and glory poured out -without measure upon thee and thine! - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXLII. - -TO MR. O----. - - - July 1, 1780. - - DEAR BROTHER, - -SHALL I rejoice or condole with you upon this new acquaintance you -have made? How the devil it found you out, I cannot imagine--I suppose -the father of mischief sent it to some richer neighbour at a greater -house; but as Johnny O---- was a character better known, and much more -esteemed, the gout thought he might as well just take a peep at F----m, -liked the place, and the man of the place--and so, nestling into -your shoe, quite forgot his real errand:--thy guardian angel watched -the whole procedure--quoth he, “I cannot wholly avert evils--but I -can turn them into blessings.--This transitory pain shall not only -refine his blood, and cleanse him from other disorders--it shall also -lengthen his life, and purify his heart:--the hour of affliction is -the seed-time of reflection--the good shall greatly over-balance the -evil.”----As I am unfortunately an adept in the gout, I ought to send -you a cart-load of cautions and advice--talk nonsense about tight -shoes, &c. with a farrago of stuff more teazing than the pain;--but I -hear the ladies visit you--and, what’s better, friendship in the shape -of Messieurs S----k and B----n were seen to enter the palace of F----. -I supped last night with Dr. R----, where your health was drunk, and -your gout pretty freely canvassed. - - God orders all for the best. - Yours, &c. - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXLIII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - July 5, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -I RECEIVED yours this morning from the hands of a gentleman, who would -not stay to be thanked for the invaluable letter he brought me.--You -truly say, that cold lowness of spirits engenders melancholy thoughts; -for my part, I should be a most ungrateful being to repine--for I have -known good health--and even now, though not well, far from being ill, -and have the friendship of Mr. S----, and one or two more who do honour -to human nature.--But the purpose of this scrawl is to confirm to you a -piece of good news this day arrived--which is, that both the Carolinas, -and best part of Virginia, are all come in to their allegiance.--The -back settlers have rose, and mustered the reluctant:--thus the three -richest and strongest provinces are now in the King’s peace--for which, -God make us thankful. - -Adieu, dear Sir.--Mrs. Sancho (whose eyes kindle with pleasure while -she speaks) begs to be joined with me in the most respectful manner to -Mrs. S---- and yourself--hope Mrs. S---- is quite as well as you can -wish her. - - I am ever yours, - Dear Sir, to command, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXLIV. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Charles Street, August 18, 1780. - - MY DEAR AND HON. SIR, - -MY long silence was the effect of a dearth of news:--I could have -wrote, it’s true--but you would have ill relished a mass of thanks -upon favours received.--Minds like yours diffuse blessings around; and, -like parent heaven, rest satisfied with the heart.--Your goodness, -dear Sir, is registered there--and death will not expunge it.--No; it -will travel to the throne of grace, and the Almighty will not wrong -you.--I am just risen from table with my friend R----, and we have -toasted you most cordially in conjunction with the amiable partner of -your heart, whom I hope in some happy time to see--I may say, hunger -and thirst to see--it’s the wish of my heart.--Providence has indulged -me with many, and I will hope for the completion of this.--But to -the point:--a gentleman in administration (with whom I am upon good -terms) about an hour since called upon me, to give me some fresh news -just arrived from Admiral Geary’s fleet--an engagement between a new -French frigate, pierced for 44 guns, mounting 32, called the Nymphe, -and the Flora English frigate, Capt. Peere Williams[17], of 36 guns; -the Flora was peeping into Brest harbour, when the Nymphe was coming -out full of men;--they were both in the right mind for engagement--to -it they went--the Frenchman began the affair at two cables length -distance.--Williams reserved his fire till they were within -half-cable’s length--it lasted with the obstinacy of two enraged lions -for above two hours.--A French cutter came up to teaze, but was sent -off soon with a belly-full:--at last the French captain, at the head -of his men, attempted boarding--when our English hero met him--ran him -through the body--drove back his men--put them under hatches--struck -the colours--when she was on fire in four different places.--This -affair happened the 10th ult. and he has gallantly brought his prize -into Plymouth.--This is the greatest affair, take the number of guns, -men &c. altogether, that has happened this war. I am sorry to remark, -that if the French fleets in general behave so well, it will be a -service of danger to meddle with them. - -When Capt. Williams had conquered the crew, they found sixty dead upon -deck;--the two ships exhibited a scene more like a slaughter-house, -than any thing imaginable--These, oh Christians! are the features of -war--and thus Most Christian Kings and Defenders of Faith shew their -zeal and love for the dying commands of their Divine Master.--Oh! -friend, may every felicity be thine, and those beloved by thee! may the -heartfelt sigh arise only at the tale of foreign woes!--May that sacred -tear of pity bedew the cheek for misfortunes only such as humanity may -soften!--Mrs. Sancho joins me in sincere and grateful respects to Mrs. -S---- and self. - - Yours truly, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Sancho begs his respects to Mr. and Mrs. C----; love to Sir J-- O----. -and all who enquire after Blackamoors. - -[17] Capt. Peere Williams is first cousin to Lady N----; and he will - not fare the worse for that. - - - - -LETTER CXLV. - -TO MRS. C----. - - - Charles Street, Sept. 7, 1780. - -MY greatly esteemed and honoured friend, if my pen doth justice in any -sort to my feelings, this letter will not be a complimentary one.--I -look upon such letters as I do upon the ladies winter nosegays, a -choice display of vivid colouring, but no sweetness.--My friend Mr. -R---- says, I stand condemned in the opinions of two ladies for an -omittance in writing: believe me, my sorrow for incurring the censure -is much more real than the crime; for when the heart is overcharged -with worldly care, the mind bending also to the pressure of afflictive -visitations--add to that the snow-tipt hairs announcing fifty odd--the -fire of fancy is quite extinguished.--Alas! alas! such being the true -state of the case--I dare abide by the jury of your noble and equitable -hearts, to be brought in not guilty. The shew of hands was greatly -in favour of Mr. C---- F--x and Sir G---- R----y; they will carry it -all to nothing, is the opinion of the knowing--Lord L---- met with a -coarse reception, at which he was a little displeased.--Mr. B--g spoke -like the pupil of eloquence;--but the glorious F--x was the father and -school of oratory himself--the Friend! the Patron! the Example!--There -now.--I attended the hustings from ten to half past two--gave my free -vote to the Honourable C---- J---- F--x and to Sir G---- R----y; -hobbled home full of pain and hunger.--What followed after, you shall -know in my next. At present I have only to declare myself - - Yours and Miss C----’s - most obedient, faithful, - humble servant, - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXLVI. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Sept. 9, 1780. - -WE are all election-bewitched here--I hope Sir C---- B---- meets -with no opposition--he is so worthy a character, that, should he be -ill supported, it would impeach the good sense and honesty of his -constituents.--Mrs. S---- and yourself, I pray God, may both enjoy -health and every good.--I here inclose you this evening’s paper, by -which you will see how the F--x is like to lead Ad----n. He and Sir -G---- B---- R---- had my hearty vote, and I had the honour of his -thanks personally, and in writing also. I have to thank you for a -thousand kind things, which I wish from my soul I could any way ever -deserve. May health and every blessing bestrew your paths--and those of -all you love!--is the prayer and wish of - - Your much obliged - humble servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CXLVII. - -TO MISS C----. - - - Saturday, Sept. 9, 1780. - - DEAR MISS, - -I HAVE the honour to address you upon a very interesting, serious, -critical subject.--Do not be alarmed! it is an affair which I have -had at heart some days past--it has employed my meditations more than -my prayers.--Now, I protest, I feel myself in the most aukward of -situations--but it must out--and so let it.--But how does my good, -my half-adored Mrs. C----? and how does Miss A----? and when did you -see my worthy Mrs. R----? Are they all well, and happy as friendship -could wish them? How is the Doctor and Beau S----, all well?--Well, -thank God--and you and your dear self are well? Honey, and was not Lord -N---- an Irish title? true, but the chield is Scotch born.--Pray give -my best affections to Mrs. C----, and acquaint her with the state -of the poll for the ancient city and liberty of Westminster, which I -inclose. I would not wish you to mention what I so boldly advanced in -the beginning of this letter.--No; let it die away like a miser’s hope. - - Your most obedient, - most humble servant, - I remain, dear Miss C----, - - I. SANCHO. - - -The remainder in our next. - - - - -LETTER CXLVIII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Sept. 23, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -I RECEIVED this evening one of the kindest letters that ever friendship -dictated--for which I rejoice that the time draws near, when I shall -have the delight to amend my health--and see the few true good -friends--such as my soul delighteth to honour.--I inclose you an -evening paper.--Thank God! although the people have been a little -irritated, every thing appears quiet, and I hope will remain so. The -week after next, I hope to see the good Mrs. S---- and your worthy -self, to whom Mrs. Sancho joins me in best wishes. - - I am, dear Sir, - Your most obedient - humble servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - -The principal business I had to write about had like to have escaped -me, which is your kindness in offering your house for head-quarters; -which I would embrace, had not brother O---- the right of priority. - - - - -LETTER CXLIX. - -TO DOCTOR N--F--D. - - - Charles Street, Westm. Oct. 13, 1780. - - HONOURED SIR, - -WERE I to omit my thanks--poor as they are--for a single post--your -honest and more sensible dog would be ashamed of me. - - “A merciful man is good to his beasts.” - -The friendly hand which strokes and rewards his attentions, that same -friendly hand has prescribed for my good--and under God has much -benefited my health;--the eye of kindness, which animates the poor -animal to deeds almost beyond instinct, hath beamed upon me also, and -given me the pleasing assurance of new health.--I wish, dear Sir, for -just as much credit in the point of gratitude, as you will allow to -fall to the share of any poor honest dog.--For so much, and no more, -prayeth, dear Sir, - - Your most obedient - and grateful servant, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CL. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Friday, Oct 13, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -I SHOULD esteem myself too happy, were I at this moment certain that -Mrs. S---- were as much better as I find myself;--but when I consider -the professional skill, as well as the interest Dr. N---- has in the -welfare of you and yours, I sit down satisfied, in full hope that -Mrs. S---- is at this moment better--much better--and, as one spirit -animates you both, you are better too. May health diffuse itself -throughout thy house! and gladden all around it! I am better, my dear -Sir.--Tell my good Mrs. S----, I shall live to see her, and to thank -her too most cordially in my child’s name: for my part, your liberality -in constant flow has tired me out with thank-ye’s. Adieu, dear Sir.--I -never left a place with so much regret as you made me leave B---- -with;--nor ever met with the whole family of the Charities, but at thy -house.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in acknowledgements to self, good Mrs. -S----, and Dr. N--f--d. - - We are, dear Sir, - Yours gratefully, - - A. I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CLI. - -TO MR. S----. - - - Friday, Oct. 18, 1780. - -POOH, no, thou simpleton! I tell thee, I got no cold, neither is my -breath one jot the worse.--I wish I knew that you suffered as little -from break of rest, and raw air.--I am glad I have left you, for your -sake as well as my own, my dear Stee.--The corks flew out of thy -bottles in such rapid succession, that prudence and pity held a council -upon it.--Generosity stepped in, followed by a pert coxcomb, whom they -called Spirit--and God knows how the affair is to end.--I intend to -write a line to the worthies of your town, the good Mr. S-- and Dr. -N--f--d. O Stee! had I thy abilities, I would say what should credit -my feelings, though it fell far short of the merits of such friends to -mankind--and - - Your +IGN. SANCHO+, in particular. - - -Love and respects to thy generous scholars--the Greens--the Browns, &c. -&c. to reverends Mess. Prettyman, and the other gentleman with pretty -wife, whose name is deserted from the silly pate of thy true friend -Sancho.--I have not seen Mr. J---- H----; but they are all well, as Mr. -Anthony has just announced. - -Say handsomely to the Greens--and much as you please to the Prettymans. - - - - -LETTER CLII. - - - October 15, 1780. - - MY DEAR BOY, - -THIS is to thank you kindly for the affectionate mark of your -remembrance of your old friend. After a long tedious voyage, you -happily reached the haven of your repose--found your friends well--and -rejoiced their hearts by presenting, not a prodigal, but a duteous, -worthy, and obedient child;--theirs be the joy--but yours will be -the gain.--As sure as light follows the rising of the sun, and -darkness the setting of it;--so sure is goodness even in this life -its own reward of course. You are in the militia--that will do you no -harm;--spirit and true courage in defence of our country is naturally -and nobly employed.--We are in the upper world playing the old foolish -game--in the same foolish way--and with the same foolish set that -trod the ministerial boards when you left us. Your friend D---- tries -expedients, and gets nothing;--he is very deep in my debt; but as he -has nothing, I can expect nothing--for I never will consent to do that -to others, I would not they should do unto me.--N---- does better, -and grows proud--I wish him joy.--My dear youth, be proud of nothing -but an honest heart.--Let the sacred oracles be your morn and evening -counsellors--so shall you truly enjoy life, and smile at the approach -of death.--I have been exceedingly ill since you left us;--but, thank -God! I have got a fair fit of the gout, which will, I hope, cleanse me -from my whole budget of complaints.--I shall live, I hope, till your -good present arrives;--and then I shall live indeed.--Send the girls -some cherry nuts, if easy to be procured.--Mrs. S---- joins me in love, -good-will, and good wishes for thy peace, health, and prosperity. Adieu. - - Yours affectionately, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CLIII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Nov. 1, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -I TRUST, in God’s good providence, this will find Mrs. S-- in perfect -health; and you so well, that it shall remain a doubt which is -heartiest.--I am in the way of being well--the gout in both feet and -legs--I go upon all-fours--the conflict has been sharp; I hope the end -is near--I never remembered them to have swelled so much.--I believe my -preserver, Dr. N--f--d, would allow it to be a decent fit;--my grateful -respects attend him: the issue is deferred till the gout subsides, and -I find my breath somewhat better; but I can find no position easy.--I -inclose you the topic of the day.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in every wish -for the felicity of our much-loved friends, yourself, and better self. - - IGN. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CLIV. - -TO MRS. O----. - - - Charles Street, Westm. Nᵒ. 19, Nov. 5, 1780. - - DEAR SISTER, - -I PRAY thee accept the inclosed as a mite of thanks and gratitude for -the tender care and true friendly obligingness, which a wife could -only equal, and which I never expected to find from home.--I feel and -acknowledge your kindness--_that_, and the _uncommon_ goodness of some -of the best of human nature, shall be cherished in my heart while it -continues to beat.--Every body tells me I am better--and what every -one says must be true;--for my part, I feel a very slow amendment; my -cough is pretty stubborn; my breath very little better; body weak as -water--add to this, a smart gout in both legs and feet.--Your sister -joins me in love and repeated thanks for all favours to her poor, -worn-out, old man, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CLV. - -TO J. S----, ESQ. - - - Nov. 18, 1780. - - MY DEAR SIR, - -IT is a week this blessed day since that I ought, according to every -rule of gratitude, love, and zeal, to have thanked my best friends for -a plenty of some of the best wine, which came in the best time true -kindness could have contrived it.--I should also have congratulated -the many anxious hearts upon the happy recovery of yourself, and my -thrice good Mrs. S----. I waited from post to post, to send a tolerable -account of myself--the gout has used me like a tyrant--and my asthma, -if possible, worse--I have swelled gradually all over.--What a sight! -Dr. J--bb will not suffer me to make an issue yet, as he would not wish -to disturb the gout. In truth, my best friend, I never truly knew -illness till this bout.--Your goodness greatly lessened my anxiety.--I -find in it the continual flow of more than parental kindness:--as God -gave the heart, he must and alone can give the reward!--Our joint best -love, and most respectful thanks, attend you both, from - - Yours gratefully, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CLVI. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Charles Street, Nov. 17, 1780. - -MY friend, patron, preserver! were the mind alone sick, God never -created, since the blessed Apostles days, a better physician than -thyself--either singly, or in happy _partnership_ with the best of -women--not only so, but your blessed zeal, like the Samaritan’s, -forgetful of self-wants, poureth the wine and oil, and binding up the -wounds of worldly sickness--then leaving with reluctance the happy -object of thy care to the mercy of an interested host, with money in -hand you cry--“Call help, spare no expence, and when I return, I will -repay you.”--Indulge me, my noble friend, I have seen the priest, and -the Levite, _after many years knowledge_, snatch a hasty look; then, -with averted face, pursue their different routes: and yet these good -folks pray, turn up their eyes to that Heaven they daily insult, and -take more pains to preserve the appearances of virtue, than would -suffice to make them good in earnest.--You see, my good Sir, by the -galloping of my pen, that I am much mended.--I have been intolerably -plagued with a bilious colic, which, after three days excruciating -torments, gave way to mutton-fat-broth clysters.--I am now (bating the -swelling of my legs and ancles) much mended--air and exercise is all I -want--but the fogs and damps are woefully against me.--Mrs. Sancho, who -reads, weeps, and wonders, as the various passions impel, says, she is -sure the merits of your house would save B----, were the rest of the -inhabitants ever so bad;--she joins me in every grateful thought.--In -good truth, I have not language to express my feelings. Dr. R---- -hurries me. Blessed couple, adieu! - - Yours, - - I. SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CLVII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Charles Street, Dec. 1, 1780. - -WHY joy in the extreme should end painfully, I cannot find out--but -that it does so, I will ever seriously maintain. When I read the -effusions of goodness, my head turned;--but when I came to consider the -extensive and expensive weight and scope of the contents, my reason -reeled, and idiotism took possession of me--till the friendly tears, -washing away the mills of doubt, presented you to me as beings of a -purer, happier order--which God in his mercy perhaps suffers to be -scattered here and there--thinly--that the lucky few who know them may, -at the same time, know what man in his original state was intended -to be.--I gave your generous request a fair hearing--the two first -proposed places would kill me, except (and that is impossible) Mrs. -Sancho was with me. - -Inclination strongly points to the land of friendship--where goodness -ever blossoms--and where N--f--d heals. At present I take nothing, but -am trying for a few days what honest Nature, unperplexed by Art, will -do for me.--I am pretty much swelled still; but I take short airings in -the near stages, such as Greenwich, Clapham, Newington, &c. &c. Walking -kills me. The mind--the mind, my ever dear and honoured friends--the -mind requires her lullaby;--she must have rest ere the body can be in -a state of comfort, she must enjoy peace, and that must be found in -still repose of family and home. Mrs. Sancho, who speaks by her tears, -says what I will not pretend to decypher;--I believe she most fervently -recommends you to that Being who best knows you--for he gave you your -talents. My most grateful and affectionate respects, joined with Mrs. -Sancho’s, attend the good Mrs. S----, thyself, and all thy connexions. -I cannot say how much we are obliged to you; but certainly we were -never so much nor so undeservingly obliged to any before. God keep you -in all your doings--prays thine, - - SANCHO. - - - - -LETTER CLVIII. - -TO J---- S----, ESQ. - - - Dec. 7, 1780. - - DEAR SIR, - -I AM doubly and trebly happy, that I can in some measure remove the -anxiety of the best couple in the universe. I set aside all thanks--for -were I to enter into the feelings of my heart for the past and present, -I should fill the sheet: but you would not be pleased.--In good truth, -I have been exceeding ill--my breath grew worse--and the dropsy made -large strides.--I left off medicine by consent for four or five days, -swelled immoderately:--the good Dr. N--f--d eighty miles distant--and -Dr. J--bb heartily puzzled through the darkness of his patient--I began -to feel alarm--when, looking into your letter, I found a Dr. S--th -recommended by yourself. I enquired--his character is great--but for -lungs and dropsy, Sir John E--t, physician extraordinary and ordinary -to his Majesty, is reckoned the first. I applied to him on Sunday -morning--he received me like Dr. N--f--d;--I have faith in him.--My -poor belly is so distended, that I write with pain--I hope next week to -write with more ease. My dutiful respects await Mrs. S---- and self, to -which Mrs. Sancho begs to be joined by her loving husband, and - - Your most grateful friend, - - I. SANCHO. - - -Mr. Sancho died December 14. - - - - -FINIS. - - - - -Transcriber's Notes - - -The following changes have been made to the text as printed: - -1. Footnotes have been located immediately below the letter within -which they occur, and marked numerically. - -2. Apparent typographical errors have been changed. - -3. To avoid an excessively long line, a line break has been inserted -after "loungibuss--" near the start of Letter LI (Page 132). - -4. The subheading for Letter XCII (Page 242) has been corrected -from "TO MR. H----." to "TO MRS. H----." - - -The following anomalies in the printed text are noted, but no change -has been made: - -1. Variable, archaic and inconsistent spelling, punctuation and -hyphenation have been left unchanged, apart from apparent typographical -errors. - -2. Dashes vary in length. Shorter dashes have been rendered as --, and -longer dashes as ----. - -3. Letter LIV (Page 144) contains a sequence of spaced hyphens, -which have been reproduced as printed. - -4. There are two successive letters headed LETTER LXVIII (Pages -186 and 195), the second letter being out of date order. - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LETTERS OF THE LATE IGNATIUS -SANCHO, AN AFRICAN *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm -concept and trademark. 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} -div.footnote .label { display: inline-block; width: 4em; font-size: 80%; - text-indent: 1em; text-align: left; } - -/* Poetry */ -.poetry-container {text-align: center;} -.poetry {text-align: left; margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%;} -/* uncomment the next line for centered poetry in browsers */ -/* .poetry {display: inline-block;} */ -.poetry .stanza {margin: 1em auto; font-size: 85%;} -.poetry .verse {text-indent: -3em; padding-left: 3em;} -/* large inline blocks don't split well on paged devices */ -@media print { .poetry {display: block;} } -.x-ebookmaker .poetry {display: block;} - -/* Boxes */ -div.tnbox { background-color:#C4F8E1; border:0.25em solid silver; - padding: 0.5em; margin:2em 10% 0 10%; } - -/* Poetry indents */ -.poetry .indent2 {text-indent: -2em;} - - </style> - </head> - - - -<body> -<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Letters of the Late Ignatius Sancho, an African, by Ignatius Sancho</p> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Letters of the Late Ignatius Sancho, an African</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em;'>To which are Prefixed, Memoirs of his Life</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Ignatius Sancho</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: December 8, 2021 [eBook #66908]</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: Tim Lindell and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.)</p> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LETTERS OF THE LATE IGNATIUS SANCHO, AN AFRICAN ***</div> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="Cover image" class="w100" /> -</div> -<div class="tnbox noindentcenter"> -<p class="sp2">The cover image was created by the transcriber, and is in the public domain.</p> -</div> -<!-- Autogenerated TOC --> - -<div class="section noindent"> -<p class="sp4"> -<a href="#ADVERTISEMENT">ADVERTISEMENT.</a><br /> -<a href="#LIFE">THE LIFE OF IGNATIUS SANCHO.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_I">LETTER I. TO MR. J— W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_II_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER II. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_III_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER III. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_IV_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER IV. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_V_TO_MR_K_mdash">LETTER V. TO MR. K——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_VI">LETTER VI. TO MRS. F——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_VII_TO_EDWARD_YOUNG_ESQ">LETTER VII. TO EDWARD YOUNG, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_VIII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER VIII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_IX_TO_MR_K_mdash">LETTER IX. TO MR. K——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_X_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER X. TO MISS L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XI_TO_MR_S_mdashN">LETTER XI. TO MR. S——N.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XII_TO_MRS_H_mdash">LETTER XII. TO MRS. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XIII_TO_MR_B_mdash">LETTER XIII. TO MR. B——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XIV_TO_MR_S_mdashE">LETTER XIV. TO MR. S——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XV_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XV. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XVI_TO_MRS_H_mdash">LETTER XVI. TO MRS. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XVII_TO_MRS_H_mdash">LETTER XVII. TO MRS. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XVIII_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER XVIII. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XIX_TO_MRS_C_mdash">LETTER XIX. TO MRS. C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XX_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER XX. TO MISS L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXI_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER XXI. TO MISS L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXII_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER XXII. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXIII_TO_MRS_C_mdash">LETTER XXIII. TO MRS. C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXIV_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER XXIV. TO MISS L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXV_TO_MR_B_mdash">LETTER XXV. TO MR. B——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXVI_TO_MRS_C_mdash">LETTER XXVI. TO MRS. C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXVII_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER XXVII. TO MISS L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXVIII_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER XXVIII. TO MISS. L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXIX_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER XXIX. TO MISS L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXX_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER XXX. TO MISS L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXI_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER XXXI. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXII_TO_MR_L_mdash">LETTER XXXII. TO MR. L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXIII_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER XXXIII. TO MISS L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXIV_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XXXIV. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXV_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER XXXV. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXVI_TO_MR_STERNE">LETTER XXXVI. TO MR. STERNE.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXVII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XXXVII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXVIII_TO_MR_K_mdash">LETTER XXXVIII. TO MR. K——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XXXIX_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XXXIX. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XL_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XL. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLI_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XLI. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XLII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#For_THE_GENERAL_ADVERTISER1">For THE GENERAL ADVERTISER.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLIII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XLIII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLIV_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XLIV. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLV_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XLV. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLVI_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XLVI. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLVII_TO_MISS_C_mdash">LETTER XLVII. TO MISS C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLVIII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XLVIII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XLIX_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER XLIX. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_L_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER L. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LI_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER LI. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LII_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER LII. TO MR. R.——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LIII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER LIII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LIV_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER LIV. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LV_TO_MRS_C_mdash">LETTER LV. TO MRS. C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LVI_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER LVI. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LVII_TO_J_S_mdash_Esq">LETTER LVII. TO J. S——, Esq.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LVIII_TO_MR_F_mdash">LETTER LVIII. TO MR. F——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LIX_TO_MR_W_mdashE">LETTER LIX. TO MR. W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#For_THE_GENERAL_ADVERTISER2">For THE GENERAL ADVERTISER.</a><br /> -<a href="#To_the_Editor_of_the_MORNING_POST">To the Editor of the MORNING POST.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LX_TO_MRS_H_mdash">LETTER LX. TO MRS. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXI_TO_MR_J_mdash_WmdashmdashE">LETTER LXI. TO MR. J—— W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXII_TO_MISS_C_mdash">LETTER LXII. TO MISS C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#From_the_PUBLIC_ADVERTISER_of_May_13th_1778">From the PUBLIC ADVERTISER of May 13th, 1778.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXIII_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER LXIII. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXIV_TO_MISS_C_mdash">LETTER LXIV. TO MISS C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXV_TO_MR_I_mdash">LETTER LXV. TO MR. I——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXVI_TO_MR_H_mdash">LETTER LXVI. TO MR. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXVII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER LXVII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXVIII_TO_MR_J_mdash_Wmdashmdash">LETTER LXVIII. TO MR. J—— W——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXVIII_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER LXVIII. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXIX_TO_MRS_C_mdash">LETTER LXIX. TO MRS. C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXX_TO_MR_K_mdash">LETTER LXX. TO MR. K——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXI_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER LXXI. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXII_TO_MISS_C_mdash">LETTER LXXII. TO MISS C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXIII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER LXXIII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXIV_TO_MISS_C_mdash">LETTER LXXIV. TO MISS C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXV_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER LXXV. TO MR. S——,</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXVI_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER LXXVI. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXVII_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER LXXVII. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXVIII_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER LXXVIII. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXIX_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER LXXIX. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXX_TO_MR_I_mdash">LETTER LXXX. TO MR. I——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER LXXXI. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXII_TO_MR_F_mdash">LETTER LXXXII. TO MR. F——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXIII_TO_MRS_I_mdash">LETTER LXXXIII. TO MRS I——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXIV_TO_MRS_H_mdash">LETTER LXXXIV. TO MRS. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXV_TO_MR_G_mdash">LETTER LXXXV. TO MR. G——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXVI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER LXXXVI. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXVII_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER LXXXVII. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXVIII_TO_MR_W_mdashE">LETTER LXXXVIII. TO MR. W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_LXXXIX_TO_MR_L_mdash">LETTER LXXXIX. TO MR. L——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XC_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER XC. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER XCI. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCII_TO_MR_H_mdash">LETTER XCII. TO MR. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER XCIII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCIV_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XCIV. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCV_TO_MR_I_mdash">LETTER XCV. TO MR. I——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCVI_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XCVI. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCVII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER XCVII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCVIII_TO_MRS_C_mdash">LETTER XCVIII. TO MRS. C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_XCIX_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER XCIX. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_C_TO_MR_I_mdash">LETTER C. TO MR. I——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CI_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER CI. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER CII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CIII_TO_MRS_W_mdashE">LETTER CIII. TO MRS. W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CIV_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER CIV. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CV_TO_MISS_L_mdash">LETTER CV. TO MISS. L——,</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CVI_TO_MR_I_mdash">LETTER CVI. TO MR. I——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CVII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER CVII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CVIII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER CVIII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CIX_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER CIX. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CX_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER CX. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXI_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER CXI. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXII_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER CXII. TO MR S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXIII_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER CXIII. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXIV_TO_I_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXIV. TO I—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXV_TO_THE_REV_MR_S_mdash">LETTER CXV. TO THE REV. MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXVI_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER CXVI. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXVII_TO_D_mdash_BmdashmdashE_ESQ">LETTER CXVII. TO D—— B——E, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXVIII_TO_MR_B_mdash">LETTER CXVIII. TO MR. B——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXIX_TO_MR_B_mdash">LETTER CXIX. TO MR. B——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXX_TO_MRS_M_mdash">LETTER CXX. TO MRS. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXI_TO_MR_W_mdashE">LETTER CXXI. TO MR. W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXII_TO_D_B_mdashE_ESQ">LETTER CXXII. TO D. B——E, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXIII_TO_MR_I_mdash">LETTER CXXIII. TO MR. I——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXIV_TO_MR_R_mdash">LETTER CXXIV. TO MR. R——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXV_TO_mdash_MR_Smdashmdash">LETTER CXXV. TO —— MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXVI_TO_MR_J_mdash_WmdashmdashE">LETTER CXXVI. TO MR. J—— W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXVII_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER CXXVII. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXVIII_TO_MR_M_mdash">LETTER CXXVIII. TO MR. M——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXIX_TO_MR_W_mdashE">LETTER CXXIX. TO MR. W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXX_TO_MRS_H_mdash">LETTER CXXX. TO MRS. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXI_For_the_General_Advertiser">LETTER CXXXI. For the <span class="smcap">General Advertiser</span>.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXII_TO_MRS_H_mdash">LETTER CXXXII. TO MRS. H——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXXXIII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXIV_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXXXIV. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXV_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXXXV. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXVI_TO_J_S_mdash_ESQ">LETTER CXXXVI. TO J. S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXVII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXXXVII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXVIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXXXVIII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXXXIX_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXXXIX. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXL_TO_MR_J_mdash_WmdashmdashE">LETTER CXL. TO MR. J—— W——E.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXLI. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLII_TO_MR_O_mdash">LETTER CXLII. TO MR. O——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXLIII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLIV_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXLIV. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLV_TO_MRS_C_mdash">LETTER CXLV. TO MRS. C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLVI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXLVI. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLVII_TO_MISS_C_mdash">LETTER CXLVII. TO MISS C——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLVIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CXLVIII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CXLIX_TO_DOCTOR_N_FmdashD">LETTER CXLIX. TO DOCTOR N—F—D.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CL_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CL. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CLI_TO_MR_S_mdash">LETTER CLI. TO MR. S——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CLII">LETTER CLII.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CLIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CLIII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CLIV_TO_MRS_O_mdash">LETTER CLIV. TO MRS. O——.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CLV_TO_J_S_mdash_ESQ">LETTER CLV. TO J. S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CLVI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CLVI. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CLVII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CLVII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#LETTER_CLVIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ">LETTER CLVIII. TO J—— S——, ESQ.</a><br /> -<a href="#Transcribers_Notes">Transcriber's Notes</a><br /> - -<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. --> - -</p> -</div> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h1 class="center sp4"><span class="fs125 gesperrt3">LETTERS</span><br /><br /> -<span class="fs65 gesperrt1">OF THE LATE</span><br /><br /> -<span class="gesperrt1">IGNATIUS SANCHO,</span><br /><br /> -<span class="fs90 gesperrt2">AN AFRICAN</span>.</h1> -</div> - -<p class="center fs125 sp3">To which are prefixed,</p> - -<p class="center sp2 fs150 gesperrt1"><span class="smcap">MEMOIRS of his LIFE</span>.</p> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p><span class="figline1"><img src="images/dec_line.png" alt="" /></span></p> -</div> - -<p class="center fs125 gesperrt1"> -THE THIRD EDITION. -</p> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p><span class="figline2"><img src="images/dec_line.png" alt="" /></span></p> -</div> - -<p class="center fs125 sp3 gesperrt3">LONDON:</p> - -<p class="center sp1 gesperrt1">PRINTED BY J. NICHOLS;</p> -<p class="center sp05"><span class="smcap">And Sold by C. DILLY, in the POULTRY</span>.</p> - -<p class="center sp05 fs90">MDCCLXXXIV. -</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_iii">[p. iii]</span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak gesperrt2 fs125" id="ADVERTISEMENT">ADVERTISEMENT.</h2> -</div> - -<div class="noindent lh200"> -<p class="drop-capa0_15_0_6 sp2">T<span class="gesperrt1">HE</span> Editor of these Letters thinks -proper to obviate an objection, which -she finds has already been suggested, that they -were originally written with a view to publication. -She declares, therefore, that no such -idea was ever expressed by Mr. Sancho; and -that not a single letter is here printed from -any duplicate preserved by himself, but all -have been collected from the various friends -to whom they were addressed. Her motives -for laying them before the publick were, the -desire of shewing that an untutored African -may possess abilities equal to an European; -and the still superior motive, of wishing to -serve his worthy family. And she is happy -in thus publicly acknowledging she has not -found the world inattentive to the voice of -obscure merit.</p> -</div> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_v">[p. v]</span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LIFE"><span class="fs100 gesperrt3">THE LIFE</span><br /><br /> -<span class="fs80 gesperrt1">OF</span><br /><br /> -<span class="fs125 gesperrt1">IGNATIUS SANCHO.</span></h2> - -</div> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p><span class="figline2"><img src="images/dec_line.png" alt="" /></span></p> -</div> - -<div class="lh200 pvertsp"> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“Quamvis ille niger, quamvis tu candidus esses.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="right"> -<span class="smcap">Virgil. </span></p> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p class="firstpara">THE extraordinary Negro, whose Life I -am about to write, was born A. D. 1729, on -board a ship in the Slave trade, a few days -after it had quitted the coast of Guinea -for the Spanish West-Indies; and, at Carthagena, -he received from the hand of -the Bishop, Baptism, and the name of Ignatius.</p> -</div> - -<p>A disease of the new climate put an early -period to his mother’s existence; and his -father defeated the miseries of slavery by an -act of suicide.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_vi">[p. vi]</span></p> - -<p>At little more than two years old, his -master brought him to England, and gave -him to three maiden sisters, resident at -Greenwich; whose prejudices had unhappily -taught them, that African ignorance was the -only security for his obedience, and that to -enlarge the mind of their slave would go -near to emancipate his person. The petulance -of their disposition surnamed him Sancho, -from a fancied resemblance to the ’Squire -of Don Quixote.</p> - -<p>But a patron was at hand, whom Ignatius -Sancho had merit enough to conciliate at a -very early age.</p> - -<p>The late Duke of Montagu lived on -Blackheath: he accidentally saw the little -Negro, and admired in him a native frankness -of manner as yet unbroken by servitude, -and unrefined by education—he brought him -frequently home to the Duchess, indulged<span class="pagenum" id="Page_vii">[p. vii]</span> -his turn for reading with presents of books, -and strongly recommended to his mistresses -the duty of cultivating a genius of such apparent -fertility.</p> - -<p>His mistresses, however, were inflexible, -and even threatened on angry occasions to -return Ignatius Sancho to his African slavery. -The love of freedom had increased with -years, and began to beat high in his bosom.—Indignation, -and the dread of constant reproach -arising from the detection of an -amour, infinitely criminal in the eyes of -three Maiden Ladies, finally determined him -to abandon the family.</p> - -<p>His noble patron was recently dead.—Ignatius -flew to the Duchess for protection, -who dismissed him with reproof.—He retired -from her presence in a state of despondency -and stupefaction.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_viii">[p. viii]</span></p> - -<p>Enamoured still of that liberty, the scope -of whose enjoyment was now limited to his -last five shillings, and resolute to maintain it -with life, he procured an old pistol for -purposes which his father’s example had -suggested as familiar, and had sanctified as -hereditary.</p> - -<p>In this frame of mind the futility of remonstrance -was obvious. The Duchess secretly -admired his character; and at length -consented to admit him into her household, -where he remained as butler till her death, -when he found himself, by her Grace’s bequest -and his own œconomy, possessed of -seventy pounds in money, and an annuity of -thirty.</p> - -<p>Freedom, riches, and leisure, naturally -led a disposition of African texture into indulgences; -and that which dissipated the -mind of Ignatius completely drained the -purse. In his attachment to women, he displayed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_ix">[p. ix]</span> -a profuseness which not unusually -characterizes the excess of the passion.—Cards -had formerly seduced him; but an -unsuccessful contest at cribbage with a Jew, -who won his cloaths, had determined him -to abjure the propensity which appears to -be innate among his countrymen.—A French -writer relates, that in the kingdoms of -Ardrah, Whydah, and Benin, a Negro -will stake at play his fortune, his children, -and his liberty. Ignatius loved the theatre -to such a point of enthusiasm, that his last -shilling went to Drury-Lane, on Mr. Garrick’s -representation of Richard.—He had -been even induced to consider the stage as -a resource in the hour of adversity, and his -complexion suggested an offer to the manager -of attempting Othello and Oroonoko; -but a defective and incorrigible articulation -rendered it abortive.</p> - -<p>He turned his mind once more to service, -and was retained a few months by the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_x">[p. x]</span> -Chaplain at Montagu-house. That roof -had been ever auspicious to him; and the -present Duke soon placed him about his -person, where habitual regularity of life led -him to think of a matrimonial connexion, -and he formed one accordingly with a very -deserving young woman of West-Indian -origin.</p> - -<p>Towards the close of the year 1773, repeated -attacks of the gout and a constitutional -corpulence rendered him incapable -of farther attendance in the Duke’s family.</p> - -<p>At this crisis, the munificence which had -protected him through various vicissitudes -did not fail to exert itself; with the result -of his own frugality, it enabled him and his -wife to settle themselves in a shop of grocery, -where mutual and rigid industry decently -maintained a numerous family of -children, and where a life of domestic virtue<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xi">[p. xi]</span> -engaged private patronage, and merited -public imitation.</p> - -<p>In December, 1780, a series of complicated -disorders destroyed him.</p> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p><span class="figline3"><img src="images/dec_line.png" alt="" /></span></p> -</div> - -<p>Of a Negro, a Butler, and a Grocer, -there are but slender anecdotes to animate -the page of the biographer; but it has been -held necessary to give some sketch of the -very singular man, whose letters, with all -their imperfections on their head, are now -offered to the public.</p> - -<p>The display those writings exhibit of -epistolary talent, of rapid and just conception, -of wild patriotism, and of universal -philanthropy, may well apologize for the -protection of the great, and the friendship -of the literary.</p> - -<p>The late Duchesses of Queensberry and -Northumberland pressed forward to serve<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xii">[p. xii]</span> -the author of them. The former intrusted -to his reformation a very unworthy favourite -of his own complexion.—Garrick and -Sterne were well acquainted with Ignatius -Sancho.</p> - -<p>A commerce with the Muses was supported -amid the trivial and momentary interruptions -of a shop; the Poets were -studied, and even imitated with some -success;—two pieces were constructed -for the stage;—the Theory of Music was -discussed, published, and dedicated to the -Princess Royal;—and painting was so much -within the circle of Ignatius Sancho’s judgement -and criticism, that several artists paid -great <em>deference</em> to his opinion.</p> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p><span class="figline3"><img src="images/dec_line.png" alt="" /></span></p> -</div> - -<p>Such was the man whose species philosophers -and anatomists have endeavoured to -degrade as a deterioration of the human;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xiii">[p. xiii]</span> -and such was the man whom Fuller, with -a benevolence and quaintness of phrase peculiarly -his own, accounted</p> - -<div class="blockquotfull"> - -<p>“God’s Image, though cut in Ebony.”</p> -</div> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p>To the harsh definition of the naturalist, -oppressions political and legislative have been -added; and such are hourly aggravated towards -this unhappy race of men by vulgar -prejudice and popular insult. To combat -these on commercial principles, has been the -labour of Labat, Ferman, and Bennezet—such -an effort here would be an impertinent -digression.</p> -</div> - -<p>Of those who have speculatively visited and -described the slave-coast, there are not wanting -some who extol the mental abilities of -the natives. D’Elbée, Moore, and Bosman, -speak highly of their mechanical powers -and indefatigable industry. Desmarchais -does not scruple to affirm, that their ingenuity -rivals the Chinese.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xiv">[p. xiv]</span></p> - -<p>He who could penetrate the interior of -Africa, might not improbably discover negro -arts and polity, which could bear little analogy -to the ignorance and grossness of slaves -in the sugar islands, expatriated in infancy, -and brutalized under the whip and the taskmaster.</p> - -<p>And he who surveys the extent of intellect -to which Ignatius Sancho had attained -by self-education, will perhaps conclude, -that the perfection of the reasoning faculties -does not depend on a peculiar conformation -of the scull or the colour of a common integument, -in defiance of that wild opinion, -“which,” says a learned writer of these -times, “restrains the operations of the mind -to particular regions, and supposes that a -luckless mortal may be born in a degree -of latitude too high or too low for wisdom -or for wit.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> -</div> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">[p. 1]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTERS"><span class="gesperrt3 fs150">LETTERS</span>.</h2> -</div> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p><span class="figline1"><img src="images/dec_line.png" alt="" /></span></p> -</div> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_I"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="1">I.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. J— W——E.</span></h2> - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Feb. 14, 1768.</p> - -<p class="sp2 fs90"> -MY WORTHY AND MUCH RESPECTED FRIEND, -</p> - -<p class="firstpara">POPE observes,</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“Men change with fortune, manners change with climes;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Tenets with books, and principles with times.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Your</span> friendly letter convinced me that -you are still the same—and gave in that conviction -a ten-fold pleasure:—you carried out -(through God’s grace) an honest friendly -heart, a clear discerning head, and a soul -impressed with every humane feeling.—That -you are still the same—I repeat it—gives me -more joy—than the certainty would of your -being worth ten Jaghires:—I dare say you<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">[p. 2]</span> -will ever remember that the truest worth is -that of the mind—the best rectitude of the -heart—the conscience unsullied with guilt—the -undaunted noble eye, enriched with innocence, -and shining with social glee—peace -dancing in the heart—and health smiling in -the face—May these be ever thy companions!—and -for riches you will ever be more than -vulgarly rich—while you thankfully enjoy—and -gratefully assist the wants (as far as you -are able) of your fellow-creatures. But I -think (and so will you) that I am preaching. -I only meant in truth to thank you, which -I most sincerely do, for your kind letter:—believe -me, it gratifies a better principle than -vanity—to know that you remember your -dark-faced friend at such a distance. But what -would have been your feelings—could you -have beheld your worthy, thrice worthy -father—joy sitting triumphant in his honest -face—speeding from house to house, amongst -his numerous friends, with the pleasing -testimonials of his son’s love and duty in his -hands—every one congratulating him, and -joining in good wishes—while the starting<span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">[p. 3]</span> -tear plainly proved that over-joy and grief -give the same livery?</p> - -<p>You met with an old acquaintance of mine, -Mr. G——. I am glad to hear he is well; -but, when I knew him, he was young, and -not so <em>wise</em> as <em>knowing</em>: I hope he will take -example by what he sees in you—and you, -young man, remember, if you should unhappily -fall into bad company, that example -is only the fool’s plea, and the rogue’s excuse, -for doing <em>wrong</em> things:—you have -a turn for reflection, and a steadiness, which, -aided by the best of social dispositions, must -make your company much coveted, and your -person loved.—Forgive me for presuming to -dictate, when I well know you have many -friends much more able, from knowledge -and better sense—though I deny—a better -will.</p> - -<p>You will of course make Men and Things -your study—their different genius, aims, -and passions:—you will also note climes, -buildings, soils, and products, which will -be neither tedious nor unpleasant. If you -adopt the rule of writing every evening your -remarks on the past day, it will be a kind of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">[p. 4]</span> -friendly <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">tête-a tête</i> between you and yourself, -wherein you may sometimes happily become -your own Monitor;—and hereafter those -little notes will afford you a rich fund, whenever -you shall be inclined to re-trace past -times and places.——I say nothing upon the -score of Religion—for, I am clear, every -good affection, every sweet sensibility, every -heart-felt joy—humanity, politeness, charity—all, -all, are streams from that sacred -spring;—so that to say you are good-tempered, -honest, social, &c. &c. is only in fact -saying, you live according to your <span class="smcap">Divine -Master</span>’s rules, and are a Christian.</p> - -<p>Your B—— friends are all well, excepting -the good Mrs. C——, who is at this time -but so, so. Miss C—— still as agreeable as -when you knew her, if not more so. Mr. -R——, as usual, never so happy, never so -gay, nor so much in true pleasure, as when -he is doing good—he enjoys the hope of your -well-doing as much as any of your family. -His brother John has been lucky—his abilities, -address, good nature, and good sense, -have got him a surgeoncy in the batalion<span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">[p. 5]</span> -of guards, which is reckoned a very good -thing.</p> - -<p>As to news, what we have is so incumbered -with falshoods, I think it, as Bobadil -says, “a service of danger” to meddle with: -this I know for truth, that the late great -Dagon of the people has totally lost all his -worshipers, and walks the streets as unregarded -as Ignatius Sancho, and I believe -almost as poor—such is the stability of popular -greatness:</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“One self-approving hour whole years outweighs</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Of idle starers, or of loud huzza’s,” &c.</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>Your brother and sister C—d sometimes -look in upon us; her boys are fine, well, -and thriving; and my honest cousin Joe -increases in sense and stature; he promises to -be as good as clever. He brought me your -first letter, which, though first wrote, had -the fate to come last; the little man came -from Red-Lion Court to Charles Street by -himself, and seemed the taller for what he -had done; he is indeed a sweet boy, but I -fear every body will be telling him so. I -know the folly of so doing, and yet am as -guilty as any one.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[p. 6]</span></p> - -<p>There is sent out in the Besborough, -along with fresh governors, and other strange -commodities, a little Blacky, whom you -must either have seen or heard of; his name -is S——. He goes out upon a rational well-digested -plan, to settle either at Madrass or -Bengal, to teach fencing and riding—he is -expert at both. If he should chance to fall in -your way, do not fail to give the rattlepate -what wholesome advice you can; but remember, -I do strictly caution you against -lending him money upon any account, for -he has every thing but—principle; he will -never pay you; I am sorry to say so much of -one whom I have had a friendship for, but -it is needful. Serve him, if you can—but -do not trust him.—There is in the same -ship, belonging to the Captain’s band of -music, one C— L—n, whom I think you -have seen in Privy Gardens: he is honest, -trusty, good-natured, and civil; if you see -him, take notice of him, and I will regard it -as a kindness to me. I have nothing more -to say. Continue in right thinking, you -will of course act well; in well-doing, you<span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[p. 7]</span> -will insure the favour of God, and the love of -your friends, amongst whom pray reckon</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours faithfully,</p> -<p class="signature">IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_II_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="2">II.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="fs75"> TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline">August 7, 1768.</p> - -<p class="firstpara"><span class="smcap">Lord</span>! what is Man?—and what business -have such lazy, lousy, paltry beings of a day -to form friendships, or to make connexions? -Man is an absurd animal—yea, I will ever -maintain it—in his vices, dreadful—in his -few virtues, silly—he has religion without -devotion—philosophy without wisdom—the -divine passion (as it is called) love too oft -without affection—and anger without cause—friendship -without reason—hate without -reflection—knowledge (like Ashley’s punch -in small quantities) without judgement—and -wit without discretion.—Look into old age, -you will see avarice joined to poverty—letchery,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[p. 8]</span> -gout, impotency, like three monkeys, -or London bucks, in a one-horse -whisky, driving to the Devil.—Deep politicians -with palsied heads and relaxed nerves—zealous -in the great cause of national welfare -and public virtue—but touch not—oh! touch -not the pocket—friendship—religion—love -of country—excellent topics for declamation!—but -most ridiculous chimera to suffer either -in money or ease—for, trust me, my M——, -I am resolved upon a reform.—Truth, fair -Truth, I give thee to the wind!—Affection, -get thee hence! Friendship, be it the idol of -such silly chaps, with aching heads, strong -passions, warm hearts, and happy talents, as -of old used to visit Charles Street, and now -abideth in fair G——h House.</p> - -<p>I give it under my hand and mark, that -the best receipe for your aching head (if not -the only thing which will relieve you) is -cutting off your hair—I know it is not the -<i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">ton</i>; but when ease and health stand on the -right—ornament and fashion on the left—it -is by no means the Ass between two loads of -hay—why not ask council about it? Even the -young part of the faculty were formerly<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[p. 9]</span> -obliged to submit to amputation, in order to -look wise.—What they sacrificed to appearances, -do thou to necessity.—Absalom had -saved his life, but for his hair. You will -reply, “Cæsar would have been drowned, -but his length of hair afforded hold to the -friendly hand that drew him to shore.” -Art, at this happy time, imitates Nature so -well in both sexes, that in truth our own -growth is but of little consequence. Therefore, -my dear M—, part with your hair and -head-achs together; and let us see you spruce, -well-shorn, easy, gay, debonnair—as of old.</p> - -<p>I have made enquiry after L——’s letter. -My friend R—— went to demand the reason -for omitting to publish it, and to reclaim -the copy. The publisher smiled at him, and -bid him examine the M. C. of J. 13, where -he would find L. and the same paper of the -20th instant, where he would also find -P—— B——’s very angry answer.—Indeed -the poor fellow foams again, and appears as -indecently dull as malice could with him. -I went to the coffee-house to examine the file, -and was greatly pleased upon the second -reading of your work, in which is blended<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[p. 10]</span> -the Gentleman and the Scholar. Now, -observe, if you dare to say I flatter, or mean -to flatter, you either impeach my judgement -or honesty—at your peril then be it.—For -your letter of yesterday, I could find in my -conscience not to thank you for it—it gave a -melancholy tint to every thing about me. -Pope had the head-ach vilely—Spenser, I -have heard, suffered much from it—in short, -it is the ail of true Geniuses.—They applied -a thick wreath of laurel round their brows—do -you the same—and putting the best foot -foremost—duly considering the mansion—what -it had suffered through chance, time, -and hard use—be thankfully resigned, humble, -and say, “It is well it is no worse!”</p> - -<p>I do not wish you to be any other than -nice in what new acquaintance you make. -As to friendship, it is a mistake—real friendships -are not hastily made—friendship is a -plant of slow growth, and, like our English -oak, spreads—is more majestically beautiful, -and increases in shade, strength, and riches, -as it increases in years. I pity your poor -head, for this confounded scrawl of mine is -enough to give the head-ach to the strongest<span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[p. 11]</span> -brain in the kingdom—so remember I quit -the pen unwillingly, having not said half -what I meant; but, impelled by conscience, -and a due consideration of your ease, I conclude, -just wishing you as well as I do my -dear self,</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -Yours, <span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">I. SANCHO</span>.</p> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p class="center sp2"> -Your cure, in four words, is</p> -<p class="center sp05"><span class="allsmcap fs125">CUT—OFF—YOUR—HAIR!</span></p> -</div> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_III_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="3">III.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 17, 1768.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I AM uneasy about your health—I do -not like your silence—let some good body -or other give me a line, just to say how -you are.—I will, if I can, see you on -Sunday;—it is a folly to like people, and -call them friends, except they are blest -with health and riches.—A very miserable -undone poor wretch, who has no portion<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[p. 12]</span> -in this world’s goods but honesty and -good temper, has a child to maintain, and -is very near in a state of nature in the article -of covering, has applied to me.—I do -know something of her—no greater crime -than poverty and nakedness.—Now, my -dear M——, I know you have a persuasive -eloquence among the women—try your -oratorical powers.—You have many women—and -I am sure there must be a great -deal of charity amongst them—Mind, we -ask no money—only rags—mere literal rags.—Patience -is a ragged virtue—therefore -strip the girls, dear M——, strip them -of what they can spare—a few superfluous -worn-out garments—but leave them pity—benevolence—the -charities—goodness of -heart—love—and the blessings of yours -truly with affection, or something very -like it,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[p. 13]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_IV_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="4">IV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 20, 1768.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">OH! my M——, what a feast! to a mind -fashioned as thine is to gentle deeds!—Could’st -thou have beheld the woe-worn -object of thy charitable care receive the -noble donation of thy blest house!—the -lip quivering, and the tongue refusing its -office, thro’ joyful surprize—the heart gratefully -throbbing—overswelled with thankful -sensations—I could behold a field of battle, -and survey the devastations of the Devil, -without a tear—but a heart o’ercharged with -gratitude, or a deed begotten by sacred pity—as -thine of this day—would melt me, -although unused to the melting mood. As -to thy noble, truly noble, Miss ——, I -say nothing—she serves a Master—who can -and will reward her as ample—as her worth -exceeds the common nonsensical dolls of -the age;—but for thy compeers, may they -never taste any thing less in this world—than<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[p. 14]</span> -the satisfaction resulting from heaven-born -Charity! and in the next, may they -and you receive that blest greeting—“Well -done, thou good and faithful,” &c. &c. -Tell your girls that I will kiss them twice -in the same place—troth, a poor reward;—but -more than that—I will respect them -in my heart, amidst the casual foibles of -worldly prejudice and common usage.—I -shall look to their charitable hearts, and -that shall spread a crown of glory over -every transient defect.—— The poor woman -brings this in her hand;—she means to -thank you—your noble L——, your good -girls—her benefactors—her saviours. I too -would thank—but that I know the opportunity -I have afforded you of doing what -you best love, makes you the obliged party—the -obliger,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your faithful friend,</p> -<p class="signature">I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[p. 15]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_V_TO_MR_K_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="5">V.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. K——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Richmond, Oct. 20, 1769.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WHAT, my honest friend K——, I am -heartily glad to see you, quoth I—long -look’d for, come at last.—Well, we will -have done with that;—you have made ample -amends for your silence—have approved -yourself, what I ever esteemed you—an honest, -hearty, good lad.—As to your apologizing -about your abilities for writing—’tis -all a humm—you write sense;—and verily, -my good friend, he that wishes to do better -must be a coxcomb.—You say you was -thrown from your horse but once—in my -conscience, I think once full oft enough—I -am glad, however, you escaped so well.—The -description of your journey I return -you thanks for—it pleased me much—and -proved that you looked rather farther than -your horse’s head.—A young man should -turn travel—home—leisure—or employment—all -to the one grand end of improving<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[p. 16]</span> -himself. From your account of Dalkeith, -I now view it “in my mind’s eye” (as -Hamlet says), and think it a delightful spot.—I -was wrong, I find, in my notions of -the Edinburghers—for I judged them the -grand patterns for—cleanliness—politeness—and -generosity. Your birth-day entertainments -made a blaze in our papers, which -said, amongst other things, that the puncheons -of rum flood as thick in your park -as the trees—oh; how I licked my lips, and -wished the distance (400 miles) less between -us.—You do not say a word about coming -back again.—Poor Pat has paid his last debt—peace -and bliss to his spirit! rest to his -bones!—his wife and daughter (both with -child) and his youngest child all came down;—what -a scene had I to be spectator of!—trust -me, James, I cry’d like a whipt school-boy!—But -then my noble master—Great -God, reward him!—Tell me not of ninety -covers—splendour—and feasting—To -wipe away the tears of distress, to make -the heart of the widow to sing for joy—may -such actions ever (as they have long -been) be the characteristic of the good Duke<span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[p. 17]</span> -of M——! Dr. James, thy favourite, -twice came here:—at his first visit he gave -no hope—the next day he came, and poor -Pat had resigned up his spirit two hours -before he got here;—his Grace paid him -the tribute, the rich tribute, of many tears—and -ordered me to get a lodging for his -widow and children:—in the evening he ordered -me to go to them for him—and acquaint -Mrs. W—— how very sensible he -was of her great loss, as well as his own—that -he would ever be a friend to her—and -as to the boy—though he was perfectly well -satisfied with his conduct in his place—yet, -if he would like any trade better than continuing -his servant—he would put him out, -and support him through his apprenticeship;—and -he would give him a year to consider -it.—Pat has chose to stay, and his Grace -promises whoever uses him ill shall be no -servant here:—on the night of his interment, -after all was over, the Duke wrote -to the widow himself, and inclosed a twenty -pound bill—and repeated his promises.—Your -own heart, my dear James, will -make the best comment—which is grandest—one<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[p. 18]</span> -such action—or ten birth-days;—though -in truth the latter has his merit—it -creates business, and helps the poor.—I -suppose you will expect me to say something -of our family. Her Grace, I am -truly sorry to say it, has been but poorly -for some time—and indeed is but indifferent -now—God of his mercy grant her better -health! and every good that can contribute -to her happiness!—The good Marquiss -is with us—Are not you tired? This -is a deuced long letter.—Well, one word -more, and then farewell. Mrs. M—— -is grown generous—has left off swearing -and modelling. S—— is turned Jew, and -is to be circumcised next Passover. W—— -is turned fine gentleman—and left off work—and -I your humble friend, I am for my -sins turned Methodist.—Thank God! we -are all pretty hobbling as to health.—Dame -Sancho will be much obliged to you for -your kind mention of her—she and the -brats are very well, thank Heaven! Abraham -gives up the stockings—and monkey -Tom his box—they both, with all the rest, -join in love and best wishes to your worship.—I,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[p. 19]</span> -for my own share, own myself -obliged to you—and think myself honoured -in your acknowledging yourself my pupil; -were I an ambitious man, I should never -forgive you,—for in truth you by far excel -your master:—go on, and prosper, “Render -unto Cæsar the things which are Cæsar’s;”—laugh -at all the tall boys in the -kingdom.—I rest, dear Jemmy, thy true -friend and obliged fellow-servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_VI"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="6">VI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. F——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Richmond, Oct. 20, 1769.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I SENT you a note in Mrs. Sancho’s -name this day fortnight—importing that she -would hope for the pleasure of seeing you -at Richmond before the fine weather takes -its leave of us:—neither hearing from nor -seeing you—though expecting you every -day—we fear that you are not well—or -that Mr. F—— is unhappily ill—in either<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[p. 20]</span> -case we shall be very sorry—but I will hope -you are all well—and that you will return -an answer by the bearer of this that you -are so—and also when we may expect to -have the pleasure of seeing you;—there is -half a bed at your service.—My dear Mrs. -Sancho, thank God! is greatly mended. -Come, do come, and see what a different -face she wears now—to what she did when -you kindly proved yourself her tender, her -assisting tender friend.—Come and scamper -in the meadows with three ragged wild -girls.—Come and pour the balm of friendly -converse into the ear of my sometimes low-spirited -love! Come, do come, and come -soon, if you mean to see Autumn in its -last livery.—Tell your coachman to drive -under the hill to Mr. B——’s on the -common, where you will be gladly received -by the best half of your much and greatly -obliged friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[p. 21]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_VII_TO_EDWARD_YOUNG_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="7">VII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO EDWARD YOUNG, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="center">On the death of Lord ——, Son -to the Duke of ——.</p> - -<p class="dateline sp1"> -Richmond, April 21, 1770.</p> - -<p class="salut">HONOURED SIR, -</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I <span class="allsmcap">BLESS</span> God, their Graces continue in -good health, though as yet they have not -seen any body—I have duly acquainted his -Grace with the anxious and kind enquiries -of yourself and other of his noble friends.—Time -will, I hope, bring them comforts. -Their loss is great indeed; and not -to them only. The public have a loss—Goodness—Wisdom—Knowledge—and -Greatness—were united in him. Heaven -has gained an Angel; but earth has lost -a treasure. Hoping you are as well as -you wish your friends, I am, honoured -Sir,</p> - -<p class="signoff1">Your most obedient and grateful</p> -<p class="signoff2">humble servant to command,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[p. 22]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_VIII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="8">VIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -March 21, 1770.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“He, who cannot stem his anger’s tide,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Doth a wild horse without a bridle ride.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="firstpara">IT is, my dear M——, the same with -the rest of our passions; we have Reason -given us for our rudder—Religion is our -sheet anchor—our fixed star Hope—Conscience -our faithful monitor—and Happiness -the grand reward.—We all in this manner -can preach up trite maxims:—ask any -jackass the way to happiness—and like -me they will give vent to picked-up common-place -sayings—but mark how they act—why -just as you and I do—content with -acknowledging a slight acquaintance with -Wisdom, but ashamed of appearing to act -under her sacred guidance.—You do me -much more honour than I deserve, in wishing -to correspond with me—the balance is -entirely in your favour—but I fancy you -were under the malady of your country,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[p. 23]</span> -hypp’d for want of fresh air and exercise—so, -sitting in a pensive attitude, with lack-lustre -eye, and vacant countenance—the -thought obtruded on your fancy to give -Sancho a letter—and after a hard conflict -’twixt laziness and inclination—the deed -was done.—I verily believe you commit errors—only -for the sake of handsomely apologizing -for them, as tumblers oft make -slips to surprize beholders with their agility -in recovering themselves.—I saw Mr. B— -last night—who by the way I like much—the -Man I mean—and not the Genius -(tho’ of the first rate) he chattered and -laughed like a soul ignorant of evil. He -asked about a motley creature at ——. -I told him with more truth than wit—that -you was hypp’d.—I inclose you a proof -print:—and how does Mad. M——, &c. -&c.? Is Miss S—— better?—Is Mrs. -H——, Mrs. T——, Mrs. H——? Lord -preserve me! what in the name of mischief -have I to do with all this combustible matter? -Is it not enough for me that I am -fast sliding down the vale of years? Have -not I a gout? six brats, and a wife?—Oh!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[p. 24]</span> -Reason, where art thou? you see by this -how much easier it is to preach than to do! -But stop—we know good from evil; and, -in serious truth, we have powers sufficient -to withstand vice, if we will choose to exert -ourselves. In the field, if we know -the strength and situation of the enemy, -we place out-posts and centinels—and take -every prudent method to avoid surprize. -In common life, we must do the same;—and -trust me, my honest friend, a victory -gained over passion, immorality, and pride, -deserves <i lang="la" xml:lang="la">Te Deums</i>, better than those gained -in the fields of ambition and blood.—Here’s -letter for letter, and so farewell,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours—as you behave,</p> -<p class="signature">I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[p. 25]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_IX_TO_MR_K_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="9">IX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. K——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dalkeith, July 16, 1770.<br /> -Sunday.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">ALIVE; alive ho!—my dear boy, I -am glad to see you?—Well, and how goes it?—Badly, -sayest thou—no conversation, no -joy, no felicity!—Cruel absence, thou lover’s -hell! what pangs, what soul-felt pangs, -dost thou inflict! Cheer up, my child of discretion—and -comfort yourself that every day -will bring the endearing moment of meeting, -so much nearer—chew the cud upon rapture -in reversion—and indulge your fancy with the -sweet food of intellectual endearments;—paint -in your imagination the thousand graces -of your H——, and believe this absence a -lucky trial of her constancy.—I don’t wonder -the cricket-match yielded no amusement—all -sport is dull, books unentertaining—Wisdom’s -self but folly—to a mind under Cupidical -influence.—I think I behold you with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[p. 26]</span> -supple-jack in hand—your two faithful happy -companions by your side—complimenting -like courtiers every puppy they meet—yourself -with eyes fixed in a lover-like rumination—and -arms folded in sorrow’s knot—pace -slowly thro’ the meadows.—I have done—for -too much truth seldom pleases folks in -love.—We came home from our Highland -excursion last Monday night, safe and well—after -escaping manifold dangers.—Mesdames -H——, D——, and self, went into the -post-coach, and were honour’d with the -freedom of Dumbarton. By an overset, the -ladies shewed their—delicacy—and I my -activity<a id="FNanchor_1" href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a>—Mr. B—— his humanity;—all -was soon to rights—nothing broke—and no -one hurt—and laughter had its fill.—Inverary -is a charming place—the beauties various—and -the whole plan majestic;—there are -some worthy souls on the spot, which I -admire more than the buildings and prospects.—We -had herrings in perfection—and would<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[p. 27]</span> -have had mackarel; but the scoundrels were -too sharp for us—and would not be caught. -The Loch-Loman—Ben-Loman—Domiquith—and -Arsenhoe—with Hamilton and -Douglas houses—are by much too long for -description by letter.—We paraded to Edinburgh -last Friday in a post coach and four;—H—— -D——, Mrs. M——, housekeeper, -and self, were the party;—we saw the usual -seeings, and dined at Lord Chief Baron’s, -but—dare I tell you?—H—’s figure attracted -universal admiration.—True!—Alas, poor -K——!—but, man, never fret—my honesty -to a rotten egg—we bring her home sound.—We -read a shocking account in the papers -of a storm of rain at Richmond Gardens, and -distress, &c. &c. is it true? if so, why did -not you mention it? H—— sends her service -to you, M—— his best respects—and all their -best wishes to you and birds.—Your confounded -epistle cost me seven pence;—deuce -take you, why did not you inclose it?—So -you do not like Eloisa—you are a noddy for -that—read it till you do like it.—I am glad -you have seen Cymon;—that you like it, -does but little credit to your taste—for every<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[p. 28]</span> -body likes it—I can afford you no more -time—for I have three letters to write besides -this scrawl.—I hear nothing of moving as -yet—pray God speed us southward! though -we have fine weather—fine beef—fine ale—and -fine ladies.</p> - -<p>Lady Mary grows a little angel;—the -Dutchess gets pretty round—they all eat—drink—and -seem pure merry—and we are all -out of mourning this day—farewell.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature">I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_1" href="#FNanchor_1" class="label">[1]</a> Mr. Sancho was remarkably unwieldy and inactive, and never gave a -greater proof of it than at this overset, when he and a goose-pye were -equally incapable of raising themselves.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_X_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="10">X.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August, 31, 1770.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">DO not you condemn me for the very -thing that you are guilty of yourself;—but -before I recriminate—let me be grateful, and -acknowledge that heartfelt satisfaction which -I ever feel from the praise of the good.—Sterne -says—‘every worthy mind loves -praise’—and declares that he loves it too—but -then it must be sincere. Now I protest<span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[p. 29]</span> -that you have something very like flattery;—no -matter—I honestly own, it pleases me—Vanity -is a shoot from self-love—and self-love -Pope declares to be the spring of motion in -the human breast.—Friendship founded upon -right judgement takes the good and bad with -the indulgence of blind love;—nor is it wrong—for -as weakness and error is the lot of humanity—real -friendship must oft kindly overlook -the undesigning frailties of undisguised nature.—My -dear Madam, I beg ten thousand pardons -for the dull sermon I have been preaching:—You -may well yawn.—So the noble! the humane! -the patron! the friend! the good Duke -leaves Tunbridge on Monday—true nobility -will leave the place with him—and kindness and -humanity will accompany Miss L—— whenever -she thinks fit to leave it.—Mrs. Sancho -is pretty well, pretty round, and pretty tame! -she bids me say, Thank you in the kindest -manner I possibly can—and observe, I say, -Thank you kindly.—I will not pretend to -enumerate the many things you deserve our -thanks for:—you are upon the whole an -estimable young woman—your heart is the -best part of you—may it meet with its likeness<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[p. 30]</span> -in the man of your choice!—and I will -pronounce you a happy couple.—I hope to -hear in your next—(that is, if—) that you -are about thinking of coming to town—no -news stiring but politics—which I deem very -unfit for ladies.—I shall conclude with John -Moody’s prayer—“The goodness of goodness -bless and preserve you!”—I am -dear Miss L——’s most sincere servant and -friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XI_TO_MR_S_mdashN"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="11">XI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——N</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dalkeith, Sept. 15, 1770.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IT was kindly done of my worthy old -friend to give me the satisfaction of hearing -he was well and happy.—Believe me, I very -often think of and wish to be with you;—without -malice, I envy you the constant felicity -of being with worthy good children—whose -regards and filial tenderness to yourself—and -christian behaviour to each other—reflect<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[p. 31]</span> -honor to themselves and credit to you. -But the thing I have much at heart you are -provokingly silent about—is my sweet Polly -married yet? has she made Mr. H—— -happy? May they both enjoy every comfort -God Almighty blesses his children with! -And how comes it my dear Tommy does not -give me a line? I hope he is well, hearty, and -happy—and honest downright Sally also;—tell -Tommy he has disappointed me in not -writing to me.—I hope Mrs. Sancho will be -as good as her word, and soon pay you a -visit.—I will trust her with you, though she -is the treasure of my soul.—We have been a -week in the Highlands, and a fine country it -is.—I hear nothing of coming home as yet—but -I fancy it will not be long now.—Mrs. -H—— sends her love to you and yours—and -I my double love to self and the four young -ones—with my best wishes and respects to -Mrs. B——y, and tell her I am half a Methodist:—here -is a young man preaches here, -one of those five who were expelled from -Oxford—his name is M——n; he has a -good strong voice—much passion—and -preaches three times a day—an hour and a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[p. 32]</span> -half each time;—he is well-built—tall—genteel—a -good eye—about twenty-five—a -white hand, and a blazing ring—he has -many converts amongst the ladies;—I cannot -prevail on Mrs. H—— to go and hear him—I -have been four or five times, and heard -him this day—his text was the epistle in the -communion service.—I am, dear friend, -yours sincerely, and all your valuable family’s -sincere well-wisher, and, were it in my -power, I would add friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Their Graces are all well—and Lady Mary -grows every day—she is a sweet child.—Remember -me to Mrs. ——, and tell her Mrs. -M—— is quite the woman of fashion:—she -is pretty well in every thing except her eyes, -which are a little inflamed with cold—and -she does not forget they are so. Once more -my cordial love to the girls; and to the worthies, -Tommy, Mr. H—— B——, and self. -Adieu.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[p. 33]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XII_TO_MRS_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="12">XII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Richmond, Dec. 22, 1771.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU cannot conceive the odd agreeable -mixture of pleasure and pain I felt on the -receipt of your favor;—believe me, good -friend, I honor and respect your nobleness of -principle—but at the same time greatly disapprove -of your actions.—My dear Madam, -bribery and corruption are the reigning topics -of declamation;—and here, because I happen -to be a well-wisher, you are loading us with -presents.—One word for all, my good Mrs. -H—— must not be offended when I tell her -it hurts my pride—for pride I have—too -much, God knows. I accept your present -this time—and do you accept dame Sancho’s -and my thanks—and never aim at sending -aught again—Your daughter Kate brought -me your letter: she seemed a little surprized at -my being favoured with your correspondence—and -I am sure wished to see the contents.—As -I from my soul honor filial feelings—it<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[p. 34]</span> -hurt me not to gratify her honest curiosity—but -I do not chuse to let her know any thing -of the matter—to save her the anxiety of -hope and fear. She is very well, and rules -over us—not with an iron sceptre—but a -golden one. We tell her we love her too -well—in truth I can never return her a tithe of -the kindnesses she has shewn my family—but -what’s all this to you?—I shall tire you with -a jargon of nonsense; therefore I shall only -wish you all many happy returns of this season—good -stomachs—good cheer—and good -fires.—My kind remembrance to Madam -Tilda—tell her, if she’s a good girl, I will try -to recommend her to Mr. G—— the painter, -for a wife;—he is really, I believe, a first-rate -genius—and, what’s better, he is a good -young man—and I flatter myself will do -honor to his science, and credit to his friends.—Kitty -looks like the Goddess of Health—I -am sure, every drop of blood in her honest -heart beats for the welfare and happiness of -her parents.—Believe me ever your obliged -servant and friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[p. 35]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XIII_TO_MR_B_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="13">XIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. B——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -London, July 18, 1772.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">NOTHING could possibly be more welcome -than the favor of your truly obliging -letter, which I received the day before yesterday.—Know, -my worthy young man—that -it’s the pride of my heart when I reflect that, -through the favor of Providence, I was the -humble means of good to so worthy an -object.—May you live to be a credit to your -great and good friends, and a blessing and comfort -to your honest parents!—May you, my -child, pursue, through God’s mercy, the -right paths of humility, candour, temperance, -benevolence—with an early piety, gratitude, -and praise to the Almighty Giver of all -your good?—gratitude—and love for the -noble and generous benefactiors his providence -has so kindly moved in your behalf! -Ever let your actions be such as your own -heart can approve—always think before you<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[p. 36]</span> -speak, and pause before you act—always suppose -yourself before the eyes of Sir William—and -Mr. Garrick.—To think justly, is the -way to do rightly—and by that means you -will ever be at peace within.—I am happy to -hear Sir W—— cares so much about your -welfare—his character is great, because it is -good;—as to your noble friend Mr. Garrick—his -virtues are above all praise—he has not -only the best head in the world, but the best -heart also;—he delights in doing good.—Your -father and mother called on me last -week, to shew me a letter which Mr. Garrick -has wrote to you—keep it, my dear boy, as -a treasure beyond all price—it would do -honor to the pen of a divine—it breathes the -spirit of father—friend—and christian!—indeed -I know no earthly being that I can -reverence so much as your exalted and noble -friend and patron Mr. Garrick.—Your -father and mother, I told you, I saw lately—they -were both well, and their eyes overflowed -at the goodness of your noble patrons—and -with the honest hope that you -would prove yourself not unworthy of their -kindness.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[p. 37]</span></p> - -<p>I thank you for your kindness to my poor -black brethren—I flatter myself you will find -them not ungrateful—they act commonly -from their feelings: I have observed a dog -will love those who use him kindly—and -surely, if so, negroes in their state of ignorance -and bondage will not act less generously, -if I may judge them by myself—I should suppose -kindness would do any thing with them;—my -soul melts at kindness—but the contrary—I -own with shame—makes me almost a -savage.—If you can with conveniency—when -you write again—send me half a dozen -cocoa-nuts, I shall esteem them for your sake—but -do not think of it if there is the least -difficulty.—In regard to wages, I think you -acted quite right—don’t seek too hastily to -be independent—it is quite time enough yet -for one of your age to be your own master.—Read -Mr. Garrick’s letter night and morning—put -it next your heart—impress it on your -memory—and may the God of all Mercy -give you grace to follow his friendly dictates!—I -shall ever truly rejoice to hear from you—and -your well-doing will be a comfort to -me ever; it is not in your own power and option<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[p. 38]</span> -to command riches—wisdom and health -are immediately the gift of God—but it is in -your own breast to be good—therefore, my -dear child, make the only right election—be -good, and trust the rest to God; and remember -he is about your bed, and about your -paths, and spieth out all your ways. I am, -with pride and delight,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your true friend,</p> -<p class="signature">IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XIV_TO_MR_S_mdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="14">XIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——E</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Richmond, Oct. 11, 1772.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOUR letter gave me more pleasure than -in truth I ever expected from your hands—but -thou art a flatterer;—why dost thou demand -advice of me? Young man, thou -canst not discern wood from trees;—with -awe and reverence look up to thy more than -parents—look up to thy almost divine benefactors—search -into the motive of every -glorious action—retrace thine own history—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[p. 39]</span> -when you are convinced that they (like -the All-gracious Power they serve) go about -in mercy doing good—retire abashed at the -number of their virtues—and humbly beg -the Almighty to inspire and give you strength -to imitate them.—Happy, happy lad! what -a fortune is thine!—Look round upon the -miserable fate of almost all of our unfortunate -colour. Superadded to ignorance, see slavery, -and the contempt of those very wretches who -roll in affluence from our labours superadded -to this woful catalogue—hear the ill-bred and -heart-racking abuse of the foolish vulgar.—You, -S——e, tread as cautiously as the -strictest rectitude can guide you—yet must -you suffer from this—but, armed with truth—honesty—and -conscious integrity—you -will be sure of the plaudit and countenance -of the good;—if, therefore, thy repentance -is sincere—I congratulate thee as sincerely -upon it—it is thy birth-day to real happiness.—Providence -has been very lavish of her -bounty to you—and you are deeply in arrears -to her—your parts are as quick as most mens; -urge but your speed in the race of virtue -with the same ardency of zeal as you have<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[p. 40]</span> -exhibited in error—and you will recover, to -the satisfaction of your noble patrons—and -to the glory of yourself.—Some philosopher—I -forget who—wished for a window in his -breast—that the world might see his heart;—he -could only be a great fool, or a very -good man:—I will believe the latter, and -recommend him to your imitation.—Vice is -a coward—;—to be truly brave, a man must -be truly good; you hate the name of cowardice—then, -S——e, avoid it—detest a lye,—and -shun lyars—be above revenge;—if -any have taken advantage either of your -guilt or distress, punish them with forgiveness—and -not only so—but, if you can -serve them any future time, do it—you -have experienced mercy and long-sufferance -in your own person—therefore gratefully remember -it, and shew mercy likewise.</p> - -<p>I am pleased with the subject of your -last—and if your conversion is real, I shall -ever be happy in your correspondence—but -at the same time I cannot afford to pay five -pence for the honour of your letters;—five -pence is the twelfth part of five shillings—the -forty-eighth part of a pound—it would<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[p. 41]</span> -keep my girls in potatoes two days.—The -time may come, when it may be necessary -for you to study calculations;—in the mean -while, if you cannot get a frank, direct to -me under cover to his Grace the Duke of -——. You have the best wishes of -your sincere friend (as long as you are your -own friend)</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="smcap gesperrt05">Ignatius Sancho.</span></p> - - -<p class="sp2">You must excuse blots and blunders—for -I am under the dominion of a cruel head-ach—and -a cough, which seems too fond -of me.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XV_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="15">XV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Nov. 8, 1772.<br /> -</p> - -<p class="firstpara">BRAVO! my ingenious friend!—to say -you exceed my hopes, would be to lye.—At -my first knowledge of you—I was convinced -that Providence had been partial in -the talents entrusted to you—therefore I expected<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[p. 42]</span> -exertion on your side—and I am not -disappointed; go on, my honest heart, go -on!—hold up the mirror to an effeminate -gallimawfry——insipid, weak, ignorant, and -dissipated set of wretches—and scourge them -into shame—the pen—the pencil—the pulpit—oh! -may they all unite their endeavours—and -rescue this once manly and martial -people from the silken slavery of foreign -luxury and debauchery!—Thou, my worthy -M——, continue thy improvements; and -may the Almighty bless thee with the humble -mien of plenty and content!—Riches -ensnare—the mediocrity is Wisdom’s friend—and -that be thine!—When you see S——, -note his behaviour—he writes me word that -he intends a thorough and speedy reformation;—I -rather doubt him, but should be -glad to know if you perceive any marks of -it—You do not tell me that you have seen -Mr. G——; if you have not, I shall be -angry with you—and attribute your neglect -to pride:—pray render my compliments -most respectful and sincere to Mrs. H——, -and the little innocent laughing rose-bud—my -love to my son.—I am heartily tired of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[p. 43]</span> -the country;—the truth is—Mrs. Sancho -and the girls are in town;—I am not ashamed -to own that I love my wife—I hope to see -you married, and as foolish.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am yours, sincerely, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="right sp1"><span class="smcap gesperrt05">Ign. Sancho.</span></p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XVI_TO_MRS_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="16">XVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Nov. 1, 1773.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR AND RESPECTED MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I HAVE sincere pleasure to find you honour -me in your thoughts—to have your -good wishes, is not the least strange, for I -am sure you possess that kind of soul, that -Christian philanthropy, which wishes well—and, -in the sense of Scripture, breathes peace -and good-will to all.—Part of your scheme -we mean to adopt—but the principal thing -we aim at is in the tea, snuff, and sugar way, -with the little articles of daily domestic use.—In -truth, I like your scheme, and I think<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[p. 44]</span> -the three articles you advise would answer -exceedingly well—but it would require a -capital—which we have not—so we mean to -cut our coat according to our scanty quantum—and -creep with hopes of being enabled -hereafter to mend our pace.—Mrs. -Sancho is in the straw—she has given me -a fifth wench—and your worthy Kate has -offered her the honour of standing for her -sponsor, but I fear it must be by proxy.—Pray -make my respects to Mrs. Matilda—I -hope she enjoys every thing that her -parents wish her.—I shall dine with Mr. -Jacob some day this week—I saw him at -Dodd’s chapel yesterday—and, if his countenance -is to be believed, he was very well—I -could not get at him to speak to him.—As soon -as we can get a bit of house, we shall begin -to look sharp for a bit of bread—I have -strong hope—the more children, the more -blessings—and if it please the Almighty to -spare me from the gout, I verily think the -happiest part of my life is to come—soap, -starch, and blue, with raisins, figs, &c.—we -shall cut a respectable figure—in our -printed cards.—Pray make my best wishes<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[p. 45]</span> -to Mr. H——; tell him I revere his -whole family, which is doing honor to myself.—I -had a letter of yours to answer, -which I should have done before, had my -manners been equal to my esteem.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in respectful love and -thanks. I remain ever your much obliged -servant to command,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XVII_TO_MRS_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="17">XVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -February 9, 1774.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IT is the most puzzling affair in nature, to -a mind that labours under obligations, to -know how to express its feelings;—your -former tender solicitude for my well-doing—and -your generous remembrance in the present -order—appear friendly beyond the common -actions of those we in general style good<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[p. 46]</span> -sort of people;—but I will not teaze you -with my nonsensical thanks—for I believe -such kind of hearts as you are blest with -have sufficient reward in the consciousness of -acting humanely.—I opened shop on Saturday -the 29th of January—and have met -with a success truly flattering;—it shall be my -study and constant care not to forfeit the -good opinion of my friends.—I have pleasure -in congratulating you upon Mrs. W——’s -happy delivery and pleasing increase of her -family;—it is the hope and wish of my heart—that -your comforts in all things may multiply -with your years—that in the certain -great end—you may immerge without pain—full -of hope—from corruptible pleasure—to -immortal and incorruptible life—happiness -without end—and past all human comprehension;—there -may you and I—and all we -love (or care for) meet!—the follies—the -parties—distinctions—feuds of ambition—enthusiasm—lust—and -anger of this miserable -motley world—all totally forgot—every -idea lost, and absorbed in the blissful mansions -of redeeming love.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[p. 47]</span></p> - -<p>I have not seen Sir Jacob near a fortnight—but -hope and conclude him well.—R—— -is well, and grows very fat—an easy mind—full -purse—and a good table—great health—and -much indulgence—all these conduce terribly -to plumpness.—I must beg, when you -see Mr. ——, if not improper or inconvenient, -that you will inform him—that where -there is but little—every little helps;—I think -he is too humane to be offended at the liberty—and -too honest to be displeased with a truth.—I -am, with greatful thanks to Mr. H——, -your sincerely humble servant and poor -friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">My best half and Sanchonetta’s are all -well.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[p. 48]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XVIII_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="18">XVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Nov. 26, 1774.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOUNG says, “A friend is the balsam -of life”—Shakespear says,—but why should -I pester you with quotations?—to shew you -the depth of my erudition, and strut like the -fabled bird in his borrowed plumage. In -good honest truth, my friend—I rejoice to -see thy name at the bottom of the instructive -page—and were fancy and invention as much -my familiar friends as they are thine—I -would write thee an answer—or try, at least, -as agreeably easy—and as politely simple.—Mark -that; simplicity is the characteristic of -good writing—which I have learnt, among -many other good things, of your Honor—and -for which I am proud to thank you;—in -short I would write like you—think like<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[p. 49]</span> -you (of course); and do like you; but, as -that is impossible, I must content myself -with my old trick;—now what that trick is—thou -art ignorant—and so thou shalt remain—till -I congratulate you upon your recovery.—<i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">A -propos</i>, you began your letter ill, as we -do many things in common life;—ten days -elapsed before you finished it—consequently -you finished it well.—My dear friend, may -you, thro’ God’s blessing, ever finish happily -what you undertake—however unpromising -the beginning may appear to be!—I -want you much in town—for my one sake—that’s -a stroke of self-love.—And do you -mean to bring any candles up with you?—that’s -another!—I do not wonder at your -making your way amongst the folks of Hull—although -there are four of the same profession;—we -love variety.—I will give them credit -for admiring the Artist;—but if they—that -is two or three of them—have penetration -to look deeper—and love the Man—then I -shall believe that there are souls in Hull.—So—my -cramp epistle fell into the hands of -thy good and reverend farther—<i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">tant pis</i>—why, -he must think me blacker than I am.—Mons.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[p. 50]</span> -B—— goes on well:—I suppose -you know he has opened an Academy in St. -Alban’s Street—at two guineas a year—naked -figures three nights a week—Mr. -Mortimer and several eminent names upon -his list—and room left for yours—he hops -about with that festivity of countenance -which denotes peace and good-will to man.—I -have added to my felicity—or Fortune -more properly has—three worthy friends—they -are admirers and friends of Mortimer -and Sterne;—but of this when we meet.—You -are expected at B—— House upon -your return—and I hope you will call on -them, if consistent with your time—and -agreeable to you.—My friend L—— is in -town, and intends trying his fortune among -us—as teacher of murder and neck-breaking—alias—fencing -and riding.—The Tartars, -I believe, have few fine gentlemen -among them—and they can ride—though -they have neither fencing nor riding masters;—and -as to genteel murder—we are mere -pedlars and novices—for they can dispatch -a whole caravan—or a hoorde—and eat and -drink—wench and laugh—and, in truth,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[p. 51]</span> -so far they can match our modern fine gents.;—they -have no acquaintance with conscience—but -what’s all this to you?—nothing—it -helps to fill up the sheet—and looks like moralizing;—the -good-natured partiality of thy -honest heart will deem it—not absolutely -nonsense.—Alas!—thus it often happens—that -the judgement of a good head is—bum-fiddled—and -wrong-biass’d by the weakness -of a too kind heart;—under that same weakness -let me shelter my failings and absurdities—and -let me boast at this present writing—that -my heart is not very depraved—and has -this proof of not being dead to virtue;—it -beats stronger at the sound of friendship—and -will be sincerely attached to W—— S——, -Esq; while its pulsations continue to throb -in the brest of your obliged</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Do pray think about returning—the captain—the -girls—the house—the court, stand -all—just where they did—when you left them.—Alas! -Time leaves the marks of his rough -fingers upon all things—Time shrivels female -faces—and sours small-beer—gives insignificance,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[p. 52]</span> -if not impotency, to trunk-hose—and -toughness to cow-beef.—Alas! alas! -alas!—</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XIX_TO_MRS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="19">XIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, July 4, 1775.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IT would be affronting your good-nature to -offer an excuse for the trouble I am going to -give you—my tale is short.—Mrs. O—— -is with us—she was, this day, observing poor -Lydia with a good deal of compassion—and -said, she knew a child cured by roses boiled in -new milk;—observed, that you had, at this -very time, perhaps bushels of rose-leaves -wasting on the ground.—Now my petition -is—that you would cause a few of them to be -brought you—(they will blush to find their -sweetness excelled by your kindness)—they -are good dryed, but better fresh—so when -you come to town think of honest Lydia.—Mrs. -O—— this morning saw your picture<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[p. 53]</span> -in Bond Street.—She approves much—and -I fancy means to sit—she thinks that you -enriched me with the strongest likeness—but -the whole length the best.—I have the honor -to transmit the compliments of Mesdames -A—— and Sancho—to which permit -me to add mine, with the most grateful sensibility -for the recent favor of favors.—I am, -dear madam,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most obliged,</p> -<p class="signoff2">humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature">IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XX_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="20">XX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 26, 1775.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I HAVE just now had the pleasure of -seeing a Gentleman who is honoured in calling -you sister.—He suspended the pain in -my foot for full five minutes, by the pleasing -account he gave of your health.—I delivered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[p. 54]</span> -my charge<a id="FNanchor_2" href="#Footnote_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a> safe into his hands—he -viewed it with an eye of complacency—from -which I conclude he is not unworthy your -sister’s hand;—we commonly behold those -with a sort of partiality who bring good -tidings from our friends—in that view I -could not forbear thinking him a very good -kind of man. I have to thank you for a -very obliging and friendly letter—which I -should have done much sooner, could I -have complied with your kind wishes in -giving a better account of myself;—my better -self has been but poorly for some time—she -groans with the rheumatism—and I grunt -with the gout—a pretty concert!—Life is -thick-sown with troubles—and we have no -right to exemption.—The children, thank -God! are well—your name-sake gets strength -every day—and trots about amazingly.—I -am reading Bossuet’s Universal History, -which I admire beyond any thing I have -long met with: if it lays in your way, I -would wish you to read it, if you have not -already—and if you have, it is worth a second -perusal. Mrs. Sancho rejoices to hear<span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[p. 55]</span> -you are well—and intrusts me to send you -her best wishes.—I hope you continue your -riding—and should like to see your <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">etiquette</i> -of hat, feather, and habit. Adieu.—May -you enjoy every wish of your benevolent -heart—is the hope and prayer of your much -obliged humble servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">If the Universal History of Bossuet, Bishop -of Meaux, and Preceptor to Louis XV. -should be difficult to find at Tunbridge—when -you return to town, and give us the -pleasure of seeing you—he will be exceeding -proud of the happiness (and what Frenchman -would not,—although a bishop?) of riding -to Bond Street in your pockets.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_2" href="#FNanchor_2" class="label">[2]</a> Miss L——’s picture.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[p. 56]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXI_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="21">XXI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, June 20, 1775.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I PROTEST, my dear Madam, there is -nothing so dangerous to the calm philosophic -temper of fifty—as a friendly epistle from a -pretty young woman;—but when worth—benevolence—and -a train of amiabilities—easier -felt than described—join in the attack,—the -happy receiver of such an epistle must -feel much in the same manner as your humble -servant did this day;—but I did not mean -to write a starch complimentary letter—and -I believe you will think I have flourished rather -too much;—here then I recover my -wits—and the first use I make of them is to -thank you, in Mrs. Sancho’s name, for -your friendly enquiries—and to assure you, -we both rejoice that you had so pleasant a -passage—and that you enjoy your health.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[p. 57]</span> -We hope also, that your young gallant will -repay your humane attentions—with grateful -regard—and dutiful attachment.—I beg -your pardon, over and over, for my blundering -forgetfulness of your kind order—it -was occasioned by being obliged to say goodbye.—Taking -leave of those we esteem is, in -my opinion, unpleasant!—the parting of -friends is a kind of temporary mourning. -Mrs. Sancho is but indifferent—the hot weather -does not befriend her—but time will, I -hope;—if true worth could plead an exemption -from pain and sickness—Miss L—— -and Mrs. Sancho would, by right divine, -enjoy the best health—but, God be blessed! -there is a reward in store for both, and all -like them—which will amply repay them for -the evils and cross accidents of this foolish -world. I saw Miss and Mrs. S——, and -Johnny, at church last Sunday—they all -looked pleasant, and told me they had heard -you were well.—I would recommend a poem, -which, if you have not, you should read—it -is called Almeria; I have not read it—but -have heard such an account of it as makes -me suspect it will be worth your notice.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">[p. 58]</span> -This end of the town is fairly Regatta-mad—and -the prices they ask are only five shillings -each seat.—They are building scaffoldings on -Westminster-hall—and the prayers of all parties -is now for a fine evening—May your -evenings be ever fair—and mornings bright! -I should have said nights happy—all in God’s -good time! which, you must be convinced, -is the best time.—Lydia mends—she walks a -little—we begin to encourage hope—Kitty is -as lively as ever—and almost goes alone—the -rest are well.—Mrs. Sancho joins me in -cordial wishes for your health and wealth.—I -am, dear Madam,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most sincere friend,</p> -<p class="signoff2">and obliged humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature">IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">[p. 59]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXII_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="22">XXII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THOU hast an honest sympathizing heart—and -I am sure will feel sorrow to hear poor -Mr. W—— has paid the debt to Nature:—last -Sunday heaven gained a worthy soul—and -the world lost an honest man!—a Christian!—a -friend to merit—a father to the poor -and society—a man, whose least praise was -his wit—and his meanest virtue, good-humour;—he -is gone to his great reward;—may -you, and all I love and honor, in God’s -good time, join him!—I wish to hear about -you—how you all do—when you saw Johnny—and -whether Mrs. O—— holds in the -same mind—if so, she is on the road for -London, and Johnny on the road for -B——. Pray have you heard from Mr. -L——? A spruce Frenchman brought me -a letter from him on Thursday; he left him<span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">[p. 60]</span> -well and in spirits—he wishes we would enquire -for a place for him—he longs to be in -England;—he is an honest soul, and I should -feel true pleasure in serving him;—pray remember -he wants a place.—I know not what -words to use in way of thanks to Mrs. -C——, for the very valuable present of -her picture.—I have wrote to her—but my -pen is not able to express what I feel—and I -think Mr. Gardner has hit off her likeness -exceeding well;—my chimney-piece now—fairly -imitates the times—a flashy fine outside—the -only intrinsic nett worth, in my -possession, is Mrs. Sancho—whom I can compare -to nothing so properly as to a diamond in -the dirt—but, my friend, that is Fortune’s -fault, not mine—for had I power, I would -case her in gold.—When heard you from -our friend Mr. J—— N——? when you -see or write to him—tell him we still care -for him—and remember his easy good-nature -and natural politeness,—I will trouble you -with the inclosed without any ceremony—for -I have been so often obliged to you, -that I begin now to fancy I have a right to -trouble you. Commend me to squire<span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[p. 61]</span> -S——, and all worthy friends.—Lydia sends -her love to you—she trots about amazingly—and -Kitty imitates her, with this -addition, that she is as mischievous as a -monkey.—Mrs. Sancho, Mrs. M——, and -Mrs. B——, all think well of you, as well -as yours.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXIII_TO_MRS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="23">XXIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, July 31, 1775.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IF aught upon earth could make mortals -happy—I have the best right to believe myself -so.—I have lived with the great—and -been favoured by beauty—I have cause to -be vain—let that apologize for my boasting. -I am to thank you for the best ornament -of my chimney-piece—your picture, which<span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">[p. 62]</span> -I had the joy to receive from Mr. Gardner, -and which (exclusive of the partiality I -have to your resemblance) I think a very -good one;—it proves, unquestionably, three -things—your goodness—Mr. Gardner’s -skill—and my impudence!—in wishing so -pleasing a prize.—If Kitty should live to -woman’s estate—she will exultingly tell folks—that’s -my godmother’s picture!—and the -next generation will swear the painter -was a flatterer—and scarce credit there was -ever a countenance so amiably sweet—in the -days of George the Third—except a Hamilton -or Lady Sarah.—Mrs. Sancho desires -her thanks may be joined with mine—as -the thanks of one flesh.—Mr. M—— -is well—and hopes, in concert with the -Sanchos, that you had a pleasant journey—and -good health your companion.—That -health and pleasure—with love and friendship -in its train—may ever accompany you—is -the wish, dear Madam, of your greatly -obliged humble servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">[p. 63]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXIV_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="24">XXIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, August, 7, 1775.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I NEVER can excuse intolerable scrawls—and -I do tell you, that for writing conversable -letters you are wholly unfit—no -talent—no nature—no style;—stiff—formal -and unintelligible;—take that—for your -apology—and learn to be honest to yourself.—The -Dutchess of Kingston and Mr. -Foote have joined in a spirited paper-war—(I -should have said engaged)—but I fear -her Grace will have the worst of it:—had -she either the heart or head of our friend -Miss L——, I should pity her from my -soul—and should muster up gallantry enough -to draw a pen (at least) in her defence; -as it is—I think—in principles they are -well-matched;—but as her Grace appears -to me to want temper—I think the Wit -will be too hard for her. I am pleased<span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">[p. 64]</span> -with the Tunbridgians for their respectful -loyalty on his Royal Highness’s birth day;—it -is too much the fashion to treat the -Royal Family with disrespect.—Zeal for -politics has almost annihilated good manners.—Mrs. -Sancho feels the kindness of -your good wishes;—but we hope you will -be in town before she tumbles in the straw, -when a Benjamin mess of caudle will meet -your lips with many welcomes.—Mrs. -Sancho is so, so—not so alert as I have -known her;—but I shall be glad she holds -just as well till she is down—My silly -gout is not in haste to leave me—I am in -my seventh week—and in truth am peevish—and -sick of its company.—As to Dr. -D——, the last I heard of him was, that -he was in France;—he has not preached for -these nine Sundays at Pimlico.—You did -not tell me the name of your Suffolk preacher;—I -fancy it is Dr. W—ll—ton—who -is reckoned equal to D——; I am glad you -have him—as I would wish you to have -every thing that God can give you conducive -to your love and pleasure.—Mrs.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">[p. 65]</span> -Sancho joins me in respects and thanks—good -wishes, &c. &c.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am, dear Madam,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Your ever obliged, humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature">IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXV_TO_MR_B_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="25">XXV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. B——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 12, 1775.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IF I knew a better man than yourself—you -would not have had this application—which -is in behalf of a merry, chirping, -white-toothed, clean, tight, and light, little -fellow!—with a woolly pate—and face as -dark as your humble;—Guiney-born, and -French-bred—the sulky gloom of Africa -dispelled by Gallic vivacity—and that softened -again with English sedateness—a rare<span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">[p. 66]</span> -fellow!—rides well—and can look upon a -couple of horses—dresses hair in the present -taste—shaves light—and understands -something of the arrangement of a table and -side-board;—his present master will authenticate -him a decent character—he leaves -him at his own (Blacky’s) request:—he -has served him three years—and, like -Teague, would be glad of a good master—if -any good master would be glad of him.—As -I believe you associate chiefly with -good-hearted folks—it is possible your interest -may be of service to him.—I like -the rogue’s looks, or a similarity of colour -should not have induced me to recommend -him.—Excuse this little scrawl from your -friend, &c.</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="smcap gesperrt05">Ignatius Sancho.</span></p> - - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“For conscience, like a fiery horse,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Will stumble if you check his course;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“But ride him with an easy rein,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“And rub him down with worldly gain,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“He’ll carry you through thick and thin,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Safe, although dirty, to your Inn.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[p. 67]</span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXVI_TO_MRS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="26">XXVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 14, 1775.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I AM happy in hearing that the bathing -and drinking has been of real service to -you.—I imagine you rise out of the waves -another Venus—and could wish myself Neptune, -to have the honor of escorting you -to land.—Mr. P—— has sent me a pretty -turtle, and in very good condition.—I must -beg you will do me the honor to accept -of it;—it will attend you at Privy Gardens, -where (had turtles a sense of ambition) it -would think itself happy in its destination.—Pray -my best respects to their honors -R—— and Squire S——. I live in hopes -of seeing you all next week.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am, dear Madam,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Your much obliged,</p> -<p class="signoff3">humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature">IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[p. 68]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXVII_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="27">XXVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 27, 1775.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">JUST upon the stroke of eleven—as I -was following (like a good husband) Mrs. -Sancho to bed—a thundering rap called me -to the street-door—A letter from Tunbridge, -Sir!—thanks many thanks—good -night.—I hugged the fair stranger—and—as -soon as up stairs—broke open the seal -with friendly impatience—and got decently -trimmed, for what? why, truly, for having -more honesty than prudence.—Well, if -ever I say a civil thing again to any of your -sex—but it is foolish to be rash in resolves—seriously, -if aught at any time slips from -my unguarded pen, which you may deem -censurable—believe me truly and honestly—it -is the error of uncultivated nature—and -I will trust the candour of friendship to -wink at undesigned offence;—not but I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">[p. 69]</span> -could defend—and would against any but -yourself—the whole sad charge of flattery—but -enough.—I paid a visit in Bond Street -this morning.—Your sister looked health itself—she -was just returned from the country, -and had the pleasure to hear from you at -her first entrance.</p> - -<p>Your friendly offer for the little stranger -is in character—but if I was to say what -my full heart would dictate—you would -accuse me of flattery.—Mrs. Sancho is more -than pleased—I won’t say what I am—but -if you love to give pleasure, you have your -will.—Are you not pleased to find Miss -Butterfield innocent?—It does credit to my -judgement, for I never believed her guilty—her -trial proves undeniably that one half -of the faculty are very ignorant.—I hear -she intends suing for damages—and if ever -any one had a right to recover, she certainly -has;—and were I to decree them—they -should not be less than 400<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i> a year for -life, and 5000 pound down by way of -smart-money.—In my opinion, the D——ss -of K—— is honoured, to be mentioned -in the same paper with Miss Butterfield—You<span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">[p. 70]</span> -should read the St. James’s Evening -papers for last week—you will easily get -them at any coffee-house—the affair is too -long for a letter—but I will send you some -black poetry upon the occasion:</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">With Satire, Wit, and Humour arm’d,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">Foote opes his exhibitions;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">High-titled Guilt, justly alarm’d,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">The Chamberlain petitions.</div> - </div> - - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">My Lord, quoth Guilt, this daring fiend</div> - <div class="verse indent2">Won’t let us sin in private;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">To his presumption there’s no end,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">Both high and low he’ll drive at.</div> - </div> - - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">Last year he smoak’d the cleric<a id="FNanchor_3" href="#Footnote_3" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> gown;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">A D——ss now he’d sweat.</div> - <div class="verse indent2">The insolent, for half a crown,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">Would libel all the Great.</div> - </div> - - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">What I can do, his Lordship cries,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">Command you freely may:</div> - <div class="verse indent2">Don’t licence him, the Dame replies,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">Nor let him print his play.</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>Poor Lydia is exceedingly unwell.—They -who have least sensibility are best off<span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[p. 71]</span> -for this world.—By the visit I was able to -make this morning—you may conclude, my -troublesome companion is about taking -leave. May you know no pains but of -sensibility!—and may you be ever able to -relieve where you wish!—May the wise -and good esteem you more than I do—and -the object of your heart love you, as -well as you love a good and kind action!—These -wishes—after the trimming you -gave in your last—is a sort of heaping coals -on your head—as such, accept it from -your sincere—aye, and <em>honest</em> friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Mrs. Sancho says little—but her moistened -eye expresses—that she feels your friendship.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_3" href="#FNanchor_3" class="label">[3]</a> Dr. Dodd.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[p. 72]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXVIII_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="28">XXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS. L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 12, 1775.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THERE is nothing in nature more -vexatious than contributing to the uneasiness -of those, whose partiality renders them -anxious for our well-doing—the honest -heart dilates with rapture when it can happily -contribute pleasure to its friends. -You see by this that I am coxcomb -enough to suppose me and mine of consequence!—but -if it is so—it is such as -you whose partial goodness have grafted -that folly on my natural trunk of dulness.—I -am, in truth, in a very unfit mood for -writing—for poor Lydia is very so, so—Mrs. -Sancho not very stout;—and for me, I assure -you, that of my pair of feet—two are -at this instant in pain! This is the worst -side—but courage! Hope! delusive cheating -Hope! beckons Self-love, and enlists him<span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[p. 73]</span> -of her side—and, together, use their friendly -eloquence to persuade me that better times -are coming.—Your beloved wife (cries Self-love) -will have a happy time, and be up -soon, strong and hearty.—Your child (cries -Hope) will get the better of her illness—and -grow up a blessing and comfort to -your evening life—and your friend will -soon be in town, and enliven your winter -prospects.—Trust, trust in the Almighty—his -providence is your shield—’tis his love, -’tis his mercy, which has hitherto supported -and kept you up.—See, see! cries Hope! -look where Religion, with Faith on her -right, and Charity on her left, and a numerous -train of blessings in her rear, come -to thy support.—Fond foolish mortal, leave -complaining—all will be right—all is right.—Adieu, -my good friend—write me something, -to chase away idle fears, and to -strengthen hope.—Too true it is, that -where the tender passions are concerned, -our sex are cowards.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours sincerely,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Mrs. Sancho sends her best wishes.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">[p. 74]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXIX_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="29">XXIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Oct. 4, 1775.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">Just as the twig is bent, the tree’s inclin’d,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">’Tis education forms the tender mind.</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="right"> -So says <span class="smcap">Pope</span>.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">Children like tender osiers take the bow,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">And as they first are fashoned, always grow.</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="right"> -<span class="smcap">Dryden. </span></p> - -<p class="firstpara">THE sense of each is just the same, and -they both prove an opinion which I have -long been grounded in—that the errors of -most children proceed in great part from -the ill cultivation of the first years.—Self-love, -my friend, bewitches parents to give -too much indulgence to infantine foibles;—the -constant cry is, “Poor little soul, -it knows no better!”—if it swears—that’s -a sign of wit and spirit;—if it fibs—it’s -so cunning and comical;—if it steals—’tis<span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">[p. 75]</span> -only a paw trick—and the mother exultingly -cries—My Jacky is so sharp, we -can keep nothing from him!—Well! but -what’s all this to you?—You are no mother.—True, -my sincerely esteemed friend, -but you are something as good—you are -perhaps better—much better and wiser I -am sure than many mothers I have seen.—You, -who believe in the true essence -of the gospel—who visit the sick, cover -the naked, and withdraw not your ear -from the unfortunate:—but I did not intend -to write your elogium—it requires -the pen of one less interested—and perhaps -less partiality and more judgement would -also be requisite.—Jacky S—— is the occasion -of this prefatory vast shew of learning. I do -believe him a fine child spoil’d for want of proper -management—he is just now in high disgrace—he -is wrong enough in all conscience, -I believe—but are they, who are about him, -right?—We will talk about this matter when -I have the pleasure of seeing you;—you -shall forgive my impertinent meddling—I -will ask pardon, and sin again—so we -serve Heaven—so complain, if you dare.—Mrs.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">[p. 76]</span> -Sancho is yet up;—if I pray at all, -it’s for the blessing of a happy moment, with -little pain for her;—as to what she brings, -I care not about its sex—God grant health -to the mother!—and my soul and lips -shall bless his holy name.—We cannot remove -till after Mrs. Sancho is up.—The -house will not be ready till towards Christmas, -which is not the most desirable time of -the year for moving—but we must do as we -can, not as we would.</p> - -<p>At Charlotte Chapel, we had last Sunday -a most excellent discourse from Mr. -H——n, whom I suppose you have -heard preach—if not, he is well worth hearing—to -please me—for to the best of my -knowledge, he reads prayers better than most—Mr. -B—— not excepted; there is a dignity -of expression in his Psalms, which -catches the whole attention—and such an -animated strength of devotion in his Litany, -as almost carries the heart to the gates of -Heaven—he is fine in the pulpit;—but -comparisons are unfair—if H—— reads -prayers, and D—— preaches, at the same -church—I should suppose greater perfection<span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">[p. 77]</span> -could not be found in England.—I have to -thank you for the honor of your correspondence—and -can laugh in my sleeve like a -Dutch Jew—to think that I get sterling -sense for my farrago of absurdities—but -you will, I hope, soon be in town.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in every sentiment of gratitude -and sincerity.—I am, as much as a -poor African can be, sincerely</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours to command,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO</p> - - -<p class="ps">We are in great hopes about poor Lydia.—An -honest and ingenious motherly woman -in our neighbourhood has undertaken the -perfect cure of her—and we have every reason -to think, with God’s blessing—she will -succeed—which is a blessing we shall owe -entirely to the comfort of being poor—for, -had we been rich, the doctors would have -had the honor of killing her a twelvemonth -ago.——Adieu.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">[p. 78]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXX_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="30">XXX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Thursday Morning, Oct. 16, 1775.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MY worthy and respected friend, I hear, -has protracted her stay.—I am greatly obliged -to Miss L——’s goodness, who has given -me this opportuity of addressing my good -friend.—I am very low in heart—poor Mrs. -Sancho is so indifferent—and Lydia, though -upon the whole better, yet weak and poorly.—I -am sufficiently acquainted with care—and -I think fatten upon calamity.—Philosophy is -best practised, I believe, by the easy and -affluent.—One ounce of practical religion is -worth all that ever the Stoics wrote.—Mrs. -Sancho smiles in the pains which it has -pleased Providence to try her with—and her -belief in a better existence is her cordial drop,—Adieu; -bring health with you, and the -sight of you will glad us all.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">[p. 79]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXI_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="31">XXXI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Oct. 18, 1775.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I BEGIN to fear with you that our friend -L—— is sick or married—or—what I would -rather hope—is on his way to England.—Thanks -to our Suffolk friends—you take care -we shall not starve.—I was for five minutes, -when dinner was on table, suspended, in inclination, -like the ass between the two loads -of hay—the turtle pulled one way, and a -sweet loin of pork the other—I was obliged -to attack both in pure self-defence;—Mrs. -Sancho eat—and praised the pork—and -praised the giver.—Let it not, my worthy -R——, mortify thy pride—to be obliged to -divide praise with a pig; we all echoed her—O—— -and R—— were the toasts—I know -not in truth two honester or better men—were -your incomes as enlarged as your hearts, -you would be the two greatest fortunes in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[p. 80]</span> -Europe. But I wrote merely to thank you—and -to say Mrs Sancho and Mrs. M—— are -both better than when I wrote last night—in -short, Mrs. M—— is quite well—I pray God -to send my dear Mrs. Sancho safe down and -happily up—she makes the chief ingredient -of my felicity—whenever my good friend -marries—I hope he will find it the same -with him—My best respects to Mesdames C. -and C. and take care of my brother.—I fear -this will be a raking week.—Compliments to -Master S—— and the noble Mr. B——.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXII_TO_MR_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="32">XXXII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Friday, Oct. 20, 1774.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IN obedience to my amiable friend’s request—I, -with gratitude to the Almighty—and -with pleasure to her—(I am sure I am right)—acquaint<span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">[p. 81]</span> -her, that my ever dear Dame -Sancho was exactly at half past one this -afternoon delivered of a—child.—Mrs. -Sancho, my dear Miss L——, is as well as -can be expected—in truth, better than I -feared she would be—for indeed she has been -very unwell for this month past—I feel myself -a ton lighter:—In the morning I was -crazy with apprehension—and now I talk -nonsense through joy.—This plaguy scrawl -will cost you I know not what—but it’s not -my fault—’tis your foolish godson’s—who, -by me, tenders his dutiful respects. I am -ever yours to command, sincerely and affectionately,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXIII_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="33">XXXIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Dec. 14, 1775.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THERE is something inexpressibly flattering -in the notion of your being warmer—from -the idea of your much obliged friend’s caring<span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">[p. 82]</span> -for you;—in truth we could not help caring -about you—our thoughts travelled with you -over-night from Bond Street to the Inn.—The -next day at noon—“Well, now she’s -above half way—alas! no, she will not get -home till Saturday night—I wonder what -companions she has met with—there is a -magnetism in goodnature, which will ever -attract its like—so if she meets with beings -the least social—but that’s as chance wills!”—Well, -night arrives—“And now our friend -has reached the open arms of parental love—excess -of delightful endearments gives place -to tranquil enjoyments—and all are happy in -the pleasure they give each other!”—Were I -a Saint or a Bishop, and was to pass by your -door, I would stop, and say, “Peace be upon -this dwelling!”—and what richer should I -leave it?—for I trust, where a good man -dwells, there peace makes its sweet abode.—When -you have read Bossuet, you will find at -the end, that it was greatly wished the -learned author had brought the work down -lower—but I cannot help thinking he concluded -his design as far as he originally meant.—Mrs. -Sancho, thank Heaven, is as well as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">[p. 83]</span> -you left her, and your godson thrives;—he -is the type of his father—fat—heavy—sleepy;—but -as he is the head of the noble family, -and your godson, I ought not to disparage -him.——The Dutchess of K—— is so unwell, -that she has petitioned for a longer day:—they -say that her intellects are hurt;—though -a bad woman, she is entitled to pity.—Conscience, -the high chancellor of the -human breast, whose small still voice speaks -terror to the guilty—Conscience has pricked -her;—and, with all her wealth and titles, she -is an object of pity.—Health attend you and -yours!—Pleasure of course will follow.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in all I say, and the -girls look their assent.—I remain—God forgive -me! I was going to conclude, without -ever once thanking you for your goodness in -letting us hear from you so early:—there is -such a civil coldness in writing, a month -perhaps after expectation has been snuffed -out, that the very thought is enough to chill -friendship;—but you—like your sister Charity, -as Thomson sweetly paints her (smiling -through tears)—delight in giving pleasure, -and joy in doing good.—And now<span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[p. 84]</span> -farewell—and believe us, in truth, our dear -Miss L——’s</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -obliged and grateful friends,</p> -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">ANNE</span> and <span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">I. SANCHO</span>.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXIV_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="34">XXXIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Jan. 4, 1776.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I KNOW not what predominates in my -worthy friend—pride or good-nature;—don’t -stare—you have a large share of both:—happy -it is for you—as well as your acquaintance—that -your pride is so well accompanied -by the honest ardor of youthful -benevolence.—You would, like the fabled -pelican—feed your friends with your vitals. -Blessed Philanthropy!—Oh! the delights of -making happy—the bliss of giving comfort -to the afflicted—peace to the distressed mind—to -prevent the request from the quivering<span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[p. 85]</span> -lips of indigence!—But, great God!—the -inexpressible delight—the not-to-be-described -rapture, in soothing, and <em>convincing</em> the tender -virgin that “<em>You alone</em>,” &c. &c. &c. (Prior’s -Henry and Emma see.)—But I think you -dropt a word or two about flattery.—Sir,—honest -friend,—know, once for all—I never -yet thought you a coxcomb:—a man of sense -I dare not flatter, my pride forbids it;—a -coxcomb is not worth the dirty pains.—You -have (through the bounty of your great -Creator) strong parts, and, thank the Almighty -Goodness, an honest sincere heart;—yes, -you have many and rare talents, which -you have cultivated with success:—you have -much fire, which, under the guidance of a -circumspect judgement, stimulates you to -worthy acts;—but do not say that I flatter in -speaking the truth;—I can see errors even in -those I half reverence;—there are spots in the -Sun—and perhaps some faults in Johnny -M——, who is by far too kind, generous, -and friendly, to his greatly obliged friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[p. 86]</span></p> - - -<p class="ps">P. S. I tell you what—(are you not coming -to town soon?)—F—— and venison are -good things; but by the manes of my ancestors—I -had rather have the pleasure of -gossipation with your sublime highness.—What -sketches have you taken?—What -books have you read?—What lasses gallanted?—The -venison is exceeding fine, and -the cleanest I ever saw;—to-morrow we dress -it;—a thankful heart shall be our sweet -sauce:—were you in town, your partaking -of it would add to its relish.—You say I was -not in spirits when you saw me at G——; -why, it might be so—in spight of my philosophy—the -cares and anxieties attendant on -a large family and small finances sometimes -overcloud the natural chearfulness of yours -truly,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">N. B. A very short P—— S——.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[p. 87]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXV_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="35">XXXV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 25, 1776.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU had a pleasant day for your journey—and -after five or six miles ride from town—you -left the dust behind you;—of course the -road and the country also improved as you -drew nearer B——. I will suppose you -there—and then I will suppose you found -Mrs. C—— well in health, and the better for -the preceding day’s motion;—she and Miss -C—— meet you with the looks of a Spring-morning—I -see you meet in fancy;—I wish -I could see you in reality;—but of that hereafter.—I -want to know how Mrs. C—— does—and -what Miss C—— does;—what you -intend to do—and what Mr. S—— will -never do.—This letter is a kind of much-ado-about—what—I -must not say nothing—because -the ladies are mentioned in it.—Mr. -and Mrs. B—— have a claim to my best<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[p. 88]</span> -respects.—Pray say what’s decent for me—and -to the respectable table also—beginning -with my true friend Mrs. C——, and then -steering right and left—ending at last with -your worship. Tell Mrs. C—— that Kitty -is as troublesome as ever; that Billy gets -heavier and stronger.—Mrs. Sancho remains, -thank God, very well—and all the rest ditto.—Let -me know how you all do—and how -brother O—— does.—As to news, all I hear -is about Wilkes;—he will certainly carry -his point—for Administration are all strongly -in his interest:—betts run much in his favor:—for -my part, I really think he will get it—if -he can once manage so—as to gain the -majority.—I am, my dear R——, yours—(much -more than Wilkes’s—or indeed -any man’s, O——’s excepted) in love and -zeal,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Ever faithfully,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">[p. 89]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXVI_TO_MR_STERNE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="36">XXXVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. STERNE</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July, 1776.</p> - - -<p class="salut">REVEREND SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IT would be an insult to your humanity -(or perhaps look like it) to aplogize for the -liberty I am taking.—I am one of those -people whom the vulgar and illiberal call -“<em>Negurs</em>.”—The first part of my life was -rather unlucky, as I was placed in a family who -judged ignorance the best and only security -for obedience.—A little reading and writing -I got by unwearied application.—The latter -part of my life has been—through God’s -blessing, truly fortunate, having spent it in -the service of the best families in the kingdom.—My -chief pleasure has been books.—Philanthropy -I adore.—How very much, -good Sir, am I (amongst millions) indebted -to you for the character of your amiable<span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[p. 90]</span> -uncle Toby!—I declare, I would walk ten -miles in the dog-days, to shake hands with -the honest corporal.—Your Sermons have -touched me to the heart, and I hope have -amended it, which brings me to the point.—In -your tenth discourse, page seventy-eight, -in the second volume—is this very affecting -passage:—“Consider how great a part of our -species—in all ages down to this—have been -trod under the feet of cruel and capricious -tyrants, who would neither hear their cries, -nor pity their distresses.—Consider slavery—what -it is—how bitter a draught—and how -many millions are made to drink it!”—Of -all my favourite authors, not one has drawn -a tear in favour of my miserable black -brethren—excepting yourself, and the humane -author of Sir George Ellison.—I think -you will forgive me;—I am sure you will -applaud me for beseeching you to give one -half-hour’s attention to slavery, as it is at -this day practised in our West Indies.—That -subject, handled in your striking manner, -would ease the yoke (perhaps) of many;—but -if only of one—Gracious God!—what a -feast to a benevolent heart!—and, sure I am,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[p. 91]</span> -you are an Epicurean in acts of charity.—You, -who are universally read, and as universally -admired—you could not fail.—Dear -Sir, think in me you behold the uplifted -hands of thousands of my brother Moors.—Grief -(you pathetically observe) is eloquent;—figure -to yourself their attitudes;—hear -their supplicating addresses!—Alas!—you -cannot refuse.—Humanity must comply—in -which hope I beg permission to subscribe -myself,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Reverend Sir, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXVII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="37">XXXVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 12, 1776.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p class="sp1">“We have left undone the things we should have -done,” &c. &c.——</p> -</div> - -<p class="firstpara">THE general confession—with a deep -sense of our own frailties—joined to penitence—and -strong intentions of better doing—insures<span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">[p. 92]</span> -poor sinners forgiveness, obliterates the -past, sweetens the present, and brightens the -future;—in short, we are to hope that it reconciles -us with the Deity;—and if that -conclusion is just, it must certainly reconcile -us in part to each other.—Grant me that, -dear M——, and you have no quarrel -towards me for epistolary omissions:—look -about you, my dear friend, with a fault-searching -eye—and see what you have left undone!—Look -on your chair!—those cloaths -should have been brushed and laid by—that -linen sent to wash—those shoes to be cleaned.—Zooks! -why you forget to say your prayers—to -take your physick—to wash your ——. -Pray how does Mrs. H——? Lord what a -deal of rain! I declare I fear it will injure the -harvest.—And when saw you Nancy?—Has -the cat kittened?—I suppose you have heard -the news:—great news!—a glorious affair! -(and is two <em>ff’s</em> necessary?)—O! Lord, Sir!—very -little bloodshed—pity <em>any</em> should—how!—do -not you admire!—How so?—Why -this, Sir, is writing, ’tis the true -sublime—and this the stuff that gives my -friend M—— pleasure:—thou vile flatterer!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[p. 93]</span> -blush! blush up to thine eyelids!—I am -happy to think I have found a flaw in thee:—thou -art a flatterer of the most dangerous -sort, because agreeable.—I have often observed—there -is more of value in the manner -of doing the thing—than in the thing itself—my -mind’s eye follows you in the selecting -the pretty box—in arranging the pickled -fruit.—I see you fix on the lid, drive the last -nail, your countenance lit up with glee, and -your heart exulting in the pleasure you were -about giving to the family of the Sancho’s—and -then snatch the hat and stick, and walk -with the easy alacrity of a soul conscious of -good.—But hold, Sir, you were rather saucy -in a part or two of your letter:—for which -reason I shall not thank you for the fruit;—the -good woman and brats may—and with -reason; for they devoured them: the box, -indeed, is worth thanks; which, if God, -gout, and weather permit, you may probably -hear something of on Sunday next, from -yours, with all your sins, &c. &c.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[p. 94]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXVIII_TO_MR_K_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="38">XXXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. K——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 28, 1776</p> - -<p class="salut">MY WORTHY FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I SHOULD have answered your billet as -soon as received—but I wanted to know the -quantum that I was to wish you joy of—as -nothing has yet for certainty transpired.—I -will hope your legacy from Mrs. —— is -handsome:—you can easily imagine the pleasure -I felt—in finding she had so amply -remembered poor Mrs. M——. That one -act has more true generosity in it, aye, and -justice perhaps, than any thing I ever knew -of her in her long life:—it has removed an -anxiety from me which (in spite of self-felt -poverty—and the heart-felt cares of a large -family) troubled me greatly;—as to myself, -she used to promise largely formerly, that she -would think of me:—as I never believed—I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">[p. 95]</span> -was not disappointed.—More and more convinced -of the futility of all our eagerness after -worldly riches, my prayer and hope is only -for bread, and to be enabled to pay what I -owe. I labour up hill against many difficuties; -but God’s goodness is my support, -and his word my trust.—Mrs. Sancho joins -me in her best wishes, and gives you joy -also: the children are well—William grows, -and tries his feet briskly—and Fanny goes on -well in her tambour-work;—Mary must -learn some business or other—if we can -possibly atchieve money;—but we have -somehow no friends—and, bless God!—we -deserve no enemies. Trade is duller than -ever I knew it—and money scarcer;—foppery -runs higher—and vanity stronger;—extravagance -is the adored idol of this sweet town.—You -are a happy being;—free from the cares -of the world in your own person—you enjoy -more than your master—or his master into -the bargain.—May your comforts know no -diminution, but increase with your years!—and -may the same happen, when it shall -please God, to your sincere friend I. Sancho -and his family!</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">[p. 96]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XXXIX_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="39">XXXIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -September 1, 1776.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU have the happiest manner of obliging!—How -comes it that—without the advantages -of a twentieth generationship of noble -blood flowing uncontaminated in your veins—without -the customary three years dissipation -at college—and the (nothing to be done -without) four years perambulation on the -Continent—without all these needful appendages—with -little more than plain sense—sheer -good-nature—and a right honest heart—thou -canst—</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“Like low-born Allen, with an aukward shame,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame!”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>Now, by my grandame’s beard—I will not -thank you for your present—although my -ears have been stunned with your goodness -and kindness—the best young man!—and, -good Lord! how shall we make him amends?<span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">[p. 97]</span> -&c. &c.—Pshaw! simpleton, quoth I, do -you not plainly ken, that he himself has a -satisfaction in giving pleasure to his friends, -which more than repays him?—so I strove -to turn off the notion of obligation—though, -I must confess, my heart at the same time -felt a something—sure it was not envy—no, -I detest it—I fear it was pride—for I feel -within myself this moment, that I could -turn the tables in repaying principal with -treble interest—I should feel gratified—though -perhaps not satisfied.—I have a long -account to balance with you—about your -comments upon the transcript:—you are a -pretty fellow, to dare put in your claim—to -better sense—deeper thinking—and stronger -reasoning than my wise self.—To tell you -the truth (though at my own expence) I read -your letter the first time with some little -chagrin;—your reasoning, though it hurt -my pride—yet almost convinced my understanding.—I -read it carefully a second time—pondered—weighed—and -submitted—Whenever -a spark of vanity seems to be glowing at -my heart—I will read your letter—and what -then?—Why then, humbled by a proper<span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">[p. 98]</span> -sense of my inferiority, I shall still have cause -for pride—triumph—and comfort—when I -reflect that my valued Censor—is the true -friend of his sincerely affectionate</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XL_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="40">XL.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 4, 1776.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I FORGOT to tell you this morning—a -jack-ass would have shewn more thought—(are -they rationals or not?)—the best recipe -for the gout, I am informed—is two or -three stale Morning-Posts;—reclined in easy -chair—the patient must sit—and mull over -them—take snuff at intervals—hem—and -look wise;—I apply to you as my pharmacopolist—do -not criticize my orthography—but, -when convenient, send me the medicine—which, -with care and thanks, I will return.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours,</p> -<p class="right sp1"> -Dismal <span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">SANCHO</span>.</p> - - -<p class="sp2">Pray how do you do?</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">[p. 99]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" title="LETTER XLI TO MR M—" id="LETTER_XLI_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="41">XLI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——<a id="FNanchor_4" href="#Footnote_4" class="fnanchor">[4]</a></span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -January 4, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I HAVE read, but have found nothing -of the striking kind of sentimental novelty—which -I expected from its great author—the -language is good in most places—but -never rises above the common pitch.—In -many of our inferior tragedies—I have ever -found here and there a flower strewn, which -has been the grace and pride of the poetic parterre, -and has made me involuntarily cry out, -Bravo!—From dress—scenery—action—and -the rest of play-house garniture—it may -shew well and go down—like insipid fish -with good sauce;—the Prologue is well—the -Epilogue worth the whole—such is my -criticism—read—stare—and conclude your -friend mad—though a more Christian supposition -would be—what’s true at the same -time—that my ideas are frozen, much more<span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">[p. 100]</span> -frigid than the play;—but allowing that—and -although I confess myself exceeding cold, -yet I have warmth enough to declare myself -yours sincerely,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<div class="hang"> -<p class="ps">Love and many happy new years to the -ladies.</p> -</div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_4" href="#FNanchor_4" class="label">[4]</a> On reading the Tragedy of Semiramis, <cite>from the French of Mons. -Voltaire</cite>.</p> -</div> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XLII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="42">XLII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -February 9, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">ZOUNDS! if alive—what ails you? -if dead—why did you not send me word?—Where’s -my Tristram?—What, are all -bucks alike!—all promise, and no—but I -won’t put myself in a passion—I have but one -foot, and no head—go-to—why, what a -devil of a rate dost thou ride at anathematizing -and reprobating poor ——! pho! thou -simpleton—he deserves thy pity—and whoever -harbours a grain of contempt for his -fellow-creatures—either in the school of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">[p. 101]</span> -poverty or misfortune—that Being is below -contempt—and lives the scorn of men—and -shame of devils.—Thou shalt not think -evil of ——; nor shall he, either by word or -thought, dispraisingly speak or think of -M——.</p> - -<p>In regard to thy N——, thou art right—guard -her well—but chiefly guard her from -the traitor in her own fair breast, which, -while it is the seat of purity and unsullied -honor—fancies its neighbours to be the same—nor -sees the serpent in the flowery foliage—till -it stings—and then farewell sweet peace -and its attendant riches.</p> - -<p>I have only time to thank you for the -leaves, and to lament your want of perspicuity -in writing.—My love to George when you -see him—and two loves to Nancy—tell her I -could fold her to my bosom with the same -tender pressure I do my girls—shut my eyes—draw -her to my heart—and call her Daughter!—and -thou, monkey-face, write me a -decent letter—or you shall have another -trimming from yours,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">[p. 102]</span></p> - - -<p class="ps">Look’ye Sir, I write to the ringing of the -shop-door bell—I write—betwixt serving—gossiping—and -lying. Alas! what cramps -to poor genius!</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="For_THE_GENERAL_ADVERTISER1">For <span class="gesperrt1">THE GENERAL ADVERTISER</span>.</h2> -</div> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>The outline of a plan for establishing a most respectable body -of Seamen to the number 20,000, to be ever ready for the -manning a fleet upon twelve days notice.</p> -</div> - - -<p class="firstpara">THE proposer is humbly of opinion, that -his plan is capable of many wholesome improvements, -which he thinks would prove -no unprofitable study, even to the Lords of -the Admiralty.</p> - -<p class="sp1">Ist, Let the number of seamen, now upon -actual service, be each man inrolled upon -his Majesty’s books, at the rate of 5<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i> <i lang="la" xml:lang="la">per -annum</i> for life; let them also receive the -same quarterly, or half-yearly, upon personal -application.</p> - -<p class="sp1">IIdly, Let books be opened for them in all -his Majesty’s different yards and sea ports, -and there their dwelling, age, time they<span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">[p. 103]</span> -have served, &c. to be fairly entered; each -man to bring a certificate from his ship, -signed by the captain, or some one he shall -please to depute.</p> - -<p class="sp1">IIIdly, As an encouragement to his Majesty’s -service and population at the same time, -let there be instituted in each of the ship-yards, -or ports, &c. of these Kingdoms, a kind of -asylum, or house of refuge, for the sons of -these honest tars, to be received therein at -the age of six years; there to be taught -navigation, or, after the common school -learning, to be bound to such parts of ship-building -as they by nature are most inclined -to; such as chuse sea service, to be disposed -on board his Majesty’s ships at fifteen years -old, and to be enrolled upon the pension-books -after ten years faithful service, unless -better provided for.</p> - -<p class="sp1">Might not there be some plan hit on to -employ the daughters, as well as sons of poor -sailors? Does not our Fisheries (if they -should ever happen to be attended to) open -many doors of useful employment for both -sexes?</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">[p. 104]</span></p> - -<p>To defray the above, I would advise the -following methods:</p> - -<p>First, The pension of 5<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i> <i lang="la" xml:lang="la">per</i> man for -20,000, amounts only to 100,000<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i>: let -this be taken from the Irish list; it will surely -be better employed, than in the present mode -for Pensioners of noble blood.</p> - -<p>Secondly, Let the book and office keepers -at the different yards, ports, &c. be collected -from under-officers who have served with reputation; -it will be a decent retreat for them -in the evening of life, and only a grateful reward -for past service.</p> - -<p>May some able hand, guided by a benevolent -heart, point out and strongly recommend -something of this sort, that the honoured -name of England may be rescued -from the scandalous censure of man-stealing, -and from the ingratitude also of letting -their preservers perish in the time of -peace!</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am, Sir, yours, &c.</p> -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="smcap gesperrt05">Africanus.</span></p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">[p. 105]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XLIII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="43">XLIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 27, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">GO-TO!—the man who visits church -twice in one day, must either be religious—curious—or -idle—whichever you please, my -dear friend;—turn it the way which best -likes you, I will cheerily subscribe to it.—By -the way, H——n was inspired this -morning; his text was from Romans—chapter -the—verse the—both forgot;—but -the subject was to present heart, mind, soul, -and all the affections—a living sacrifice to -God;—he was most gloriously animated, -and seemed to have imbibed the very spirit -and manners of the Great Apostle. Our -afternoon Orator was a stranger to me—he -was blest with a good, clear, and well-toned -articulate voice:—he preached from the -Psalms—and took great pains to prove that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">[p. 106]</span> -God knew more than we—that letters were -the fountain of our knowledge—that a man -in Westminster was totally ignorant of what -was going forward in Whitechapel—that we -might have some memory of what we did last -week—but have no sort of conjecture of what -we shall do to-morrow, &c. &c.—Now -H——n’s whole drift was, that we should -live the life of angels here—in order to be -so in reality hereafter:—the other good soul -gave us wholesome matter of fact;—they -were both right—(but I fear not to speak -my mind to my M——, who, if he condemns -my head, will, I am sure, acquit -my heart.)—You have read and admired -Sterne’s Sermons—which chiefly inculcate -practical duties, and paint brotherly love—and -the true Christian charities—in such -beauteous glowing colours—that one cannot -help wishing to feed the hungry—cloathe -the naked, &c. &c.—I would to God, my -friend, that the great lights of the church -would exercise their oratorical powers upon -Yorick’s plan:—the heart and passions once -listed under the banners of blest philanthropy—would -naturally ascend to the redeeming -God—flaming with grateful rapture.—Now<span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">[p. 107]</span> -I have observed among the modern Saints—who -profess to pray without ceasing—that -they are so fully taken up with pious -meditations—and so wholy absorbed in the -love of God—that they have little if any -room for the love of man:—if I am wrong, -tell me so honestly—the censure of a friend -is of more value than his money—and to -submit to conviction, is a proof of good -sense.—I made my bow to-night to Mrs. -H——; the rest of the rogues were out—bright-eyed -S—— and all.—Mrs. -H—— says that you are hypped—nonsense!—few -can rise superior to pain—and -the head, I will allow, is a part the most -<em>sensible</em>, if affected;—but even then you -are not obliged to use more motion than -you like—though I can partly feel the aukward -sensations and uneasy reflections, -which will often arise upon the least ail of -so precious a member as the eye—yet certain -I am, the more you can be master of -yourself (I mean as to chearfulness, if not -gaiety of mind) the better it will of course -be with you.—I hope G—— is well—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">[p. 108]</span> -that you ride often to see him I make -no doubt.—I like the monkey—I know not -for why, nor does it signify a button—but -sure he is good-tempered and grateful;—but -what’s that to me?—Good-night:——the -clock talks of eleven.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XLIV_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="44">XLIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 23, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YES—too true it is—for the many (aye, -and some of those many carry their heads -high) too true for the miserable—the needy—the -sick—for many, alas! who now may -have no helper—for the child of folly poor -S——, and even for thy worthless friend -Sancho.—It is too true, that the Almighty -has called to her rich reward—she who,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">[p. 109]</span> -whilst on earth, approved herself his best -delegate.—How blind, how silly, is the mortal -who places any trust or hope in aught -but the Almighty!—You are just, beautifully -just, in your sketch of the vicissitudes -of worldly bliss.—We rise the lover—dine -the husband—and too oft, alas! lay down -the forlorne widower.—Never so struck in -my life;—it was on Friday night, between -ten and eleven, just preparing for my concluding -pipe—the Duke of M——’s man -knocks.—“Have you heard the bad news?”—No.—“The -Dutchess of Queensbury died -last night!”—I felt fifty different sensations—unbelief -was uppermost—when he -crushed my incredibility, by saying he had -been to know how his Grace did—who -was also very poorly in health.—Now the -preceding day, Thursday (the day on which -she expired) I had received a very penitential -letter from S——, dated from St. -Helena;—this letter I inclosed in a long tedious -epistle of my own—and sent to Petersham, -believing the family to be all there.—The -day after you left town her Grace -died;—that day week she was at my door—the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">[p. 110]</span> -day after I had the honour of a long -audience in her dressing-room.—Alas! this -hour blessed with health—crowned with honors—loaded -with riches, and encircled -with friends—the next reduced to a lump -of poor clay—a tenement for worms!—Earth -re-possesses part of what she gave—and -the freed spirit mounts on wings of -fire:—her disorder was a stoppage—she fell -ill the evening of the Friday that I last saw -her—continued in her full senses to the -last.—The good she had done reached the -skies long before her lamented death—and -are the only heralds that are worth the -pursuit of wisdom:—as to her bad deeds, -I have never heard of them.—Had it been -for the best, God would have lent her a little -longer to a foolish world, which hardly -deserved so good a woman;—for my own -part, I have lost a friend—and perhaps ’tis -better so.—“Whatever is,” &c. &c.—I -wish S—— knew this heavy news, for many -reasons.—I am inclined to believe her -Grace’s death is the only thing that will -most conduce to his reform.—I fear neither -his gratitude nor sensibility will be much<span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">[p. 111]</span> -hurt upon hearing the news—it will act -upon his fears, and make him do <em>right</em> -upon a <em>base</em> principle.—Hang him! he teazes -me whenever I think of him.—I supped last -night with St——; he called in just now, -and says he has a right to be remembered -to you.—You and he are two old monkeys—the -more I abuse and rate you, the better -friend you think me.—As you have found -out that your spirits govern your head—you -will of course contrive every method -of keeping your instrument in tune;—sure -I am that bathing—riding—walking—in -succession—the two latter not violent—will -brace your nerves—purify your blood—invigorate -its circulation:—add to the rest -<em>continency</em>—yes, again I repeat it, <em>continency</em>;—before -you reply, think—re-think—and -think again—look into your <em>Bible</em>—look in -<em>Young</em>—peep into your own breast—if your -heart warrants what your head counsels—act -then boldly.—Oh! <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">apropos</i>—pray thank -my noble friend Mrs. H—— for her friendly -present of C— J—; it did Mrs. Sancho -service, and does poor Billy great good—who -has (through his teeth) been plagued<span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">[p. 112]</span> -with a cough—which I hope will not turn -to the whooping sort;—the girls greet you -as their respected school-master.—As to your -spirited kind offer of a F——, why when -you please—you know what I intend doing -with it.</p> - -<p>Poor Lady S——, I find, still lingers this -side the world.—Alas! when will the happy -period arrive, that the sons of mortality -may greet each other with the joyful news, -that sin, pain, sorrow, and death, are no -more; skies without clouds, earth without -crimes, life without death, world without -end!—peace, bliss, and harmony, where the -Lord God—All in all—King of kings—Lord -of lords—reigneth—omnipotent—for -ever—for ever!—may you, dear M——, -and all I love—yea the whole race of Adam, -join with my unworthy weak self, in the -stupendous—astonishing—soul-cheering Hallelujahs!—where -Charity may be swallowed -up in Love—Hope in Bliss—and Faith in -glorious Certainty!—We will mix, my -boy, with all countries, colours, faiths—see -the countless multitudes of the first -world—the myriads descended from the—Ark—the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">[p. 113]</span> -Patriarchs—Sages—Prophets—and -Heroes! My head turns round at the -vast idea! we will mingle with them, and -try to untwist the vast chain of blessed Providence—which -puzzles and baffles human -understanding. Adieu.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XLV_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="45">XLV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 8, 1777.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“Know your own self, presume not God to scan;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“The only science of mankind, is man.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="firstpara">THERE is something so amazingly -grand—so stupendously affecting—in the -contemplating the works of the Divine -Architect, either in the moral or the intellectual -world, that I think one may rightly -call it the cordial of the soul—it is the -physic of the mind—and the best antidote -against weak pride—and the supercilious<span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">[p. 114]</span> -murmurings of discontent.—Smoaking my -morning pipe, the friendly warmth of that -glorious planet the sun—the leniency of the -air—the chearful glow of the atmosphere—made -me involuntarily cry, “Lord, what -is man, that thou in thy mercy art so -mindful of him! or what the son of man, -that thou so parentally carest for him!” -David, whose heart and affections were -naturally of the first kind (and who indeed -had experienced blessings without number), -pours forth the grateful sentiments of -his enraptured soul in the sweetest modulations -of pathetic oratory;—the tender mercies -of the Almighty are not less to many -of his creatures—but their hearts, unlike -the royal disposition of the Shepherd King, -are cold, and untouched with the sweet -ray of gratitude.—Let us, without meanly -sheltering our infirmities under the example -of others—perhaps worse taught—or possessed -of less leisure for self-examination—let -us, my dear M——, look into ourselves—and, -by a critical examination of -the past events of our lives, fairly confess -what mercies we have received—what God<span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">[p. 115]</span> -in his goodness hath done for us—and how -our gratitude and praise have kept pace in -imitation of the son of Jesse.—such a research -would richly pay us—for the end -would be conviction—so much on the side -of miraculous mercy—such an unanswerable -proof of the superintendency of Divine -Providence, as would effectually cure us of -rash despondency—and melt our hearts—with -devotional aspirations—till we poured -forth the effusions of our souls in praise -and thanksgiving.—When I sometimes endeavour -to turn my thoughts inwards, to -review the power or properties the indulgent -all-wise Father has endow’d me with, -I am struck with wonder and with awe—worm, -poor insignificant reptile as I am, -with regard to superior beings—mortal like -myself.—Amongst, and at the very head of -our riches, I reckon the power of reflection:—Where? -where, my friend, doth it -lie?—Search every member from the toe to -the nose—all—all ready for action—but all -dead to thought—it lies not in matter—nor -in the blood—it is a party, which -though we feel and acknowledge, quite past<span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">[p. 116]</span> -the power of definition—it is that breath -of life which the Sacred Architect breathed -into the nostrils of the first man—image of -his gracious Maker—and let it animate our -torpid gratitude—it rolls on, although diminished -by our cruel fall, through the -whole race.—“We are fearfully and wonderfully -made,” &c. &c. were the sentiments -of the Royal Preacher upon a self-review—but -had he been blessed with the -full blaze of the Christian dispensation—what -would have been his raptures?—The -promise of never, never-ending existence -and felicity, to possess eternity—“glorious, -dreadful thought!” to rise, perhaps, by regular -progression, from planet to planet—to -behold the wonders of immensity—to pass -from good to better—increasing in goodness—knowledge—love—to -glory in our Redeemer—to -joy in ourselves—to be acquainted -with prophets, sages, heroes, and poets -of old times—and join in symphony with -angels!—And now, my friend, thou smilest -at my futile notions—why preach to thee?—For -this very good and simple reason, to -get your thoughts in return.—You shall be<span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">[p. 117]</span> -my philosopher—my Mentor—my friend;—you, -happily disengaged from various cares -of life and family, can review the little -world of man with steadier eye, and more -composed thought, than your friend, declining -fast into the vale of years, and beset -with infirmity and pain.—Write now and -then, as thought prompts, and inclination -leads—refute my errors—where I am just, -give me your plaudit.—Your welfare is -truly dear in my sight;—and if any man -has a share in my heart, or commands my -respect and esteem, it is I—— M——.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Witness my mark,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">[p. 118]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XLVI_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="46">XLVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 14, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MY dear M——, I know full well thy -silence must proceed from ill health. To say -it concerns me, is dull nonsense—self-love -without principle will inspire even Devils -with affection;—by so much less as thou -apprehendest thy friend has diabolical about -him—so may’st thou judge of his feelings -towards thee.—Why wilt thou not part with -thy hair? most assuredly I do believe it -would relieve thee past measure—thou dost -not fancy thy strength (like Sampson’s the -Israelite) lieth in thy hair. Remember he -was shorn thro’ folly—he lost his wits previous -to his losing his locks—do thou consent -to lose thine, in order to save thy better -judgement,—I know no worse soul sinking -pain than the head-ach, though (thank -heaven) I am not often visited with it.—I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">[p. 119]</span> -long to see thee—and will soon, if in my -power:—some odd folks would think it -would have <em>been</em> but good manners to have -thanked you for the fawn—but then, says -the punster, that would have <em>been</em> so like -<em>fawn</em>-ing—which J. M—— loves not, <em>no</em>, -nor Sancho either;—’tis the hypocrite’s key -to the great man’s heart—’tis the resource of -cowardly curs—and deceitful b—p—s—it is -the spaniel’s sort—and man’s disgrace—it is—in -short, the day is so hot—that I cannot -say at present any more about it—but -that the fawn was large, fresh, and worthy -the giver, the receiver, and the joyous souls -that eat it.—Billy has suffered much in -getting his teeth—I have just wished him -joy by his mother’s desire, who says that -he took resolution at last, and walked to her -some few steps quite alone. Albeit it gave -me no small pleasure—yet, upon consideration, -what I approve of now, perhaps, -(should I live to see him at man’s estate) -I might then disapprove—unless God’s grace -should as ably support him through the -quick-sands—rocks—and shoals of life—as -it has happily the honest being I am now<span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">[p. 120]</span> -writing to.—God give you health!—your -own conduct will secure peace—your friends -bread.—As to honors, leave it with titles—to -knaves—and be content with that of an -honest man,</p> - -<p class="sp05 indent4">“the noblest work of God.”</p> - -<div class="sp05 noindent"> -<p>Shave—shave—shave.</p> -</div> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Farewell, yours sincerely,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XLVII_TO_MISS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="47">XLVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 15, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I WAITED, in hopes that time or -chance might furnish me with something -to fill a sheet, with better than the praises -of an old man.—What has youth and beauty -to do with the squabbling contentions -of mad ambition?—Could I new-model Nature—your -sex should rule supreme:—there -should be no other ambition but that of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">[p. 121]</span> -pleasing the ladies—no other welfare but the -contention of obsequious lovers—nor any -glory but the bliss of being approved by -the Fair.—Now, confess that this epistle -opens very gallant, and allow this to be a -decent return to one of the best and most -sensible letters that L—— Wells has produced -this century past.—I much wish for -the pleasing hopes raised by your obliging -letter—that my good friend’s health is restored -so fully, that she has by this time -forgot what the pains in the stomach mean,—that -she has sent all her complaints to -the lake of Lethe—and is thinking soon -to enliven our part our world, enriched -with health—spirits—and a certain -bewitching benignity of countenance—which -cries out—‘Dislike me if you can!’—I want -to know what conquests you have made—what -savages converted—whom you have -smiled into felicity, or killed by rejection;—and -how the noble Master of Ceremonies -acquits himself, John S—— Esq; I mean.—I -hear my friend R—— will be in town -this week, to my great comfort;—for, upon -my conscience, excepting my family, the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">[p. 122]</span> -town to me is quite empty.—Mrs. R—— -is gone to Bury—and the good man is -toiling a lonely and forlorne object.—Mrs. -Sancho joins in every good and grateful -wish for your amiable friend, with, dear -Miss C——, your obliged friend and humble -servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XLVIII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="48">XLVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 25, 1777.</p> - -<p class="center"> -<span class="smcap">Jack-asses.</span></p> - -<p class="firstpara">MY gall has been plentifully stirred—by -the barbarity of a set of gentry, who <em>every -morning</em> offend my feelings—in their cruel -parade through Charles Street, to and from -market:—they vend potatoes in the day—and -thieve in the night season.—A tall lazy -villian was bestriding his poor beast (although -loaded with two panniers of potatoes at the -same time), and another of his companions<span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">[p. 123]</span> -was good-naturedly employed in whipping -the poor sinking animal—that the gentleman-rider -might enjoy the two-fold pleasure of -blasphemy and cruelty:—this is a too common -evil—and, for the honor of rationality, -calls loudly for redress.—I do believe it -might be in some measure amended—either -by a hint in the papers, of the utility -of impressing such vagrants for the king’s -service—or by laying a heavy tax upon the -poor Jack-asses.—I prefer the former, both -for thy sake and mine:—and, as I am convinced -we feel instinctively the injuries of -our <em>fellow creatures</em>; I do insist upon your -exercising your talents in behalf of the honest -sufferers.—I ever had a kind of sympathetic -(call it what you please) for that -animal—<em>and do I not love you?</em>—Before Sterne -had wrote them into respect, I had a friendship -for them—and many a civil greeting -have I given them at casual meetings:—what -has ever (with me) stamped a kind of -uncommon value and dignity upon the long-ear’d -kind of the species, is that our Blessed -Saviour, in his day of worldly triumph, -chose to use that in preference to the rest<span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">[p. 124]</span> -of his own blessed creation—“meek and -lowly, riding upon an ass.” I am convinced -that the general inhumanity of mankind -proceeds—first, from the cursed false principle -of common education;—and, secondly, -from a total indifference (if not disbelief) of -the Christian faith;—a heart and mind impressed -with a firm belief of the Christian -tenets, must of course exercise itself in a -constant uniform general philanthropy:—such -a being carries his heaven in his breast!—and -such be thou! therefore write me a -bitter Philippick against the misusers of Jack-asses;—it -shall honor a column in the Morning -Post—and I will bray—bray my thanks -to you:—thou shalt figure away the champion -of poor friendless asses here—and hereafter -shalt not be ashamed in the great day of -retribution.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Sancho would send you some tamarinds.—I -know not her reasons;—as I -hate contentions, I contradicted not—but -shrewdly suspect she thinks you want cooling.—Do -you hear, Sir? send me some -more good news about your head.—Your -letters will not be the less welcome for talking<span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">[p. 125]</span> -about J—— M——; but pray do not let -vanity so master your judgement—to fancy -yourself upon a footing with George for -well looking:—if you were indeed a proof-sheet—you -was marred in the taking-off—for -George (ask the girls) is certainly the -fairest impression.</p> - -<p>I had an order from Mr. H—— on -Thursday night to see him do Falstaff;—I -put some money to it, and took Mary and -Betsy with me:—it was Betty’s first affair—and -she enjoyed it in truth—H——’s -Falstaff is entirely original—and I think as -great as his Shylock;—he kept the house -in a continual roar of laughter:—in some -things he falls short of Quin—in many I -think him equal.—When I saw Quin play, -he was at the height of his art, with thirty -years judgement to guide him. H——, -in seven years more, will be all that better—and -confessedly the first man on the -English stage, or I am much mistaken.</p> - -<p>I am reading a little pamphlet, which I -much like: it favours an opinion which I -have long indulged—which is the improbability -of eternal Damnation—a thought which<span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">[p. 126]</span> -almost petrifies one—and, in my opinion, -derogatory to the fullness, glory, and benefit -of the blessed expiation of the Son of -the Most High God—who died for the sins -of all—all—Jew, Turk, Infidel, and Heretic;—fair—sallow—brown—tawney—black—and -you—and I—and every son and -daughter of Adam.—You must find eyes -to read this book—head and heart—with a -quickness of conception thou enjoyest—with -many—many advantages—which have the -love—and envy almost of yours,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Respects in folio to Mrs. H——.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">[p. 127]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XLIX_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="49">XLIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 27, 1777.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WHETHER this finds your officially -parading on Newmarket turfs—or in the -happier society of the good geniuses of -B—— house—may it find you well—in -good joyous spirits—gay, debonnair—happy -at heart—happy as I have seen my meaning -expressed in the countenance of my -friend Mrs. C——, where humanity—humility—and -goodwill—have outshone beauty—in -one of the finest faces of your country—but -this between ourselves;—and pray how -does the aforesaid lady do?—does she ride, -walk, and dance, with moderation?—and -can you tell me that she continues as well -as when she first went down—and still -finds good from her western expedition?—And -the little Syren Miss C——?—Have -there no letters, sent by Cupid’s post, sticking<span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">[p. 128]</span> -on the arrow’s point, been picked up -about your grounds, blown by western -breezes across the country?—Tell her nothing -can ever hurt her but Love and Time.—May -Love bring her happiness, and Time -honour!—As to wealth—may she have no -more than she can manage with comfort -and credit!—Monsieur L——’s letter is a -good one—and I think it would make one -laugh even in the gout.—God bless this old -boy—for he is a true type of beggarly pride—cunning—narrow-hearted—vain -and mean—one -of Satan’s dupes—who do his dirty -work for a little worldly trash—and cheat -themselves at last.—I know a man who delights -to make every one he can happy—that -same man treated some honest girls -with expences for a Vauxhall evening.—If -you should happen to know him—you may -tell him from me—that last night—three -great girls—a boy—and a fat old fellow—were -as happy and pleas’d as a fine evening—fine -place—good songs—much company—and -good music—could make them.—Heaven -and Earth!—how happy, how -delighted, were the girls!—Oh! the pleasures<span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">[p. 129]</span> -of novelty to youth!—We went by -water—had a coach home—were gazed at—followed, -&c. &c.—but not much abused.—I -must break off before I have half finished—for -Mr. —— is just come in—you -are not the first good friend that has been -neglected for a fop.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_L_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="50">L.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -September 3, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I FEEL it long since I heard from you—very -long since I saw you—and three or -four days back had some notion, I should -never, in this paltry world, see thee again—but -(thanks to the Father of Mercies!) -I am better, and have a higher relish of -health and ease, from contrasting the blessings -with the pains I have endured.—Would -to God you could say that your dizzy dismal -headachs were flown to the moon, or<span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">[p. 130]</span> -embarked for Lapland—there to be tied up -in a witch’s bag—and sold to Beelzebub -with a cargo of bad winds—religious quarrels—politics—my -gout—and our American -grievances!—But what are you about in your -last (where you dropt the candid friend and -assumed the flatterer)?—You hinted as if -there was a chance of seeing you in Charles -Street: I wish it much.—My friend, I have -had a week’s gout in my hand, which was -by much too hard for my philosophy.—I -am convinced, let the Stoics say what they -list—that pain is an evil;—in short, I was -wishing for death—and little removed from -madness—but (thank Heaven)! I am much -better—my spirits will be mended if I hear -from you—better still to see you.—I find -it painful to write much, and learn that -two hands are as necessary in writing as -eating.—You see I write, like a lady, from -one corner of the paper to the other.—My -respects—and love—and admiration—and -compliments—to Mrs. ——, and Mrs. and -Miss ——. Tell M——l, he kept his -word in calling to see us before he left -town!—I hope—confound the ink!—what a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">[p. 131]</span> -blot! Now don’t you dare suppose I was -in fault—no, Sir, the pen was disabled—the -paper worse—there was a concatenation -of ill-sorted chances—all—all—coincided to -contribute to that fatal blot—which has so -disarranged my ideas—that I must perforce -finish before I had half disburthened my -head and heart:—but is N—— a good girl?—and -how does my honest George do? -Tell Mrs. H—— what you please in the -handsome way of me.—Farewell, I will -write no more nonsense this night—that’s -flat.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">How do you like the print:—Mr. D—— -says, and his wife says the same—that you -are exceedingly clever—and they shall be -happy to do any thing which is produced -by the same hand which did the original—and -if Mr. D—— can be of any service -to you in the etching—you may command -him when you please.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_132">[p. 132]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LI_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="51">LI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -September 16, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">SIR, he is the confounded’st dunderhead—sapscull—looby—clodpate, -nincompoop—ninnyhammer—booby-chick—farcical—loungibuss—blunderbuss—this -good day in -the three kingdoms!—You would bless -yourself, were it possible for you to analyze -such a being—not but his heart is susceptible -of a kind of friendly warmth—but then -so cursed careless—ever in a hurry—ever in -the wrong, at best but blundering about the -right.—Why now, for example, when you -sent the ——, I can make oath, if need be—that -the dunce I speak of longed more for a -letter than the animal. The basket was -searched with hurry—not care;—no letter? -well, it can’t be help’d—his head ach’d—he -had not time, &c. &c.—the P—— was disengaged -from the basket—the straw consigned -to the chimney:—this being rather a coolish -morning, a little fire was thought necessary—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_133">[p. 133]</span> -in raking up the loose dirty waste stuff -under the grate, there appeared a very bloody -letter, which seemed unopened:—your hand-writing -was discernible through the dirt and -blood;—curiosity and affection ran a race to -pick up and examine it—when, behold, it -proved to be the companion of the P——, -but so effaced with blood—that very—very -little of my friend’s good sense could be made -out.—Your poor letter is a type of what -daily happens—merit oppressed and smothered -by rubbish.—Alas, poor letter! it shared the -fate the poor world, which we inhabit, will -hereafter undergo:—one bright gleam of -imitation of the mind that dictated it—some -few sparks.—Alas! alas! my poor letter—pass -but a few years—perhaps a few months—thy -generous friendly compost may—thy friend -whose heart glows while he writes—who -feels thy worth—yea, and reveres it too.—Nonsense, -why we know the very hinges of -our last cradles will rust and moulder;—and -that, in the course of another century, -neither flesh, bone, coffin, nor nail—will be -dicernible from mother earth.—Courage—while -we live, let us live—to Virtue—Friendship—Religion—Charity—then<span class="pagenum" id="Page_134">[p. 134]</span> -drop -(at death’s call) our cumbrous (you are thin) -load of flesh, and mount in spirit to our -native home.—Bless us, at what a rate have -I been travelling!—I am quite out of breath—Why! -my friend, the business was to -thank you for the pig.—Had you seen the -group of heads—aye, and wise ones too—that -assembled at the opening of the fardel—the -exclamations—Oh! the finest—fattest—cleanest—why, -Sir, it was a pig of pigs;—the -pettitoes gave us a good supper last -night—they were well dressed—and your pig -was well eat—it dined us Sunday and Monday.—Now, -to say truth, I do not love pig—merely -pig—I like not—but pork corned—alias—salted—either -roast or boiled—I will -eat against any filthy Jew naturalized—or -under the bann.—On Saturday night the -newsman brought me two papers of J—— -13th and 20th;—right joyful did I receive -them:—I ran to Mrs. Sancho—with, I beg -you will read my friend’s sensible and spirited -defence of—of, &c.—She read—though it -broke in upon her work—she approved;—but -chance or fortune—or ill-luck—or what<span class="pagenum" id="Page_135">[p. 135]</span> -you ever mean by accident—has played us a -confounded trick;—for since Saturday they -have—both papers—disappeared—without -hands—or legs—or eyes—for no one has -seen them;—bureau—boxes—cupboards—drawers—parlour—chamber—shop—all—all -has been rummaged—pockets—port-folio—holes—corners—all -been searched;—Did -you see them?—did you?—where can they -be?—I know not—nor I—nor I—but God -does!—Omnipotence knoweth all things.—It -has vexed me—fretted dame Sancho—teazed -the children—but so it is;—hereafter -I suppose they will be found in some obvious -(though now unthought of) place, and -then it will be, Good Lord, who could have -thought it!</p> - -<p>Where is the <em>Jack-ass</em> business?—do not -be lazy—I feel myself a party concerned—and -when I see you, I have a delicious -morsel of true feminine grace and generosity -to shew you.—I shall not apologize for this -crude epistle;—but mark and remark—I do -thank you in the name of every Sancho but -self—they eat, and were filled;—I have -reason to thank you;—but as I do not affect<span class="pagenum" id="Page_136">[p. 136]</span> -pig—in a piggish sense—I hold myself excepted;—and, -although I did eat—and did -also commend, yet I will not thank you, -that’s poss.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">The papers are found, as you will see:—here -is one and a piece; it has suffered through -ignorance;—but what cannot be cured, must -be endured.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LII_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="52">LII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R.——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -September 17, 1777.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY RESPECTED FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I FEEL myself guilty of an unmannerly -neglect, in delaying to give my good Mrs. -C—— some account of the little commissions -she honoured me with.—You must -exert your friendly influence, in making -my peace with her;—not but that I well -know mercy has the blest preponderancy in -her scale—nor can kindness or mercy be<span class="pagenum" id="Page_137">[p. 137]</span> -lodged in a fairer breast;—in faith, I am -scarce half alive;—yet what really is alive -about me—hungers to hear news from -B——: first, how Mrs. C—— got down—and -her good companion;—how her health -is: tell her, I hope she left all her pains behind -her;—if so, I believe I have taken -possession of them all. Alas, my friend, I -never was but half so bad before;—both feet -knocked up at once; plenty of excruciating -pains, and a great lack of patience.—Mrs. -Sancho has had a blessed week of it;—for -my companion did not contribute much to -the sweetening my temper—it was the washing-week, -which you know made it a full -chance and half better.—she was forced to -break sugar, and attend shop.—God bless -her, and reward her!—she is good—good in -heart—good in principle—good by habit—good -by Heaven! God forgive me, I had -almost sworn.—Tell me how the ladies got -down—how they do; and what they do;—how -you do;—and how —— feels, now the -broom is hung on his door top.—The -certainty that B—— and his connexions are -all alive and merry—will be a cure for my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_138">[p. 138]</span> -gout—and thou shalt be sole doctor, as well -as first friend, to thy ever obliged true -friend.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LIII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="53">LIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -September 20, 1777.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“What Reason warrants, and what Wisdom guides,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“All else is tow’ring frenzy, or rank folly.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="firstpara">SO says Addison—<br /> -—And so well knoweth my friend I. M——. -Well, and what then? why it follows of -course—that, instead of feeling myself delighted -and gratefully thankful, for—I will -and must speak out—yet if these kindnesses -cost the pocket of my friend—they are not -kindnesses to the Sanchos.—For innate goodness -of heart—greatness of spirit—urbanity—humanity—temperance—justice—with -the -whole sweet list of heaven-born manly virtues—I -do, without flattery, give thee (and with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_139">[p. 139]</span> -pride do I avouch it) credit—I respect thy -person, and love thy principles;—but, my -good M——, there is a prior duty—which I -dare believe you will never willingly be deficient -in—and yet your generosity of soul -may let even such a worm as I break into it;—now, -that should not be—for—take me -right—I do not mean any thing derogatory -to your rank in the world—or to the -strength of your finances—what Sterne said -of himself that think I of you—that you are -as good a gentleman as the King—but not -quite so rich.—I honor thy feelings—and -am happy that I can honestly say, that I -conceive them;—the joy of giving and making -happy is almost the attribute of a God—and -there is as much sweetness conveyed to -the senses by doing a right well-natured deed, -as our frame can consistently bear—<em>So much -for chastisement—a pretty way of thanking!</em>—Well, -I have critically examined thy song—some -parts I like well—as it is a maidenhead, -it should be gently treated—But why N—— -Oh! Nature! A true passion is jealous even -of the initials of its mistress’s name.—Well, -N—— let it be—I will certainly attempt giving<span class="pagenum" id="Page_140">[p. 140]</span> -it a tune—such as I can—the first leisure—but -it must undergo some little pruning -when we meet.—I have had another little -visit from the gout—and my hand yet remembers -the rough salute; my spirits have -been rather low.—Young’s ninth night, the -Consolation, has been my last week’s study. -It is almost divine;—how many times has it -raised, warmed, and charmed me!—and is -still new. I hope you found your mother -and honest George as well as you wished—and -had the full enjoyment of maternal and -filial affections.—The girls are rampant-well—and -Billy gains something every day.—The -rogue is to excess fond of me—for -which I pity him—and myself more.—My -respects and kind enquiry to your old horse.—Tell -him, I wish him better—and am a -real friend to honest brutes—some I could -almost envy.—To say I am rejoiced to hear -you are better, is telling you no news—be but -as well as I wish you—as rich—and as good—Sampson, -Solomon, and the Duke de -Penthievre, will never be comparisons more.—Adieu.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_141">[p. 141]</span></p> - - -<p class="ps">I am as melancholy—as a tea-kettle when -it sings (as the maidens calls it) over a dead -fire.</p> - -<p>Oh!—but is it N—— indeed?—now -don’t you be after humming me; believe me, -honey—if I never find out the truth, I shall -know it for all that.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LIV_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="54">LIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 24, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I DENY it. That I ought to have acknowledged -your favour two weeks ago I -confess—but my silence was not so long—nor -broad—nor rusty—nor fusty as yours.—Blithe -health—festive hours—and social -mirth—be thine, my friend! Thy letter, -though late, was truly welcome—it unbended -the brow of care—and suspended, -for some hours, disagreeable thoughts.——By -St. Radagunda! quoth I—(ramming my -nostrils with Hardham) he has catched the -mantle.—Alas, poor Yorick! oh! that thou<span class="pagenum" id="Page_142">[p. 142]</span> -hadst, by divine permission, been suffered -a little—little longer, amongst the moonstruck -children of this namby-pamby world! -Father of light and life! thy will be done;—but -surely—half the wit—half the good -sense—of this present age—were interred in -Sterne’s grave. His broad philanthropy—like -the soul-cheering rays of the blessed -sun, invested his happy spirit, and soared -into Heaven with it—where, in progressive -rise from bliss to bliss, he drinks in large -draughts of rapture, love, and knowledge, -and chants the praises of redeeming love, -with joy unbounded, and unceasing vigour.—Your -invocation has mounted me, Merry-Andrew -like, upon stilts.—I ape you as -monkeys ape men, by walking upon two.—That -you have recovered the true tone of -your health and spirits, I rejoice—to be -happy in despight of fortune, shews the Philosopher—the -Hero—the Christian. I must -confess, my fortitude (which is wove of -very flimsy materials) too oft gives way in -the rough and unfriendly jostles of life:—Madam -Fortune, who by the way is a bunter -(and such I love not), has been particularly<span class="pagenum" id="Page_143">[p. 143]</span> -cross and untoward to me since you -left us. They say she is fond of fools—’tis -false and scandalous—she hates me—and I -have the vanity to say and believe—that if -folly, sheer folly, had any charms—I should -stand as fair in her esteem—as A. B. C. -D. E. F.—or any of Folly’s family through -the whole alphabet.—You halted at Burleigh—you -did just what I wished you to do—and -left it, I trust, as well in health as -you entered that sweet mansion—stopp’d at -Retford—and found your venerable parents -well—and contributed to their happiness—increased -their felicity by the many nice -little attentions of filial love—which the -good heart delights in—and even angels approve.—And -how do the worthy souls of -Hull and its environs?—Do they credit -themselves by esteeming a good-enough -kind of mortal?—You cannot imagine what -hold little Billy gets of me—he grows—prattles—and -every day learns something -new—and by his good-will would be ever -in the shop with me. The monkey! he -clings round my legs—and if I chide him -or look sour—he holds up his little mouth<span class="pagenum" id="Page_144">[p. 144]</span> -to kiss me;—I know I am the fool—for -parent’s weakness is child’s strength:—truth -orthodox—which will hold good -between lover and lovee—as well as - - - - - - - - - - - - - -. -Mrs. Sancho and -her virgins are so, so. Mr. Sancho, the -virgins, well as youth and innocence, souls -void of care and consciences of offence, -can be.—Dame Sancho would be better if -she cared less.—I am her barometer—if a -sigh escapes me, it is answered by a tear -in her eye;—I oft assume a gaiety to illume -her dear sensibility with a smile—which -twenty years ago almost bewitched -me;—and <em>mark</em>!—after twenty years enjoyment—constitutes -my highest pleasure!—Such -be your lot—with a competency—such -as will make œconomy a pleasant acquaintance—temperance -and exercise your -chief physician—and the virtues of benevolence -your daily employ—your pleasure -and reward! And what more can friendship -wish you?—but to glide down the -stream of time—blest with a partner of -congenial principles, and fine feelings—true -feminine eloquence—whose very looks speak<span class="pagenum" id="Page_145">[p. 145]</span> -tenderness and sentiment.—Your infants -growing—with the roseate bloom of health—minds -cultured by their father—expanding -daily in every improvement—blest little -souls!—and happy—happy parents!—such -be thy lot in life—in marriage;—but take a -virgin—or a maiden—to thy arms;—but—be -that as thy fate wills it.—Now for news.—Two -hours ago (in tolerable health and -cheary spirits) considering his journey not -so fatigued as might be expected—followed -by four superb carriages—their Royal Highnesses -the Duke and Dutchess of Gloucester -arrived in town. As to America, if you -know any thing at Hull, you know more -than is known in London.—Samuel Foote, -Esq; is dead—a leg was buried some years -since—and now the whole <em>foote</em> follows.—I -think you love a pun.—Colman is the -gainer, as he covenanted to give him 1600<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i> -<i lang="la" xml:lang="la">per annum</i>, for his patent;—in short, Colman -is happy in the bargain—and I trust Foote -is no loser.—I have seen poor Mr. de -Groote but once—and then could not attend -to speak with him, as I had customers -in the shop.—I waited by appointment for<span class="pagenum" id="Page_146">[p. 146]</span> -Mr. ——, to get your honor’s address—and -then three weeks before I could get -the franks—a fortnight since for Mr. —— -writing to you—I call this a string of beggarly -apologies.—I told M—— you expected -a line from him—he wanted faith.—I -made him read your letter—and what -then? “truly he was not capable—he had -no classical education—you write with elegance—ease—propriety.”——Tut, -quoth I, -pr’ythee give not the reins to pride—write -as I do—just the effusions of a warm though -foolish heart:—friendship will cast a veil of -kindness over thy blunders—they will be -accepted with a complacent smile—and read -with the same eye of kindness which indulges -now the errors of his sincere friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">A true Genius will always remember to -leave a space unwritten—to come in contact -with the wax or wafer—by which means the -reader escapes half an hour’s puzzle to make -out a sentence;—and ever while you live—never -omit—no—not that—what?—what!—dates! -dates!—am not I a grocer?——Pun -the Second.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_147">[p. 147]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LV_TO_MRS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="55">LV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Nov. 5, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">NOW, whether to address—according to -the distant, reserved, cold, mechanical forms -of high-breeding—where polished manners, -like a horse from the manage, prances fantastic—and, -shackled with the rules of art, -proudly despises simple nature;—or shall I, -like the patient, honest, sober, long-ear’d -animal, take plain Nature’s path, and address -you according to my feelings?—My -dear friend—you wanted to know the reason -I had never addressed a line to you;—the -plain and honest truth is, I thought writing -<em>at</em>—was better than writing <em>to</em> you;—that’s -one reason:—now a second reason is—I -know my own weakness too well to encounter -with your little friend—whom I -fear as a critic—and envy as a writer:—another -reason is—a case of conscience—which -some time or other you may have explained:—reason -the fourth—a secret—and so must<span class="pagenum" id="Page_148">[p. 148]</span> -be—till the blessed year 1797;—and then, if -you will deign to converse with an old friend—you -shall know all.—Kitty sends her respects -to Nutts—and her duty to her godmother.—Billy -looks wisely by turns—and -will speak for himself—if you should ever -come to town again.—The girls all improve -in appetite. Mrs. Sancho is tolerably well—and -I am yours very seriously,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">P. S. I wrote to my friend R——, -and then made some modest demands upon -your good-nature—There are a sort of people -in the world (one or two in a large extent -of country) rare enough to meet with—and -you are one whom nature hath left entirely -defenceless to the depredations of knaves;—for -my part, I own I have no remorse when -I tax your good-nature—which proceeds from -your having obliged me so much—that I -think with the street paupers—when they cry—“Good -your Ladyship, give me something—you -always used to remember your -poor old woman!”—Well but to conclude—we<span class="pagenum" id="Page_149">[p. 149]</span> -courtiers are all alive upon this great -good news—the Queen, God bless her—safe;—another -Princess—Oh the cake and -cawdle!—Then the defeat of Washintub’s -army—and the capture of Arnold and Sulivan -with seven thousand prisoners;—thirteen -counties return to their allegiance;—all this -news is believed—the delivery of her Majesty -is certain—pray God the rest may be as -certain—that this cursed carnage of the -human species may end—commerce revive—sweet -social peace be extended throughout -the globe—and the British empire be strongly -knit in the never-ending bands of sacred -friendship and brotherly love!—Her good -Grace of P—— is just arrived:—the -gardens would look as they were wont—but -for you. But to conclude—the little dance -(which I like because I made it)—I humbly -beg you will make Jacky play—and amongst -you contrive a figure.—The Dutchess of -—— visits the Queen this evening—which -being a piece of news you may credit—and -of the utmost consequence—I close my very -sensible decent epistle with—And so God -bless you!—Pray tell Mr. K—— my thanks<span class="pagenum" id="Page_150">[p. 150]</span> -for his obliging letter—and that I join him -and all his friends in honest gladness—upon -his brother’s account.—I fear, also, he has -had, and still has, too much practice.—I -have this opinion of him, that his humanity -will ever be found equal to his skill—and -that he will be a credit to his profession—as -well as a blessing to his patients.—My -humble respects and best wishes attend -Miss —— and Messieurs B—— and S——, -&c.</p> - -<p>The grand news is not yet officially authenticated—as -no express is yet arrived from -the Howes—the Isis man of war, which is -supposed to have the dispatches, not being -got in;—but the K—— and Cabinet -believe the news to be true, though brought -by hear-say—at sea.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LVI_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="56">LVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -December 20, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WITH the old story of the Season, &c. -&c. most sincerely, and amen.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_151">[p. 151]</span></p> - -<p>When Royal David—in the intoxication -of success and fullness of pride—imprudently -insisted upon the numbering of his people—we -are told, the Prophet was sent to announce -the Divine displeasure—and to give him the -choice of one of the three of the Almighty’s -heaviest punishments:—in his choice—he -shewed both wisdom and true piety—you -know the rest.—Now, my friend—thou -knowest my weakness;—I sincerely believe -the Sacred Writ—and of course look upon -war in all its horrid arrangements as the bitterest -curse that can fall upon a people; and -this American one—as one of the very worst—of -worst things:—that it is a just judgement, -I do believe;—that the eyes of our -rulers are shut, and their judgements stone-blind, -I believe also.—The Gazette will give -you a well-drest melancholy account—but -you will see one thing in it which you will -like—and that is, the humane solicitude of -General Burgoyne—for the safety and good -treatment indiscriminately of all his camp-artificers -and attendants:—he is certainly a -man of feeling—and I regard him more for -the grandeur of his mind in adversity—than<span class="pagenum" id="Page_152">[p. 152]</span> -I should in all the triumphal pomp of -military madness.—But let me return, if -possible, to my senses:—for God’s sake! -what has a poor starving Negroe, with six -children, to do with kings and heroes, and -armies and politics?—Aye, or poets and -painters!—or artists—of any sort? quoth -Monsieur S——. True—indubitably true.—For -your letter, thanks—It should have -come sooner—better late, &c. &c.—What -have I to do with your good or evil fortune—health -or sickness—weal or woe?—I am resolved -from henceforth to banish feelings—Misanthrope -from head to foot!—<i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">Apropos</i>—not -five minutes since I was interrupted, -in this same letter of letters, by a pleasant -affair—to a man of no feelings.—A fellow -bolted into the shop with a countenance in -which grief and fear struggled for mastery.—“Did -you see any body go to my cart, -Sir?”—“No, friend, how should I? you -see I am writing—and how should I be able -to see your cart or you either in the dark?”—“Lord -in heaven pity me! cries the man, -what shall I do? oh! what shall I do?—I -am undone!—Good God!—I did but go<span class="pagenum" id="Page_153">[p. 153]</span> -into the court here—with a trunk for the -lady at Captain G——’s (I had two to -deliver), and somebody has stole the other;—what -shall I do?—what shall I do?”—“Zounds, -man!—who ever left their cart -in the night with goods in it, without leaving -some one to watch?”—“Alack, Sir, I -left a boy, and told him I would give him -something to stand by the cart, and the boy -and trunk are both gone!”—Oh nature!—oh -heart!—why does the voice of distress so -forcibly knock at the door of hearts—but to -hint to pride and avarice our common -kindred—and to alarm self-love?—Mark, I -do think, and will maintain it—that self-love -alone, if rightly understood, would make -man all that a dying Redeemer wills he -should be.—But this same stolen trunk;—the -ladies are just gone out of my shop—they -have been here holding a council—upon law -and advertisements;—God help them!—they -could not have come to a worse—nor -could they have found a stupider or sorrier -adviser:—the trunk was seen parading between -two in the Park—and I dare say the -contents by this time are pretty well gutted.—Last -Sunday I met, coming from church,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_154">[p. 154]</span> -Mr. C——; he looks well, better than -when you left him.—I took occasion, as we -were prating about and about your worship—to -pin Mr. de Groote’s interest upon the -skirts of his feelings;—he desired, when I -saw him next, I would send him into -Crown-street—which I religiously performed, -but have not seen Mr. de Groote since;—in -truth, there is (despight of his nose) so much -of the remains of better times—somewhat of -the gentleman and artist in ruins—something -creative of reverence as well as pity—that I -have wished to do more than I ought—though -at the same time too little for such a -being to receive without insult from the -hands of a poor Negroe—(pooh, I do not -care for your prancings, I can see you at -this distance).—We have agreed upon one -thing;—which is, I have undertaken to write -to Mr. G—— for him, in the way of local -relief;—I will wager a tankard of porter I -succeed in some sort;—I will aim at both -sides of him—his pity and his pride—which, -alas!—the last I mean, finds a first-floor in -the breast of every son of Adam. S—— -called on me this day, and left a picture for<span class="pagenum" id="Page_155">[p. 155]</span> -you at your lodgings—and a very spirited -head in miniature, of your own doing, with -me—which I like so well—you will find it -difficult to get it from me—except you talk -of giving me a copy—Self-love again!—How -can you expect business in these hard times—when -the utmost exertions of honest industry -can scarce afford people in the middle sphere -of life daily provisions?—When it shall please -the Almighty that things shall take a better -turn in America—when the conviction of -their madness shall make them court peace—and -the same conviction of our cruelty and -injustice induce us to settle all points in -equity—when that time arrives, my friend, -America will be the grand patron of genius—trade -and arts will flourish—and if it shall -please God to spare us till that period—we -will either go and try our fortunes there—or -stay in Old England and talk about it.—While -thou hast only one mouth to feed—one -back to cloath—and one wicked member -to indulge—thou wilt have no pity from -me—excepting in the argument of health. -May that cordial blessing be thine—with its -sweet companion ease!—Peace follows rectitude—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_156">[p. 156]</span> -what a plague would’st thou have -more?—Write soon if thou dar’st—retort -at thy peril—boy—girls—and the old -Duchess, all pretty well—and so, so, is -yours,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LVII_TO_J_S_mdash_Esq"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="57">LVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J. S——, Esq</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, December 26, 1777.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I HAD the favor of a letter—replete with -kindness which I can never deserve—and -have just now received the valuable contents—of -which said letter was harbinger—without -either surprize or emotion—save a kind of -grateful tickling of the heart—the child of -respect—and I believe twin-brother of gratitude.——Now -had I heard of an A—hb—p -(at this sacred season especially)—gladdening -the hearts of the poor, aged and infirm—with -good cheer—informing the minds of -the young with Christian precepts, and reforming<span class="pagenum" id="Page_157">[p. 157]</span> -his whole See by his pious example—that -would have surprized me:—had -I been informed of a truly great man—who, -laying aside party and self-interest, dared to -step forth the advocate of truth, and friend -to his country; or had any one told me of a -lord—who was wise enough to live within -bounds—and honest enough to pay his debts—why -it would have surpriz’d me indeed.—But -I have been well informed there is a Mr. -S—— at Bury—and I think I have seen the -gentleman—who lives in a constant course of -doing beneficent actions—and, upon these -occasions, the pleasure he feels constitutes -him the obliged party.—You, good Sir, -ought of course to thank me—for adding one -more to the number you are pleased to be -kind to—so pray remember, good Sir, that -my thanks—(however due in the eye of -gratitude) I conceive to be an act of supererogation—and -expect that henceforth -you will look upon the Sancho’s—as a family -that have a rightful call upon your notice.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in repetition of the -customary wishes.—Give me credit for having -a heart which feels your kindness as it<span class="pagenum" id="Page_158">[p. 158]</span> -ought.—That Heaven may lengthen your -days for the good of mankind—and grant -every wish of your heart—is the true conclusion -of</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your greatly obliged</p> -<p class="signoff2">and respectful humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LVIII_TO_MR_F_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="58">LVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. F——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, January 27, 1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">FULL heartily and most cordially do I -thank thee, good Mr. F——, for your kindness -in sending the books—that upon the unchristian -and most diabolical usage of my -brother Negroes—the illegality—the horrid -wickedness of the traffic—the cruel carnage -and depopulation of the human species—is -painted in such strong colours—that I should -think would (if duly attended to) flash conviction, -and produce remorse, in every<span class="pagenum" id="Page_159">[p. 159]</span> -enlightened and candid reader.—The perusal -affected me more than I can express;—indeed -I felt a double or mixt sensation—for while -my heart was torn with the sufferings which—for -aught I know—some of my nearest kin -might have undergone—my bosom, at the -same time, glowed with gratitude and praise -toward the humane—the Christian—the -friendly and learned Author of that most -valuable book.—Blest be your sect!—and -Heaven’s peace be upon them!—I, who, -thank God! am no bigot—but honour -virtue and the practice of the great moral -duties equally in the turban or the lawn-sleeves—who -think Heaven big enough for -all the race of man—and hope to see and mix -amongst the whole family of Adam in bliss -hereafter—I with these notions (which, -perhaps, some may style absurd) look upon -the friendly Author—as a being far superior -to any great name upon your continent.—I -could wish that every member of each house -of parliament had one of these books.—And if -his Majesty perused one through before breakfast—though -it might spoil his appetite—yet -the consciousness of having it in his power to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_160">[p. 160]</span> -facilitate the great work—would give an -additional sweetness to his tea.—Phyllis’s -poems do credit to nature—and put art—merely -as art—to the blush.—It reflects -nothing either to the glory or generosity of -her master—if she is still his slave—except he -glories in the <em>low vanity</em> of having in his -wanton power a mind animated by Heaven—a -genius superior to himself. The list of -splendid, titled, learned names, in confirmation -of her being the real authoress, alas! -shews how very poor the acquisition of wealth -and knowledge are—without generosity—feeling—and -humanity.—These good great -folks all knew—and perhaps admired—nay, -praised Genius in bondage—and then, like -the Priests and the Levites in sacred writ, -passed by—not one good Samaritan amongst -them.—I shall be ever glad to see you—and -am, with many thanks,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most humble servant.</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_161">[p. 161]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LIX_TO_MR_W_mdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="59">LIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. W——E</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, March 12, 1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WILL you forgive me—if I take the -liberty to trouble you with getting my enclosed -plan inserted in the General Advertiser, -or Morning Intelligencer, as speedily as -they conveniently can, if after you have -perused it, you think it admissable?—if not, -destroy it; for I have not yet vanity sufficient -to think whatever I privately approve must -of course be approveable.—I send you the -copy of what real affection made me draw -up for the late unfortunate Dr. Dodd<a id="FNanchor_5" href="#Footnote_5" class="fnanchor">[5]</a> -(which, as it never was inserted, I must -believe the learned editor thought it too -insignificant for the laudable service it was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_162">[p. 162]</span> -meant to help).—My respects attend your -whole family.—I am, dear Sir,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">I prefer Mr. Parker’s paper for many reasons;—let -me have your opinion of my -plan—for, in serious truth, I think it ought -to be put in execution.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_5" href="#FNanchor_5" class="label">[5]</a> Mr. Sancho also wrote to Dr. Dodd when in prison.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak fs100" id="For_THE_GENERAL_ADVERTISER2">For<span class="gesperrt1"> THE GENERAL ADVERTISER</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Palace Yard, March 12, 1778.</p> - -<p class="sp1 gesperrt1"> -SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THE Romans were wont to decree public -honors on the man who was so fortunate -as to save the life of a citizen; a noble -act of policy, founded on true humanity, -to stimulate the endeavours of every -individual towards acts of benevolence and -brotherly regard to each other. Actuated -by zeal to my prince, and love to my country—I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_163">[p. 163]</span> -mean to deserve well of both, by -publishing, through the channel of your paper, -a plan for greatly diminishing the national -debt; or, in case a war with the House -Bourbon should be inevitable, for raising -three or four years supplies, without oppresing -the merchant, mechanic, or labouring -husbandman; in short, without abridging -one needful indulgence, or laying any fellow-subject -under the least self-denying restraint.</p> - -<p>Mr. Editor, we all know that in noble -families plate is merely ideal wealth—and -in very many houses of your first connexions -and over-grown fortunes, there are vast quantities -of it old and useless, kept merely for -the antiquity of its fashion, and the ostentatious -proof of the grandeur of ancestry. -Our neighbours the French (if I mistake -not) in the last war had the spirit (when -the treasures of their Grand Monarque were -nearly exhausted) to send their plate generously -to the mint, in aid of national honour -and security. Their churchmen have -often shewn the laity the glorious example -of aiding the state. We, to our immortal -honour, have never yielded them the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_164">[p. 164]</span> -palm in courage, wisdom, or gallantry. -Let every gentleman, whose landed property -exceeds 500<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i> <i lang="la" xml:lang="la">per annum</i>, give up, -without reserve, his useful family plate, all -except knives, forks, and spoons, which -may be deemed useful and necessary. I -trust, such is the exalted spirit of the British -nobility and gentry, that they will resign -with chearfulness what they can so well -do without. Should this meet (as I hope -it will) with the chearful assent of the -public, let the quantities, so nobly given, -be printed against the names of the patriotic -donors, as a lasting testimony of their -zeal for the public good, and a glorious -proof of the internal riches of this queen -of isles!</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="smcap gesperrt05">Africanus.</span></p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_165">[p. 165]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak fs100" id="To_the_Editor_of_the_MORNING_POST">To the Editor of the <span class="gesperrt1">MORNING POST</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="sp1 gesperrt1"> -SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I AM one of the many who have been -often edified by the graceful eloquence and -truly Christian doctrine of the unfortunate -Dr. Dodd.—As a Divine, he had, and still -has, my love and reverence; his faults I regret; -but, alas! I feel myself too guilty to -cast a stone: justice has her claims;—but -Mercy, the anchor of my hope, inclines -me to wish he might meet with Royal clemency—his -punishments have already been -pretty severe!—the loss of Royal favor—the -cowardly attacks of malicious buffoonry—and -the over-strained zeal for rigid justice -in the prosecution.—Oh! would to God the -reverend bishops, clergy, &c. would join -in petitioning the Throne for his life!—it -would save the holy order from indignity, -and even the land itself from the reproach -of making too unequal distinctions in punishments. -He might, by the rectitude -of his future life, and due exertion of his<span class="pagenum" id="Page_166">[p. 166]</span> -matchless powers, be of infinite service—as -chaplain to the poor convicts on the river, -which would be a punishment, and, at the -same time, serve for a proof or test of -his contrition—and the sincerity of a zeal -he has often manifested (in the pulpit) for -the service of true Religion—and he may -rise the higher by his late fall—and do more -real service to the thoughtless and abandoned -culprits, than a preacher, whose character -might perhaps be deemed spotless. If -this hint should stimulate a pen, or heart, -like the good B——p of Chester’s, to exert -itself in the behalf of a man who has -formerly been alive to every act of heaven-born -charity—the writer of this will have -joy, even in his last moments, in the reflection -that he paid a mite of the vast -debt he owes Dr. Dodd as a preacher.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I—— S——.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_167">[p. 167]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LX_TO_MRS_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="60">LX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, April 9, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I HAVE to thank you for repeated favors—and -I do most sincerely.—You have -a pleasure in doing acts of kindness—I wish -from my soul that your example was more -generally imitated.—I have given to the -care of Mr. W—— one of Giardini’s benefit-tickets—which -I present not to you, -Madam, but to Mr. H——, that he may -judge of fidlers’ taste and fidlers’ consequence -in our grand metropolis—the ticket was a -present from the great Giardini to the lowly -Sancho—and I offer it as a tribute of musical -affection to thy worthy partner—and with -it, to both, the sincereest best wishes and -respects of their much obliged servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_168">[p. 168]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXI_TO_MR_J_mdash_WmdashmdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="61">LXI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. J—— W——E.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -May 4, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR W——E,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOUR short letter gave me much pleasure—which -would have been enlarged, had -your epistle been longer;—but I make allowances—as -I ought—for the number of -friends who wish equally with me—and expect -to be gratified. You are greatly fortunate -in enjoying your health—for which -I doubt not but you are truly thankful to -the Almighty Giver.—As to your success, it -is the best comment upon your conduct;—for -rectitude of principle and humble -deportment, added to strict attention and -good-nature, must make even fools and -knaves wish you well—though envy will mix -itself with the transient kindness of such—but -with such noble natures as you went -out happily connected with, you are every -day sowing the good seeds of your future<span class="pagenum" id="Page_169">[p. 169]</span> -fortune.—I hope to live to see you return—the -comfort and honor of your good -father and family;—but observe—I do not -wish you half a million, clogged with the -tears and blood of the poor natives;—no—a -decent competence got with honesty—and -that will keep increasing like the -widow’s cruse, and descend down to posterity -with accumulated blessings.—You desire -to transfer your share in me to your -brother Joe;—now be it known to you—Joe -has interest sufficient in his own natural -right with me, to secure him every attention -in my poor power. But you flatter, my good -friend—though your flattery carries a good -excuse with it—you flatter the poor.</p> - -<p>I say nothing of politics—I hate such subjects;—the -public papers will inform you of -mistakes—blood—taxes—misery—murder—the -obstinacy of a few—and the madness and -villainy of a many.—I expect a very, very -long letter from you—in answer to a sermon -I wrote you last year.—Miss —— is still -divinely fair;—she is a good girl, but no -match for Nabobs.—Mrs. C—— is as -handsome as ever—and R—— as friendly.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_170">[p. 170]</span> -God bless them! feasting or fasting! sleeping -or waking! May God’s providence watch -over and protect them—and all such!—Your -brother Frank is a sweet boy—a painter, -who would wish to draw a cherub, will -find no fitter subject.—The C——ds—but -what have I to do with good people, who -will of course all write for themselves?—so -let them.—Your father—Oh Jack! what a -cordial!—what a rich luxury is it to be able -to contribute, by well-doing, to a father’s, -nay a whole family of kindred love, and -heart-felt affection! what a bliss to add to -all their happiness—and to insure your own -at the same time!—May this high pleasure -be thine! and may the God of truth and -fountain of all good enrich thy heart and -head with his spirit and wisdom—crown -your labours with success—and guard you -from avarice—ambition—and every Asiatic -evil—so that your native land may receive -you with riches and honor—your friends -with true joy—heightened with sincere respect! -So wishes—so prophesies—thy true -friend and obliged servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_171">[p. 171]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXII_TO_MISS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="62">LXII.</abbr></h2> -</div> - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, May 9, 1778.</p> - - -<p class="center sp2"><span class="fs90 gesperrt1">TO MISS C</span>——.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THE Sanchos—in full synod—humbly -present their respectful compliments to the -good Mrs. C—— and Miss —— (what a -C——!) are happy in hearing they got well -into Suffolk—that they continue so—and -enjoy the beauties of this sweetest of seasons—with -its attendant dainties—fresh butter—sweet -milk—and the smiles of boon -nature—on hill and dale—fields and groves—shepherds -piping—milk-maids dancing—and -the chearful respondent carolings of -artless joy in the happy husbandmen—Should -you perchance rise early in pursuit of -May dew—I earnestly make it my request—you -will save—and bring to town a little -bottle of it for my particular use.—Happy—thrice<span class="pagenum" id="Page_172">[p. 172]</span> -happy nymphs—!—be merciful to -the poor hapless swains. The powerful little -god of mischief and delight now—at this -blest season—prunes his beauteous wings—new -feathers and sharpens his arrows—tight -strings his bow—and takes too sure his aim.—Oh! -lads, beware the month of May. -For you, blest girls—nature, decked out as -in a birth-day suit, courts you with all its -sweets where-e’er you tread—the grass and -wanton flowerets fondly kiss your feet—and -humbly bow their pretty heads—to the gentle -sweepings of your under-petticoats—the -soft and amorous southern breezes toy with -your curls, and uncontroul’d steal numberless -kisses—the blackbirds and thrushes suspend -their songs—and eye beauty and humanity -with pleasure;—and, could their -hearts be read, thank most sincerely the generous -fair hands that fed them in the winter;—the -cuckoo sings on every tree the joys -of married life—the shrubbery throws out all -its sweets to charm you—though, alas! an -unlucky parciplepliviaplemontis seizes my -imagination—my brains are on the ferment—Miss -C—— will excuse me.—Make my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_173">[p. 173]</span> -best wishes to Mrs. C——, tell her I hope -she rides and walks in moderation—eats -heartily, and laughs much—sleeps soundly, -dreams happily—that she—you—my R—— -and your connexions—may enjoy the good of -this life without its evil—is the true Black-a-moor -wish of</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Now mark, this is not meant as a letter—no—it -is an address to the ladies.—Pray -our best respects to Mr. and Mrs. B——; -it is an address to Spring-birds and flowers—and -when you see Johnny, our loves—it is -a caution to the swains against the popery of -Love.—The K—— and Q—— are just -now returned from Portsmouth.—I said nothing -in regard to the month by way of advice -to the ladies.—The Spectator—blessings -on his memory—has.—They say the Royal -chaise was covered with dirt—even the very -glasses.—Quistus Quirini—was found very -late last night.—Nothing broke—except the -hemmings of advantage.—They say the -Queen never looked better.—But what amaz’d -most people—both the Royal postillions -rode the off-horses—which it is expected<span class="pagenum" id="Page_174">[p. 174]</span> -the Gazette of this night will explain—Adieu.</p> - -<p class="center sp2"> -Is not that—<em>a good one</em>.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak fs125" id="From_the_PUBLIC_ADVERTISER_of_May_13th_1778">From the <span class="gesperrt1">PUBLIC ADVERTISER</span> of May 13th, 1778.</h2> -</div> - -<p class="center">Inserted unknown to Mr. Sancho.</p> - -<p class="center sp2">TO MR. B——.</p> - - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I COULD not see Mr. de Groote till -this morning—he approached the threshold—poor -man—in very visible illness;—yet, -under the pressure of a multitude of infirmities—he -could not forget his recent humane -benefactor. With faultering speech he enquired -much who you were;—and, in the -conclusion, put up his most earnest petitions -to the Father of Mercies in your behalf—which -(if the prayers of an indigent genius -have as much efficacy as those of a fat bishop)<span class="pagenum" id="Page_175">[p. 175]</span> -I should hope and trust you may one day be -the better for.—He is in direct descent from -the famous Hugo Grotius by the father’s -side.—His own mother was daughter to Sir -Thomas Hesketh. He married the widow -Marchioness de Melaspina.—His age is 86; -he had a paralytic stroke—and has a rupture.—His -eyes are dim, even with the help of -spectacles.—In truth, he comes close to -Shakspeare’s description in his last age of -man—“Sans teeth—sans eyes—sans taste—sans -every thing.”</p> - -<p>He has the honour to be known to Dr. -Johnson—and the luck to be sometimes remembered -by Mr. Garrick.—If you help -him—you do yourself a kindness—me a pleasure—and -he, poor soul, a good—which he -may one time throw in your teeth—in that -country where good actions are in higher estimation -than stars—ribbons—or crowns.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, most respectfully,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps center">He lodges at Nᵒ. 9, New Pye-Street, Westminster.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_176">[p. 176]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXIII_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="63">LXIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="firstpara">MY good friend, take my thanks for -your kind attention;—and, believe me, I -am exceedingly mortified at being thus thrust -forward in the public prints.—You may observe, -by what has happened to me, how -very difficult it is to do even a right thing, -so as to escape uneasiness.—Trust me, this -same letter (though wrote, I dare say, with -the kindest intention imaginable) will do -me hurt in the opinion of many;—I therefore -repeat, I like it not—and dare own to -my friend R—— it hurts my pride.—You -may laugh—but it’s truth.—The drawing -was gone to my friend S——, but I recovered -it in time.—Hope the ladies are -well—and that it will amuse them for a few -moments. The young man who invented -the design is no artist—but I think he has -genius.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_177">[p. 177]</span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXIV_TO_MISS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="64">LXIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -May 14, 1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WHAT terms shall I find to express my -gratitude to the obliging, the friendly Miss -C——, for the pleasure we enjoyed from -the contents of the best letter that has been -wrote this good year?—You, who delight -to please, will also feel high satisfaction in -knowing you have succeeded.—We hope -the change of weather has had no ill effect -upon our friend—and that she will adhere -to her promise in remembering how ill she -has been—and that it is too probable any -cold got by over-exertion or fatigue may -occasion a relapse. We have had much -thunder and rain this morning—and, if old -saws say true, we are to expect a continuance -of about thirty-seven days good ducking<span class="pagenum" id="Page_178">[p. 178]</span> -weather;—we will leave it to the all-wise -Disposer of events, with this comfortable -reflection—that whatever he wills—is best.—We -are happy to hear such an account -of the ——; she especially, as very likely -a good course of fatigue, sweetened with -gain, may contribute as much to her health -as her pleasure, and re-establish her perfectly.—We -have nothing stirring in the news -way, or any other way:—the town is literally -empty, saving a few sharks of both sexes, -who are too poor to emigrate to the camps -or watering-places, and so are forced to prey -upon one another in town.—I protest, it is -to me the most difficult of things to write to -one of your female geniuses;—there is a certain -degree of cleverality (if I may so call it), -an easy kind of derangement of periods, a gentleman-like—fashionable—careless—seesaw -of dialogue—which I know no more of than -you do of cruelty.—I write as I think—foolishly—and -you write well—why?—because -you think well.—So much for praise—compliment—flattery, -&c.—My respects attend -Mr. B—— and Mrs. S—— and Mrs. ——. -Tell Miss A——s, one of us will come to see<span class="pagenum" id="Page_179">[p. 179]</span> -her—perhaps.—I have received a kind letter -from my good friend the doctor—and one -also for the surgeon to the guards, dated New -York, June 12:—he thinks the commissioners -might have saved themselves the trouble, -as they are like to come back just as -wise as they went.—The Panton-Street good -folks are well, for what I know—not having -seen them since I last had the honor of addressing -Mrs. C——. Adieu.—Our best -respects—with Kitty’s and Billy’s in particular—attend -Monsieur Nuts<a id="FNanchor_6" href="#Footnote_6" class="fnanchor">[6]</a>;—pray tell -him so—with all civility;—he deserves it on -the score of his own merits—were it not -even so—yet surely, I think, we should regard -him for the sake of our friend.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Sancho joins me, in every thing to -Self and Co.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, dear Miss C——,</p> -<p class="signoff2">with zeal and esteem,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_6" href="#FNanchor_6" class="label">[6]</a> A favourite Spaniel.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_180">[p. 180]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXV_TO_MR_I_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="65">LXV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. I——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -May 22, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I CLAIM your indulgence—and modestly -insist upon your help.—The companions to -this billet are the hobby-horses of a young -man that I respect.—Darley has used him -with less attention than he ought—having -kept the press affair above a month—and -done nothing—so he is (of course) out of -favor.—I want first your approbation—that -gained, I wish your interest, to get them -speedily into the world;—there are some inaccuracies -in both—which any regular artist -will amend.—As my friend is self-taught, -his errors must be excused.—I wish I could -wait upon you;—but my stiff joint—my leg—is -so unwell, that at present I must give -up any hopes of that pleasure.—I hope Mrs.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_181">[p. 181]</span> -I——’s health is perfectly restored.—I should -wish to win her over to our interests in the -affairs before you: in good faith, I like the -subject myself—and can fancy I discern -something like wit in both of them.—Forgive -and assist yours faithfully,</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="smcap gesperrt05">Sancho</span> the Big.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXVI_TO_MR_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="66">LXVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Westminster, May 31, 1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THE Sanchonian chapter of enquiries, -dictated by an esteem nearly bordering upon -affection (perhaps as warmly sincere as most -modern friendships), runs thus—How do -you do? Are you the better for your journey? -Did the exercise create any amendment -of appetite? Was your travelling party -agreeable? And how did you find the good -couple?—The sweet sensations arising from -the sight of those we love, the reviewing -the places, either houses, fields, hedges,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_182">[p. 182]</span> -stiles, or posts, of our early morn of life -acquaintance, the train of pleasurable ideas -awakened, are more salutary than the college -of grave faces.—Tell me much about -yourself—and more about your honored -parents, whom I hope you found as well as -you wished—your kindred at Lancaster, to -whom my hearty wishes—and to all who -have charity enough to admit dark faces into -the fellowship of Christians.—Say much for -me to your good father and mother—in the -article of respect thou canst not exaggerate;—excepting -conjugal, there are no attentions -so tenderly heart-soothing as the parental.—Amidst -the felicity of thy native fields, may’st -thou find health, and diffuse pleasure round -the respectable circle of thy friends!—No -news—but that Keppel is in chace of de-Chartres.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours truly,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">If you can afford a line, inclose it in the -inclosed.—Mrs. Sancho and girls wish you -every pleasure.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_183">[p. 183]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXVII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="67">LXVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 10, 1778.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“’Tis with our judgements as our watches—none</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Go just alike—yet each believes his own.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="right"> -<span class="smcap">Pope.</span></p> - -<p class="firstpara">SO, my wise critic—blessings on thee,—and -thanks for thy sagacious discovery!—Sterne, -it seems, stole his grand outline of -character from Fielding—and who did Fielding -plunder? thou criticizing jack-ape!—As -to S——, perhaps you may be right—not -absolutely right—nor quite so very <em>altogether</em> -wrong—but that’s not my affair.—Fielding -and Sterne both copied Nature—their -pallettes stored with proper colours of -the brightest dye—these masters were both -great originals—their outline correct—bold—and -free—Human Nature was their subject—and -though their colouring was widely -different, yet <em>here</em> and there some features in -each might bear a little resemblance—some<span class="pagenum" id="Page_184">[p. 184]</span> -faint likeness to each other—as for example—in -your own words—Toby and Allworthy—the -external drapery of the two are as wide -as the poles—their hearts—perhaps—twins -of the same blessed form and principles;—but -for the rest of the Dramatis Personæ, -you must strain hard, my friend, before you -can twist them into likeness sufficient to -warrant the censure of copying.—Parson -Adams is yet more distant—his chief feature -is absence of thought. The world affords -me many such instances—but in the course -of my reading, I have not met with his -likeness, except in mere goodness of heart—in -that, perhaps, Jack M—— may equal -him—but then he is so confounded jingle-headed!—Read, -boy, read—give Tom Jones -a second <em>fair</em> reading!—Fielding’s wit is -obvious—his humour poignant—dialogue -just, and truly dramatic—colouring quite -nature—and keeping chaste.—Sterne equals -him in every thing; and in one thing excels -him and all mankind—which is the distribution -of his lights; which he has so artfully -varied throughout his work, that, the oftener -they are examined, the more beautiful they<span class="pagenum" id="Page_185">[p. 185]</span> -appear.—They were two great masters, who -painted for posterity—and, I prophesy, will -charm to the end of the English speech.—If -Sterne has had any one great master in his -eye—it was Swift, his countryman—the first -wit of this or any other nation;—but there -is this grand difference between them—Swift -excels in grave-faced irony—whilst Sterne -lashes his whips with jolly laughter.—I -could wish you to compare (after due attentive -reading) Swift and Sterne—Milton and -Young—Thomson and Akenside—and then -give your free opinion to yours ever.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">I want a handful or two of good fresh -peach leaves—contrive to send me them -when opportunity serves—and word, at the -first leisure period, how Miss <em>Anne Sister-like</em>—<em>George -Grateful-look</em>—Mrs. &c. &c.—and -how your worship’s hip does.—You -had set up my bristles in such guise—in attacking -poor Sterne—that I had quite forgot -to give you a flogging for your punning grocery -epistle—but omittance is no quittance.—Swift -and Sterne were different in this—Sterne -was truly a noble philanthropist—Swift<span class="pagenum" id="Page_186">[p. 186]</span> -was rather cynical;—what Swift would fret -and fume at—such as the petty accidental <em>sourings</em> -and <em>bitters</em> in life’s cup—you plainly may -see, Sterne would laugh at—and parry off by -a larger humanity, and regular good-will to -man. I know you will laugh at me—do—I -am content;—if I am an enthusiast in any -thing, it is in favor of my Sterne.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXVIII_TO_MR_J_mdash_Wmdashmdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="68">LXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. J—— W——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOUR good father insists on my -scribbling a sheet of absurdities, and gives -a notable reason for it—that is, ‘Jack will -be pleased with it.’—Now be it known to -you—I have a respect both for father and -son—yea, for the whole family, who are -every soul (that I have the honour or pleasure -to know any thing of) tinctured and leavened -with all the obsolete goodness of old times—so -that a man runs some hazard, in being seen -in the W——e’s society, of being biassed to -Christianity.—I never see your poor father—but -his eyes betray his feelings—for the hopeful -youth in India—a tear of joy dancing upon<span class="pagenum" id="Page_187">[p. 187]</span> -the lids—is a plaudit not to be equalled this -side death!—See the effects of right-doing, my -worthy friend; continue in the tract of rectitude—and -despise poor paltry Europeans—titled -Nabobs.—Read your Bible—as day -follows night, God’s blessing follows virtue;—honour -and riches bring up the rear—and -the end is peace.—Courage, my boy—I have -done preaching.—Old folks love to seem -wise—and if you are silly enough to correspond -with grey hairs—take the consequence.—I -have had the pleasure of reading most of -your letters, through the kindness of your -father.—Youth is naturally prone to vanity: -such is the weakness of human nature, that -pride has a fortress in the best of hearts.—I -know no person that possesses a better than -Johnny W——;—but although flattery is -poison to youth, yet truth obliges me to confess -that your correspondence betrays no -symptom of vanity—but teems with truths of -an honest affection—which merits praise—and -commands esteem.</p> - -<p>In some of your letters which I do not -recollect, you speak (with honest indignation) -of the treachery and chicanery of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_188">[p. 188]</span> -natives<a id="FNanchor_7" href="#Footnote_7" class="fnanchor">[7]</a>.—My good friend, you should remember -from whom they learnt those vices:—the -first Christian visitors found them a -simple, harmless people—but the cursed -avidity for wealth urged these first visitors -(and all the succeeding ones) to such acts of -deception—and even wanton cruelty—that -the poor ignorant natives soon learnt to turn -the knavish and diabolical arts which they -soon imbibed—upon their teachers.</p> - -<p>I am sorry to observe that the practice of -your country (which as a resident I love—and -for its freedom, and for the many -blessings I enjoy in it, shall ever have my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_189">[p. 189]</span> -warmest wishes—prayers—and blessings;) I -say, it is with reluctance that I must observe -your country’s conduct has been uniformly -wicked in the East—West Indies—and even -on the coast of Guinea.—The grand object of -English navigators—indeed of all Christian -navigators—is money—money—money—for -which I do not pretend to blame them.—Commerce -was meant, by the goodness of the -Deity, to diffuse the various goods of the -earth into every part—to unite mankind in -the blessed chains of brotherly love—society—and -mutual dependence:—the enlightened -Christian should diffuse the riches of the -Gospel of peace—with the commodities of -his respective land.—Commerce, attended -with strict honesty—and with Religion for -its companion—would be a blessing to every -shore it touched at.—In Africa, the poor -wretched natives—blessed with the most -fertile and luxuriant soil—are rendered so -much the more miserable for what Providence -meant as a blessing:—the Christians’ -abominable traffic for slaves—and the horrid -cruelty and treachery of the petty Kings—encouraged -by their Christian customers—who<span class="pagenum" id="Page_190">[p. 190]</span> -carry them strong liquors, to enflame -their national madness—and powder and bad -fire arms, to furnish them with the hellish -means of killing and kidnapping.—But -enough—it is a subject that sours my blood—and -I am sure will not please the friendly -bent of your social affections.—I mention -these, only to guard my friend against being -too hasty in condemning the knavery of a -people, who, bad as they may be—possibly -were made worse by their Christian visitors.—Make -human nature thy study wherever -thou residest—whatever the religion or the -complexion, study their hearts.—Simplicity, -kindness, and charity, be thy guide;—with -these, even Savages will respect you—and -God will bless you!</p> - -<p>Your father—who sees every improvement -of his boy with delight—observes that your -hand-writing is much for the better;—in -truth, I think it as well as any modest man -can wish:—if my long epistles do not frighten -you—and I live till the return of next spring—perhaps -I shall be enabled to judge how -much you are improved since your last favour.—Write -me a deal about the natives—the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_191">[p. 191]</span> -soil and produce—the domestic and interior -manners of the people—customs—prejudices—fashions—and -follies.—Alas! we -have plenty of the two last here—and what -is worse, we have politics—and a detestable -Brothers war—where the right hand is hacking -and hewing the left—whilst Angels weep -at our madness—and Devils rejoice at the -ruinous prospect.</p> - -<p>Mr. R—— and the ladies are well.—Johnny -R—— has favourd me with a long -letter; he is now grown familiar with danger—and -can bear the whistling of bullets—the -cries and groans of the human species—the -roll of drums—clangor of trumpets—shouts -of combatants—and thunder of cannon—all -these he can bear with soldier-like fortitude—with -now and then a secret wish for -the society of his London friends—in the -sweet blessed security of peace and friendship.</p> - -<p>This, young man, is my second letter;—I -have wrote till I am stupid, I perceive—I -ought to have found it out two pages back.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in good wishes—I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_192">[p. 192]</span> -join her in the same;—in which double sense -believe me,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="pshead"> -Postscript. (Very short.)</p> - -<p class="sp1">It is with sincere pleasure I hear you have -a lucrative establishment—which will enable -you to appear and act with decency;—your -good sense will naturally lead you to proper -œconomy—as distant from frigid parsimony, -as from a heedless extravagancy;—but as you -may possibly have some time to spare upon -your hands for necessary recreation—give me -leave to obtrude my poor advice.—I have -heard it more than once observed of fortunate -adventurers—they have come home enriched -in purse—but wretchedly barren in intellects:—the -mind, my dear Jack, wants food—as -well as the stomach;—why then should not -one wish to increase in knowledge as well as -money?—Young says—“Books are fair -Virtue’s advocates and friends:”—now my -advice is—to preserve about 20<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i> a year for<span class="pagenum" id="Page_193">[p. 193]</span> -two or three seasons—by which means you -may gradually form a useful, elegant, little -library.—Suppose now the first year you -send the order and the money to your father—for -the following books—which I recommend -from my own superficial knowledge as -useful.—A man should know a little of Geography—History, -nothing more useful, or -pleasant.</p> - -<p> -Robertson’s Charles the Fifth, 4 vols.</p> -<p>Goldsmith’s History of Greece, 2 vols.</p> -<p>Ditto, of Rome, 2 vols.</p> -<p>Ditto, of England, 4 vols.</p> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p>Two small volumes of Sermons—useful—and -very sensible—by one Mr. Williams, a dissenting -minister—which are as well as fifty—for -I love not a multiplicity of doctrines—a -few plain tenets—easy—simple and directed -to the heart—are better than volumes of controversial -nonsense.—Spectators—Guardians—and -Tatlers—you have of course.—Young’s -Night-Thoughts—Milton—and -Thomson’s Seasons were my summer companions -for near twenty years—they mended -my heart—they improved my veneration<span class="pagenum" id="Page_194">[p. 194]</span> -to the Deity—and increased my love to my -neighbours.</p> -</div> - -<p>You have to thank God for strong natural -parts—a feeling humane heart;—you write -with sense and judicious discernment. Improve -yourself, my dear Jack, that if it -should please God to return you to your -friends with the fortune of a man in upper -rank, the embellishments of your mind may -be ever considered as greatly superior to your -riches—and only inferior to the goodness of -your heart. I give you the above as a sketch—your -father and other of your friends will -improve upon it in the course of time—I do -indeed judge that the above is enough at first—in -conformity with the old adage——“A -few Books and a few Friends, and those well -chosen.” Adieu. Yours,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p class="ctr"> -<a id="Footnote_7" href="#FNanchor_7" class="label">[7]</a> Extracts of two letters from Mr. W——e to his Father, dated -Bombay, 1776 and 1777.</p> - -<p>“1776. I have introduced myself to Mr. G——, who behaved very friendly -in giving me some advice, which was very necessary, as the inhabitants, -who are chiefly Blacks, are a set of canting, deceitful people, and of -whom one must have great caution.”</p> - -<p>“1777. I am now thoroughly convinced, that the account which Mr. G—— -gave me of the natives of this country is just and true; that they -are a set of deceitful people, and have not such a word as Gratitude -in their language, neither do they know what it is;—and as to their -dealings in trade, they are like unto Jews.”</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_195">[p. 195]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXVIII_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="68">LXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 16, 1773.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR M——,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">S*** is a riddle—I will serve him if I can—were -I rich, he should have no reason -to despise me—but he must learn to try to -serve himself—I wish you would throw your -good sense upon paper for him—advice from -one of his own years would sink deeper than -the fusty phlegmatic saws of an old man—do, -in charity, give him half an hour’s -labour—I do really think that you and S*** -have sense enough for a dozen young fellows—and -if it pleased God it were so divided—they -would each be happier, wiser, and -richer, than S*** or M——. And this by -the way of thanking you—pooh—will do -that when I see you—and if that never -happens, a good action thanks itself.—Mr. -Garrick called upon S—— on Tuesday night, -and won his heart; he called to pay poor de<span class="pagenum" id="Page_196">[p. 196]</span> -Groote’s lodgings, sat with him some time, -and chatted friendly.</p> - -<p>I admire your modesty in grudging me -two letters for one—and greasing me with -the fulsoms of sneering praise—Sirrah, be -quiet—what, you Snoodle-poop! have you -any care—wife—or family? You ought to -write volumes—it gives expansion to your -thoughts—facility to your invention—ease to -your diction—and pleases your Friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Write, Knave—or—or—or—</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXIX_TO_MRS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="69">LXIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 23, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">SHALL I acknowledge myself a weak -superstitious Fool? Yes, I will tell the honest -truth—you have this foolish letter in consequence -of a last night’s dream—Queen Mab -has been with me—aye, and with Mrs.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_197">[p. 197]</span> -Sancho too—for my part, I dare not reveal -half my dream—but upon telling our night’s -visions over the tea-table at breakfast—it was -judged rather uncommon for us all to dream -of the same party.—Now, I own, I have -great reason to dream of you waking—for -you have been a true and uncommon friend -to me and mine—neither have I the least objection -to these nightly visits, so as I have -the pleasure to meet you (though but in -vision) in good health. Thy health is the -very thing that I doubt about—therefore -graciously let us know by the next post that -you are well, and mean to take every prudent -step so to continue. That you have left off -tea, I do much approve of—but insist that -you make your visitors drink double quantity—that -I may be no loser. I hope you find -cocoa agree with you—it should be made -always over-night, and boiled for above fifteen -minutes; but you must caution Miss C—— -not to drink it—for there is nothing so -fattening to little folks. The R—ns waylaid -my friend R——, and pressed Dame -Sancho and self into the service last Sunday—we -had a good and social dinner; and Mrs.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_198">[p. 198]</span> -Sancho forced me to stay supper—I think the -Doctor looks as well as I ever saw him—indeed -I could read in his chearful countenance -that he left you well—I do not doubt but -you have paid a visit to the camp—and seen -brother O—— in his glory—I hope he will -have regard to his health, and for profit I do -think it must answer better to him than to -(almost) any other man in the country. -Pray be so kind to make our best respects -to Miss A——s, and to every one who -delighteth in Blackamoor greetings.—We -have no news but old lies—scoured and -turned like misers coats which serve very -well. We gape and swallow—wonder and -look wise—conjurers over a news-paper, and -blockheads at home.—Adieu! let me hear -that you are very well; it will please Mrs. -Sancho; and, if I know any thing of her -husband, it will be no less pleasing to your -much obliged humble servant and friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">N. B. I walk upon two legs now.</p> - -<p class="ps">Our best respects to Miss C——, hope -she is intent upon camp fashions; but caution<span class="pagenum" id="Page_199">[p. 199]</span> -her, in my name, to be on her guard. -Cupid resides in camp by choice. Oh, Miss -C——! beware—beware of the little God.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. S.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Now this is writing to Miss C——.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXX_TO_MR_K_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="70">LXX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. K——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 23, 1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I RECEIVED yours with satisfaction, -as it gave me a certainty of your being -(upon the whole) much better. As to your -saying you are not girlishly inclined—why, -I give you credit for it.—Thou must watch—and -pray—for Satan is artful, and knoweth -all our weak parts—and that dirty little -blind feathered-shouldered scoundrel of a -boy, master Cupid—lurks couchant—in the -pupil of an eye—in the hollow of a dimple—in -the cherry-ripe plumpness of a pair of -lips—in the artfully timid pressure of a fair -hand—in the complimentary squeeze of a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_200">[p. 200]</span> -farewell—in short, and in one word, watch—watch.</p> - -<p>So you forgot all I said about Charles the -Fifth—well, you gave your reasons—but -when you have got through your sugar-works—I -hope you will give due attention to Robertson:—his -first volume is the most learned, -and the dryest, yet absolutely necessary to be -read with great attention—as it will render -the other much more easy, clear, and intelligible—make -yourself tolerably acquainted -with the feudal system of Europe, which you -will find explained in his first volume—the -rest will amply reward you.—I recommend -to you to make extracts upon the -passages which strike you most—it will be of -infinite use to you—as I trust you will find -it as much a history of Europe during two -centuries, as of Charles the Fifth.—After all, -I shall fume and scold if you do not read -this work—and abuse you if you do not -relish it.—You flatter my vanity very agreeably—in -ever supposing that any hints of -mine should conduce to the culture of your -little farm:—be that as it may—I am -happy in the certainty of never intentionally<span class="pagenum" id="Page_201">[p. 201]</span> -misleading or misadvising any male -youth—I wish I could say, Virgin!—Farewell! -read, reflect! then write, and let me -have your opinions.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours sincerely,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXI_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="71">LXXI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 31, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THANKS for your very valuable letter, -and its obliging companion:—your brother -writes in good spirits—but I fear the -m—n—ty members were right in their predictions -of the success of the commissioners.—Alas! -what desolation, destruction, and -ruin, bad hearts or bad heads have brought -upon this poor country!—I must, however, -give Mr. J— R—— another letter, he -fluctuates so terribly in his opinions—as -you will see by the contents of his letter to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_202">[p. 202]</span> -me, which I hope you will soon enable me -to shew you.—Yes, I must and will give -him a flogging, which you will say is extremely -grateful, and a civil return for his -kindness in thinking of me.—I have had a -very kind and good letter from the little -wren;—we were pleased to hear Mrs. C—— -had enjoyed so great a share of health;—she, -who is lovely even in sickness, with -the additional roseate bloom of health and -flow of spirits, will be almost too much for -meer mortals to bear:—tell her from me, to -get sick before she comes up, in pity to the -beaux.—Mrs. Sancho is better;—poor Kitty -goes on after the old sort;—the happiest, my -R——, in this life, have something to sigh -for!—alas! I have enough!—I feel much -pleasure in the happy view Mr. and Mrs. -R—n have before them;—I have no sort -of doubt but they will be successfully happy—I -should have true pleasure to see my -friend Mr. J. R—— in as likely a road.—I -have spoke and wrote to Mr. W—— -to look out sharp.—Time, which ripens revolutions, -and murders empires—Time will, -I hope, produce happiness and content to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_203">[p. 203]</span> -us all.—Your coming to town will give me -spirits; for, large as the town is, I cannot -say I have more than one friend in it:—come, -you and I shall be rich indeed; for, -I believe, few of the sons of Adam can boast -of having more than two real friends.—The -best respects to Mrs. C——, and the -amiable little C——, from</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXII_TO_MISS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="72">LXXII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 4, 1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">FOR this month past, we have wished to -hear something about you;—and every day, -for these two past weeks, have I had it -in serious contemplation to put the question -not to the amiable Miss C——, but to my -friend R——, who, notwithstanding your -friendly excuse, is, I do think, rather culpable<span class="pagenum" id="Page_204">[p. 204]</span> -for his silence.—But hang recrimination; -your goodness is more than sufficient to exculpate -a thousand such sinners. We thank -you, with heart-felt pleasure, for the information -of our and your dear friend Mrs. -C——’s health, which I hope she will be -careful of, for our and many sakes.—I have -a favour to beg of her, through your mediation, -which is this—I have a pair of Antigua -turtles—the gift of Mr. P——, who -kindly burthened himself with the care of -them. The true property is vested in Kitty;—but -so it is—we having neither warmth -nor room, and Kitty’s good godmother -having both, and that kind of humanity -withal which delighteth in doing good to -orphans—I, in the name of Kate and her -doves, do through you—our trusty council—petition -Mrs. C—— in behalf of said -birds.—Were I poetically turned—what a -glorious field for fancy flights—such as the -blue-eyed Goddess with her flying carr—her -doves and sparrows, &c. &c.—Alas! -my imagination is as barren as the desart -sands of Arabia;—but, in serious truth, -the shop (the only place I have to put them<span class="pagenum" id="Page_205">[p. 205]</span> -in) is so cold, that I shall be happy to billet -them to warmer quarters, which shall be -done as soon as Mrs. C—— announces -her consent, and empowers Molly to take -them in.—As to news—we have none worth -heeding!—your camps have ruined all trade—but -that of hackney-men. You much -surprize us in the account of your late fair -visitant—but pleased us more in the account -of O——’s success: the season has been, -through God’s blessing, as favourable as his -friends;—he is a lucky soul.—The S——s -are both well, I hope, to whom pray be so -kind to remember us:—as to friend R——, -tell him, that whatever censure his omissions -in writing may draw upon him, when the -goodness of his heart, and urbanity of soul, -is flung into the other scale, the faulty scale -kicks the beam—we forgive, because we love—and -love sees no faults.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Sancho joins me in love and good -wishes to both of you.—Kitty has been very -poorly for above a month past, and continues -but very so, so.—Betsy mends fast;—Billy -needs no mending at all—the rest are<span class="pagenum" id="Page_206">[p. 206]</span> -well—and all join in respects and compliments -to Nutts.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Dear Miss C— and Co’s</p> -<p class="signoff3">Most obliged,</p> -<p class="signoff4">humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXIII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="73">LXXIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 16, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR M——,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOURS just received—and by great good -luck I have found Mr. B—’s list, which I -inclose—and God speed your labours! Poor -—— sets off this evening for ——, to take -one parting look of his ——, and on Monday -sets off fresh for ——. Mr. H—’s anxieties -end in good luck at last; he also on Monday -enters in one of the best houses in the city.—On -Thursday I hope you will succeed in -your affair—and then my three Geniuses will<span class="pagenum" id="Page_207">[p. 207]</span> -be happy;—I have had plague and perplexity -enough with two of you.—When do you -think of coming to town? In my last was -some of the best poetry—that has—or was—aye, -aye. Pray, Sir, read it over once -more. Well, what do you, or can you, say -to it? Oh, envy—envy!—but, Mr. Monkey, -the wit and true poetry of that billet must -make amends for the shortness of it.—This -is Saturday night—consequently it must be -esteemed a favour that I write at all:—my -head aches—and, though my invention -temes with brilliancies, I can only remember -that I am very much</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXIV_TO_MISS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="74">LXXIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 1, 1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IT is recorded of some great personage, I -forget who, that they had so pleasing a -manner in giving a refusal, that the <em>Refused</em><span class="pagenum" id="Page_208">[p. 208]</span> -has left <em>them</em> with more satisfaction under a -rejection—than many have experienced -from receiving a <em>favour</em> conferred with perhaps -more kindness than <em>grace</em>.—So it fares -with me—I had anticipated the future happiness -of my new friends—the comforts of -warmth—the pleasures of being fed and -noticed, talked to and watched by the best -heart and finest face within a large latitude—but -I am content—I am certain of the <em>inconveniency</em>—and -my best thanks are due, which -I pray you make with our best wishes.—I -am sorry, both for O—— and my friend’s -sake, that the camp breaks up so soon—as to -brother O——, his harvest has, I hope, -been plentiful and well got in—my friend -poor S——, like most modest men of merit, -is unlucky—he set out before I got either -my friend R——’s or your letter—his best -way is to turn about—and may good luck -over take him—detain him—fill his pockets—and -send him in glee home again!—This -is more to be wished than expected.—If he -falls in your way, I shall envy him—he will -meet Hospitality and the Graces.—Betsy and -Kitty are both invalids—Mrs. Sancho is<span class="pagenum" id="Page_209">[p. 209]</span> -well, and joins me in every good wish.—Next -month I hope brings you all to town—bring -health and spirits with you.—We have -no news—no trade! consequently no money -or credit.</p> - -<p>Give Mr. R—— my thanks for his -friendly letter in your kindest manner—and -say all to our worthy esteemed friend Mrs. -C—— that gratitude can conceive and friendship -dictate—in the names of all the Sanchos, -and at the head place</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXV_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="75">LXXV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>,</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Yours just received, Thursday,<br /> -Oct. 4, 1778.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“Whatever—is—is right—the world, ’tis true,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Was made for Cæsar—and for Billy too.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="firstpara">POVERTY and Genius were coupled -by the wisdom of Providence, for wise and -good ends no doubt—but that’s a mystery.—I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_210">[p. 210]</span> -feel for and pity you.—A pox upon pity -and feelings—say I, they neither fill the -belly, nor cloath the body—neither will they -find lodging or procure an inside birth in a -rascally stage—Thee and I too well know all -this—but as I am at this present moment, -thank fortune! not quite worth ten shillings, -pity—cursed foolish pity—is, with as silly -wishes, all I have to comfort you with.—Were -I to throw out my whole thoughts -upon paper, it would take a day’s writing, -and thou would’st be a fool to read it—one -dawn of hope I enjoy from the old saw—that -“gloomy beginnings are for the most part -blessed with bright endings:”—may it -be so with you, my friend!—at the worst, -you can only face about—and your lodgings -and old friends will cordially receive you—for -my part, I have use for every mite of my -philosophy—my state at present is that of -suspense—God’s will be done!</p> - -<p>This letter will reach you by the hands of -a friend indeed—the best and truest I ever -found—a man who, if the worth of his heart -were written in his face, would be esteemed -by the whole race of Adam—he will greet<span class="pagenum" id="Page_211">[p. 211]</span> -you kindly from the benevolence of his -nature—and perhaps will not dislike you the -more for the attachment which for thee is -truly felt by thy sincere friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Mrs. Sancho is well—Kitty mends very -slow—Billy improves in sauciness—the girls -are pretty good—Monsieur H—— rides uneasily—his -saddle galls him—his beast is restive—I -fear he will never prosecute long journies -upon him—he is for smoother roads—a -pacing tit—quilted saddle—snaffle bridle with -silken reins—and gold stirrups.—So mounted -we all should like; but I query albeit, -though it might be for the ease of our bodies, -whether it would be for the good of our -souls! Adieu.</p> - -<p>Should you be so lucky to see B——, the -house of the worthy Baronet Sir C—— -B——, mind I caution thee to guard thy -heart; you will there meet with sense that -will charm exclusive of beauty—and beauty -enough to subdue even were sense wanting—add -to this good-nature and all the charities -in one fair bosom.—Guard! guard thy -heart!</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_212">[p. 212]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXVI_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="76">LXXVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 15, 1778.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU want a long letter—where am I to -find subject? My heart is sick with untoward -events—poor Kitty is no better—the Duke -of Queensbury ill, dangerously I fear—the -best friend and customer I have. M—— -is just now come in—nay he is at my elbow—you -know I wish you well—and that we -all are well, Kitty excepted—so let M—— -conclude for your loving friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">The above you are to consider as bread and -cheese. M—— will give you goose stuffed -with grapes<a id="FNanchor_8" href="#Footnote_8" class="fnanchor">[8]</a>. Mr. H—— called here last -night, and read yours:—he is worked sweetly—what -with his office late hours, and his -family’s odd humours—but all is for the -best.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_8" href="#FNanchor_8" class="label">[8]</a> Alluding to Mr. S——’s last letter, wherein he had informed Mr. -Sancho, that that epicurean morsel was one of the many dishes with -which he had been regaled at a place where he had lately dined.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_213">[p. 213]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXVII_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="77">LXXVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 16, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">ACCEPT my thanks—my best thanks—for -your kind readiness in obliging and -serving my friend S——. He has sense, -honour, and abilities—these we should naturally -suppose would insure him bread—but -that is not always the case:—in the race of -fortune, knaves often win the prize—whilst -honesty is distanced—but then mark the end—whilst -the knave full often meets his deserved -punishment, Honesty yoked with Poverty -hugs Peace and Content in his bosom.—But -truce with moralizing—though in serious -truth my heart and spirits are low—the -noble and good Duke of Queensbury is, I -fear, very dangerously ill: exclusive of gratitude -for past favours, and my own interest -in the hope of future, I grieve for the -public loss in him—a man who ennobled -his titles, and made greatness lovely by<span class="pagenum" id="Page_214">[p. 214]</span> -uniting it with goodness:—if he dies—his -gain is certain, for he has served a Master -who will not wrong him—but the world will -lose a rare example, and the poor a friend! -He never knew a day’s illness till now for -fifty years past—his regularity of life and -serenity of mind are in his favour—but his -advanced life is against him—80 odd—the -great fear is a mortification in his leg—The -K—g and Q—n paid him a visit, as the -prints must have informed you—he came -to town on purpose to present himself at the -levee—to thank them for the honour done -him—he was taken ill the Sunday after their -Majesties visit—and came to town the Tuesday -after. I have been or sent daily to enquire -about him—and was there about -two hours ago. The faculty are pouring in -the bark—and allow his Grace strong wines -as much as he can drink.—<em>God’s will be -done!</em></p> - -<p>Mr. S——n writes in raptures of you all.—I -wonder not at him—I only wish, for the -good of mankind, such characters as B—— -house contains were more plenty.—Poor<span class="pagenum" id="Page_215">[p. 215]</span> -Kitty continues much the same—the rest are, -thank God, well.—Mrs. Sancho joins me -in cordial wishes to self and ladies. Adieu,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours sincerely and gratefully,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXVIII_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="78">LXXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 22, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">HAVE you never beheld a bust with double—no, -not double—but with two very different -profiles—one crying, and one laughing?—That -is just my situation at present:—for -poor de Groote—huzza!—is presented to the -Charter-house—by—bless him!—the good -Archbishop of Canterbury;—but, by a standing -law, he cannot be admitted till a fresh -quarter begins—and, as he says, he may be -dead by that time;—we will hope not;—well,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_216">[p. 216]</span> -this is the laughing side.—The Duke of -Queensbury died this morning:—Alas! “I -ne’er shall look upon his like again!”—the -clearest head, and most humane of hearts:—I -have in common with many—many—a -heavy loss—I loved the good Duke—and not -without reason:—he is gone to reap a reward—which -St. Paul could not conceive in the -flesh—and which, I will be bold to say, they -both perfectly enjoy at this moment.—God -of his mercy grant!—that thee and I—and -all I love—yea—and all I know—may enter -eternity with as promising hopes—and realize -the happiness in store for such as the -Duke of Queensbury!</p> - -<p>Lord Lincoln died on his passage;—the -news came last night; but he has left a son -and daughter.</p> - -<p>T—— is well—but still plagued with his -uncouth kinsfolk.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Adieu, Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Kitty very poorly, the rest all well.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_217">[p. 217]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXIX_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="79">LXXIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Nov. 29, 1778.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR S——,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOURS, dated from Madrass, came safe -to hand.—I need not tell you that your account -pleased me—and the style of your letter -indicated a mind purged from its follies, -and a better habit of thinking, which I trust -happily preceded a steadier course of action.—I -know not whether or not Providence -may not, in your instance, produce much -good out of evil.—I flatter myself you will -yet recover, and stand the firmer in your future -life, from the reflection (bitter as it is) -of your former.—I have no doubt but you -received my letter charged with the heavy -loss of your great, your noble, friendly benefactress -and patroness, the good Dutchess -of Q——y: she entered into bliss, July 17, -1777, just two days after you sailed from<span class="pagenum" id="Page_218">[p. 218]</span> -Portsmouth.—I have now to inform you, -that his Grace followed her October 21st -this year; just fifteen months after his good -Dutchess, full of years and honors: he is -gone to join his Dutchess, and share in the -rewards of a righteous God, who alone -knew their merits, and alone could reward -them.</p> - -<p>Thus it has pleased God to take your -props to himself;—teaching you a lesson, at -the same time, to depend upon an honest -exertion of your own industry—and humbly -to trust in the Almighty.</p> - -<p>You may safely conclude now, that you -have not many friends in England:—be it -your study, with attention, kindness, humility, -and industry, to make friends where -you are.—Industry, with good-nature and -honesty, is the road to wealth.—A wise -œconomy—without avaricious meanness, or -dirty rapacity—will in a few years render -you decently independent.</p> - -<p>I hope you cultivate the good-will and -friendship of L——. He is a jewel—prize -him—love him—and place him next your -heart;—he will not flatter or fear you—so<span class="pagenum" id="Page_219">[p. 219]</span> -much the better—the fitter for your friend:—he -has a spirit of generosity—such are never -ungrateful;—he sent us a token of his -affection, which we shall never forget.—Let -me counsel you, for your character’s sake, -and as bound in honour, the first money -you can spare, to send over 20<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i> to discharge -your debt at Mr. P——’s the sadler:—it -was borrowed money, you know.—As for -me, I am wholly at your service to the extent -of my power;—but whatever commissions -you send over to me, send money, -or I stir none;—thou well knowest my -poverty—but ’tis an honest poverty—and I -need not blush or conceal it.—You also are -indebted to Mr. O——, Bond-street:—what -little things of that kind you can recollect, -pay as soon as you are able;—it will -spunge out many evil traces of things past -from the hearts and heads of your enemies—create -you a better name—and pave the -way for your return some years hence into -England with credit and reputation.—Before -I conclude, let me, as your true friend, recommend -seriously to you to make yourself<span class="pagenum" id="Page_220">[p. 220]</span> -acquainted with your Bible:—believe me, -the more you study the word of God, your -peace and happiness will increase the more -with it.—Fools may deride you—and wanton -youth throw out their frothy gibes;—but -as you are not to be a boy all your life—and -I trust would not be reckoned a fool—use -your every endeavour to be a good man—and -leave the rest to God.—Your letters -from the Cape, and one from Madeira, I -received; they were both good letters, and -descriptions of things and places.—I wish to -have your description of the sort and town -of Madrass—country adjacent—people—manner -of living—value of money—religion—laws—animals—fashions—taste, -&c. &c.—In -short, write any thing—every thing—and, -above all, improve your mind with -good reading—converse with men of sense, -rather than the fools of fashion and riches—be -humble to the rich—affable, open, and -good-natured to your equals—and compassionately -kind to the poor.—I have treated -you freely in proof of my friendship.—Mrs. -S——, under the persuasion that you are -really a good man, sends her best wishes—when<span class="pagenum" id="Page_221">[p. 221]</span> -her handkerchief is washed, you -will send it home—the girls wish to be -remembered to you, and all to friend -L——n.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXX_TO_MR_I_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="80">LXXX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. I——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Jan. 1, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IN compliance with custom, I beg leave to -wish Mr. and Mrs. I—— happy years—many -or few, as the Almighty shall think -fit—but may they be happy! As I wish it -sincerely, their obligation is of course the -greater—and, to oblige them yet more, I -will put it in their power to oblige me, -which they can do by lending me the volume -of Annual Registers (I think it is that -of 1774) which has Goldsmith’s Retaliation -in it.—I hope Mr. and Mrs. I—— have<span class="pagenum" id="Page_222">[p. 222]</span> -no complaints but the general one, extreme -coldness of the weather, which though happily -extempted themselves from much suffering, -by good fires and good cheer, yet I am sure -their sympathizing hearts feel for the poor.—I -find upon inquiring, that ten o’clock in -the morning will best suit Mr. L——; I -will be in Privy Gardens just five minutes -before Mr. and Mrs. I—— and Mr. Mortimer.—I -hope Mrs. I—— will not pretend -to repent—Sunday is a lazy morning. If -Mrs. I—— has not read Ganganelli, it is -time she should. I therefore take the liberty -to send them—<em>them</em>, Mr. I—— will say, is -bad grammar—he is, madam, a good natured -critic—I address myself to you therefore, -because my heart tells me you will be a successful -advocate for the blunders of a true -Blackamoor.—I have had the confidence to -mark the passages that pleased me most in -my post-haste journey through the good -Pontiff’s letters—and I shall be vain, if Mrs. -I—— should like the same passages, because -it would give a sanction to the profound -judgement of her most obedient servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_223">[p. 223]</span></p> - - -<p class="ps">Note, The sixteenth letter, 1st verse, is -a kind of stuff which would almost turn me -to the Romish—there is every thing in it -which St. Paul had in his heart.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="81">LXXXI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Jan. 1779.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“Beyond the fix’d and settled rules</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Of Vice and Virtue in the schools,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Beyond the letter of the Law,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Which keeps mere formalists in awe,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“The better sort do set before ’em</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“A Grace—a manner—a decorum;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Something that gives their acts a light;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Makes ’em not only just—but bright,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“And sets ’em in such open fame,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Which covers—<em>quality</em>—with shame.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="firstpara">JUDICIOUSLY elegant Prior has befriended -me—and described my honoured -friend Mr. S——. I wish I knew which -way to shew my gratitude—the only method -I think of is to enjoy the benefits with a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_224">[p. 224]</span> -thankful heart, and leave God in his own -good time to reward you.</p> - -<p>I should last night have gratefully acknowledged -the receipt of your letter and -note—but I hoped for a frank—I am disappointed, -and a long delay would be unpardonable.—Be -assured, dear Sir, I shall (with -all the alacrity of a heavy man) bestir myself -in the execution of your generous order.—I -hope Mrs. S——, and every one of your -family, enjoy health and every good.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in respects and thanks to -Mrs. S—— and yourself.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I remain, dear Sir,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Your very obliged</p> -<p class="signoff3">and faithful servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_225">[p. 225]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXII_TO_MR_F_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="82">LXXXII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. F——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Jan. 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I HAVE just received your favour of the -20th instant. As to the letters in question; -you know, Sir, they are not now mine, but -the property of the parties they are addressed -to.—If you have had their permission, and -think that the simple effusions of a poor -Negro’s heart are worth mixing with better -things, you have my free consent to do as -you please with them—though in truth there -wants no increase of books in the epistolary -way, nor indeed in any way—except we -could add to the truly valuable names of -Robertson—Beattie—and Mickle—new -Youngs—Richardsons—and Sternes.—Accept -my best thanks for the very kind opinion -you are so obliging to entertain of me—which<span class="pagenum" id="Page_226">[p. 226]</span> -is too pleasing (I fear) to add much -to the humility of,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Dear Sir,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXIII_TO_MRS_I_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="83">LXXXIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. I——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Jan. 22, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MY wife wishes to see Cymon—and my -wishes (like a civil husband) perfectly correspond -with hers.—I had rather be obliged -to you than any good friend I have;—for I -think you have an alacrity in doing good-natured -offices—and so I would tell the -Q——n if she dared dispute it: you are not -so great indeed—but I am sure you are as -good—and I believe her to be as rich in -goodness as she is high in rank. If my request<span class="pagenum" id="Page_227">[p. 227]</span> -is within the limits of your power, -you will favour us with the order soon in -the day. I have looked abroad for the wonder -you wished to be procured for you—but -have met with nothing likely hitherto.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours most gratefully,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXIV_TO_MRS_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="84">LXXXIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Feb. 9, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I FELICITATE you in the first place—on -the pleasing success of your maternal -care in restoring your worthy son to good -health—he looks now as well, fresh, and -hearty, as love and friendship can wish him.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in hearty thanks for -your kind attention to our well-doing—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_228">[p. 228]</span> -your goodness in the very friendly order, -which I have endeavoured to execute with -attention and honesty.—As to news, there is -none good stiring—trade is very dull—money -scarce beyond conception—fraud! perfidy! -villainy! from the highest departments -to the lowest. The K—g, God bless him, -is beset by friends, which he ought to fear.—I -believe he has one true friend only; and -that is the Q—n, who is the ornament and -honour to the sex. Pray, dear Madam, -make my best respects to your good son and -daughter, Mr. J——, and all I have the -honour to know; our best thanks and wishes -attend Mr. H—— and yourself; and believe -me</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_229">[p. 229]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXV_TO_MR_G_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="85">LXXXV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. G——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Feb. 1779.</p> - -<p> -SIR</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THE very handsome manner in which -you have apologized for your late lapse of -behaviour does you credit.—Contrition—the -child of conviction—serves to prove the -goodness of your heart—the man of levity -often errs—but it is the man of sense alone -who can gracefully acknowledge it.—I accept -your apology—and, if in the manly -heat of wordy contest aught escaped my lips -tinged with undue asperity, I ask your pardon, -and hope you will mutually exchange -forgiveness with</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_230">[p. 230]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXVI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="86">LXXXVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -March 9, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IT has given me much concern, dear Sir, -the not having it in my power to make my -grateful acknowledgements sooner, for your -very kind letter, and friendly present which -accompanied it.—My first thanks are due to -Heaven, who, for the example as well as service -of mortals, now and then blesses the -world with a humane, generous Being.—My -next thanks are justly paid to you, who -are pleased to rank me and mine in the -honourable class of those you wish to serve.—For -these six past weeks, our days have -been clouded by the severe illness of a child, -whom it has pleased God to take from us: -and a cowardly attack of the gout at a time -when every exertion was needful.—I have -as yet but very little use of my hand;—but -I am thankful to have sufficient to exculpate -me from the vice of ingratitude—which -my long silence might lay me under<span class="pagenum" id="Page_231">[p. 231]</span> -the imputation of.—Mrs. Sancho begs me to -express her sense of your kindness; and -joins me cordially in the most respectful -sensations and best wishes to Mrs. S—— -and yourself. I am, dear Sir,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -(and with very great reason)</p> -<p class="signoff2">Your much obliged</p> -<p class="signoff3">humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXVII_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="87">LXXXVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -March 11, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I RECEIVED yours about three hours -since.—I give you due credit for your sympathizing -feelings on our recent very distressful -situation—for thirty nights (save -two) Mrs. Sancho had no cloaths off;—but -you know the woman. Nature never -formed a tenderer heart—take her for all in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_232">[p. 232]</span> -all—the mother—wife—friend—she does -credit to her sex—she has the rare felicity -of possessing true virtue without arrogance—softness -without weakness—and dignity -without pride:—she is ——’s full sister, -without his foibles—and, to my inexpressible -happiness, she is my wife, and truly -best part, without a single tinge of my defects—Poor -Kitty! happy Kitty I should -say, drew her rich prize early—wish her -joy! and joy to Mortimer! He left life’s -table (before he was cloyed or surfeited with -dull sickly repetitions) in prime of years, -in the meridian of character as an artist, -and universally esteemed as a man:—he -winged his rapid flight to those celestial -mansions—where Pope—Hogarth—Handel—Chatham—and -Garrick, are enjoying the -full sweets of beatific vision—with the great -Artists—Worthies—and Poets of time without -date.—Your father has been exceeding -kind—this very day a Mr. W——, of Retford, -called on me, a goodly-looking gentleman: -he enquired after you with the anxious -curiosity of a friend;—told me your father -was well, and, by his account, thinks<span class="pagenum" id="Page_233">[p. 233]</span> -by much too well of me.—Friend H—— -shall produce the things you wot of—and -brother O—— bring them in his hand: -H—— is a very silly fellow—he likes silly -folks; and, I believe, does not hate Sancho.—To-morrow -night I shall have a few -friends to meet brother O——; we intend -to be merry:—were you here, you might -add to a number, which I think too many -for our little room.—So I hear that the -—— No, hang me! if I say a word about -it.—Well, and how do you like the company -of Monsieur Le Gout? Shall I, in -compliance with vulgar custom, wish you -joy? Pox on it, my hand aches so, I can -scrawl no longer.—Mrs. Sancho is but so, -so;—the children are well.—Do write large -and intelligible when you write to me. I -hate fine hands and fine language;—write -plain honest nonsense, like thy true friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_234">[p. 234]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXVIII_TO_MR_W_mdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="88">LXXXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. W——E</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, March 31, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU wish me to writ a consolatory letter -to Mrs. W——e. My good friend, what -can I possibly write but your good sense -must have anticipated? The soul-endearing -soothings of cordial love have the best and -strongest effects upon the grief-torn mind:—you -have of course told her that thanks -are due, greatly so! to a merciful God, who -might have bereaved her of a child, instead -of a worthy cousin;—or that she ought to -feel comfort—and to acknowledge divine -mercy—that it was not her husband:—that -to lament the death of that amiable girl, -is false sorrow in the extreme:—why lament -the great bliss and <em>choice prize</em> of what we -love?—what is it she has not gained by an -early death?—You will say—she was good—and -will suppose that in the tender connexions -of wife—friend—and mother—she<span class="pagenum" id="Page_235">[p. 235]</span> -would have been an honoured and esteemed -example.—True, she might—and it is as -true, she might have been unhappily paired, -ill-matched to some morose, ill-minded, -uneven bashaw;—she might have fell from -affluence to want—from honour to infamy—from -innocence to guilt:—in short, we -mistake too commonly the objects of our -grief;—the living demand our tears—the -dead (if their lives were virtuous) our gratulations;—in -your case, all that can be -said is—earth has lost an opening sweet -flower (which, had it lasted longer, must of -course soon fade)—and heaven has gained -an angel, which will bloom for ever—so -let us hear no more of grief. We all must -follow.—No! let us rejoice, with your -worthy friend Mrs. ——<a id="FNanchor_9" href="#Footnote_9" class="fnanchor">[9]</a>. Joy to the -good couple! May they each find their respective -wishes! May he find the grateful -acknowledgement of obliged and pleasing -duty!—and she, the substantial, fond, solid -rewards due to a rectitude of conduct, -marked strongly with kindness and wisdom!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_236">[p. 236]</span> -And may you, my friend!—but my leg -aches—my foot swells—I can only say, my -love to the C—ds, and to poor Joe and -Frank.—Read this to Mrs. W——e. My -silly reasoning may be too weak to reach -her;—but, however, she may smile at my -absurdities;—if so, I shall have a comfort—as -I ever wish to give pleasure to her dear -sex—and the pride of my heart is ever to -please one—alas!—and that one a wife.—So -writes thy true friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Mr. W——e comes as far as P—— Gardens—but -cannot reach Charles Street.</p> - -<p class="indent4"><em>How’s that?</em></p> - -<p>I hear my scheme of taxation was inserted -directly, and should be glad to see -the paper if easily got.</p> - -<p class="indent4"><em>Vanity.</em></p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_9" href="#FNanchor_9" class="label">[9]</a> This union was remarkable for disparity of years; the bridegroom -being 78, the bride in the bloom of youth.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_237">[p. 237]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_LXXXIX_TO_MR_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="89">LXXXIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. L——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -May 4, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR CHILD,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I AM truly sorry to address this letter to -you at this season in the English Channel.—The -time considered that you have left us, -you ought in all good reason to have been a -seasoned Creole of St. Kitt’s;—but we must -have patience:—what cannot be cured, must -be endured.—I dare believe, you bear the -cruel delay with resignation—and make the -best and truest use of your time, by steady -reflection and writing.—I would wish you to -note down the occurrences of every day—to -which add your own observation of men and -things—the more you habituate yourself to -minute investigation, the stronger you will -make your mind;—ever taking along with -you in all your researches the word of God—and -the operations of his divine providence.—Remember, -young man—nothing happens<span class="pagenum" id="Page_238">[p. 238]</span> -by chance.—Let not the levity of frothy wit, -nor the absurdity of fools, break in upon -your happier principles, your dependence -upon the Deity—address the Almighty with -fervor, with love and simplicity—carry his -laws in your heart—and command both -worlds;—but I meant mere fatherly advice, -and I have wrote a sermon.—Dear boy, ’tis -my love preaches; N—— begged me to write -a line for him, as he said you wanted news—I -have none but what you know as well as myself—such -as the regard and best wishes of -Mrs. Sancho—the girls and myself—such as -wishing a happy end to your long-protracted -voyage—and a joyful meeting with your -worthy and respectable family;—and in order -to leave room for friend N——, I here -assure you I am your affectionate friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_239">[p. 239]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XC_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="90">XC.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -May, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR WORTHY R——,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOUR letter was a real gratification to a -something better principle than pride—it -pleased my self-love—there are very few -(believe me) whose regards or notice I care -about—yourself, brother, and O——, with -about three more at most—form the whole of -my <em>male</em> connexions.—Your brother is not -half so honest as I thought him—he promises -like a tradesman, but performs like a lord.—On -Sunday evening we expected him—the -hearth was swept—the kettle boiled—the -girls were in print—and the marks of the -folds in Mrs. Sancho’s apron still visible—the -clock past six—no Mr. R——. Now to tell -the whole truth, he did add a kind of clause, -that in case nothing material happened -of hospital business, he would surely do himself<span class="pagenum" id="Page_240">[p. 240]</span> -the—&c. &c. &c.—So, upon the whole, -I am not quite clear that he deserves censure—but -that he disappointed us of a pleasure, I -am very certain.—You don’t say you have -seen Mr. P——. I beg you will, for I think -he is the kind of soul congenial to your -own.—<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">Apropos</span>, the right hand side (almost -the bottom) of Gray Street, there is a Mrs. -H——, an honest and very agreeable -northern lady, whom I should like you to -know something of—which may easily be -done—if you will do me the credit just to -knock at her door when you go that way—and -tell her, there is a Devil that has not -forgot her civilities to him—and would be -glad to hear she was well and happy.—Mr. -R—— called on me in the friendly style—when -I say that, I mean in the R—— -manner—he asked a question—bought some -tea—looked happy—and left us pleased:—he -has the Graces.—The gout seized me yesterday -morning—the second attempt—I looked -rather black all day:—tell Mrs. C——, I will -lay any odds that she is either the handsomest -or ugliest woman in Bath—and among the -many trinkets she means to bring with her—tell<span class="pagenum" id="Page_241">[p. 241]</span> -her not to forget health.—May you all -be enriched with that blessing—wanting -which, the good things of this world are -trash!—You can write tiresome letters! Alas! -will you yield upon the recept of this?—if not—that -palm unquestionably belongs to your -friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="91">XCI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, June 16, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IN truth, I was never more puzzled in my -life than at this present writing—the acts of -common kindness, or the effusions of mere -common-will, I should know what to reply -to—but, by my conscience, you act upon -so grand a scale of urbanity, that a man -should possess a mind as noble, and a heart as -ample, as yourself! before he attempts even<span class="pagenum" id="Page_242">[p. 242]</span> -to be grateful upon paper.—You have made -me richer than ever I was in my life—till -this day I thought a bottle of good wine a -large possession. Sir, I will enjoy your -goodness with a glad heart—and every deserving -soul I meet with shall share a glass with -me, and join in drinking the generous -donor’s health. Mrs. Sancho’s eyes betray -her feelings—she bids me think for her—which -I do most sincerely, and for myself,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCII_TO_MR_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="92">XCII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 17, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOUR son, who is a welcome visitor -wherever he comes, made himself more welcome -to me by the kind proof of your regard -he brought in his hands.—Souls like yours, -who delight in giving pleasure, enjoy a -heaven on earth; for I am convinced that the -disposition of the mind in a great measure<span class="pagenum" id="Page_243">[p. 243]</span> -forms either the heaven or hell in both worlds.—I -rejoice sincerely at the happiness of Mrs. -W——, and may their happiness increase -with family and trade!—and may you both -enjoy the heartfelt delight of seeing your -children’s children walking in the track of -grace!—I have, to my shame be it spoken, -intended writing to you for these twelve -months past—but in truth I was deterred -through a fear of giving pain: our history -has had little in it but cares and anxieties—which -(as it is the well-experienced lot of -mortality) we struggle with it, with religion -on one hand, and hope on the other.</p> - -<p>Mr. W——, whose looks and address bespeak -a good heart and good sense, called on -me.—I will not say how much I was pleased—pray -make my kindest respects to your -good partner, and tell him, I think I have a -right to trouble him with my musical nonsense.—I -wish it better for my own sake—bad -as it is, I know he will not despise it, -because he has more good-nature:—I hear a -good report of Mr. S——, and that his humanity -has received the thanks of a community -in a public manner.—May he! and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_244">[p. 244]</span> -you! and all I love, enjoy the blissful feelings -of large humanity!—There is a plaudit—as -much superior to man’s as heaven is -above earth! Great God, in thy mercy and -unbounded goodness, grant that even I may -rejoice through eternity with those I have respected -and esteemed here!—Mrs. Sancho -joins me in love to yourself and Mr. H——. -Your son Jacob is the delight of my girls—whenever -he calls on us, the work is flung -by, and the mouths all distended with -laughter: he is a vile romp with children.—I -am, dear Madam, with true esteem and -respect,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your obliged servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="93">XCIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 29, 1779.</p> - -<p>A LITTLE fish—which was alive this -morn—sets out this eve for Bury—ambitious -of presenting itself to Mrs. S——: if it<span class="pagenum" id="Page_245">[p. 245]</span> -should come good, the Sancho’s will be -happy;—in truth, Mr. S—— ought not to -be displeased—neither will he, I trust, if he -considers it as it really is—a grain of salt, -in return for favors received of princely -magnitude, and deeply engraven in the -hearts of his much obliged and faithful -servants,</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -He and She <span class="smcap gesperrt05">Sancho’s</span>.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCIV_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="94">XCIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 1, 1779.<br /> -Coat and Badge.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">BRAVO! So you think you have given -me the retort-courteous—I admit it.—Go -to! you are seedy, you are sly—true son, in -the right direct line, of old Gastpherious -Sly.—Your letter to S—n makes ample -amends for your impudence in presuming to -mount my hobby:—yes, I do affirm it to be -a good, yea, and a friendly letter.—The -leading-string thought is new, and almost<span class="pagenum" id="Page_246">[p. 246]</span> -poetic;—I watched him while he read it;—he -read it twice.—I judge he felt the force -of your argumentation.—May he avail himself -of your friendly hints! and may you -have the heart-felt satisfaction of finding him -a wiser being than heretofore! How doth -George’s mouth?—I honour you for your humane -feelings—and much more for your brotherly -affection;—but do not Namby-Pamby -with the manly exertions of benevolence:—what -I mean is—ah me! poor George—to be -sure ’tis well its no worse;—but the loss of a -tooth and a scar are so disfiguring!—Pooh, -simpleton, if his heart is right, and God -blesses him with health—his exterior will -ever be pleasing, in spight of the gap in his -gums, or scar above his chin. G—— is -likely—the rogue has a pleasing cherry phiz: -neither so old nor so mouldy as some folks, -not having been rocked in the cradle of flattery—he -has consequently more modesty than -his elders.—I could easily fill the sheet in -contrasting the merits of the two lads;—but -then it would (I plainly foresee) turn out so -much to the advantage of Prince Jacky—that -in mere charity I forbear—and shall conclude -with wishing both your heads to agree, as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_247">[p. 247]</span> -well in good health, as in the many good -qualities which I have not time to enumerate.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Sancho is pretty well—the girls and -Billy well,—I am sometimes better—sometimes -so, so.—I should have answered -you sooner; but yesterday was obliged -to write all day—though fast asleep the -whole time:—perhaps you will retort—that -it is the case with me at this present writing. -False and scandalous! I declare I was never -more awake.—Remember me to Mr. S——, -the ladies, and to thyself, if thou knowest -him.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Farewell. Thine, &c. &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCV_TO_MR_I_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="95">XCV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. I——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 3, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I MUCH wish to hear that Mrs. I—— is -quite recovered—or in the best possible way -towards it. I have next to thank you for<span class="pagenum" id="Page_248">[p. 248]</span> -your princely present—and to say I feel myself -rich and happy in the splendid proofs I -have of your regard.</p> - -<p>You love a pun almost as well as Dennis.—I -shall contrive to be in your debt as long -as I live—and settle accounts hereafter—where, -I know no more than the Pope;—but -you, Sterne, and Mortimer, are there, sure -I am, it will be the abode of the blest.—But -to business—I am commissioned to get as -good an impression as possible of St. Paul -preaching to the Britons:—shall esteem it a -fresh obligation, if you will be kind enough -to chuse one, and send by the bearer.—I -return faith for pudding—and Mr. Sharpe’s -strictures upon Slavery;—the one may -amuse, if not edify—the other I think of -consequence to every one of humane feelings.—Do, -pray, let me know how Mrs. -I—— does;—with thanks, respects; and -why not friendship?</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am dear Sir,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_249">[p. 249]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCVI_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="96">XCVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 14, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU kindly gave me liberty to bring -Mrs. S——: the proposal did honour to -your heart—and credit to your judgement;—but -an affair has rendered that part of your -invitation inadmissible,—Now pox take bad -quills—and bad pen-makers!—Sir, it was -fifty pound to a bean-shell, but that you had -had a blot as big as both houses of parliament -in the very fairest, yea and handsomest, -part of this epistle:—my pen, like a -drunkard, sucks up more liquor than it can -carry, and so of course disgorges it at random.—I -will that ye observe the above simile -to be a good one—not the cleanliest in nature -I own—but as pat to the purpose as -dram-drinking to a bawd—or oaths to a serjeant -of the guards—or—or—dullness to a -Black-a-moor;—good—excessive good:—and -pray what—(oh, this confounded pen!)—what<span class="pagenum" id="Page_250">[p. 250]</span> -may your Worship’s chief employ have -been?—You have had your Devil’s dance—found -yourself in a lazy fit—the ink-stand, -&c. staring you full in the face—you yawned—stretched—and -then condescended to scold -me for omitting what properly, and according -to strict rule, you should have done -yourself a month ago.—Zounds!—God forgive -us!——this thought oversets the patience—coat -and lining—of your right trusty -friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCVII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="97">XCVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 20 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IN all doubtful cases, it is best to adhere to -the side of least difficulty.—Now whether -you ought to have shewn the <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">politesses</i> of the -<i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">Ton</i> in making enquiry after my Honour’s -health and travels—or whether my Honour -should have anticipated all enquiry—by sending -a card of thanks for more than friendly<span class="pagenum" id="Page_251">[p. 251]</span> -civilities—is a very nice point, which, for -my part, I willingly leave to better casuists;—and -as I honestly feel myself the obliged -party—so I put pen to paper as a testimonial -of the same.—I will suppose your head improved—I -mean physically: I will also hope -your heart light—and all your combustible -passions under due subordination;—and then -adding the fineness of the morning—from -these premises I will believe that my good -friend is well and happy.</p> - -<p>I hope George effected his wish in town: -if he has to do with people of feeling—there -is a something in his face which will command -attention and love—the boy is much -handsomer than ever you were; and yet -you never look better than when you look -on him:—would to God you were as well -settled!</p> - -<p>The stage contained five good souls, and one -huge mass of flesh<a id="FNanchor_10" href="#Footnote_10" class="fnanchor">[10]</a>:—they, God bless them, -thought I took up too much room—and I -thought there was too little:—we looked at -each other, like folks dissatisfied with their -company—and so jolted on in sullen silence -for the first half hour;—and had there been<span class="pagenum" id="Page_252">[p. 252]</span> -no ladies, the God or Goddess of silence -would have reigned the whole way:—for my -part, quoth I to myself, I have enjoyed true -pleasure all day—the morning was bright, -refreshing, and pleasant; the delicious bowl -of milk, the fresh butter, sweet bread, cool -room, and kind hostess—the friendly converse, -the walk—the animated flow of soul -in I— M——; the little but elegant treat, -high-seasoned with welcome.—Oh, Sancho, -what more could luxury covet, or ambition -wish for? True, cries Reason—then be -thankful:—Hold! cries Avarice, with squinting -eyes and rotten stumps of teeth—hungry, -though ever cramming;—it cost thee -one shilling and nine pence—one shilling -and nine pence I say.—What of that, cries -Œconomy, we eat fairly half a crown’s -worth.—Aye, cries Prudence, that alters the -case—od-so, we are nine pence in pocket, -besides the benefit of fresh air, fresh scenes, -and the pleasure of the society we love.—The -sky was cloudless, and, to do me a -particular favour, the moon chose to be at -full—and gave us all her splendor;—but our -envious mother Earth (to mortify our vanity) -rose up—rolling the whole way in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_253">[p. 253]</span> -clouds of dust.—Contention flew in at the -coach-windows, and took possession of both -the females:—“Madam, if you persist in -drawing up the glass, we shall faint with -heat.”—“Oh dear! very sorry to offend your -delicacy; but I shall be suffocated with dust—and -my cloaths—” “I have cloaths to -spoil as well as other folks, &c. &c. &c.” -The males behaved wisely, and kept a stricter -neutrality than the French with the -Americans.—I chewed the cud of sweet remembrance, -and, with a heart and mind in -pretty easy plight, gained the castle of peace -and innocence about nine o’clock.—Well, -Sir, and how do you find yourself by this -time?—I sweat, I protest—and then the -bright God of day darts his blessings full upon -my shop-window—so intensely, that I -could fancy myself St. Bartholomew broiling -upon a gridiron.</p> - -<p>Oh! thou varlet—down—down upon thy -knees, and bless thy indulgent stars for the -blessings—comforts—beauties, &c. of thy -situation—the Land of Canaan in possession -milk and honey—shady trees—sweet walks -covered with the velvet of nature—pleasant -views—cool house—and the superintendency<span class="pagenum" id="Page_254">[p. 254]</span> -of the sweet girls—to whom my love and -blessings—and, sirrah! mark what I say, and -obey me without reply: there is a plump -good-natured looking soul—I think you -called her Patty—my conscience tells me, -that I owe her something more than kind -words and cool thanks!—therefore tell her, -a man that notes particularly the welcome -of the eye—and saw plainly good-will and -good-nature in the expression of her honest -countenance—sends her a dish of tea—which -she must sweeten by her cheery acceptance -of it—from one who knows not how to -return the many, many obligations he has -received from the he’s and she’s of P—— -house—exclusive of what he owes—and shall -be content ever to owe—the saucy rogue he -addresses.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Farewell. Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_10" href="#FNanchor_10" class="label">[10]</a> Mr. Sancho was remarkable for corpulency.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_255">[p. 255]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCVIII_TO_MRS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="98">XCVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Aug. 25, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut"> -<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">MA CHERE AMIE</span>,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IN the visions of the night—Behold I fancied -that Mrs. Sancho was in Suffolk—that -she saw strange places—fine sights—and good -people—that she was at B—— amongst -those I love and honor—that she was charmed -and enraptured with some certain good -folks who shall be nameless—that she was -treated, caressed, and well pleased—that she -came home full of feasts, kindness, and camps—and -in the conclusion dunned me for a -whole month to return some certain people -thanks—for what?—why, for doing as they -ever do—contrive to make time and place -agreeable—truly agreeable to those who are -so lucky to fall in their way: in truth, so -much has been said, and description has ran -so high, that, now I am awake, I long for -just such a week’s pleasure. But time and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_256">[p. 256]</span> -chance are against me.—I awake to fears of -invasion, to noise, faction, drums, soldiers, -and care:—the whole town has now but two -employments—the learning of French—and -the exercise of arms—which is highly political—in -my poor opinion—for should the -military fail of success—which is not impossible—why, -the ladies must take the field, -and scold them to their ships again.—The -wits here say our fleet is outlawed—others -have advertised it—the republicans teem -with abuse, and the K—g’s friends are observed -to have long faces—every body looks -wiser than common—the cheating shop-counter -is deserted, from the gossiping door-threshold—and -every half-hour has its fresh -swarm of lies.—What’s to become of us? -“We are ruined and sold!” is the exclamation -of every mouth—the monied man -trembles for the funds—the landholder for -his acres—the married men for their families—old -maids—alas! and old fusty batchelors—for -themselves. For my part, I can -be no poorer—I have no quarrel to the Romish -religion—and so that you come to -town in health and spirits, and occupy the -old spot—so that the camp at Cavenham<span class="pagenum" id="Page_257">[p. 257]</span> -breaks not up to the prejudice of Johnny -O——, and my worthy R—— is continued -clerk at ——: in short, let those I -love be uninjured in their fortunes, and unhurt -in their persons—God’s will be done! -I rest perfectly satisfied, and very sincerely -and cordially,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Dear Madam, Yours,</p> -<p class="signoff2">and my sweet little Miss C——’s</p> -<p class="signoff3">most obedient</p> -<p class="signoff4">and obliged servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">I should have said a deal about thanks and -your kindness—but I am not at all clear it -would please you.—Mrs. Sancho certainly -joins me in every good wish—the girls are -well—and William thrives—our best respects -attend Mr. B—— and his good Lady—Mr. -and Mrs. S——. Adieu!</p> - -<p>Pray make Mr. William Sancho’s and -my compliments acceptable to Nutts.—We -hope he is well, and enjoys this fine -weather unplagued by flies, and unbitten by -fleas.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_258">[p. 258]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_XCIX_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="99">XCIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 31, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU have made ample amends for your -stoical silence—insomuch that, like Balaam, -I am constrained to bless—where, peradventure, -I intended the reverse.—For hadst thou -taken the wings of the morning—and searched -North, East, South, and West—or dived -down into the sea, exploring the treasures of -old Ocean—thou could’st neither in art or -nature have found aught that could have -made me happier—gift-wise—than the -sweet and highly finished portrait of my -dear Sterne. But how you found it—caught -it—or came by it—Heaven and you -know best!—I do fear it is not thy own -manufacturing.—Perhaps thou hast gratified -thy finer feeling at an expence which friendship -would blush for.—“But what have you -to do with that?” True—it may appear impertinent; -but could aught add to the value<span class="pagenum" id="Page_259">[p. 259]</span> -of the affair—it would be—its having -you—for its father;—but I must hasten to -a conclusion.—I meant this—not as an epistle -of cold thanks—but the warm ebullitions -of African sensibility.—Your gift -would add to the pride of Cæsar—were he -living, and knew the merits of its original—it -has half turned the head of a Sancho—as -this scrawl will certify. Adieu! The hen -and chicks desire to be remembered to you—as -I do—to all!—all!—all!</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. S.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_C_TO_MR_I_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="100">C.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. I——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 2, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IN truth I know myself to be a very troublesome -fellow—but as it is the general fate -of good-nature to suffer through the folly they -countenance—I shall not either pity or apologize.—I -have to beg you just to examine -my friend Laggarit’s petition: Mr. P—— -does not seem to approve of it, but is for expunging<span class="pagenum" id="Page_260">[p. 260]</span> -almost the best half.—My friend -has tried to get the great E—— B——’s -opinion, but has met with a negative—he -being too busy to regard the distresses of the -lowly and unrecommended:—for my part, -I have as much faith in Mr. I——’s judgement -as in ——, and a much higher opinion -of his good-will;—and as Mr. P—— may -be partly hurried away by leaning rather -too much to republican modes, I dare say, -if he finds that your opinion coincides with -the sense of the petition as it now stands, he -will not be offended at its being presented -without his mutilations.—Mr. Laggarit is -fearful of offending any way, and has every -proper sense of Mr. P——’s zeal and good-will.—I -dare say, it will strike you as it does -me—that in the petitionary style every term -of respect is necessary; and although some -of the titles are rather profane, and others -farcical, yet custom authorizes the use, and it -is a folly to withstand it.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours to command,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">I hope Mrs. I—— is well as you would -wish her.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_261">[p. 261]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CI_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="101">CI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Sept. 2, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU can hardly imagine how impatient -I was to hear how they behaved to you at -B—h. I must confess, you give a rare account -of your travels. I am pleased much -with all the affair, excepting the cellar business, -which I fear you repented rather longer -than I could wish.—I had a letter from -my honest L——n, who takes pride to himself -in the honour you did him, and says -Mr. S—— pleases himself in the hope of -catching you on your return—when they -flatter themselves the pictures will merit -a second review:—but beware of the cellar!—I -hope you are as well known at Scarborough -as the Wells, and find more employment -than you want, and that you get -into friendly chatty parties for the evenings.—If -I might obtrude my silly advice—it<span class="pagenum" id="Page_262">[p. 262]</span> -should be to dissipate a little with the girls—but, -for God’s sake, beware of sentimental -ladies! and likewise be on thy guard against -the Gambling Dames, who have their nightly -petite-parties at quadrille—and, with their -shining faces and smooth tongues, drain -unwary young men’s pockets, and feminize -their manners.—But why do I preach to -thee, who art abler to instruct grey hairs -than I am to dust my shop?—Vanity, which -has gulled mighty statesmen, misled poor -me; and for the sake of appearing wiser than -I am, I pray you, “set me down an ass!” -I inclosed a petulant billet to your Reverend -Sire, which I hope he did not send you.—There -is no news worth talking about in -town, excepting that it rains frequently, and -people of observation perceive that the -days are shorter.—Mrs. Sancho and children -are all well—and, I dare swear, wish -you so; in which they are heartily seconded -by</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours sincerely,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">How shall I know whether you get this -scrawl, except you send me word?</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_263">[p. 263]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="102">CII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 4, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THE <em>Lamb</em><a id="FNanchor_11" href="#Footnote_11" class="fnanchor">[11]</a> just now kindly delivered -to the <em>Bear</em><a id="FNanchor_12" href="#Footnote_12" class="fnanchor">[12]</a> the <em>Monkey’s</em><a id="FNanchor_13" href="#Footnote_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a> letter.—I am -glad at heart that the forced exercise did -thy hip no hurt—but that M— of thine—I -do not like such faces!—if she is half what -she looks, she is too good for any place but -heaven, where the hallelujahs are for ever -chanting by such cherub-faced sluts as she! -Thank God! she is neither daughter nor -sister of mine—I should live in perpetual fear.—But -why do I plague myself about her? -She has a protector in you—and foul befall -the being (for no man would attempt it) -that wishes to injure her!—Mrs. D—— I -could like so well, that I wish to know but -very little of her!—strange, but true!—and -when you have been disappointed in your -schemes of domestic happiness, and deceived -in your too hasty-formed judgements to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_264">[p. 264]</span> -the age of fifty, as oft as your friend, you -will fully enter into any meaning.</p> - -<p>She looks open—honest—intelligently sensible—good-natured—easy—polite -and kind;—knowledge -enough of the world to render -her company desireable—and age just sufficient -to form her opinions, and fix her -principles;—add to all this an agreeable -face, good teeth, and a certain <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">Je ne sai quoi</i> -(forgive the spelling, and do not betray me):—but -I say again, and again—when one has -formed a great opinion of either male or -female, ’tis best, for that opinion’s sake, to -look no further—there, rogue!</p> - -<p>I shall take no notice of the tricking fraudulent -behaviour of the driver of the stage—<em>as -how</em> he wanted to palm a bad shilling upon -us—and <em>as how</em> they stopped us in the town, -and most generously insulted us—and <em>as how</em> -we took up a fat old man—his wife <em>fat</em> too—and -child;—and after keeping us half an -hour in sweet converse of the—of the <em>blasting</em> -kind—how that the fat woman waxed -wrath with her plump master, for his being -serene—and how that he caught choler at her -friction, tongue-wise;—how he ventured -his head out of the coach-door, and swore<span class="pagenum" id="Page_265">[p. 265]</span> -liberally—whilst his —— in direct line with -poor S——n’s nose—entertained him with -<em>sound</em> and sweetest of exhalations.—I shall say -nothing of being two hours almost on our -journey—neither do I remark that S——n -turned sick before we left G——, nor that -the child p— upon his legs:—in short, it -was near nine before we got into Charles -Street.</p> - -<p>Sir, the pleasures of the day made us more -than amends for the nonsense that followed.—Receipt -in full.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">My best respects to Mr. Y——; and my -love, yea, cordial love to Nancy:—tell her—no, -if I live to see her again, I will tell -her myself.</p> - -<p>Observe, we were seven in the coach;—the -breath of the old lady, in her heat of -passion, was not rose-scented;—add to that, -the warmth naturally arising from crowd -and anger—you will not wonder at S—t—’s -being sick—And he, S——, wanted to -be in town rather sooner.—My compliments -to George.—Mr. L—— is so kind to promise<span class="pagenum" id="Page_266">[p. 266]</span> -to call for this scrawl:—thank him -for me, as well as for thyself.—Adieu.—Mrs. -S—— pretty well, the two Fanny’s and -Kitty but indifferent.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_11" href="#FNanchor_11" class="label">[11]</a> A Mr. Lamb.</p> - -<p> -<a id="Footnote_12" href="#FNanchor_12" class="label">[12]</a> Meaning himself.</p> - -<p> -<a id="Footnote_13" href="#FNanchor_13" class="label">[13]</a> Mr. M——, to whom he often gave that title.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CIII_TO_MRS_W_mdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="103">CIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. W——E</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Sept. 5, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOUR wonder will be equal to your -indignation—when—(after due apologies for -the liberty of this address—and a few good-natured -protestations of friendship and so -forth—with an injunction to strict secresy) -I inform you that it is absolutely necessary -for your immediate setting out for Red-lion -Court.—Your good man is only running after -all the young gypsies about the neighbourhood—all -colours—black or fair—are alike;—this -is the effect of country air—and your -nursing.—The good man made his appearance<span class="pagenum" id="Page_267">[p. 267]</span> -on Thursday evening last—the glow of -health in his face—joy in his eyes.—“Wife, -Joe, and little Frank all well, and myself -never better in my life;”—a pretty girl he -led by the hand—and, as if one petticoat -plague was not enough, he insisted upon -taking away two of mine—and carried his -point against every reasonable odds: away -they all went to the play—and God only -knows where else—I threatened him with a -modest report to Melchbourn, but he seemed -to care very lightly about it;—so I -humbly advise, as your best method of taming -him, either to insist upon his speedily -coming down to you—or else your immediate -setting out for home:—at present he only -attempts our daughters—but, should you -be absent a month longer, I tremble for our -wives;—for my part, I have some reason, -for here both wife and daughters are as fond -of Mr. W——e as they dare own—Seriously, -I think, you should coax him down, if only -for a fortnight; for it is amazing how -much better he is for the short time he was -absent—and this I take to be the pleasantest -and wholesomest time for the country, if the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_268">[p. 268]</span> -evening dews are carefully guarded against—I -shall advise him strongly to take the other -trip—and I trust your documents, with the -innocent simplicity of all around him—fine -air—exercise—new milk—and the smell of -new hay—will make him ten thousand times -worse than he is—you won’t like him the -worse for that. My love attends cousins -I—— and F——.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am, dear Madam,</p> -<p class="signoff2">most sincerely yours to command,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Mrs. Sancho joins me in every thing but -the abuse of Mr. W——e.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CIV_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="104">CIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 7, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WE are all in the wrong—a <em>little</em>.—Admiral -Barrington is arrived from the West<span class="pagenum" id="Page_269">[p. 269]</span> -India station—and brings the pleasant news, -that d’Estaigne fell in with five of our ships -of the line with the best part of his fleet. -We fought like Englishmen, unsupported by -the rest:—they fought till they were quite -dismasted, and almost wrecked;—and at last -gave the French enough of it, and got away -all, though in plight bad enough:—but the -consequence was, the immediate capture of -the Grenadas.—Add to this—Sir Charles -Hardy is put into Portsmouth, or Gosport;—and, -although forty odd strong in line of -battle ships, is obliged to give up the sovereignty -of the channel to the enemy.—L—d -S——h is gone to Portsmouth, to be a -witness of England’s disgrace—and his own -shame.—In faith, my friend, the present -time is rather <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">comique</i>—Ireland almost in as -true a state of rebellion as America—Admirals -quarrelling in the West-Indies—and -at home Admirals that do not chuse to -fight—The British empire mouldering away -in the West, annihilated in the North—Gibraltar -going—and England fast asleep.—What -says Mr. B—— to all this?—he is a -ministerialist,—for my part, it’s nothing to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_270">[p. 270]</span> -me, as I am only a lodger, and hardly that.—Give -my love and respect to the ladies—and -best compliments to all the gentlemen—with -respects to Mr. and Mrs. I——.</p> - -<p>Give me a line to know how you all do.—The -post is going—only time to say God -bless you.—I remain</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours affectionately,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Past eleven at night.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CV_TO_MISS_L_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="105">CV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS. L——</span>,</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Sept. 11, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I CANNOT forbear returning my dear -Miss L—— our united thanks for her generous -present—which came exactly in time to -grace poor Marianne’s birth-day, which was -yesterday:—the bird was good, and well -dressed; that and a large apple-pye feasted -the whole family of the Sancho’s. Miss<span class="pagenum" id="Page_271">[p. 271]</span> -L—— was toasted; and although we had -neither ringing of bells, nor firing of guns, -yet the day was celebrated with mirth and -decency—and a degree of sincere joy and -urbanity seldom to be seen on R——l birth-days.—Mary, -as queen of the day, invited -two or three young friends—her breast filled -with delight unmixed with cares—her heart -danced in her eyes—and she looked the happy -mortal.—Great God of mercy and love! -why, why, in a few fleeting years, are all -the gay day dreams of youthful innocence -to vanish? why can we not purchase prudence, -decency, and wisdom, but at the expence -of our peace? Slow circumspect caution -implies suspicion—and where suspicion -dwells, confidence dwells not.—I believe I -write nonsense—but the dull weather, added -to a dull imagination, must, and I trust -will, incline you to excuse me:—if I mistake -not, writing requires—what I could tell you, -but dare not—for I have smarted once already.—In -short, I write just what I think—and -you know Congreve says somewhere, -that</p> - -<div class="blockquotfull"> - -<p>“Thought precedes the will,”</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_272">[p. 272]</span></p> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p>and</p> -</div> - -<div class="blockquotfull"> - -<p>“Error lives ere Reason can be born.”</p> -</div> - -<p>Now Will—Reason—and Gratitude, all -three powerfully impel me to thank you—not -for your goose—nor for any pecuniary -self-gratifying marks of generosity—but for -the benevolent urbanity of your nature—which -counsels your good heart to think of -the lowly and less fortunate.—But what are -my thanks, what the echoed praises of the -world, to the heart-approving sensations of -true charity!—which is but the prelude to -the divine address at the last day—“Well -done, thou good,” &c. &c—That you and -all I love—and even poor me—may hear -those joyful words, is the prayer of</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_273">[p. 273]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CVI_TO_MR_I_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="106">CVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. I——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 3, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU will make me happy by procuring -me an order from Mr. H—— for three, -any night this week—’tis to oblige a worthy -man who has more wants than cash;—believe -me, there is more of vanity than -good-nature in my request—for I have boasted -of the honour of being countenanced by -Mr. I——, and shall ostentatiously produce -your favor, as a proof of your kindness, and -my presumption:—thanks, over and over, -for Sir H—— Freeman’s letters, which I -will send home in a day or two:—I return -the Sermons, which I like so well, that I -have placed a new set of them by Yorick’s, -and think they will not disagree.—I pray -you to send by the bearer the bit of honored -Mortimer you promised for friend -M——, who, though he called some few -mornings since on purpose, yet was so<span class="pagenum" id="Page_274">[p. 274]</span> -plagued with the <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">mauvaise hondt</i> (I believe I -spell it Yorkshirely, but you know what I -mean), that the youth could not for his -soul say what he was looking after:—if you -accompany it with the sea-piece you kindly -offered me, I shall have employment in -cleansing and restoring beauties which have -escaped your observation—and I shall consider -myself</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your much more obliged,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CVII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="107">CVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 5, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU mistake—I am neither sick—idle—nor -forgetful—nor hurried—nor flurried—nor -lame—nor am I of a fickle mutable disposition.—No! -I feel the life-sweetening affections—the -swell of heart-animating ardor—the -zeal of honest friendship—and, what’s -more, I feel it for thee.—Now, Sir, what -have you to say in humble vindication of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_275">[p. 275]</span> -your hasty conclusions? what, because I did -not write to you on Monday last, but let a -week pass without saying—what in truth I -know not how to say, though I am now -seriously set about it? In short, such arts and -minds (if there be many such, so much the -better), such beings I say, as the one I am -now scribbling to, should make elections of -wide different beings than Black-a-moors, -for their friends:—the reason is obvious;—from -Othello to Sancho the big, we are -either foolish, or mulish—all, all without a -single exception.—Tell me, I pray you—and -tell me truly—were there any Black-a-moors -in the Ark?—Pooh! why there now—I see -you puzzled:—Well—well—be that as the -learned shall hereafter decide.—I will defend -and maintain my opinion—simply—I will -do more—wager a crown upon it—nay, -double that—and if my simple testimony -faileth, Mrs. Sancho and the children, five-deep, -will back me—that Noah, during his -pilgrimage in the blessed Ark, never, with -wife and six children, set down to a feast -upon a bit of finer goodlier—fatter—sweeter -salter—well-fed pork: we eat like hogs.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_276">[p. 276]</span></p> - -<p>When do your nobles intend coming -home?—The evenings get long, and the -damps of the Park after sun-set—but a word -to the wise.</p> - -<p>Oh! I had like to have almost forgot—I -owe you a dressing for your last letter.—There -were some saucy strokes of pride in it—the -ebullitions of a high heart—and -tenderly over-nice feelings. Go-to—what -have I found you? My mind is not rightly -at ease—or you should have it—and so you -would not give me a line all the week—because—but -what? I am to blame—a man -in liquor—a man deprived of reason—and a -man in love—should ever meet with pity and -indulgence:—in the last class art thou!—nay, -never blush—plain as the nose in thy -face are the marks—refute it if you are able—dispute -if you dare—for I have proofs—yea, -proofs as undeniable as is the sincerity -of the affection and zeal with which thou -art ever regarded by thy</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">How do the ladies—and Mr. M—? -Mind, I care not about ——; so tell her,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_277">[p. 277]</span> -and lye.—You may tell George the same -story;—but I should like to hear something -about you all.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CVIII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="108">CVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 9, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MY friend Mr. I——, who—<em>like</em> a simple -fellow with a palish phiz—crazy head—and -hair of a pretty colour—an aukward loon—whom -I do sometimes care about—who has -more wit than money—more good sense than -wit—more urbanity than sense—and more -pride than some princes—a chap who talks -well—writes better—and means much better -than he either speaks or indites—a careless -son of nature, who rides without thinking—tumbles -down without hurt—and gets up -again without swearing—who can—in short, -he is such an excentric phizpoop—such a -vessel!—a new skin full of old wine is the -best type of him—know you such a one? -No! I guessed as much—nay—nay—if you<span class="pagenum" id="Page_278">[p. 278]</span> -think for a twelvemonth and a day, you will -never be a jot the nearer—give it up, man.—Come, -I will solve the mystery—his name -is ——. I will tell you anon;—but as I -was saying—for I hate prolixity—as I was -saying above—Mr. I—— (in imitation of the -odd soul I have laboured to describe) wishing -to do me honour as well as pleasure—came -in person twice, to insist on my accompanying -<em>he</em> and <em>she</em>, and two more, to see Mr. -H—— take possession of the throne of -Richard. Into the boxes (I believe box is -properer) we went—the house as full, just as -it could be, and no fuller—as hot as it was -possible to bear—or rather hotter.—Now do -you really and truly conceive what I mean? -Alas! there are some stupid souls, formed of -such phlegmatic, adverse materials, that you -might sooner strike conception into a flannel -petticoat—or out of one—(now keep your -temper, I beg, sweet Sir) than convince their -simple craniums that six and seven makes -thirteen.—It was a daring undertaking—and -H—— was rather awed with the idea of -the great man, whose very robes he was to -wear—and whose throne he was to usurp.—But<span class="pagenum" id="Page_279">[p. 279]</span> -give him his due—he acquitted himself -well—tolerably well;—he will play it much -better next time—and the next better still; -Rome was not built in six weeks—and, trust -me, a Garrick will not be formed under -seven years.—I supped with his Majesty and -Mr. and Mrs. I——, where good-nature -and good-sense mixed itself with the most -chearful welcome.</p> - -<p>And pray, how is your head by this -time?—I will teach you to wish for pleasure -from Black-a-moor dunderheads:—why, -Sir, it is a broken sieve to a ragged pudding-bag, -by the time you have gone through -this scrawl—you will be as flat, dull, and -tedious, as a drunken merry-andrew—or a -methodist preacher—or a tired poor devil of -a post-horse; or, to sum up all in one word, -as your most—what you please,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> -<p class="indent4"> -<i>Is pesorpher Quidois.</i></p> -<p class="signoff1"> -Your true friend, and so forth.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Zounds, Sir! send me a good handsome -epistle—such as you were wont to do in -peaceful days, before * * * had warped your<span class="pagenum" id="Page_280">[p. 280]</span> -faculties, and made you lazy.—Why you—but -I will not put myself in a passion.—Oh! -my M——, I would thou wert in town—but -it’s no matter—I am convinced, in our -next habitation there will be no care—love -will possess our souls—and praise and harmony—and -ever-fresh rays of knowledge, -wonder, and mutual communication will be -our employ. Adieu.</p> - -<p>The best of women—the girls—the boy—all -well. I could really write as long a letter -on a taylor’s measure, as your last hurry-begotten -note.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CIX_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="109">CIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 17, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">NO! you have not the least grain of genius.—Alas! -description is a science—a man -should in some measure be born with the knack -of it. Poor blundering M——, I pity thee: -once more I tell thee—thou art a bungler -in every thing—ask the girls else.—You<span class="pagenum" id="Page_281">[p. 281]</span> -know nothing of figures—you write a -wretched hand—thou hast a nonsensical style—almost -as disagreeable as thy heart—thy -heart, though better than thy head—and -which I wish from my soul (as it now is) -was the worst heart in the three kingdoms.—Thy -heart is a silly one—a poor cowardly -heart—that would shrink at mere trifles—though -there were no danger of fine or imprisonment:—for -example—come, confess -now—could you lie with the wife of your -friend? could you debauch his sister? could -you defraud a poor creditor? could you by -gambling rejoice in the outwitting a novice -of all his possessions?—No! why then thou -art a silly fellow, incumbered with three abominable -inmates;—to wit—Conscience—Honesty—and -Good-nature—I hate thee -(as the Jew says) because thou art a Christian.</p> - -<p>And what, in the name of common -sense, impelled thee to torment my soul, -with thy creative pen-drawing of sweet -A—r—bn—s? I enjoyed content at least in -the vortex of smoak and vice—and lifted up -my thoughts no higher than the beauties of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_282">[p. 282]</span> -the park or——gardens.—What have I to -do with rural deities? with parterres—fields—groves—terraces—views—buildings—grots—temples—slopes—bridges -and meandering -streams—cawing rooks—billing turtles—happy -swains—the harmony of the woodland -shades—the blissful constancy of rustic -lovers?—Sir, I say you do wrong, to awaken -ideas of this sort:—besides, as I hinted -largely above—you have no talent—no -language—no colouring—you do not groupe -well—no relief—false light and shadow—and -then your prespective is so false—no blending -of tints—thou art a sad fellow, and there is -an end of it.</p> - -<p>S——n, who loves fools (he writes to -me) but mum; S——n wishes to have the -honour of a line from quondam friend -M——: now M—— is an ill-natured fellow, -but were it contrariwise—and M—— -would indulge him—I would enclose it in a -frank—with something clever of my own to -make it more agreeable.—Sirrah! refuse if -you dare—I will so expose thee—do it—’tis -I command you:—S——n only intreats—you -have need of such a rough chap as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_283">[p. 283]</span> -Sancho to counterpoise the pleasures of your -earthly paradise.—Pray take care of your Eve—and -now, my dear M——, after all my -abuse, let me conclude</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours affectionately,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="pshead"> -Postscript,</p> - -<p class="sp1">The tree of knowledge has yielded you -fruit in ample abundance:—may you boldly -climb the tree of life—and gather the fruits -of a happy immortality—in which I would -fain share, and have strong hope, through -the merits of a blessed Redeemer—to find -room sufficient for self and all I love—which, -to say what I glory in, comprehend the -whole race of man—and why not Namby-Pamby -M——? I cannot write to S——n -till I have your letter to enclose to him—if -there is any delay, the fault is not mine.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CX_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="110">CX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -October 20, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">ZOUNDS, Sir! would you believe—Ireland -has the * * * to claim the advantages -of a free unlimited trade—or they will join<span class="pagenum" id="Page_284">[p. 284]</span> -in the American dance!—What a pack of -* * * are * * *! I think the wisest thing -administration can do (and I dare wager they -will) is to stop the exportation of potatoes—and -repeal the act for the encouragement of -growing tobacco * * *. It is reported here -(from excellent authority) that the people at -large surrounded the Irish parliament, and -made the members—the courtiers—the formists -and non-cons—cats—culls—and pimp-whiskins—all—all -subscribe to their—. -Well, but what says your brother—no -better news I much fear from that quarter.—Oh, -this poor ruined country!—ruined by -its success—and the choicest blessings the -Great Father of Heaven could shower down -upon us—ruined by victories—arts—arms—and -unbounded commerce—for pride accompanied -those blessings—and like a canker-worm -has eaten into the heart of our political -body.—The Dutch have given up the -Serapis and the Scarborough, and detained -Paul Jones twenty-four hours after their -sailing:—how they will balance accounts -with France, I know not; but I do believe -the Mynheers will get into a scrape.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_285">[p. 285]</span></p> - -<p>Tell Mr. B—— the Pyefleets fluctuate in -price like the stocks, and were done this -morning at Billingsgate change, at 1<i><abbr title="pound">l.</abbr></i> 6<i><abbr title="shillings">s.</abbr></i> 8<i><abbr title="pence">d.</abbr></i> -<i lang="la" xml:lang="la">per</i> bushel; but I have sent them this evening -properly directed—also a book of <i lang="it" xml:lang="it">Cogniscenti -dilitanti divertimenti</i>.—As for the -ladies, I cannot say any thing in justice to -their merits or my own feelings:—therefore -I am silent—write soon—a decent, plain, -and intelligible letter—a letter that a body -may read with pleasure and improvement—none -of your circumroundabouts for</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXI_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="111">CXI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Nov. 1, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I SHOULD on Sunday night have acknowledged -your kindness, but was prevented -by weakness!—idleness! or some -such nonsense!—Were you here, Mrs.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_286">[p. 286]</span> -Sancho would tell you I had quacked myself -to death.—It is true, I have been unwell—from -colds and from a purging!—which disorder -prevails much in our righteous metropolis—and -perhaps from quacking; but -of this when we meet.—I was much pleased -with my letter from Sir John—in which -there is very little news—and less hope of -doing any thing to the purpose, either in the -conquering or conciliating mode, than in -any letter I have been favoured with.—He -makes no mention of receiving any packets -from me, and I have wrote six or eight times -within the last twelve months—so you see -plainly the packets are either lost, or his -letters stopt.—I shall give him a line by -Wednesday’s post—and let it try its fortune.—I -enclose you some American congress -notes—for he does not say he has sent you -any—though he mentions the news-papers.</p> - -<p>We talk of sending over a vast force next -spring. Why G—m—t will so madly pursue -a losing game, is amongst the number of -things that reason can never account for—and -good sense blushes at:—it is reported in -the city, that our safety this summer was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_287">[p. 287]</span> -purchased of d’Orvilliers and Monsieur Sartin:—it -is certain (although a vote of credit -was granted for a million) that there is no -money in the Exchequer—and that the civil -list is 800,000<i><abbr title="pounds">l.</abbr></i> in arrears.—This looks dark—whilst -Ireland treats us rather laconic—Scotland -not too friendly—America speaks -but too plainly:—But what a plague is all -this to you or me? I am doomed to difficulty -and poverty for life—and let things go -as they will, if the French leave us Newmarket—they -will not ruin my friend.—I -hope the good ladies are well and preparing -for London.—Squire S—— and his good -woman well also, he in the enjoyment of his -gun—and she in the care of the sweet -children.—My best respects to Mr. and -Mrs. B——, and I should be a beast to -neglect my worthy friend Mr. S——k. Now -I have a scheme to propose to the electors of -Great Britain, to take Sir C—— and Mr. -S—— for their patterns—and at the -general election (if they can find as many) -to return 300 such—it would immortalize -them in the annals of this country for their -wisdom of choice—and what’s much better,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_288">[p. 288]</span> -it would perhaps (with God’s blessing) save -Old England. We want, alas!—only a few -honest men of sound principles and good -plain understandings—to unite us—to animate -with one mind!—one heart!—one -aim!—and to direct the rouzed courage of a -brave people properly—then we might hope -for golden times—and the latter end of the -present reign emulate the grand close of the -last.</p> - -<p>I got a very pretty young lady to chuse -this inclosed ticket—meaning to baffle ill-luck; -for, had I chose it myself, I am -certain a blank would have been the consequence.—May -it be prosperous!—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in every thing—love to -O——; the girls giggle their respects to Mr. -R——; Billy joins in silence, but his love -to Nutts is plain. How does he do?</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_289">[p. 289]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXII_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="112">CXII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Nov. 14. 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOURS by my brother gave me money—and, -what was more pleasing to me, a tolerable -account of your success—the lateness -of the season considered.—Come, brighten -up; my brother P—— has left us much -happier than he found us.—We have succeeded -beyond our expectation—humility is -the test of Christianity—and parent of many -if not of all the virtues;—but we will talk -this over, when you return from grape-stuffed -geese and fine girls.—H—— seems to be -in better favour with her goddessship Lady-Fortune:—his -affair will do—he will stand a -fair chance of rising.—I wish from my soul -something good in the same line was destined -for you;—but have courage—time and patience -conquer all things.—I hope you will<span class="pagenum" id="Page_290">[p. 290]</span> -come home soon—and leave a foundation -for better fortune next year at B——, and -its friendly neighbourhood.—Kitty is very -poorly—God’s will be done!—I have a horrid -story to tell you about the—Zounds! -I am interrupted.—Adieu! God keep -you!</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Mrs. Sancho, and girls, and Billy, send -their compliments, &c. and pray all our -respective loves and best wishes to the -friendly circle at B——, and every where -else.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXIII_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="113">CXIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Nov. 16, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU have missed the truth by a mile—aye -and more:—it was not neglect—I -am too proud for that;—it was not forgetfulness, -Sir—I am not so ungrateful;—it<span class="pagenum" id="Page_291">[p. 291]</span> -was not idleness, the excuse of fools;—nor -hurry of business, the refuge of knaves:—it -is time to say what it was.—Why, Mrs. -D—— was in town from Tuesday to Monday -following—and then—and not till then—gave -me your letter—and most graciously -did I receive it—considering that both my -feet were in flannels, and are so to this -luckless minute.—Well, Sir, and what have -you to say to that? Friend H—— has paid -for them.—I pay him again—and shall draw -upon you towards Christmas—never poorer -since created—but ’tis a general case;—blessed -times for a poor Blacky grocer to hang -or drown in!—Received from your good reverend -parent (why not honoured father?) -a letter, announcing the approach of a hamper -of prog, which I wish you was near -enough to partake.—Your good father feels -a satisfaction in doing—I think a wrong -thing—his motive is right—and, like a true -servant of Christ, he follows the spirit, not -the letter:—he will be justified in a better -world—I am satisfied in this—and thou -wilt in thy feelings be gratified.—Huzza!—we -are all right—but your father pays the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_292">[p. 292]</span> -piper. How doth Squire G——? odso—and -his pretty daughter?—kiss the father for -me—and drink a bottle with the fair lady.—I -mean as I have wrote—so tell them—and -do what’s best in thy own and their -eyes.—When you see brother O——, my -love to him and his houshold.——I have -no spirits when the gout seizes me—pox on -him!—Great news from Sir Charles Hardy—huzza -for ever!—all mad—nothing but -illuminations;—out with your lights—bells -ringing, bonfires blazing—crackers bouncing—and -all for what?—what?—The girls -open-mouthed—Billy stares—Mrs. Sancho -rubs her hands;—the night indeed is cold, -but Billy must go to bed:—the noisy rogues -with the Gazette-extra stun our ears. -Adieu!</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">I should have inclosed a paper, but it -will cost the devil and all.—My family all -join in customary customs.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_293">[p. 293]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXIV_TO_I_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="114">CXIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO I—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Nov. 21, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WE are happy to hear, by brother O——, -that you and Mrs S—— enjoy good health—may -God preserve it, and increase your -every comfort!</p> - -<p>I am far from being sorry that you have -not been in town this Autumn;—for London -has been sickly—almost every body full -of complaint; add also that the times are -equally full of disease.—Luxury! Folly! -Disease! and Poverty! you may see daily -riding in the same coach—the doors ornamented -with the honours of a virtuous ancestry -topped with coronets, surrounded with -mantle ermined;—and, alas! Corruption -for the supporters.</p> - -<p>Now, my good Sir, you can have no real -pleasure but what must arise from your own<span class="pagenum" id="Page_294">[p. 294]</span> -heart, were you amongst us—and that would -be in pitying our weakness, and sighing -over distresses your benevolence of heart -could not alleviate!—and yet I fear—if you -keep from town till times mend—I shall -have no chance of seeing you this side eternity.—You -should come up for a day or -two, were it only to be witness to the -roguery of M——rs and lottery-office-keepers—and -the madness of the dupes of -each.—I have much to thank you for—which -I will not forget in a better world, -if I see you not in this.—We have eat your -turkey to-day;—it is a joke to say it was -good—bad things seldom, if ever, come from -Mr. S——. Mrs. Sancho joins me in thanks -to Mrs. S——, who we hope will not be -always unknown.—The customary wishes -of the approaching sacred season to you and -all your connexions.—Pray excuse blunders; -for I am forced to write post, as I expect -O—— every moment. As I write first, -and think afterwards, my epistles are commonly -in the Irish fashion. You, who -prefer the heart to the head, will overlook<span class="pagenum" id="Page_295">[p. 295]</span> -the error of the man who is, and ever will -be, very sincerely and gratefully,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your much obliged</p> -<p class="signoff2">friend and servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">It is expected the whole M——y will -run from their posts before Friday next, -L—d S—h and Lord N—h excepted: Now, -I have a respect for L—d N—h: he is a good -husband! father, friend, and master—a -real <em>good man</em>—but, I fear, a bad <em>m——r</em>.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXV_TO_THE_REV_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="115">CXV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO THE REV. MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 5, 1779.</p> - - -<p class="salut">REV. AND HON. SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I HAVE just now received your too valuable -favor:—forgive me, good Sir, if I -own I felt hurt at the idea of the trouble<span class="pagenum" id="Page_296">[p. 296]</span> -and cost you (from a spirit too generous) -have been put to—and for what, my good -Sir? Your son shewed me many kindnesses—and -his merits are such as will spontaneously -create him the esteem of those who -have the pleasure of knowing him—it is -honouring me to suppose I could be of -service to him.—Accept then, good Sir, -of my thanks, and Mrs. Sancho’s—and be -assured you have sevenfold overpaid any common -kindness I could render your deserving -son and my friend.—I wish he was here -to partake of your bountiful treat—for well -do I know his filial heart would exult, and -his eyes beam with love and respect.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in respectful acknowledgements -and thanks to Mrs. S—— and -self.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -We are, dear Sir,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Your most obliged servants,</p> -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">IGN.</span> and <span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">A. SANCHO</span>.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_297">[p. 297]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXVI_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="116">CXVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 14, 1779.</p> - - -<p class="salut">SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I EXPECT an answer.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. S.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Our friend H——’s head and heart are -fully occupied with schemes, plans, resolves, -&c. &c. in which (to his immortal honour) -the weal and welfare of his S—— are constantly -considered:—the proposal which accompanies -this letter, from what little judgement -I have, I think promises fair.—You -will, however, give it a fair examination—and -of course determine from the conviction -of right reason.—If, as a friend, I might -presume to offer my weak opinion—I freely -say, I think in every light it seems eligible.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_298">[p. 298]</span> -The circle of your acquaintance is at present -circumscribed—I mean in the artist line:—now -in case you connect yourself in a business -which requires constant daily perambulation—the -chances are on your side for -forming acquaintance—perhaps friendships—with -men of genius and abilities, which -may happily change the colour of your fortunes—the -old proverb is on your side—“two -heads,” &c.—and very fortunately in -your case, where in fact one has <em>wit</em>, and -the other <em>judgement</em>,—the <em>chair</em> of <em>interest</em> -will have its compleat furniture in the two -top ornaments—and <em>honesty</em> for its <em>basis</em>. So -much for Mons. H——, and now I have -to reckon with you. How could you be so -preposterously wrong, to trouble the repose -of your worthy father and mother about -me? Surely you must think me exceedingly -interested—or your heart must be -a very proud one; if either—in the first instance -you did me a wrong—in the last, perhaps, -I may wrong you;—be it as it may—I -know it gave me real vexation.—Your -father sent such a basket, as ten times repaid -the trifling service I had the honour as well<span class="pagenum" id="Page_299">[p. 299]</span> -as pleasure in rendering a man of merit, -and my friend;—believe me, I never accepted -any present with so ill a will;—with -regard to them, every thankful acknowledgement -was due.—I wrote a very embarrassed -letter of thanks—with a resolution to -give you a chastisement for laying me under -the necessity.—I hear with pleasure that -you have enough to do. H—— declares he -is sorry for it—as he wants and wishes you -in town. Pray give my best wishes to Mess. -B—— and S——w, and my love to O——. -If you should happen to know a Miss -A——, a rich farmer’s daughter, remember -me to her—were you not widow-witched, -she or some other heavy-pursed lass might -be easily attainable to a man of your—aye, -aye, but that, says ——, will not be, I fear.—For -I verily believe, that * * * * * for the -* * * * and by the same token do you not -* * * * * * *? But this is matter of mere speculation.—God -bless you! Yours sincerely—cordially—and -sometimes offensively—but -always friendly,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_300">[p. 300]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXVII_TO_D_mdash_BmdashmdashE_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="117">CXVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO D—— B——E, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 17, 1779.</p> - - -<p class="salut">GOOD SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">A STRANGER to your person (not to -your virtues) addresses you—will you pardon -the interested intrusion? I am told, you delight -in doing good.—Mr. W——e (who -honours me with his friendships, by whose -persuasion I presume to trouble you) declares—you -are no respecter of country or colours—and -encourages me further—by saying, -that I am so happy (by the good offices of -his too partial friendship) to have the interest -and good wishes of Mr. B——.</p> - -<p>Could my wish be possibly effected to have -the honour of a General post-office settled in -my house, it would certainly be a great good—as -(I am informed) it would emancipate -me from the fear of serving the parish offices, -for which I am utterly unqualified through<span class="pagenum" id="Page_301">[p. 301]</span> -infirmities—as well as complexion—Figure -to yourself, my dear Sir, a man of a convexity -of belly exceeding Falstaff—and a -black face into the bargain—waddling in the -van of poor thieves and pennyless prostitutes—with -all the supercilious mock dignity of -little office—what a banquet for wicked jest -and wanton wit—as, <em>Needs must</em>, <em>when</em>, &c. -&c.—Add to this, my good Sir, the chances -of being summoned out at midnight in the -severity of easterly winds and frosty weather—subject -as I unfortunately am to gout six -months in twelve—the consequence of which -must be death:—death! now I had much -rather live—and not die—live indebted to -the kindness of a few great and good—in -which glorious class, you, dear Sir, have -the pre-eminence in the idea of</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most respectful</p> -<p class="signoff2">and obliged humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_302">[p. 302]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXVIII_TO_MR_B_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="118">CXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. B——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Dec. 20, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THE Park guns are now firing, and never -was poor devil so puzzled as your humble -Sancho is at this present moment.—I have a -budget of fresh news—aye, and that of consequence—and -a million of stale thanks, -which perhaps you will think of no consequence.—Impelled -by two contrary passions, -how should a poor Negro know precisely -which to obey? Your turkey and chine are -absolutely as good, as fine, and as welcome—as -nobly given—and as gratefully accepted—as -heart can wish, or fancy conceive:—then -on the other hand—the news is as -glorious—as well timed and authenticated—as -pleasing,—as salutary in the ministerial way—as -much wanted—and as welcome—as the -turkey and chine to a certain sett, I mean—of -king’s friends and national * * * * *. The<span class="pagenum" id="Page_303">[p. 303]</span> -said turkey and chine will keep fresh and -good—and chear some honest hearts (I trust) -on Christmas-day.—The news, good as it -is, may half of it prove false by Christmas—and -the true part will be stale news by that -time—much of it will be liable to doubt -and malicious disquisition:—now, on the -other hand, the turkey and its honest fat -companion are bettering every day—and feast -us by anticipation.—But again, the news -will come with a handsome face—attested by -a Gazette extraordinary, garnished by the -happy flourishes of news-paper invention. -Then there is the speech of the noble Sir -C——; I meant to say much upon that -score; you have read it without doubt—so -have I more than once or twice—and I find -the same fault with it that the majority and -minority do—which is neither more nor less -than what’s exceeding natural to both parties.—The -majority detest it for its truth—the -minority would have better liked it, had -it not been so d—n’d <em>honest</em>. Now (between -ourselves) I do confess to you, my worthy -friend, strip this famed speech of its truth -and honesty, there will very little worth<span class="pagenum" id="Page_304">[p. 304]</span> -notice remain, excepting candour, a spice of -benevolence, and perhaps too much charity;—but -as the above are the vices only of a -very few, we may the better endure it in -Sir C——. There is certainly an express -arrived this day with very comfortable news—plenty -of killed and wounded—plenty of -prisoners—and (as it always happens) with -little or no loss on our side;—but, dear me! -how I have run on!—I protest, the sole -business of this letter was to ease my mind—by -unburthening my head and heart of some -weighty thanks, which, for aught I know, -except very decently managed, are more -likely to give pain than pleasure to some odd-constructed -minds, men who fatten upon -doing good, and feel themselves richer in -proportion to their kindness:—such beings -are the S——’s, the B——s, the R——hs, -O——ns, &c. &c.—whom God mend—in -the next world I mean:—so, wishing you -every felicity in this, and every comfort attendant -on the approaching festival, with -love and good-will to all friends, especially to -Mrs. B——n, the worthy Mr. S——’s -family, Squire S——ns, and his mate, in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_305">[p. 305]</span> -which Mrs. Sancho claims her full share, I -remain, dear Sir, (I fear I tire you)</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most obliged</p> -<p class="signoff2">humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXIX_TO_MR_B_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="119">CXIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. B——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 24, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">LOSERS have the privilege to rail—I -was taking the benefit of the act upon my -seeing Johnny O——, when he abruptly -(and not disagreeably) stopped my mouth—with -saying, he had just loaded a stout lad—in -the name of Mr. B——, and dispatched -him to Charles Street:—now this same -spirit of reparation may suit well with both -the in and out side of Mr. B——; and those -who know the man will not marvel at the -deed. For my own part, I have been long -convinced of the blindness, and more than -Egyptian stubbornness, of repiners of every -sect.—For how can we say but that seeming -evils in the seed, with the cultivation of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_306">[p. 306]</span> -benevolence—mark that—may yield an -abundant crop of real substantial good?—The -confounded lurches, and four by honours, -trimmed me of ten pieces:—Ten -pieces; quoth I as I was preparing for bed—better -been at home:—Ten pieces! quoth -Prudence, you had no business to play:—So -much good money flung away! cries Avarice.—Avarice -is a lying old grub—I have pork -worth twice the money—and the friendly -wishes of a being who looks hospitality and -good-will.—The blessings of the season attend -you!—May you have the pleasure and -exercise of finding out want, and relieving -it! and may you feel more pleasure than the -benefited!—which I believe is mostly the -case in souls of a kind, generous, enlarged -structure.—My respects attend the gun and -dog of Squire S——, which, being the things -of most consequence, I name before Mrs. -S—— or himself.—They and every one -connected with B—— house have my best -wishes—and you, my good Sir, the thanks of</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_307">[p. 307]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXX_TO_MRS_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="120">CXX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Christmas-day, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MAY this blest season bring every pleasure -with it to my kind and worthy Mrs. M——! -and may the coming year bless the good and -happy man of her heart with the possession of -her person! and may every future one, for -a long period of time, bring an increase to -her joys and comforts!—So pray the Sancho’s—and -all join in thanks to Mrs. M—— for -her friendly present.—Will Mrs. M—— be -so kind to say all that’s civil and thankful -to Mrs. W——e, for her kindness in sending -me a bottle of snuff?—and also make my respectful -compliments to Mr. L——? God -keep you all!</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours I remain, much</p> -<p class="signoff2">obliged and thankful,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_308">[p. 308]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXI_TO_MR_W_mdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="121">CXXI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. W——E</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 26, 1779.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IT is needless, my dear Sir, to say how -pleasingly the news of your great good fortune -affected us:—for my part, I declare -(self excepted) I do not know, in the whole -circle of human beings, two people whom I -would sooner wish to have got it;—neither, -in my poor judgement, could it have fallen -with a probability of being better used in any -other hands. The blessings of decent competency -you have been used to from early -childhood:—your minds have been well -cultivated—virtuous and prudent in your -conduct, you have enjoyed the only true -riches (a good name) long;—your power of -doing good will certainly be amply increased; -but, as to real wealth, I will maintain it, you -were as rich before.—You must now expect -a decent share of envy;—for, as every one -thinks pretty handsomely of self, most of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_309">[p. 309]</span> -the unfortunate adventurers of your acquaintance -will be apt to think how much pleasanter -it would have been to have had twenty -thousand pounds to themselves.—Avarice -will groan over his full bags, and cry, -“Well, I never had any luck!” Vanity -will exclaim, “It is better to be born lucky -than rich!” Whilst Content, sheltered in -her homely hovel, will cry, “Blessing on -their good hearts! aye, I knew their good -parents;—they were eyes to the blind, and -feet to the lame, and made the orphan’s and -the widow’s hearts sing for joy; God will -prosper the family.”—But, while I am prating -away, I neglect to thank you, which was -the chief business of this letter—to thank -you, and to admire that rectitude of temper -which could, in the full tide of worldly good -fortune, remember the obscure, the humble -old friend.—Accept my thanks, and the -plaudit also of a heart too proud to court -opulence—but alive to the feelings of truth, -sacred friendship, and humanity.—Mine -and Mrs. Sancho’s thanks for your genteel -present attend you, Mrs. W——, and the -worthy circle round!—May every year be<span class="pagenum" id="Page_310">[p. 310]</span> -productive of new happiness in the fullest -sense of true wisdom, the riches of the heart -and mind!—So wishes thy obliged sincere -friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXII_TO_D_B_mdashE_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="122">CXXII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO D. B——E, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 30, 1779.</p> - - -<p class="salut">HONOURED SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">PERMIT me to thank you—which I -do most sincerely—for the kindness and -good-will you are pleased to honour me -with.—Believe me, dear Sir, I was better -pleased with the gracious and soothing manner -of your refusal—than I have been in -former times with obligations less graciously -conferred.—I should regret the trouble I -have given you—but that my heart feels a -comfort, and my pride a gratification, from -the reflection, that I am cared for—and not<span class="pagenum" id="Page_311">[p. 311]</span> -unnoticed—by a gentleman of the first worth -and highest character. I am dear Sir, with -profound respect and gratitude,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most obliged</p> -<p class="signoff2">and humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXIII_TO_MR_I_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="123">CXXIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. I——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THE bearer of this letter gives himself a -very good report—he is certainly the best -judge—he can cook upon occasion—dress -and shave—handle a salver with address—and -clean it too:—he is but little in make—and -I hope not great in opinion:—examine -his morals—if you can see through so opaque -a composition as a Bengalian.—Was he an -African—but it’s no matter, he can’t help -the place of his nativity!—I would have<span class="pagenum" id="Page_312">[p. 312]</span> -waited upon the worthy circle yesterday; but -the day was so unfriendly, I had not the -heart to quit the fire-side.—I hope you and -Mrs. I—— have as much health and spirits -as you can manage.—I have had a pretty -smart engagement with the gout, of which I -can give a better account than Sir Charles -Hardy can of the combined fleet.—I wish to -place you, Sir, in the Censor’s chair—for -the which purpose, I most pressingly beg the -favor of your company to-morrow, Friday -the 19th, in the afternoon—to meet a young -unfledged genius of the first water—who, as -well as myself, is fool enough to believe -you possess as much true taste as true worth:—be -that as God pleases—if you delight to -do me honor, comply with this request, and -imagine Sterne would have done as much -for</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_313">[p. 313]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXIV_TO_MR_R_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="124">CXXIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. R——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Last Day, 1779.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I WISH I could tell you how much -pleasure I felt in the reading your chearful -letter—I felt that you was in good health, -and in a flow of chearfulness, which pray -God continue to you!——I shall fancy myself -amongst you about the time you will get -this—I paint in my imagination the winning -smiles, and courteously kind welcome, in -the face of a certain lady, whom I cannot -help caring for with the decent pleasing demure -countenance of the little C—— Squire -B——, with the jovial expression of countenance -our old British freeholders were wont -to wear—the head and heart of Addison’s -Sir Roger de Coverley; S—— tipsy with -good will, his eyes dancing in his head, -considering within his breast every species of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_314">[p. 314]</span> -welcome to do honor to his noble master, -and credit to the night; and, lastly, my -friend looking more kindness than his tongue -can utter and present to every individual, in -offices of love and respect. My R——, -what would I give to steal in unseen—and -be a happy spectator of the good old English -hospitality—kept up by so few—and which -in former times gave such strength and consequence -to the ancestry of the present -frivolous race of Apostates!—Honoured and -blest be Sir C—— and his memory, for -being one of those golden characters that can -find true happiness in giving pleasure to his -tenants, neighbours, and domestics!—where-ever -such a being moves—the eyes of love -and gratitude follow after him—and infant -tongues, joining the voice of youth and -maturer years, fill up the grand chorus of -his praise.—I inclose without apology a -billet for ——: he well knows how prone I -naturally am to love him;—but love is untractable, -there is no forcing affections—but -I, perhaps, too quickly feel coldness. —— has -a noble soul—and he has his foibles;—for -me, I fling no stone—I dare not; for, of all<span class="pagenum" id="Page_315">[p. 315]</span> -created beings, I know none so truly culpable, -so full of faults, as is your very sincere -friend and obliged servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">As we commonly wish well to ourselves, -you may believe that we cordially join in -wishing every good, either in health, wealth, -or honour, to the noble owner of B—— -Hall; to the thrice dearly respected—guess -who!—to you and all—and all and you. -Billy loves flesh—Kitty is a termagant—Betsy -talks as usual—the Fanny’s work pretty hard. -Adieu! I conclude 1779 with the harmony -of love and friendship.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXV_TO_mdash_MR_Smdashmdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="125">CXXV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO —— MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -1780, January the 4th day.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOU have here a kind of medley, a -heterogeneous, ill-spelt, heteroclite (worse) -excentric sort of a—a—; in short, it is a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_316">[p. 316]</span> -true Negroe calibash—of ill-sorted, undigested -chaotic matter. What an excellent -proem! what a delightful sample of the grand -absurd!—Sir—dear Sir—as I have a soul -to be saved (and why I should not, would -puzzle a Dr. Price), as I have a soul to be -saved, I only meant to say about fifteen -words to you—and the substance just this—to -wish you a happy New-year—with the -usual appendages—and a long et cætera of -cardinal and heavenly blessings:—<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">à propos</span>, -blessings—never more scanty—all beggars by -Jove—not a shilling to be got in London;—if -you are better off in the country, and can -afford to remit me your little bill, I inclose -it for that good end. H—— is—but he can -better tell you himself what he is; for in -truth I do think he is in love: which puts -the pretty G—— into my head—and she -brings her father in view.—My love and -respects to each.—Mrs. Sancho joins me; -and the girls, her—and God keep you!</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours sincerely,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_317">[p. 317]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXVI_TO_MR_J_mdash_WmdashmdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="126">CXXVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. J—— W——E</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Jan. 5, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR W——E,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WERE I as rich in worldly commodity -as in hearty will—I would thank you -most princely for your very welcome and -agreeable letter;—but, were it so, I should -not proportion my gratitude to your wants;—for, -blessed be the God of thy hope!—thou -wantest nothing—more than—what’s -in thy possession—or in thy power to possess:—I -would neither give thee <em>Money</em>—nor -<em>Territory</em>—<em>Women</em>—nor <em>Horses</em>—nor <em>Camels</em>—nor -the height of Asiatic pride—<em>Elephants</em>;—I -would give thee <em>Books</em>—</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“<em>Books</em>, fair Virtue’s advocates and friends;”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p>but you have books plenty—more than you -have time to digest:—after much writing—which -is fatiguing enough—and under -the lassitude occasioned by fatigue, and not<span class="pagenum" id="Page_318">[p. 318]</span> -sin—the cool recess—the loved <em>book</em>—the -sweet pleasures of imagination poetically -worked up into delightful enthusiasm—richer -than all your fruits—your spices—your -dancing-girls—and the whole detail -of Eastern, effeminate foppery—flimsy splendour—and -glittering magnificence;—so thou -thinkest—and I rejoice with thee and for -thee. Shall I say what my heart suggests? -No, you will feel it praise—and call it -flattery. Shall I say, Your worthy parent -read your filial letter to me—and embalmed -the grateful tribute of a virtuous son with -his precious tears?—Will you believe?—he -was for some minutes speechless through -joy!—Imagine you see us—our heads close -together—comparing notes;—imagine you -hear the honest plaudits of love and friendship -sounding in thy ears;—’tis glory to be -proud on such occasions—’tis the pride of -merit:—and as you allow me to counsel -you with freedom—I do strongly advise you -to love praise—to court praise—to win it -by every honest, laudable exertion—and be -oft, very often jealous of it:—examine the -source it proceeds from—and encourage and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_319">[p. 319]</span> -cherish it accordingly.—Fear not—mankind -are not too lavish of it—censure is dealt -out by wholesale—while praise is very -sparingly distributed:—nine times in ten -mankind may err in their blame—but in its -praises the world is seldom, if ever, mistaken.—Mark—I -praise thee <em>sincerely</em>, for the <em>whole</em> -and every <em>part</em> of thy <em>conduct</em> in regard to my -two sable brethren<a id="FNanchor_14" href="#Footnote_14" class="fnanchor">[14]</a>. I was an ass—or else -I might have judged from the national antipathy -and prejudice through custom even -of the Gentoos towards their woolly-headed -brethren, and the well-known dignity of my -Lords the Whites, of the impropriety of my -request.—I therefore not only acquit thee -honourably—but condemn myself for giving -thee the trouble to explain a right conduct.—I -fear you will hardly make out this<span class="pagenum" id="Page_320">[p. 320]</span> -scrawl, although it is written with a pen -of thy father’s—a present mended from a -parcel of old quills by his foreman, or brother -C——d.—Your honest brother Joseph -came post with your letters—good-will -shining in his face—joy in his innocent -eyes:—he promises to be as much a W—— -as his Indian brother:—you flatter my vanity -in supposing my friendship of any utility -to Joe;—he has in his good father -Moses and the Prophets—which you have -had, and availed yourself well of the blessing—and -I trust Joe will do the same—besides -having precept and example from a -worthy and loving brother.—Poor M——, -your favourite—I scarce knew her;—she was -as pure within, as amiable without:—she -enriches the circle of the blest—and you -have a friend in heaven.</p> -</div> - -<p>I hope you sometimes—aye often—consult -with Dr. Young’s Night Thoughts—carry -him in your pockets—court him—quote -him—delight in him—make him your -own—and laugh at the wit, and wisdom, -and fashion of the world:—that book, well -studied, will make you know the value of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_321">[p. 321]</span> -death—and open your eyes to the snares of -life; its precepts will exalt the festive hour, -brighten and bless the gloom of solitude, -comfort thy heart, and smooth thy pillow -in sickness, and gild with lustre thy prosperity—disarm -death itself of its terrors, and -sweetly soften the hour of dissolution.—I recommend -to all young people, who do me -the honour to ask my opinion—I recommend, -if their stomachs are strong enough -for such intellectual food, Dr. Young’s -Night Thoughts—the Paradise Lost—and -the Seasons;—which, with Nelson’s Feasts -and Fasts, a Bible and Prayer-book, used for -twenty years to make my travelling library—and -I do think it a very rich one. I never -trouble my very distant friends with articles -of news—the public prints do it so much -better—and then they may answer for their -untruths;—for among the multitude of our -public prints, it is hard to say which lyes -most.</p> - -<p>Your enclosed trust was directly delivered -to the fair hands it was addressed to:—I -have the authority to say, it gave great pleasure -to both the ladies and your friend Mr.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_322">[p. 322]</span> -R——, who wears the same cordial friendly -heart in his breast as when you first knew -him.—Your friend Mr. John R—— is still -at New York with the guards—where he is -very deservedly honoured, loved, and esteemed:—he -corresponds with his old acquaintance—and -does me the honour to remember me -amongst his friends:—our toast in P. Gardens -is often the three Johns—R——, -W——e, and O——, an honest—therefore -a noble triumvirate.</p> - -<p>I feel old age insensibly stealing on me—and, -alas! am obliged to borrow the aid -of spectacles, for any kind of small print:—Time -keeps pacing on, and we delude -ourselves with the hope of reaching first -this stage, and then the next; till that ravenous -rogue Death puts a final end to our -folly.</p> - -<p>All this is true—and yet I please and -flatter myself with the hope of living to see -you in your native country—with every -comfort possessed—crowned with the honest -man’s best ambition, a fair character.—May -your worthy, your respectable parents, relations, -and friends, enjoy that pleasure!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_323">[p. 323]</span> -and that you may realize every fond hope -of all who love you, is the wish of</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your sincere friend,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="pshead"> -Postscript.</p> - -<p class="sp1">This letter is of a decent length—I expect -a return with interest.—Mrs. Sancho -joins me in good wishes, love, and compliments.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_14" href="#FNanchor_14" class="label">[14]</a> Mr. W——e having wrote word, that if any European in India -associated with those of that complexion, it would be considered as -a degradation, and would be an obstacle to his future preferment; he -laments, in very strong terms the cruelty of such an opinion; hopes not -to forfeit Mr. Sancho’s good opinion from being compelled to comply -with the custom of the country, with repeated assurances of serving -them, if in his power, though he must remain unknown to them.</p> -</div> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXVII_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="127">CXXVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Jan. 11, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MR. R—— faithfully discharged his commission—paid -me the desirable—and intrusted -me with ten guineas, to pay on demand; -and here he comes, faith—as fresh as May, -and warm as friendly zeal can make mortality—to -demand the two letters, which he -will deliver himself, for his own satisfaction.—I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_324">[p. 324]</span> -wish from my soul, that Chancellors—Secretaries -of State—Kings—aye—and Bishops—were -as fond of doing kind things—but -they are of a higher order.—Friend R—— -is only a Christian.—I give you credit for -your promises of reformation in the epistolary -way—and very glad am I to hear of -your success.—Know your own worth—honour -yourself, not with supercilious pride, -but with the decent confidence of your own -true native merit—and you must succeed in -almost any thing you chuse to undertake: -so thinks Sancho.—As to what you request -me to do by way of inspecting your goods -and chattels in your late lodging—I must -beg to decline it—as I feel it aukward, to -insinuate the least deficiency in point of attention -to your interests in such a heart -as H—s; a heart which, to my knowledge, -feels every sentiment of divine friendship -for you; an heart, animated with the strongest -zeal and flowing ardor to serve you, to love -you.</p> - -<p>The kindness of you and your two friends -exceedingly embarrasses me.—I would not -wish to appear to any one either arrogant,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_325">[p. 325]</span> -vain, or conceited;—no—nor servile, mean, -or selfish:—I grant your motive is friendly -in the extreme—and those of your companions -as nobly generous;—but—but what?—Why -this—and the truth—were I rich, -I would accept it, and say “Thank ye,” -when I chose it;—as I am poor, I do not -chuse to say “Thank ye”—but to those I -know and respect. You must forgive me—and -call it the error of African false principle—call -it any thing but coldness and unfeeling -pride, which is in fact ingratitude in -a birth-day suit.—As to the grand Turk -of Norfolk, if it comes—we will devour it—and -toast Don S—— and the unknown -giver.—Thou, my S——, hast (oh! prostrate, -and thank the Giver) a noble and -friendly heart, susceptible of the best, the -greatest feelings. H—— is thy twin-brother—perhaps -he has more fire in his composition:—Woman -apart, he is a glorious -fellow; * * * * apart—alas! alas! alas! * * * * * * * * -apart, what might not be hoped, expected, -from * * * * * * *! So the poor boy flew -his kite—but the tail was lost.—Poor H—— -has a book and a fair one to manage;—ticklish—very<span class="pagenum" id="Page_326">[p. 326]</span> -ticklish subjects—either:—and -your worship has a book to castrate—and a -Fandango to dance—with a <i>Tol de le rol, de -le rol</i>.—Your reason for postponing your -journey to town is wisely great, or greatly -wise;—it does you honour, because it is -founded in equity. I am glad to hear the -Rev. Mr. S—— is better.—I love and -venerate that good man:—not because he -begat you, but for his own great parts -and many virtues—by the bye, I know -more of him than you think for.—Tell -brother O—— I am glad to hear he is well, -and Mrs. O—— better;—and tell him the -name of the Bishop’s lady’s dog (that was -lost, and has been missing these two months) -is Sherry<a id="FNanchor_15" href="#Footnote_15" class="fnanchor">[15]</a>. When you see Mr. S——, the -good, the friendly, generous Mr. S——, my -and mine make the respects of—we wish -him many happy years and his family.—To -Mr. G—— and his amiable daughter, say all -that’s right for me. And now to conclude -with thanks, &c. &c. I and we—that’s spouse -and self—remain, &c. &c. &c. &c. &c. &c.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_15" href="#FNanchor_15" class="label">[15]</a> Mr. O—— had promised Mr. Sancho two months before to send him -immediately a present of Sherry.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_327">[p. 327]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXVIII_TO_MR_M_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="128">CXXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. M——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Jan. 17, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I RECEIVED, as you taught me to -expect last week, a very fine * * *, and after -it as kind a letter—in name of a Mr. E—— -W—— of Norfolk, near Houghton-Hall, -&c.—I have bespoke a frank, and mean to -thank him—as I also thank you, whom I -look upon as the grand friendly mover of the -generously handsome act.—You have your -reward, for you had a pleasure in doing it;—and -Mr. W—— has his, if he believes me -honest.—Could I any way retaliate, I should -feel lighter—that’s pride, I own it. Humility -should be the poor man’s shirt—and thankfulness -his girdle;—be it so—I do request -you to thank Mr. W—— for me, and tell -him he has the prayers—not of a raving mad -whig—nor fawning deceitful tory—but of a -coalblack, jolly African, who wishes health<span class="pagenum" id="Page_328">[p. 328]</span> -and peace to every religion and country -throughout the ample range of God’s creation!—and -believes a painter may be saved -at the last day, maugre all the Miss G——’s -and widows in this kingdom. I have done -nothing in the shoe affair yet—for which I -ought to ask poor C——’s pardon as well as -yours:—the rogue has left the court, and -gone to live in Fish-market, Westminster -bridge;—I shall ferret him out, and make -him bless his old master.</p> - -<p>I inclose your receipts in proof of my -honesty—a rare virtue as times go!—M—— -has wrote to you—left his letter with me—and -I, like a what you please, let it slip into -the fire—with a handful of company he had -no business to be amongst:—he shall write -you another—you will both be angry—but -you will both forgive, as good Christians -ought, accidents.—I am sorry. I will say no -more, but God keep you, and direct your -goings;</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">When you see the honourable Mr. B——, -give our loves and best wishes to him and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_329">[p. 329]</span> -Mrs. B——, and Squire S—— and his -good dame also.—Salute the home of G—— -for me.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXIX_TO_MR_W_mdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="129">CXXIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. W——E</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, March 1, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY GOOD FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I WISH to interest you in behalf of the -inclosed book—wrote by a greatly-esteemed -friend—a young man of much merit—and a -heart enriched with every virtue—the book -I beg you will snatch time to read with attention.—It -is an answer (as you will see) to -a flaming bigoted Mongrel against Toleration.—Swift -says, “Zeal is never so pleased -as when you set it a tearing.” He says truly. -Could you get the pamphlet (whose title I -forget), you would be better enabled to judge -of the force, truth, and strength of my -friend’s answer:—for my part, I love liberty -in every sense, whilst connected with honesty<span class="pagenum" id="Page_330">[p. 330]</span> -and truth:—it has been shewn a bookseller, -but he happened to be the very man who -had just published a flimsy answer to the -same; consequently would not encourage -my friend’s, lest it should injure the sale -of his other.—Understand, my good friend, -that the author is very ill-calculated for -booksellers’ and printers’ jockeyship; which, -to a liberal mind fraught with high and -generous ideas, is death and the devil.</p> - -<p>I own, I was guilty of teazing him into the -finishing this little work, with a view of -having it printed.—Now, my friend is not -richer than poets commonly are—and, in -short, will not run any risks.—I would -gladly stand the expence of printing; but I -am not richer than he;—I want it printed, -and request of you, if, upon perusing it, you -do not find it inimical, either to Religion, -Country, or Crown, that you contrive to -push it into the world without delay; but if, -upon mature deliberation, you find it dangerous, -with washed hands send it me back, -and set me down for an ass, in the trouble I -have given thee and myself.—Perhaps, -jaundiced by prejudice, I behold it with too<span class="pagenum" id="Page_331">[p. 331]</span> -partial eyes; for I verily believe it will not -discredit the printer:—suppose you shew it in -confidence to the greatly amiable, the good -Mr. B——e. I mention him in particular; -for sure I am his nobly benevolent soul -would start at the bare idea of religious persecution:—he -would, I trust, feel the full -force of my friend’s reasoning—and his -good opinion would be the best sanction -for endeavouring to push the work forward.</p> - -<p>I had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman -in our street one day last week, who seemed -to be so goodly a personage, that I said to -myself, There’s Sir Charles Grandison! His -figure was noble—his eye brightened with -kindness—the man of fashion and of sense -was conspicuous in him:—think how I -stared, when the gentleman accosted me—said, -he knew me through my friend -W——e;—his name was * * * *. I bowed, -and stammered some nonsense—I was taken -by surprize.—I am in such a hurry, and the -pen is naught, that I fear you will scarcely -understand this scrawl.—Remember I give -you full powers over this work;—do what<span class="pagenum" id="Page_332">[p. 332]</span> -you can, but do it soon, and make your report -to your friend,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO<a id="FNanchor_16" href="#Footnote_16" class="fnanchor">[16]</a>.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_16" href="#FNanchor_16" class="label">[16]</a> The book alluded to in this letter was printed under the title of, -“An Answer to the Appeal from the Protestant Association.”</p> -</div> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXX_TO_MRS_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="130">CXXX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, March 25, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I AND mine have a thousand things to -thank you for—shall I say the plain truth, -and own I am proud to know that you care -for me and my little ones? your friendly attention -to our interests proves it—but mortals -of your cast are oftener envied than loved:—the -majority, who are composed chiefly of -the narrow-minded or contracted hearts, and -of selfish avidity, cannot comprehend the -delight in doing as they would be done by—and -consequently cannot love what they do -not understand.—Excuse my nonsense, I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_333">[p. 333]</span> -ever write just what I think:—my business -was to give you some account why I delayed -the teas, and to thank you for your very -noble order.—Sir Jacob was here this afternoon, -and, if his looks tell truth, he is exceeding -well. H—— desires his love to you -and the worthy partner of your heart, to -whom I join with my spouse in wishing every -earthly felicity—heavenly you have both insured, -by being faithful stewards.—Sir Jacob -sent a parcel—which accompanies the teas—which -I hope will reach you safe and right, -as they set out to-morrow noon—Tell Mr. -H——, I pray you, that the winter has used -me as roughly as it has him—I never have -been so unwell for these four months past;—but, -alas! one reason is, I do believe, that -I am past fifty;—but I hope with you, that -spring will set us all right.—As to complaints -in trade, there is nothing else—we are all -poor, all grumblers, all preaching œconomy—and -wishing our neighbours to practise it;—but -no one but the quite undone begins at -home. We are all patriots, all politicians, -all state-quacks, and all fools:—the ladies are -turned orators, and declaim in public, expose<span class="pagenum" id="Page_334">[p. 334]</span> -their persons, and their erudition, to -every Jackanapes who can throw down half -a crown:—as to the men, they are past -saving;—as I can say no good, I will stop -where I am. And is my good friend Mr. -S—— unmarried still? Fie, fie upon him! -how can he enjoy any good alone? He should -take a partner, to lead him gently down the -hill of life—to superintend his linen and his -meat;—to give sweet poignancy to his beverage—and -talk him to sleep on nights.—Pray -tell him all I say—and also that the -majority are killing up the minority as fast as -they can:—nothing but duels, and rumours -of duels.—But is it now time to finish? Dear -Madam, forgive all my impertinences; and, -believe me, dame Sancho and self have a true -sense of your goodness, and repeatedly thank -you both for your kindness to,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours in sincerity,</p> -<p class="signoff2">and greatly obliged friends,</p> -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">ANNE</span> and <span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">IGN. SANCHO</span>.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_335">[p. 335]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXI_For_the_General_Advertiser"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="131">CXXXI.</abbr> <br /><br /><span class="toline">For the <span class="smcap gesperrt1">General Advertiser</span></span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -August 29, 1780.</p> - - -<p class="salut">FRIEND EDITOR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">“IN the multitude of Counsellors there -is wisdom,” sayeth the preacher—and at -this present crisis of national jeopardy, it -seemeth to me befitting for every honest -man to offer his mite of advice towards -public benefit and edification.—The vast -bounties offered for able-bodied men sheweth -the zeal and liberality of our wise lawgivers—yet -indicateth a scarcity of men. Now, -they seem to me to have overlooked one -resource (which appears obvious); a resource -which would greatly benefit the people -at large (by being more usefully employed), -and which are happily half-trained -already for the service of their country, by -being <em>powder-proof</em>, light, active, young fellows:—I -dare say you have anticipated my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_336">[p. 336]</span> -scheme, which is to form ten companies at -least, out of the very numerous body of -hair-dressers:—they are, for the most part, -clean, clever, young men—and, as observed -above, the utility would be immense:—the -ladies, by once more getting the management -of their heads into their own -hands, might possibly regain their native -reason and œconomy—and the gentlemen -might be induced by mere necessity to comb -and care for their own heads;—those (I -mean) who have heads to care for.—If the -above scheme should happily take place, -among the many advantages too numerous -to particularize, which would of course result -from it, one not of the least magnitude -would be a prodigious saving in the -great momentous article of time; people of -the <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">ton</i> of both sexes (to speak within probability) -usually losing between two or three -hours daily on that important business.—My -plan, Mr. Editor, I have the comfort -to think, is replete with good;—it tends to -serve my king and country in the first instance—and -to cleanse, settle, and emancipate -from the cruel bondage of French, as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_337">[p. 337]</span> -well as native frizeurs, the heads of my -fellow-subjects.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="right sp1"> -<span class="smcap gesperrt05">Africanus.</span></p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXII_TO_MRS_H_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="132">CXXXII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. H——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, May 20, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MADAM,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">YOUR goodness is never tired with action!—How -many, very many times have -I to thank you, for your friendly interesting -yourself in our behalf!—You will say -thanks are irksome to a generous mind—so -I have done—but must first ask pardon -for a sin of omission.—I never sent you -word that your good son, as friendly as polite, -paid me the note directly, and would -not suffer it to run its sight:—they that -know Sir Jacob will not wonder; for he -is a Christian, which means, in my idea,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_338">[p. 338]</span> -a gentleman not of the modern sort.—Trade -is at so low an ebb, the greatest are glad to -see ready money:—in truth, we are a ruined -people—let hirelings affect to write and -talk as big as they please! and, what is -worse, religion and morality are vanished -with our prosperity—every good principle -seems to be leaving us:—as our means lessen, -luxury and every sort of expensive pleasure -increases.—The blessed Sabbath-day is -used by the trader for country excursions—tavern -dinners—rural walks—and then -whipping and galloping through dust and -over turnpikes drunk home.—The poorer -sort do any thing—but go to church;—they -take their dust in the field, and conclude -the sacred evening with riots, drunkenness, -and empty pockets:—the beau in upper life -hires his whisky and beast for twelve shillings; -his girl dressed <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">en militaire</i> for half a -guinea, and spends his whole week’s earnings -to look and be thought <em>quite the thing</em>.—And -for upper tiptop high life—cards -and music are called in, to dissipate the -chagrin of a tiresome, tedious Sunday’s evening.—The -example spreads downwards from<span class="pagenum" id="Page_339">[p. 339]</span> -them to their domestics;—the laced valet -and the livery beau either debauch the -maids, or keep their girls:—thus profusion -and cursed dissipation fill the prisons, and -feed the gallows.—The clergy—hush! I will -not meddle with them—God forbid I -should!—they are pretty much the same -in all places;—but this I will affirm, where-ever -a preacher is in earnest in his duty, -and can <em>preach</em>, he will not want for crouded -congregations.—As to our politics—now -don’t laugh at me—for every one has a right -to be a politician; so have I; and though -only a poor, thick-lipped son of Afric! may -be as notable a Negro state-botcher as -* * * * *, and so on for five hundred:—I do -not mean B—e, S—le, B—é, nor D—n—g. -Mind that——no, nor N—th, -G—m—e, J—k—n, nor W—dd—ne, -names that will shine in history when the -marble monuments of their earthly flatterers -shall be mouldering into dust.—I have wrote -absolute nonsense—I mean the monuments -of N—th, G—m—e, &c. and not of their -flatterers—but it is right I should give you -an apology for this foolish letter.—Know<span class="pagenum" id="Page_340">[p. 340]</span> -then, my dear Madam, I have been seriously -and literally fast asleep for these two -months;—true, upon the word of a poor -sufferer, a kind of lethargy.—I can sleep -standing, walking, and feel so intolerably -heavy, and oppressed with it, that sometimes -I am ready to tumble when walking -in the street.—I am exceeding sorry to hear -Mr. H—— is so poorly—and hope, through -God’s mercy, the waters will have the wished -effect. For my own part, I feel myself -ten years older this year than the last.—Time -tries us all—but, blessed be God! in -the end we shall be an over-match for Time, -and leave him, scythe and all, in the lurch—when -we shall all enjoy a blessed Eternity.—In -this view, and under the same hope, -we are as great, yea, as respectable and consequential—as -Statesmen! Bishops! Chancellors! -Popes! Heroes! Kings! Actors -of every denomination—who must all drop -the mask—when the fated minute arrives—and, -alas! some of the very high be obliged -to give place to Mr. and Mrs. H——. May -you and yours enjoy every felicity here!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_341">[p. 341]</span> -every blessing hereafter! wish thy much obliged -friends!</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -The <span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">SANCHOS</span>.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="133">CXXXIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles-Street, June 6, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR AND MOST RESPECTED SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IN the midst of the most cruel and ridiculous -confusion—I am now set down to -give you a very imperfect sketch of the maddest -people—that the maddest times were -ever plagued with.—The public prints have -informed you (without doubt) of last Friday’s -transactions;—the insanity of Ld. G. -G. and the worse than Negro barbarity of -the populace; the burnings and devastations -of each night—you will also see in the prints;—this -day, by consent, was set apart for -the farther consideration of the wished-for -repeal;—the people (who had their proper -cue from his lordship) assembled by ten<span class="pagenum" id="Page_342">[p. 342]</span> -o’clock in the morning.—Lord N—h, who -had been up in council at home till four in -the morning, got to the house before eleven, -just a quarter of an hour before the associators -reached Palace-yard:—but, I should -tell you, in council there was a deputation -from all parties;—the S—— party were for -prosecuting Lord G——, and leaving him -at large;—the At—y G——l laughed at the -idea, and declared it was doing just nothing;—the -M——y were for his expulsion, and -so dropping him gently into insignificancy;—that -was thought wrong, as he would still -be industrious in mischief;—the R——m -party, I should suppose, you will think -counselled best, which is, this day to expel -him the house—commit him to the Tower—and -then prosecute him at leisure—by -which means he will lose the opportunity of -getting a seat in the next parliament—and -have decent leisure to repent him of the -heavy evils he has occasioned.—There is at -this present moment at least a hundred thousand -poor, miserable ragged rabble, from -twelve to sixty years of age, with blue cockades -in their hats—besides half as many women<span class="pagenum" id="Page_343">[p. 343]</span> -and children—all parading the streets—the -bridge—the park—ready for any and -every mischief.—Gracious God! what’s the -matter now? I was obliged to leave off—the -shouts of the mob—the horrid clashing -of swords—and the clutter of a multitude in -swiftest motion—drew me to the door—when -every one in the street was employed in -shutting up shop—It is now just five o’clock—the -ballad-singers are exhausting their musical -talents with the downfall of Popery, -S—h, and N—h. Lord S—h narrowly escaped -with life about an hour since;—the -mob seized his chariot going to the house, -broke his glasses, and, in struggling to get -his lordship out, somehow have cut his face; -the guards flew to his assistance—the light-horse -scowered the road, got his chariot, escorted -him from the coffee-house, where he -had fled for protection, to his carriage, and -guarded him bleeding very fast home. This—this—is -liberty! genuine British liberty!—This -instant about two thousand liberty -boys are swearing and swaggering by with -large sticks—thus armed in hopes of meeting -with the Irish chairmen and labourers—all<span class="pagenum" id="Page_344">[p. 344]</span> -the guards are out—and all the horse;—the -poor fellows are just worn out for want -of rest—having been on duty ever since Friday. -Thank heaven, it rains; may it increase, -so as to send these deluded wretches -safe to their homes, their families, and wives! -About two this afternoon a large party took -it into their heads to visit the King and -Queen, and entered the Park for that purpose—but -found the guard too numerous to -be forced, and after some useless attempts -gave it up. It is reported, the house will -either be prorogued, or parliament dissolved, -this evening—as it is in vain to think of attending -any business while this anarchy lasts.</p> - -<p>I cannot but felicitate you, my good friend, -upon the happy distance you are placed from -our scene of confusion.—May foul Discord -and her cursed train never nearer -approach your blessed abode! Tell Mrs. -S——, her good heart would ach, did she -see the anxiety, the woe, in the faces of -mothers, wives, and sweethearts, each equally -anxious for the object of their wishes, -the beloved of their hearts. Mrs. Sancho -and self both cordially join in love and gratitude,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_345">[p. 345]</span> -and every good wish—crowned with -the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, -&c.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am, dear Sir,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Yours ever by inclination,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="pshead">Postscript,</p> - -<p class="sp1">The Sardinian ambassador offered 500 guineas -to the rabble, to save a painting of -our Saviour from the flames, and 1000 -guineas not to destroy an exceeding fine organ: -the gentry told him, they would burn -him if they could get at him, and destroyed -the picture and organ directly. I am not -sorry I was born in Afric.—I shall tire you, -I fear—and, if I cannot get a frank, make -you pay dear for bad news. There is -about a thousand mad men, armed with -clubs, bludgeons, and crows, just now set -off for Newgate, to liberate, they say, their -honest comrades.—I wish they do not some -of them lose their lives of liberty before -morning. It is thought by many who discern -deeply, that there is more at the bottom<span class="pagenum" id="Page_346">[p. 346]</span> -of this business than merely the repeal -of an act—which as has yet produced no -bad consequences, and perhaps never might.—I -am forced to own, that I am for an -universal toleration. Let us convert by our -example, and conquer by our meekness and -brotherly love!</p> - -<p>Eight o’clock. Lord G—— G—— has -this moment announced to my Lords the -mob—that the act shall be repealed this -evening:—upon this, they gave a hundred -chears—took the horses from his hackney-coach, -and rolled him full jollily away:—they -are huzzaing now ready to crack their -throats.</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -<em>Huzza!</em> </p> - -<p class="ps">I am forced to conclude for want of room—the -remainder in our next.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_347">[p. 347]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXIV_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="134">CXXXIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, June 9, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">GOVERNMENT is sunk in lethargic -stupor—anarchy reigns—when I look -back to the glorious time of a George II. -and a Pitt’s administration—my heart sinks -at the bitter contrast. We may now say -of England, as was heretofore said of Great -Babylon—“the beauty of the excellency of -the Chaldees is no more;”—the Fleet -Prison, the Marshalsea, King’s-Bench, both -Compters, Clerkenwell, and Tothill-Fields, -with Newgate, are flung open;—Newgate -partly burned, and 300 felons, from thence -only, let loose upon the world. Lord -M——’s house in town suffered martyrdom; -and his sweet box at Caen Wood -escaped almost miraculously, for the mob -had just arrived, and were beginning with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_348">[p. 348]</span> -it, when a strong detachment from the -guards and light-horse came most critically -to its rescue—the library, and, what is of -more consequence, papers and deeds of vast -value, were all cruelly consumed in the -flames. Ld. N—’s house was attacked; but -they had previous notice, and were ready -for them. The Bank, the Treasury, and -thirty of the chief noblemen’s houses, are -doomed to suffer by the insurgents. There -were six of the rioters killed at Ld. -M——’s, and, what is remarkable, a -daring chap, escaped from Newgate, condemned -to die this day, was the most active -in mischief at Ld. M——’s, and was -the first person shot by the soldiers; so he -found death a few hours sooner than if he -had not been released.—The ministry have -tried lenity, and have experienced its inutility; -and martial law is this night to be declared.—If -any body of people above ten -in number are seen together, and refuse to -disperse, they are to be fired at without any -further ceremony—so we expect terrible -work before morning.—The insurgents visited -the Tower, but it would not do:—they<span class="pagenum" id="Page_349">[p. 349]</span> -had better luck in the Artillery-ground, -where they found and took to their use -500 stand of arms; a great error in city -politics, not to have secured them first.—It -is wonderful to hear the execrable nonsense -that is industriously circulated amongst the -credulous mob, who are told his M——y -regularly goes to mass at Ld. P—re’s chaple—and -they believe it, and that he pays -out of his privy purse Peter-pence to -Rome. Such is the temper of the times—from -too relaxed a government;—and a -King and Queen on the throne who possess -every virtue. May God, in his mercy, -grant that the present scourge may operate -to our repentance and amendment! that it -may produce the fruits of better thinking, -better doing, and in the end make us a -wise, virtuous, and happy people!—I am, -dear Sir, truly, Mrs. S——’s and your -most grateful and obliged friend and servant,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">The remainder in our next.</p> - -<p class="sp05">Half past nine o’clock.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_350">[p. 350]</span></p> - -<p>King’s-Bench prison is now in flames, -and the prisoners at large; two fires in -Holborn now burning.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXV_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="135">CXXXV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 9, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">HAPPILY for us, the tumult begins -to subside:—last night much was threatened, -but nothing done—except in the early -part of the evening, when about four-score -or an hundred of the reformers -got decently knocked on the head;—they -were half killed by Mr. Langdale’s -spirits—so fell an easy conquest to the bayonet -and butt-end.—There are about fifty -taken prisoners—and not a blue cockade to -be seen:—the streets once more wear the -face of peace—and men seem once more to -resume their accustomed employments.—The<span class="pagenum" id="Page_351">[p. 351]</span> -greatest losses have fallen upon the -great distiller near Holborn-bridge, and Lord -M——; the former, alas! has lost his -whole fortune;—the latter, the greatest and -best collection of manuscript writings, with -one of the finest libraries in the kingdom. -Shall we call it a judgement?—or what shall -we call it? The thunder of their vengeance -has fallen upon Gin and Law—the two most -inflammatory things in the Christian world.—We -have a Coxheath and Warley of our -own; Hyde Park has a grand encampment, -with artillery, Park, &c. &c. St. James’s -Park has ditto—upon a smaller scale. The -Parks, and our West end of the town, exhibit -the features of French government. -This minute, thank God! this moment -Lord G. G. is taken. Sir F. Molineux has -him safe at the horse-guards. Bravo! he is -now going in state in an old hackney-coach, -escorted by a regiment of militia and troop -of light horse, to his apartments in the -Tower.</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“Off with his head—so much—for Buckingham.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>We have taken this day numbers of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_352">[p. 352]</span> -poor wretches, in so much we know not -where to place them. Blessed be the Lord! -we trust this affair is pretty well concluded.—If -any thing transpires worth your notice—you -shall hear from</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your much obliged, &c. &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Best regards attend Mrs. S——. His -lordship was taken at five o’clock this evening—betts -run fifteen to five, Lord G— -G— is hanged in eight days:—he wished -much to speak to his Majesty on Wednesday, -but was of course refused.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXVI_TO_J_S_mdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="136">CXXXVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J. S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 13, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THAT my poor endeavours have given -you information or amusement, gratifies the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_353">[p. 353]</span> -warm wish of my heart; for, as I know not -the man to whose kindness I am so much -indebted, I may safely say, I know not the -man whose esteem I more ardently covet and -honour.—We are exceeding sorry to hear of -Mrs. S——’s indisposition; and hope, ere -this reaches you, she will be well, or greatly -mended.—The spring with us has been very -sickly—and the summer has brought with it -sick times;—sickness! cruel sickness! triumphs -through every part of the constitution:—the -State is sick—the Church (God -preserve it!) is sick—the Law, Navy, Army, -all sick—the people at large are sick -with taxes—the Ministry with Opposition, -and Opposition with Disappointment.—Since -my last, the temerity of the mob has gradually -subsided;—numbers of the unfortunate -rogues have been taken:—yesterday about -thirty were killed in and about Smithfield, -and two soldiers were killed in the affray.—There -is no certainty yet as to the number -of houses burnt and gutted—for every day -adds to the account—which is a proof how -industrious they were in their short reign.—Few -evils but are productive of some good<span class="pagenum" id="Page_354">[p. 354]</span> -in the end:—the suspicious turbulence of -the times united the royal brothers;—the -two Dukes, dropping all past resentment, -made a filial tender of their services;—his -Majesty (God bless him!) as readily accepted -it—and on Thursday last the brothers met;—they -are now a triple cord—God grant a -blessing to the union! There is a report current -this day, that the mob of York city -have rose, and let 3000 French prisoners -out of York-castle—but it meets with very -little credit.—I do not believe they have any -thing like the number of French in those -parts—as I am informed the prisoners are -sent more to the western inland counties—but -every hour has its fresh cargo of lies. -The camp in St. James’s Park is daily increasing—that -and Hyde Park will be continued -all the summer.—The K—g is much -among them—walking the lines—and examining -the posts:—he looks exceeding grave. -Crowns, alas! have more thorns than roses.</p> - -<p>You see things, my dear Sir, with the -faithful eye which looks, through nature, -up to Nature’s God—the sacred page is your -support—the word of God your shield and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_355">[p. 355]</span> -armour—well may you be able so sweetly to -deduce good out of evil—the Lord ordereth -your goings—and gives the blessings of increase -to all your wishes. For your kind -anxiety about me and family, we bless and -thank you.—I own, at first I felt uneasy -sensations—but a little reflection brought me -to myself.—Put thy trust in God, quoth I.—Mrs. -Sancho, whose virtues out-number -my vices (and I have enough for any one -mortal), feared for me and for her children -more than for herself.—She prayed too, I -dare say—and her prayers were heard.</p> - -<p>America seems to be quite lost or forgot -among us;—the fleet is but a secondary affair.—Pray -God send us some good news, to -chear our drooping apprehensions, and to -enable me to send you pleasanter accounts;—for -trust me, my worthy friend, grief, sorrow, -devastation, blood, and slaughter, are -totally foreign to the taste and affection of</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your faithful friend</p> -<p class="signoff2">and obliged servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Our joint best wishes to Mrs. S——, self, -and family.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_356">[p. 356]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXVII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="137">CXXXVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 15, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I AM exceeding happy to inform you, that -at twelve this noon Lord L—— arrived -express from Sir H— C——, with the pleasing -news, that, on the 12th of April, Charles -Town with its dependencies capitulated to -his Majesty’s arms, with the loss of 200 -men on our side: by which fortunate event, -five ships of war, besides many frigates, and -one thousand seamen, were captured; and -seven thousand military, which compose the -garrison.—You will have pleasure, I am sure, -in finding so little blood shed—and in the -hope of its accelerating the so-much-wished-for -peace. Inclosed is a list of the prisoners, -which is from Lord Lincoln’s account—at -least I am confidently told so—and more than -that, it is said the late terrible riot was on a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_357">[p. 357]</span> -plan concerted between the French and Americans—upon -which their whole hope of -success was founded—they expected universal -bankruptcy would be the consequence, with -despair and every sad concomitant in its -train. By God’s goodness, we have escaped. -May we deserve so great mercy!</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Prays sincerely yours,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">The Gazette will not be out in time, but -you shall have one to-morrow without fail.—As -soon as this news was announced, the -Tower and Park guns confirmed it—the -guards encamped in the Parks fired each a -grand <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">feu de joye</i>—to-night we blaze in illuminations—and -to-morrow get up as poor -and discontented as ever. I wish, dear Sir, -very much to hear Mrs. S—— is quite recovered—it -would indicate more than a common -want of feeling, were not my wife and self -anxious for the health and repose of such very -rare friends.—Indulge us, do, dear Sir, -with a single line, that we may joy in your -joy upon her amendment, or join our wishes -with yours to the God of mercy and love,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_358">[p. 358]</span> -for her speedy recovery.—I inclose you an -evening paper—there is not much in it. -Upon consideration, I have my doubts concerning -the French and Americans being so -deep in the plan of our late riots;—there -requires, I think, a kind of supernatural -knowledge to adjust their motions so critically—but -you can judge far better than my -weak intellects;—therefore I will not pretend -to affirm any thing for truth, except -my sincere desire to approve myself most -gratefully</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your obliged servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXVIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="138">CXXXVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 16, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">AS a supplement to my last—this is to -tell you a piece of private news—which -gives ministry high hopes in the future.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_359">[p. 359]</span> -General Washington, who was anxiously -watching Sir H. Clinton, no sooner saw -with certainty his intention, but he struck -his camp, and made the most rapid march -to New York—they expected it;—but, as -he was in superior force, they felt their -danger.—Sir H. Clinton, as soon as he -could possibly settle the garrison of Charles -Town, embarked with seven thousand men, -and got to New York in time to save it;—and -if he can possibly bring Washington -to a battle, it is thought the fate of America -will be soon decided.—Thank God! -the sky clears in that quarter—but we look -rather louring at home.—Ministry wish now -too plainly to disarm the subjects. Last -year, under dread of French invasion, the -good people were thanked for their military -favour.—Master tradesmen armed their journeymen -and apprentices—and the serjeants -of the guards absolutely made little fortunes -in teaching grown gentlemen of all descriptions -their exercise—in fancied uniforms, -and shining arms, they marched to -the right, wheeled to the left, and looked -battle-proof;—but now, it seems, they are<span class="pagenum" id="Page_360">[p. 360]</span> -not only useless, but offensive. How the -affair will end, God only knows!—I do not -like its complexion.—Government has ordered -them to give up their arms. If they -do, where is British liberty? If they refuse, -what is Administration? Many are gentlemen -of large property—Inns of Court Members, -Lawyers, &c. dangerous people.—Time will -unveil the whole—May its lenient powers -pour the balm of healing councils on this -once glorious spot!—and make it as heretofore -the nurse of freedom—Europe’s fairest -example—the land of truth, bravery, loyalty, -and of every heart-gladdening virtue! -That you and Mrs. S—— may, surrounded -with friends, and in the enjoyment of -every good, live to see the completion -of my wishes—is the concluding prayer -of,</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Dear Sir,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Yours ever, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_361">[p. 361]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXXXIX_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="139">CXXXIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 19, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I AM sorry to hear by brother O—— that -Mrs. S—— yet continues but poorly—may -she be soon perfectly well—and -health attend you both! We remain pretty -quiet—the military are so judiciously placed, -that in fact the whole town (in despight -of its magnitude) is fairly overawed -and commanded by them. His M——y -went this day to the house—and gave them -the very best speech, in my opinion, of -his whole life: I have the pleasure to inclose it.—If -I err in judgement, I know -you more the true candid friend, than the -severe critic—and that you will smile at the -mistake of the head, and do justice to the -heart, of</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your ever obliged,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_362">[p. 362]</span></p> - - -<p class="ps">There is a report, that the Quebec fleet, -escorted by two frigates, are entirely captured -by a French squadron.—I hope this -will prove premature.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXL_TO_MR_J_mdash_WmdashmdashE"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="140">CXL.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. J—— W——E</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Westm. June 23, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR FRIEND,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">HOW do you do? is the blessing of -health upon you? do you eat moderately? -drink temperately, and laugh heartily? sleep -soundly? converse carefully with one eye -to pleasure, the other fixed upon improvement? -The above is the hope and wish of -thy friend, friend to thy house, and respecter -of its character.—You, happy young -man, by as happy a coincidence of fortune, -are like to be the head of the W—— family:—may -riches visit you, coupled with -honour and honesty!—and then sweet peace<span class="pagenum" id="Page_363">[p. 363]</span> -of mind shall yield you a dignity—which -kings have not power to confer:—then will -you experience that the self-ennobled are -the only true noble:—then will you truly -feel those beautiful lines of Pope:</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent2">“One self-approving hour whole years outweighs</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Of idle starers, or of loud huzza’s;</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“What can ennoble sots, or slaves, or cowards?</div> - <div class="verse indent2">“Alas! not all the blood of all the Howards.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p>Your father, I trust, will send you some -public prints, in which he will see the blessed -temper of the times:—we are (but do -not be frightened), or at least two thirds of -us, run mad—through too much religion;—our -religion has swallowed up our charity—and -the fell demon Persecution is become -the sacred idol of the once free, enlightened, -generous Britons.—You will read -with wonder and horror the sad, sad history -of eight such days as I wish from my soul -could be annihilated out of Time’s records -for ever.</p> -</div> - -<p>That poor wretched young man I once -warned you of is (I find from under his -own hand) now resident at Calcutta:—’tis -not in the power of friendship to serve a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_364">[p. 364]</span> -man who will in no one instance care for -himself:—so I wish you not to know him—but -whatever particulars you can collaterally -glean of him, I shall esteem it a -favour if you would transmit them to</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your sincere friend,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGNATIUS SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Mrs. Sancho joins me cordially in every -wish for your good.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="141">CXLI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -June 27, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THERE is news this day arrived, which, -I believe, may be depended upon—that -Rodney brought the French admiral to a -second engagement about the 26th of May; -it unluckily fell calm, or the affair would -have been decisive.—The van of Rodney, -however, got up to Mons. Guichen’s fleet’s -rear, and gave it a hearty welcome.—Rodney<span class="pagenum" id="Page_365">[p. 365]</span> -still keeps the seas, and prevents the French -fleet getting into Martinique.—The account -says, the enemy had the advantage of six -ships of the line more than Rodney;—and a -report runs current, that Walsingham has -fallen-in with the Dominica fleet, consisting -of thirty merchantmen and two frigates, and -taken most of them—but this wants confirmation.—Dear -Sir, I hope Mrs. S—— is -better than mending—quite well—to whom -our most sincere respects.—Your order, -good Sir, is compleated, and, please God, -will be delivered to to-morrow’s waggon.</p> - -<p>Excuse my scrawling hand—in truth my -eyes fail me; I feel myself since last winter -an old man all at once—the failure of eyes—the -loss of teeth—the thickness of hearing—are -all messengers sent in mercy and love, to -turn our thoughts to the important journey -which kings and great men seldom think -about:—it is for such as you to meditate on -time and eternity with true pleasure—looking -back, you have very much to comfort -you;—looking forward, you have all to hope.—As -I have reason to respect you in this life, -may I and mine be humble witnesses in the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_366">[p. 366]</span> -next of the exceeding weight of bliss and -glory poured out without measure upon thee -and thine!</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLII_TO_MR_O_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="142">CXLII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. O——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 1, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR BROTHER,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">SHALL I rejoice or condole with you -upon this new acquaintance you have made? -How the devil it found you out, I cannot -imagine—I suppose the father of mischief -sent it to some richer neighbour at a greater -house; but as Johnny O—— was a character -better known, and much more esteemed, the -gout thought he might as well just take a -peep at F——m, liked the place, and the -man of the place—and so, nestling into your -shoe, quite forgot his real errand:—thy -guardian angel watched the whole procedure—quoth -he, “I cannot wholly avert evils—but<span class="pagenum" id="Page_367">[p. 367]</span> -I can turn them into blessings.—This -transitory pain shall not only refine his -blood, and cleanse him from other disorders—it -shall also lengthen his life, and purify -his heart:—the hour of affliction is the seed-time -of reflection—the good shall greatly -over-balance the evil.”——As I am unfortunately -an adept in the gout, I ought to -send you a cart-load of cautions and advice—talk -nonsense about tight shoes, &c. with -a farrago of stuff more teazing than the pain;—but -I hear the ladies visit you—and, -what’s better, friendship in the shape of -Messieurs S——k and B——n were seen to -enter the palace of F——. I supped last -night with Dr. R——, where your health -was drunk, and your gout pretty freely canvassed.</p> - -<p> -God orders all for the best.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours, &c.</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_368">[p. 368]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="143">CXLIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -July 5, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I RECEIVED yours this morning -from the hands of a gentleman, who would -not stay to be thanked for the invaluable -letter he brought me.—You truly say, that -cold lowness of spirits engenders melancholy -thoughts; for my part, I should be a most -ungrateful being to repine—for I have known -good health—and even now, though not -well, far from being ill, and have the friendship -of Mr. S——, and one or two more -who do honour to human nature.—But the -purpose of this scrawl is to confirm to you -a piece of good news this day arrived—which -is, that both the Carolinas, and -best part of Virginia, are all come in to their -allegiance.—The back settlers have rose, and -mustered the reluctant:—thus the three<span class="pagenum" id="Page_369">[p. 369]</span> -richest and strongest provinces are now in -the King’s peace—for which, God make us -thankful.</p> - -<p>Adieu, dear Sir.—Mrs. Sancho (whose -eyes kindle with pleasure while she speaks) -begs to be joined with me in the most respectful -manner to Mrs. S—— and yourself—hope -Mrs. S—— is quite as well as you -can wish her.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am ever yours,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Dear Sir, to command,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLIV_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="144">CXLIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, August 18, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR AND HON. SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MY long silence was the effect of a dearth -of news:—I could have wrote, it’s true—but -you would have ill relished a mass of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_370">[p. 370]</span> -thanks upon favours received.—Minds like -yours diffuse blessings around; and, like -parent heaven, rest satisfied with the heart.—Your -goodness, dear Sir, is registered -there—and death will not expunge it.—No; -it will travel to the throne of grace, and the -Almighty will not wrong you.—I am just -risen from table with my friend R——, and -we have toasted you most cordially in conjunction -with the amiable partner of your -heart, whom I hope in some happy time to -see—I may say, hunger and thirst to see—it’s -the wish of my heart.—Providence has -indulged me with many, and I will hope for -the completion of this.—But to the point:—a -gentleman in administration (with whom I -am upon good terms) about an hour since -called upon me, to give me some fresh news -just arrived from Admiral Geary’s fleet—an -engagement between a new French frigate, -pierced for 44 guns, mounting 32, called the -Nymphe, and the Flora English frigate, -Capt. Peere Williams<a id="FNanchor_17" href="#Footnote_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a>, of 36 guns; the -Flora was peeping into Brest harbour, when<span class="pagenum" id="Page_371">[p. 371]</span> -the Nymphe was coming out full of men;—they -were both in the right mind for engagement—to -it they went—the Frenchman -began the affair at two cables length distance.—Williams -reserved his fire till they were -within half-cable’s length—it lasted with the -obstinacy of two enraged lions for above -two hours.—A French cutter came up to -teaze, but was sent off soon with a belly-full:—at -last the French captain, at the -head of his men, attempted boarding—when -our English hero met him—ran him -through the body—drove back his men—put -them under hatches—struck the colours—when -she was on fire in four different -places.—This affair happened the 10th ult. -and he has gallantly brought his prize into -Plymouth.—This is the greatest affair, take -the number of guns, men &c. altogether, -that has happened this war. I am sorry to -remark, that if the French fleets in general -behave so well, it will be a service of danger -to meddle with them.</p> - -<p>When Capt. Williams had conquered the -crew, they found sixty dead upon deck;—the -two ships exhibited a scene more like a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_372">[p. 372]</span> -slaughter-house, than any thing imaginable—These, -oh Christians! are the features of -war—and thus Most Christian Kings and -Defenders of Faith shew their zeal and love -for the dying commands of their Divine -Master.—Oh! friend, may every felicity be -thine, and those beloved by thee! may the -heartfelt sigh arise only at the tale of foreign -woes!—May that sacred tear of pity bedew -the cheek for misfortunes only such as humanity -may soften!—Mrs. Sancho joins me -in sincere and grateful respects to Mrs. S—— -and self.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours truly,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">Sancho begs his respects to Mr. and Mrs. -C——; love to Sir J— O——. and all who -enquire after Blackamoors.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p> -<a id="Footnote_17" href="#FNanchor_17" class="label">[17]</a> Capt. Peere Williams is first cousin to Lady N——; and he will not -fare the worse for that.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_373">[p. 373]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLV_TO_MRS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="145">CXLV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Sept. 7, 1780.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MY greatly esteemed and honoured friend, -if my pen doth justice in any sort to my -feelings, this letter will not be a complimentary -one.—I look upon such letters as -I do upon the ladies winter nosegays, a -choice display of vivid colouring, but no -sweetness.—My friend Mr. R—— says, I -stand condemned in the opinions of two -ladies for an omittance in writing: believe -me, my sorrow for incurring the censure -is much more real than the crime; for when -the heart is overcharged with worldly care, -the mind bending also to the pressure of -afflictive visitations—add to that the snow-tipt -hairs announcing fifty odd—the fire of -fancy is quite extinguished.—Alas! alas! -such being the true state of the case—I dare -abide by the jury of your noble and equitable -hearts, to be brought in not guilty.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_374">[p. 374]</span> -The shew of hands was greatly in favour of -Mr. C—— F—x and Sir G—— R——y; -they will carry it all to nothing, is the opinion -of the knowing—Lord L—— met -with a coarse reception, at which he was a -little displeased.—Mr. B—g spoke like the -pupil of eloquence;—but the glorious F—x -was the father and school of oratory himself—the -Friend! the Patron! the Example!—There -now.—I attended the hustings -from ten to half past two—gave my free -vote to the Honourable C—— J—— F—x -and to Sir G—— R——y; hobbled home -full of pain and hunger.—What followed -after, you shall know in my next. At -present I have only to declare myself</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours and Miss C——’s</p> -<p class="signoff2">most obedient, faithful,</p> -<p class="signoff4">humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_375">[p. 375]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLVI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="146">CXLVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 9, 1780.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WE are all election-bewitched here—I -hope Sir C—— B—— meets with no opposition—he -is so worthy a character, that, -should he be ill supported, it would impeach -the good sense and honesty of his -constituents.—Mrs. S—— and yourself, I -pray God, may both enjoy health and every -good.—I here inclose you this evening’s -paper, by which you will see how the F—x -is like to lead Ad——n. He and Sir G—— -B—— R—— had my hearty vote, and I -had the honour of his thanks personally, -and in writing also. I have to thank you -for a thousand kind things, which I wish -from my soul I could any way ever deserve. -May health and every blessing bestrew your -paths—and those of all you love!—is the -prayer and wish of</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your much obliged</p> -<p class="signoff2">humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_376">[p. 376]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLVII_TO_MISS_C_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="147">CXLVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MISS C——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Saturday, Sept. 9, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR MISS,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I HAVE the honour to address you upon -a very interesting, serious, critical subject.—Do -not be alarmed! it is an affair which -I have had at heart some days past—it has -employed my meditations more than my -prayers.—Now, I protest, I feel myself in -the most aukward of situations—but it must -out—and so let it.—But how does my good, -my half-adored Mrs. C——? and how does -Miss A——? and when did you see my -worthy Mrs. R——? Are they all well, -and happy as friendship could wish them? -How is the Doctor and Beau S——, all -well?—Well, thank God—and you and -your dear self are well? Honey, and was -not Lord N—— an Irish title? true, but -the chield is Scotch born.—Pray give my -best affections to Mrs. C——, and acquaint<span class="pagenum" id="Page_377">[p. 377]</span> -her with the state of the poll for the ancient -city and liberty of Westminster, which -I inclose. I would not wish you to mention -what I so boldly advanced in the beginning -of this letter.—No; let it die away -like a miser’s hope.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most obedient,</p> -<p class="signoff2">most humble servant,</p> -<p class="signoff3">I remain, dear Miss C——,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">The remainder in our next.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLVIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="148">CXLVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Sept. 23, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I RECEIVED this evening one of the -kindest letters that ever friendship dictated—for -which I rejoice that the time draws -near, when I shall have the delight to amend -my health—and see the few true good friends—such<span class="pagenum" id="Page_378">[p. 378]</span> -as my soul delighteth to honour.—I -inclose you an evening paper.—Thank -God! although the people have been a little -irritated, every thing appears quiet, and I -hope will remain so. The week after next, -I hope to see the good Mrs. S—— and your -worthy self, to whom Mrs. Sancho joins -me in best wishes.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -I am, dear Sir,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Your most obedient</p> -<p class="signoff3">humble servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="ps">The principal business I had to write -about had like to have escaped me, which -is your kindness in offering your house for -head-quarters; which I would embrace, had -not brother O—— the right of priority.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_379">[p. 379]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CXLIX_TO_DOCTOR_N_FmdashD"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="149">CXLIX.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO DOCTOR N—F—D</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Westm. Oct. 13, 1780.</p> - - -<p class="salut">HONOURED SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WERE I to omit my thanks—poor as -they are—for a single post—your honest and -more sensible dog would be ashamed of me.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“A merciful man is good to his beasts.”</p> -</div> - -<div class="noindent"> -<p class="sp05">The friendly hand which strokes and rewards -his attentions, that same friendly hand -has prescribed for my good—and under God -has much benefited my health;—the eye of -kindness, which animates the poor animal -to deeds almost beyond instinct, hath beamed -upon me also, and given me the pleasing -assurance of new health.—I wish, dear Sir, -for just as much credit in the point of gratitude, -as you will allow to fall to the share of -any poor honest dog.—For so much, and no -more, prayeth, dear Sir,</p> -</div> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most obedient</p> -<p class="signoff2">and grateful servant,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_380">[p. 380]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CL_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="150">CL.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Friday, Oct 13, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I SHOULD esteem myself too happy, -were I at this moment certain that Mrs. -S—— were as much better as I find myself;—but -when I consider the professional skill, as -well as the interest Dr. N—— has in the -welfare of you and yours, I sit down satisfied, -in full hope that Mrs. S—— is at this moment -better—much better—and, as one -spirit animates you both, you are better too. -May health diffuse itself throughout thy house! -and gladden all around it! I am better, my -dear Sir.—Tell my good Mrs. S——, I -shall live to see her, and to thank her too -most cordially in my child’s name: for my -part, your liberality in constant flow has -tired me out with thank-ye’s. Adieu, dear -Sir.—I never left a place with so much regret -as you made me leave B—— with;—nor<span class="pagenum" id="Page_381">[p. 381]</span> -ever met with the whole family of the -Charities, but at thy house.—Mrs. Sancho -joins me in acknowledgements to self, good -Mrs. S——, and Dr. N—f—d.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -We are, dear Sir,</p> -<p class="signoff2">Yours gratefully,</p> -<p class="signature"> -A. I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CLI_TO_MR_S_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="151">CLI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MR. S——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Friday, Oct. 18, 1780.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">POOH, no, thou simpleton! I tell thee, -I got no cold, neither is my breath one jot -the worse.—I wish I knew that you suffered -as little from break of rest, and raw air.—I -am glad I have left you, for your sake as well -as my own, my dear Stee.—The corks flew -out of thy bottles in such rapid succession, -that prudence and pity held a council upon -it.—Generosity stepped in, followed by a -pert coxcomb, whom they called Spirit—and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_382">[p. 382]</span> -God knows how the affair is to end.—I intend -to write a line to the worthies of your -town, the good Mr. S— and Dr. N—f—d. -O Stee! had I thy abilities, I would say -what should credit my feelings, though it -fell far short of the merits of such friends to -mankind—and</p> - -<p class="right sp1"> -Your <span class="allsmcap gesperrt05">IGN. SANCHO</span>, in particular.</p> - - -<p class="sp2">Love and respects to thy generous scholars—the -Greens—the Browns, &c. &c. to -reverends Mess. Prettyman, and the other -gentleman with pretty wife, whose name is -deserted from the silly pate of thy true -friend Sancho.—I have not seen Mr. J—— -H——; but they are all well, as Mr. Anthony -has just announced.</p> - -<p>Say handsomely to the Greens—and much -as you please to the Prettymans.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_383">[p. 383]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CLII"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="152">CLII.</abbr></h2> -</div> - -<p class="dateline"> -October 15, 1780. -</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR BOY, -</p> - -<p class="firstpara">THIS is to thank you kindly for the -affectionate mark of your remembrance of -your old friend. After a long tedious -voyage, you happily reached the haven of -your repose—found your friends well—and -rejoiced their hearts by presenting, not a -prodigal, but a duteous, worthy, and obedient -child;—theirs be the joy—but yours -will be the gain.—As sure as light follows -the rising of the sun, and darkness the setting -of it;—so sure is goodness even in this -life its own reward of course. You are in the -militia—that will do you no harm;—spirit -and true courage in defence of our country -is naturally and nobly employed.—We are in -the upper world playing the old foolish game—in -the same foolish way—and with the same -foolish set that trod the ministerial boards -when you left us. Your friend D—— tries -expedients, and gets nothing;—he is very<span class="pagenum" id="Page_384">[p. 384]</span> -deep in my debt; but as he has nothing, -I can expect nothing—for I never will consent -to do that to others, I would not they -should do unto me.—N—— does better, -and grows proud—I wish him joy.—My -dear youth, be proud of nothing but an -honest heart.—Let the sacred oracles be -your morn and evening counsellors—so -shall you truly enjoy life, and smile at the -approach of death.—I have been exceedingly -ill since you left us;—but, thank God! I -have got a fair fit of the gout, which will, -I hope, cleanse me from my whole budget of -complaints.—I shall live, I hope, till your -good present arrives;—and then I shall live -indeed.—Send the girls some cherry nuts, -if easy to be procured.—Mrs. S—— joins -me in love, good-will, and good wishes for -thy peace, health, and prosperity. Adieu.</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours affectionately,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_385">[p. 385]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CLIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="153">CLIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Nov. 1, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I TRUST, in God’s good providence, -this will find Mrs. S— in perfect health; -and you so well, that it shall remain a doubt -which is heartiest.—I am in the way of -being well—the gout in both feet and legs—I -go upon all-fours—the conflict has been -sharp; I hope the end is near—I never remembered -them to have swelled so much.—I -believe my preserver, Dr. N—f—d, would -allow it to be a decent fit;—my grateful respects -attend him: the issue is deferred till -the gout subsides, and I find my breath somewhat -better; but I can find no position easy.—I -inclose you the topic of the day.—Mrs. -Sancho joins me in every wish for the felicity -of our much-loved friends, yourself, and -better self.</p> - -<p class="signature"> -IGN. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_386">[p. 386]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CLIV_TO_MRS_O_mdash"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="154">CLIV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO MRS. O——</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Westm. Nᵒ. 19, Nov. 5, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SISTER,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I PRAY thee accept the inclosed as a mite -of thanks and gratitude for the tender care -and true friendly obligingness, which a wife -could only equal, and which I never expected -to find from home.—I feel and acknowledge -your kindness—<em>that</em>, and the <em>uncommon</em> -goodness of some of the best of human -nature, shall be cherished in my heart -while it continues to beat.—Every body tells -me I am better—and what every one says -must be true;—for my part, I feel a very -slow amendment; my cough is pretty stubborn; -my breath very little better; body -weak as water—add to this, a smart gout in -both legs and feet.—Your sister joins me in -love and repeated thanks for all favours -to her poor, worn-out, old man,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_387">[p. 387]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CLV_TO_J_S_mdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="155">CLV.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J. S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Nov. 18, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">MY DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">IT is a week this blessed day since that I -ought, according to every rule of gratitude, -love, and zeal, to have thanked my best -friends for a plenty of some of the best wine, -which came in the best time true kindness -could have contrived it.—I should also have -congratulated the many anxious hearts upon -the happy recovery of yourself, and my thrice -good Mrs. S——. I waited from post to -post, to send a tolerable account of myself—the -gout has used me like a tyrant—and -my asthma, if possible, worse—I have swelled -gradually all over.—What a sight! Dr. -J—bb will not suffer me to make an issue -yet, as he would not wish to disturb the -gout. In truth, my best friend, I never<span class="pagenum" id="Page_388">[p. 388]</span> -truly knew illness till this bout.—Your -goodness greatly lessened my anxiety.—I find -in it the continual flow of more than parental -kindness:—as God gave the heart, he -must and alone can give the reward!—Our -joint best love, and most respectful thanks, -attend you both, from</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours gratefully,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CLVI_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="156">CLVI.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Nov. 17, 1780.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">MY friend, patron, preserver! were the -mind alone sick, God never created, since -the blessed Apostles days, a better physician -than thyself—either singly, or in happy <em>partnership</em> -with the best of women—not only -so, but your blessed zeal, like the Samaritan’s, -forgetful of self-wants, poureth the -wine and oil, and binding up the wounds of -worldly sickness—then leaving with reluctance<span class="pagenum" id="Page_389">[p. 389]</span> -the happy object of thy care to the mercy -of an interested host, with money in hand -you cry—“Call help, spare no expence, -and when I return, I will repay you.”—Indulge -me, my noble friend, I have seen the -priest, and the Levite, <em>after many years knowledge</em>, -snatch a hasty look; then, with averted -face, pursue their different routes: and yet -these good folks pray, turn up their eyes to -that Heaven they daily insult, and take more -pains to preserve the appearances of virtue, -than would suffice to make them good in -earnest.—You see, my good Sir, by the galloping -of my pen, that I am much mended.—I -have been intolerably plagued with a bilious -colic, which, after three days excruciating -torments, gave way to mutton-fat-broth -clysters.—I am now (bating the swelling -of my legs and ancles) much mended—air -and exercise is all I want—but the fogs -and damps are woefully against me.—Mrs. -Sancho, who reads, weeps, and wonders, -as the various passions impel, says, she is -sure the merits of your house would save -B——, were the rest of the inhabitants ever -so bad;—she joins me in every grateful<span class="pagenum" id="Page_390">[p. 390]</span> -thought.—In good truth, I have not language -to express my feelings. Dr. R—— -hurries me. Blessed couple, adieu!</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Yours,</p> -<p class="signature"> -I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CLVII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="157">CLVII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Charles Street, Dec. 1, 1780.</p> - -<p class="firstpara">WHY joy in the extreme should end -painfully, I cannot find out—but that it -does so, I will ever seriously maintain. -When I read the effusions of goodness, my -head turned;—but when I came to consider -the extensive and expensive weight and -scope of the contents, my reason reeled, -and idiotism took possession of me—till the -friendly tears, washing away the mills of -doubt, presented you to me as beings of a -purer, happier order—which God in his -mercy perhaps suffers to be scattered here -and there—thinly—that the lucky few who -know them may, at the same time, know<span class="pagenum" id="Page_391">[p. 391]</span> -what man in his original state was intended -to be.—I gave your generous request a fair -hearing—the two first proposed places would -kill me, except (and that is impossible) Mrs. -Sancho was with me.</p> - -<p>Inclination strongly points to the land of -friendship—where goodness ever blossoms—and -where N—f—d heals. At present I -take nothing, but am trying for a few days -what honest Nature, unperplexed by Art, -will do for me.—I am pretty much swelled -still; but I take short airings in the near -stages, such as Greenwich, Clapham, Newington, -&c. &c. Walking kills me. The -mind—the mind, my ever dear and honoured -friends—the mind requires her lullaby;—she -must have rest ere the body can be -in a state of comfort, she must enjoy peace, -and that must be found in still repose of -family and home. Mrs. Sancho, who speaks -by her tears, says what I will not pretend -to decypher;—I believe she most fervently -recommends you to that Being who best -knows you—for he gave you your talents. -My most grateful and affectionate respects, -joined with Mrs. Sancho’s, attend the good<span class="pagenum" id="Page_392">[p. 392]</span> -Mrs. S——, thyself, and all thy connexions. -I cannot say how much we are -obliged to you; but certainly we were never -so much nor so undeservingly obliged to -any before. God keep you in all your doings—prays -thine,</p> - -<p class="signature"> -SANCHO.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTER_CLVIII_TO_J_mdash_Smdashmdash_ESQ"><span class="gesperrt2">LETTER </span><abbr title="158">CLVIII.</abbr><br /><br /><span class="toline">TO J—— S——, ESQ</span>.</h2> -</div> - - -<p class="dateline"> -Dec. 7, 1780.</p> - -<p class="salut">DEAR SIR,</p> - -<p class="firstpara">I AM doubly and trebly happy, that I can -in some measure remove the anxiety of the -best couple in the universe. I set aside all -thanks—for were I to enter into the feelings -of my heart for the past and present, -I should fill the sheet: but you would not -be pleased.—In good truth, I have been exceeding -ill—my breath grew worse—and the -dropsy made large strides.—I left off medicine<span class="pagenum" id="Page_393">[p. 393]</span> -by consent for four or five days, swelled -immoderately:—the good Dr. N—f—d -eighty miles distant—and Dr. J—bb heartily -puzzled through the darkness of his patient—I -began to feel alarm—when, looking -into your letter, I found a Dr. S—th recommended -by yourself. I enquired—his -character is great—but for lungs and dropsy, -Sir John E—t, physician extraordinary and -ordinary to his Majesty, is reckoned the -first. I applied to him on Sunday morning—he -received me like Dr. N—f—d;—I -have faith in him.—My poor belly is so -distended, that I write with pain—I hope -next week to write with more ease. My -dutiful respects await Mrs. S—— and self, -to which Mrs. Sancho begs to be joined by -her loving husband, and</p> - -<p class="signoff1"> -Your most grateful friend,</p> - -<p class="signature">I. SANCHO.</p> - - -<p class="sp2">Mr. Sancho died December 14.</p> - - -<p class="center sp4 fs125"> <span class="gesperrt3">FINIS</span>.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> -<div class="tnbox"> -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="Transcribers_Notes">Transcriber's Notes</h2> -</div> - -<p>The following changes have been made to the text as printed:</p> - -<p>1. Footnotes have been located immediately below the letter within -which they occur, and marked numerically.</p> - -<p>2. Apparent typographical errors have been changed.</p> - -<p>3. The subheading for <a href="#LETTER_XCII_TO_MR_H_mdash">Letter XCII</a> (Page 242) has been corrected -from "<span class="allsmcap">TO MR. H</span>——." to "<span class="allsmcap">TO MRS. H</span>——."</p> - -<p class="sp1">The following anomalies in the printed text are noted, but no change -has been made:</p> - -<p>1. Variable, archaic and inconsistent spelling, punctuation and hyphenation have -been left unchanged, apart from apparent typographical errors.</p> - -<p>2. Dashes vary in length. Shorter dashes have been rendered as —, and longer dashes as ——.</p> - -<p>3. <a href="#LETTER_LIV_TO_MR_S_mdash">Letter LIV</a> (Page 144) contains a sequence of spaced hyphens, which -have been reproduced as printed.</p> - -<p>4. There are two successive letters headed <a href="#LETTER_LXVIII_TO_MR_J_mdash_Wmdashmdash">LETTER LXVIII</a> (Pages 186 and 195), the <a href="#LETTER_LXVIII_TO_MR_R_mdash">second -letter</a> being out of date order.</p> -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LETTERS OF THE LATE IGNATIUS SANCHO, AN AFRICAN ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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