Chapter XXIV: 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.