Chapter XXV: 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.