Chapter XXVI: 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.”