Chapter LXVI: 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.