Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 16.djvu/319

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A


COMPLETE REFUTATION


OF


THE FALSEHOODS ALLEGED AGAINST


ERASMUS LEWIS[1], Esq.


"Beware of Counterfeits, for such are abroad."
Dr. Staffold's Quack-bill.


"Quin, quæ dixisti modo,
Omnia ementitus equidem Sosia Amphitryonis sum."
Plaut.


"Parva motu primo, mox sense attollit in auras."
Virg.


Feb. 2, 1712-13.


I INTEND this paper for the service of a particular person; but herein I hope, at the same time, to do some good to the publick. A monstrous story has been for a while most industriously handed about, reflecting upon a gentleman in great trust under the principal secretary of state; who has conducted himself with so much prudence, that before this in-

cident,
  1. "My friend Lewis has had a lye spread on him, by the mistake of a man, who went to another of his name, to give him thanks for passing his privy seal to come from France. That other Lewis spread about, that the man brought him thanks from lord Perth and lord Melfort (lords now with the pretender) for his great services, &c. The lords will examine that other Lewis to morrow in council; and I believe you will hear of it in the prints, for I will make Abel Roper give an account of it." Journal to Stella, Jan. 27, 1712-13.
X 4
"I was