Mr. Diggs[1], whom I sent for at the first hearing of the rencounter, to inquire, for your sake, how your brother was, told me, That there was no danger from the wound, if there were none from the fever; which, it seems, has been increased by the perturbation of his spirits.
Mr. Wyerley drank tea with us yesterday; and tho' he is far from being partial to Mr. Lovelace, as it may be well supposed, yet both he and Mr. Symmes blame your family for the treatment they gave him, when he went in person to inquire after your brother’s health, and to express his concern, for what had happened.
They say, That Mr. Lovelace could not avoid drawing his sword: And that either your brother's unskilfulness or violence left him, from the very first pass, intirely in his power. This, I am told, was what Mr. Lovelace said upon it; retreating as he spoke: 'Have a care, Mr. Harlowe—Your violence puts you out of your defence. You give me too much advantage! For your sister’s sake, I will pass by every-thing;—if—'
But this the more provoked his rashness, to lay himself open to the advantage of his adversary—Who, after a slight wound in the arm, took away his sword.
There are people, who love not your brother, because of his natural imperiousness, and fierce and uncontroulable temper: These say, That the young gentleman’s passion was abated, on seeing his blood gush plentifully down his arm; and that he received the generous offices of his adversary, who help'd him off with his coat and waistcoat, and bound up his arm, till the surgeon could come, with such patience, as was far from making a visit afterwards from that adversary to inquire after his health, appear either insulting, or improper.
Be this as it may, every-body pities you. So steady,
- ↑ Her brother's surgeon.
