Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 11.djvu/169

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
DR. SWIFT.
157

and I wish his friends may not want his influence. I conclude with my prayers for you.





SIR,
HANOVER, JUNE 21, 1711.


YOU were returning me to ages past for some expressions in my letter. I find matter in your's to send you as far back as the golden age. How came you to frame a system (in the times we live in) to govern the world by love?

I was much more surprised at such a notion in your first, than to find your opinion altered in your last letter. My hopes were founded more reasonably upon the contrary principle. I wish we could keep ourselves steady by any; but I confess it was the hatred and contempt so justly conceived against our late governors, that gave me some little expectations we might unite, at least in order to prevent a relapse.

The consequences of places not given were apparent; the whole party were then dissatisfied; and when given, those are only pleased who have them. This is what the honest management of past administrations has brought us to: but I should not yet despair, if your loving principle could but have its force among three or four of your acquaintance. Never persons had more reason to agree; nor was it ever in the power of a few men to bring greater

events