Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 11.djvu/246

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LETTERS TO AND FROM

for the war, shall get nothing by the peace. We are most concerned (next to our regard to Holland) for Savoy[1], and France for Bavaria[2]. I believe we shall make them both kings, by the help of Sardinia and Sicily. But I know not how plans may alter every day. The queen's whole design, as your grace conjectures, is to act the part of a mediator; and our advantages, too many to insert here, must be owned very great.

As for an academy to correct and settle our language, lord treasurer talked of it often very warmly; but I doubt, is yet too busy until the peace be over. He goes down to Windsor on Friday, to be chosen of the garter, with five more lords.

I know nothing of promises of any thing intended for myself; but, I thank God, I am not very warm in my expectations, and know courts too well to be surprised at disappointments; which, however, I shall have no great reason to fear, if I gave my thoughts any trouble that way, which, without affectation, I do not; although I cannot expect to be believed when I say so.

I am, &c.
  1. Victor Amadeus, duke of Savoy, was made king of Sardinia by this treaty.
  2. All bad policy, as things then stood.
COUNTESS