The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 11/From Henry St. John to Jonathan Swift - 4
FROM LORD BOLINGBROKE[1].
I NEVER laughed, my dear dean, at your leaving the town: on the contrary, I thought the resolution of doing so, at the time when you took it, a very wise one. But, I confess, I laughed, and very heartily too, when I heard that you affected to find, within the village of Letcombe, all your heart desired. In a word, I judged of you, just as you tell me in your letter, that I should judge. If my grooms did not live a happier life than I have done this great while, I am sure they would quit my service. Be pleased to apply this reflection. Indeed I wish I had been with you, with Pope and Parnell, quibus neque animi candidiores. In a little time, perhaps, I may have leisure to be happy. I continue in the same opinions and resolutions as you left me in; I will stand or fall by them. Adieu. No alteration in my fortune or circumstances can alter that sincere friendship with which I am, dear dean, yours.
I fancy you will have a visit from that great politician and casuist the duke[2]. He is at Oxford with Mr. Clarke[3].
- ↑ Endorsed, "Lord Bolingbroke, on my retiring."
- ↑ Perhaps the duke of Ormond.
- ↑ George Clarke, doctor of laws, fellow of All Souls, who had been secretary to prince George of Denmark, as lord high admiral, and was member of parliament for the university of Oxford.