The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 11/From John Arbuthnot to Charles Ford - 1
DEAR SIR,
I THANK you kindly for yours, with the enclosed from our friend. I would have obeyed your commands as to the History of the White Staff; but that there really is no answer to it, more than a thing that rises just out of what is said in the history; none writ on purpose by any one that knows matters of fact, or can contradict what he says; or indeed write by concert of the persons that are attacked. And I reckon any other is not worth your while to read. The dragon denies it; but as I told the governor, it is necessary for him to do that in a very solemn and strong manner, else there will be a ripping answer, as you say. All things go on at the usual rate. I am at uncertainty still as to my little office. I leave them to do just as they please. George Fielding and brigadier Britton are grooms of the bedchamber, which does not seem altogether the doing of a certain great man. The groom of the stole is still uncertain, lying between two that you know. I am told, that the great person of all has spoke more contemptibly of the dragon than of any body, and in very hard terms. Has not he managed finely at last? The princess gives great content to every body. I will add no more, being to write on the other side to the dean; which pray forward.
- ↑ Written on the same paper with the last.