The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 11/From John Barber to Jonathan Swift - 2
FROM MR. JOHN BARBER.
I HAD yours of the 3d instant, and am heartily glad of your being in health, which I hope will continue. Pray draw what bills you please: I will pay them on demand.
I will take care of Mrs. Rolt's affair. I wish you would write to her. I had a visit from Mrs. Brackley to day; she gives her humble service, and desired my assistance with general Hill. I told her it was best to stay till there was a master, and I did not doubt but something would be done.
I fortunately met lord Bolingbroke yesterday, the minute I had your letter. I attacked him for some wine, and he immediately ordered you two dozen of red French wine, and one dozen of strong Aaziana white wine. The hamper will be sent to morrow by Robert Stone the Wantage carrier, and will be there on Friday. I am afraid it will cost you 5s. to George, my lord's butler; but I would do nothing without order. My lord bid me tell you this morning, that he will write to you, and let you know, that as great a philosopher as you are, you have had the pip; that the publick affairs are carried on with the same zeal and quick dispatch as when you was here; nay, that they are improved in several particulars; that the same good understanding continues; that he hopes the world will be the better for your retirement; that your inimitable pen was never more wanted than now; and more, which I cannot remember. I believe he expects you should write to him. He spoke many affectionate and handsome things in your favour. I told him your story of the spaniel, which made him laugh heartily.