The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 13/From Charles Jervas to Jonathan Swift - 1

by Charles Jervas

FROM MR. JARVIS^[1].

YOU can hardly imagine how rejoiced I am at finding my old friend the bishop of Worcester^[2] so hale at 83-4! No complaint; he does but begin to stoop, and I am forced myself, every now and then, to awaken myself to walk tolerably upright, famous as I was lately for a wight of uncommon vigour, and consequently spirits to spare. If ever I see Dublin again, and your Teague escapes hanging so long, I will myself truss him up for nonadmittance when you were in a conversable condition. I am sure the lady will send you Mr. Conolly's^[3] picture with pleasure, when I tell her you expect it. Our friend Pope is off and on, here and there, every where and no where, à son ordinaire, and therefore as well as we can hope, for a carcass so crazy. He assures me, he has done his duty in writing frequently to the dean, because he is sure it gives you some amusement, as he is rejoiced at all yours; therefore you must write away. Upon inquiry, I learn, that exercise is the best medicine for your giddinesses. Penny made Mrs. Pendarves happy with a print of yours, and I do not fail to distribute them to all your well-wishers. I am, dear dean, yours most affectionately,

CHA. JARVIS.

I held out bravely the three weeks fogs, &c. and am very well.

1. A celebrated painter, and contemporary with sir Godfrey Kneller.
2. Dr. John Hough, bishop of Worcester.
3. Speaker of the house of commons, one of the lords justices, and a commissioner of the revenue in Ireland.