The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 13/From Lucy Howth to Jonathan Swift - 2

FROM LADY HOWTH.


DEAR SIR,
DECEMBER 26, 1737.


KNOWING you to be very poor, I have sent you a couple of wild ducks, a couple of partridges, a side of venison, and some plover, which will help to keep your house this Christmas. You may make a miser's feast, and drink your blue-eyed nymph[1] in a bumper, as we do the drapier; and when these are out, let me know, and you shall have a fresh supply. I have sent them by a blackguard, knowing you to be of a very generous temper, though very poor. My lord and husband joins with me in wishing you a merry Christmas, and many of them; and am sincerely your affectionate friend and sea nymph.


If I signed my name, and the letter should be found, you and I might be suspected.


  1. Lady Howth having very sparkling blue-gray eyes, Dr. Swift used to distinguish her by the name of "the blue-eyed nymph."