I Dear SIR, Cannot wish that any of my writings fhould last longer than the memory of our friendship, and therefore I thus publicly bequeath them to you, in return for the many valuable inftances of your affection. That they may come to you with as little disadvantage as poffible, I have left the care of them to one, whom, by the experience of fome years, I know well qualified to answer my intentions. He has already the honour and happiness of being under your protection; and, as he will very much ftand in need of it, I cannot wish him better, than that he may continue to deferve the favour and countenance of fuch a patron. I have no time to lay out in forming fuch compliments, as would but ill fuit that familiarity between us, which was once my greatest plea fure, fure, and will be my greateft honour hereafter. Inftead of them, accept of my hearty wishes, that the great reputation, you have acquired fo early, may increase more and more: And that you may long ferve your country with those excellent talents, and unblemished integrity, which have so powerfully recommended you to the moft gracious and amiable Monarch that ever filled a throne. May the frankness and generofity of your spirit continue to foften and fubdue your enemies, and gain you many friends, if poffible, as fincere as yourself. When you have found fuch, they A 4 |