Page:A memoir of Jane Austen (Fourth Edition).pdf/142

 '23 Hans Place, Thursday, November 23 (1815). 'SIR,―My brother's note last Monday has been so fruitless, that I am afraid there can be but little chance of my writing to any good effect; but yet I am so very much disappointed and vexed by the delays of the printers, that I cannot help begging to know whether there is no hope of their being quickened. Instead of the work being ready by the end of the present month, it will hardly, at the rate we now proceed, be finished by the end of the next; and as I expect to leave London early in December, it is of consequence that no more time should be lost. Is it likely that the printers will be influenced to greater dispatch and punctuality by knowing that the work is to be dedicated, by permission, to the Prince Regent? If you can make that circumstance operate, I shall be very glad. My brother returns 'Waterloo' with many thanks for the loan of it. We have heard much of Scott's account of Paris. If it be not incompatible with other arrangements, would you favour us with it, supposing you have any set already opened? You may depend upon its being in careful hands.

'I remain, Sir, your ob$t$ humble Se$t.$ 'J. AUSTEN.' 'Hans Place, December 11 (1815). 'DEAR SIR, -As I find that "Emma" is advertised for publication as early as Saturday next, I think it best to lose no time in settling all that remains to be