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15. Nov. 1769.
 * SIR,

the claim of a gentleman, who publishes in the Gazetteer under the name of Modestus. He has some right to expect an answer from me; though, I think, not so much from the merit or importance of his objections, as from my own voluntary engagement. I had a reason for not taking notice of him sooner, which, as he is a candid person, I believe he will think sufficient. In my first letter, I took for granted, from the time which had elapsed, that there was no intention to censure, or even to try the persons concerned in the rescue of General Gansel: but Modestus having since either affirmed, or strongly insinuated, that the offenders might still be brought to a legal trial, any attempt to prejudge the cause, or to prejudice the minds of a jury, or a court-martial, would be highly improper.

more hostile to the Ministry than I am, would not so often remind them of