Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 12.djvu/154

142 fifteen ladies and five gentlemen the other night in her play room, and I condoled with her upon it. It is thought she will fall out with my lady Carteret, for drawing away her company; but at present they are very great, as I find by consulting them both.

I think you are acquainted with lady Worseley; if so, tell her how angry I am, at her not coming to Ireland as I expected, and was told she was actually landed; wherupon, being at that time confined by a deafness, I writ her a most cavalier letter, which, being brought back, I tore in a rage.

Miss Carteret is every day getting new magazines of arms, to destroy all England upon her return.

MY LORD,

HAVE been so long afflicted with a deafness, and at present with a giddiness in my head (both old distempers) that I have not been able to attend your excellency and my lady Carteret, as my inclination and duty oblige me; and I am now hasting into the country, to try what exercise and better air will do toward my recovery. Not knowing how long I may be absent, or how soon you may think fit to leave this kingdom, I take this occasion of returning your excellency, and my lady Carteret, my most humble acknowledgments for your great civilities toward me, which I wish it were in my power to deserve. I have