Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 12.djvu/190

178  you would have been cautious to have writ me such a letter.

You conclude with saying, you are ready to ask pardon, where you have offended. Of this I acquit you, because I have not taken the offence; but whether you will acquit yourself, must be left to your conscience and honour.

I have formerly upon occasions been your humble servant in Ireland, and should not refuse to be so still, but you have so useful and excellent a friend in Mr. Reading, that you need no other; and, I hope, my good opinion of him will not lessen yours. I am, my lord

JON. SWIFT

LONDON, APRIL 16, 1726.

HE ladies have told you all my adventures, and I hear you are ruining me with dung. I have writ several times to the ladies, and shall soon do so again. I send you enclosed the bill of lading for a picture that has lain long at sea; you will be so kind to get it out of the customhouse. Mr. Medlicot will make it easy, if there should be any difficulties. My humble service to Mrs. Worral, and the ladies, and all my friends. I thank God I am in pretty 6