Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 12.djvu/442

430 any body upon earth, with sense, judgment, and good nature, not only not to admire her, but must love and esteem her as much as I do, and every one else, that is really acquainted with her. You know him a little; so, for his own sake, you must like him: and till you are better acquainted with them both, I hope you will like them for mine. Your friend Biddy is just the same as she was; laughs sedately, and makes a joke slily. And I am, as I ever was, and hope I ever shall be, your most sincere friend, and faithful humble servant,

E. GERMAIN.

SEPTEMBER 10, 1731.

F your ramble was on horseback, I am glad of it on account of your health; but I know your arts of patching up a journey between stage coaches and friends coaches: for you are as arrant a cockney as any hosier in Cheapside. One clean shirt with two cravats, and as many handkerchiefs, make up your equipage; and as for nightgown, it is clear from Homer, that Agamemnon rose without one. I have often had it in my head to put it into yours, that you ought to have some great work in scheme, which may take up seven years to finish, beside two or three under ones, that may add another thousand pound to your stock; and then I shall be in less pain about you.