Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 12.djvu/469

Rh I lose him. It is a mortification I have been used to, so I bear it as a philosopher should.

The letter which you writ to me and the duke I received; and Mr. Pope showed me that directed to him, which gave me more pleasure than all the letters you have writ since I saw you, as it gives me hopes of seeing you soon.

Were I to acquaint the duke and duchess of my writing, I know that they would have something to say to you, and perhaps would prevent my sending the letter this post, so I choose to say nothing about it. You are in great favour and esteem with all those that love me, which is one great reason that I love and esteem them.

Whenever you will order me to turn your fortune into ready money, I will obey you; but I choose to leave it where it is till you want it, as it carries some interest; though it might be now sold to some advantage, and is liable to rises and falls with the other stocks. It may be higher as well as lower; so I will not dispose of it till I hear from you. I am impatient to see you, so are all your friends. You have taken your resolution, and I shall henceforth every week expect an agreeable surprise. The belman rings for the letter, so I can say no more.

FEB. 23, 1731-2.

LIKE to know my power (if it is so) that I can make you uneasy at my not writing; though I shall not