Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 13.djvu/415

Rh shall be glad; if not, the messenger shall go to Mrs. Whiteway. I am,

J. SWIFT.

SIR,

MESSAGE which I just now received from you by Mr. Hughes, gives me some hopes of being restored to my old place. Formerly I was your minister in musicis: but when I grew a great man (and by the by you helped to make me so) you turned me off. If you are pleased again to employ me, I shall be as faithful and observant as ever.

I have heard Mr. Hughes sing often at Percival's, and have a good opinion of his judgment: so has Percival, who, in these affairs, is infallible. His voice is not excellent, but will do: and, if I mistake not, he has one good quality, not very common with the musical gentlemen, i. e. he is desirous to improve himself. If Mason and Lamb were of his temper, they would be as fine fellows as they think themselves. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,

EDWARD FERNS. Rh