Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 13.djvu/82

70 every word that is false spelt, and for my bad English; you see what you are like to suffer: if this promises you too much trouble, do not give me so much encouragement in your next letter; for upon something in your last, I have almost persuaded myself, that by your assistance, and my own earnest desire, I may in time become worthy of your care. Vanity stands at my elbow all this while, and animates me by a thousand agreeable promises; without her encouragement I should never have presumed to correspond with the dean of St. Patrick's. Some say, she is a mischievous companion; I swear she is a pleasant one: you must not be angry with me for keeping her company; for I had very little acquaintance with her till I had received some marks of your favour.

I received your letter but a little while before I left London: I attended lord and lady Weymouth down to Long Leat, and left them with a prospect of as much happiness as matrimony can give; they are pleased with one another at present, and I hope that will continue. My lord and lady Carteret are both satisfied with the disposal of their daughter in so advantageous a station. Common report wrongs my lord Weymouth; for which reason, as I am his friend, I must tell you his good qualities: he hahas [sic] honour and good nature, and does not want for sense; he loves the country, and inclines a little too much to his stable and dogkennel; but he keeps a very hospitable good house, and is always ready to relieve those in distress: his lady Dr. Delany can give you a character of, and is what I believe you will approve of. I came from Long Leat last Saturday, and am now at Gloucester with my mother and sister. My lord