Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 18.djvu/345

Rh he acts rather like a little rascally Irish solicitor than a man of honour. I have already almost finished a dialogue between lady Betty Tattle and John Solemn (if my money be not paid, necessity must make me write for bread) upon a subject they will not much like; which I vow to God shall be published. As I do not wear a sword, I must have recourse to the weapon in my hand. It is a better method than a lawsuit. My school only supplies me with present food, without which I cannot live. I hope, if I have any friends left, it may increase, and once more put me out of a miserable dependance upon the caprice of friendship. This year has been to me like steering through the Cyclades in a storm without a rudder; I hope to have a less dangerous and more open sea the next; and as you are out of all danger to feel the like sufferings, I pray God you may never feel a dun to the end of your life; for it is too shocking to an honest heart. It grieves me much to hear poor Mr. Harrison is in such a dangerous way. I pray God preserve him, not only for his poor mother's sake, but the good of mankind; for I think I never knew so valuable a young man. I beseech you to let me know, by the next,next [sic] post, how he is. I fear the worst of that horrid treacherous distemper. I am, dear sir, with all respect, your most obedient and very humble servant, THOMAS SHERIDAN.

I lost sixty-six pounds by a rogue who run off Drumcor last year. FROM