Page:The history of Tom Jones (1749 Volume 1).pdf/17

 Compliment of thinking I took it from myelf. I care not: This they hall own, that the two Perons from whom I have taken it, that is to ay, two of the bet and worthiet Men in the World, are trongly and zealouly my Friends. I might be contented with this, and yet my Vanity will add a third to the Number; and him one of the greatet and noblet, not only in his Rank, but in every public and private Virtue. But here whilt my Gratitude for the princely Benefactions of the Duke of Bedford burts from my Heart, you mut forgive my reminding you, that it was you who firt recommended me to the Notice of my Benefactor.