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Then my verse I dishonour, My pictures despise;

My person degrade, & my temper chastise;

And the pen is my terror, the pencil my shame;

All my Talents I bury, & dead is my Fame.

I am either too low or too highly priz'd;

When elate I am envy'd. When Meek I'm despis'd.

This is but too just a picture of my present state. I pray God to keep you and all men from it, and to deliver me in His own good time. Pray write to me, and tell me how you and your family enjoy health. My much-terrified wife joins me in love to you and Mrs. Butts and all your family. I again take the liberty to beg of you to cause the inclosed letter to be delivered to my brother, and remain sincerely and affectionately yours,

28.

To. ,

26th October 1803.

,—I hasten to write to you by the favour of Mr. Edwards. I have been with Mr. Sanders, who has now in his possession all Mr.