“There is, indeed, a very good reason for her present indolence, for she is looking upon a book which she seems to be reading; but I believe the same page hath lain open before her ever since I began this letter.  Just this moment she hath uttered these words:  ’that she will take it as a very great favour if you will speak to Mrs. Herbert to speak to Lord Herbert, that he would speak to anybody who may chance to go by Mr. Nix’s house, to call upon him to hasten his sending the piece of furniture, which, perhaps as soon as she receives it, may tempt her to write to somebody or other that very little expects it’;—­for she loves to do things by surprise.  She would take it kindly if you write to her against this thing comes here; for I verily believe she will try whether or no it be convenient for writing, and perhaps she may make the trial to you; she did not bid me say this, but as she talks of you often, I think you have a fair chance.

“As soon as you are settled at Marble Hill, I beg you will take the widow’s house for me, and persuade the Duchess to come to Petersham.  But, wherever you are, at present I can only wish to be with you:  do what you can for me, and let me hear from you till the Duchess writes to you.  You may write to me, and if you express any resentment against her for not writing, I will let her know it in what manner you shall please to direct me.”

JOHN GAY TO DEAN SWIFT.

  Amesbury, July 4th, 1730.

“I have left off wine and writing; for I really think, that man must be a bold writer, who trusts to wit without it.

“I took your advice; and some time ago took to love, and made some advances to the lady you sent me to in Soho, but met no return; so I have given up all thoughts of it, and have now no pursuit or amusement.

“A state of indolence is what I do not like; it is what I would not choose.  I am not thinking of a Court or preferment, for I think the lady I live with is my friend, so that I am at the height of my ambition.  You have often told me there is a time of life that every one wishes for some settlement of his own.  I have frequently that feeling about me, but I fancy it will hardly ever be my lot:  so that I will endeavour to pass away life as agreeably as I can, in the way I am.  I often wish to be with you, or you with me; and I believe you think I say true."[4]

ALEXANDER POPE TO JOHN GAY.

  Twickenham, July 21st, 1730.

“If you consider this letter splenetic, consider I have just received the news of the death of a friend, whom I esteemed almost as many years as you—­poor Fenton.  He died at Easthampstead, of indolence and inactivity; let it not be your fate, but use exercise.  I hope the Duchess [of Queensberry] will take care of you in this respect, and either make you gallop after her, or tease you enough at home to serve instead of exercise abroad.