Mr. Sheridan here at once did honour to his taste and to his liberality of sentiment, by shewing that he was not prejudiced from the unlucky difference which had taken place between his worthy father and Dr. Johnson.  I have already mentioned, that Johnson was very desirous of reconciliation with old Mr. Sheridan.  It will, therefore, not seem at all surprizing that he was zealous in acknowledging the brilliant merit of his son.  While it had as yet been displayed only in the drama, Johnson proposed him as a member of the literary club, observing, that ’He who has written the two best comedies of his age, is surely a considerable man.’  And he had, accordingly, the honour to be elected; for an honour it undoubtedly must be allowed to be, when it is considered of whom that society consists, and that a single black ball excludes a candidate.

On the 23rd of June, I again wrote to Dr. Johnson, enclosing a ship-master’s receipt for a jar of orange-marmalade, and a large packet of Lord Hailes’s Annals of Scotland.

’Dr. Johnson to Mrs. Boswell.

’Madam,—­Though I am well enough pleased with the taste of sweetmeats, very little of the pleasure which I received at the arrival of your jar of marmalade arose from eating it.  I received it as a token of friendship, as a proof of reconciliation, things much sweeter than sweetmeats, and upon this consideration I return you, dear Madam, my sincerest thanks.  By having your kindness I think I have a double security for the continuance of Mr. Boswell’s, which it is not to be expected that any man can long keep, when the influence of a lady so highly and so justly valued operates against him.  Mr. Boswell will tell you that I was always faithful to your interest, and always endeavoured to exalt you in his estimation.  You must now do the same for me.  We must all help one another, and you must now consider me, as, dear Madam, your most obliged, and most humble servant,

‘July 22, 1777.’

‘Sam.  Johnson.’

’To James Boswell, Esq.

’Dear sir,—­I am this day come to Ashbourne, and have only to tell you, that Dr. Taylor says you shall be welcome to him, and you know how welcome you will be to me.  Make haste to let me know when you may be expected.

’Make my compliments to Mrs. Boswell, and tell her, I hope we shall be at variance no more.  I am, dear Sir, your most humble servant,

‘August 30, 1777.’

‘Sam.  Johnson.’

On Sunday evening, Sept. 14, I arrived at Ashbourne, and drove directly up to Dr. Taylor’s door.  Dr. Johnson and he appeared before I had got out of the post-chaise, and welcomed me cordially.