LETTER 364
CHARLES LAMB TO THOMAS MANNING
[Not dated. ? February, 1825.]
My dear M.,—You might have come inopportunely a week since, when we had an inmate. At present and for as long as ever you like, our castle is at your service. I saw Tuthill yesternight, who has done for me what may
"To all my nights and days to come,
Give solely sovran sway and masterdom."
But I dare not hope, for fear of disappointment. I cannot be more explicit at present. But I have it under his own hand, that I am non-capacitated (I cannot write it in-) for business. O joyous imbecility! Not a susurration of this to anybody!
Mary's love.
C. LAMB.
[Lamb had just taken a most momentous step in his career and had consulted Tuthill as to his health, in the hope of perhaps obtaining release and a pension from the East India House. We learn more of this soon.
Here might come two brief notes to Dibdin, of no importance.]