194.
To J. B. Holroyd, Esq.
April 13th, 1774.
Dear H.,
*At length I am a little more at liberty. Clarke went out of town this morning. Instead of going directly into Derbyshire, where he would have been overwhelmed with visits, &c. he has taken his Sister, brother, and aunts, to a little Villa near Farnham, in which he has the happiness of having no neighbourhood. If my esteem and friendship for Godfrey had been capable of any addition, it would have been very much encreased by the manner in which he felt and lamented his father's death.* Incredible as it sounds to the generality of sons, and as it ought to sound to most fathers, he considered the old Gentleman as a friend. *He is now in very different circumstances than before; instead of an easy and ample allowance, he has taken possession of a great Estate, with low rents and high incumbrances. I hope the one may make amends for the other: under your conduct I am sure they would, and I have freely offered him your assistance, in case he should wish to apply for it.
In the mean time I must not forget my own affairs, which seem to be covered with inextricable perplexity. R. Way, as I mentioned about a Century ago, promised to see Lovegrove and his Attorney, and to oil the wheels of the Arbitration. As yet I have not heard from him. I have some thoughts of writing myself to the Jockey, stating the various steps of the affair, and offering him, with polite firmness, the immediate choice of Chancery or Arbitration.
For the time, however, I forget all these difficulties, in the present enjoyment of Deyverdun's Company; and I glory in thinking, that, although my house is small, it is just of a sufficient size to hold my real friends, male and female; among the latter My Lady holds the very first place.*
Apropos of My Lady, Harry Hobart the other day gave me a very pleasing hint, which he received from his wife. If there is any foundation for it, I sincerely congratulate you.
*We are all quiet.—American business is suspended, and almost forgot. The other day we had a brisk report of a Spanish War.[232] It was said they had taken one of the Leeward Islands. It since turns out that we are the Invaders, but the invasion is trifling.* Batt and Sir John not returned. Are you alone? I have received another dozen of handkerchiefs, and you, by this time, have got your books and silver spoons, which Caplin has sent by the coach. Adieu.
*Bien obligé non (at present) for your invitation. I wish My Lady and you would come up to our Masquerade the 3rd of May.[233] The finest thing ever seen. We sup in a transparent temple that costs £450.*