301.
To Mrs. Holroyd.
Downing Street, January 16th, 1777.
Inconstant pusillanimous Woman!
Is it possible that you should so soon have forgot your solemn vows and engagements, and that you should pretend to prefer the dirt and darkness of the Weald of Sussex to the splendid and social life of London? Before the reception of your Lord's epistle, Downing Street[349] and Bentinck Street were ready to engage in a Civil War. They have now suspended their hostilities and united their interests, and they both, jointly and separately, insist on your appearance with or without your mate on the appointed Saturday the 25th instant, to remain a hostage in our hands till we think proper to dismiss you. Donna Catherina[350] will undertake to dress you, as human and female creatures are usually dressed. A proper application of rouge will conceal the variety of colours, and the deficiency of hair may be supplied by a fashionable periwig. Adieu.
Donna Catherina. Mountaineer.[351] Le Grand Gibbon.