À propos—I thought of the Arabic MS., but had almost forgot to tell you that Gilbert of Lewes was with me this morning. He has discovered the owner of the Tythes, an Attorney—Mr. Charles Down of Hythe, where he is at present, but who lives in town.
I fear to put the Saint to any expence, and remembered what you said of negotiating in person. Therefore agreed that when Gilbert comes to London next month, we would see Down together; in the interim—silence. But if you think not a moment should be lost, I can by a line despatch Gilbert to Hythe.
Again—Adieu.
234.
To his Stepmother.
Bentinck Street, Dec. 28th, 1774.
Dear Madam,
My poor friend died last Monday, and has left me—together with Mr. Skipwith—his Executors and Trustees, a very painful and perhaps thankless office. You will easily suppose that the shock, however expected, and the hurry of melancholy business, have swallowed up the remembrance of any lesser disappointment, and indeed engross all my thoughts. The Holroyds dine with me to-morrow.—You will be so kind as to excuse the Christmas draught for a week or ten days at farthest.
I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours, E. G.