'I must desire your opinion of this scheme by the next post, for the opportunity will be lost if we do not now seize it, the Scholarships being necessarily filled up on Tuesday.
'I depend on your proposed allowance of a hundred a year, which must the first year be a little enlarged because there are some extraordinary expenses, as
Caution (which is allowed in his last quarter). . 7 0 0 Thirds. (He that enters upon a room pays two thirds of the furniture that he finds, and receives from his successor two thirds of what he pays; so that if he pays £20 he receives £13 6s. 8d., this perhaps may be) 12 0 0 Fees at entrance, matriculation &c., perhaps 2 0 0 His gown (I think) 2 10 0 ________ £ 23 10 0
'If you send us a Bill for about thirty pounds we shall set out commodiously enough. You should fit him out with cloaths and linen, and let him start fair, and it is the opinion of those whom I consult, that with your hundred a year and the petty scholarship he may live with great ease to himself, and credit to you.
'Let me hear as soon as is possible.
'In your affair with the university, I shall not be consulted, but I hear nothing urged against your proposal.
'I am, Sir,
'Your humble servant,
'SAM. JOHNSON.'
'Oct. 24, 1764.
'My compliments to Mrs. Strahan.
'To Mr. Strahan, Printer, in New Street, Shoe-lane, London.'