[425e] Cf. note 9 above. Forster reads “nautyas,” when the words would mean “as naughty as nine,” apparently.
[426b] In 1549, James, second Earl of Arran, was made Duke of Chatelherault by Henry II. of France. His eldest son died without issue; the second, John, became first Marquis of Hamilton, and was great-grandfather of Lady Anne Hamilton (Duchess of Hamilton), mother of the Duke of Swift’s Journal. The Earl of Abercorn, on the other hand, was descended from Claud, third son of the Earl of Arran, but in the male line; and his claim was therefore the stronger, according to the French law of inheritance.
[426c] Madams.
[427a] This word is doubtful. Forster reads “cobbled.”
[427b] A mistake, apparently, for “writing.” The letter was begun on March 8.
[427c] Silly jade.
[427d] O Lord, what a clutter.
[427e] On the death of Dr. William Graham, Dean of Wells, it was reported that Swift was to be his successor. Dr. Brailsford, however, received the appointment.