With this we drank October ale, touching neither Madeira nor sherry, though both were recommended us; but I wished not to mix draughts to set that latent deviltry a-brewing in Jack Mount, so refused all save ale for himself and for me, though I allowed him a hot bowl with his hazel nuts.
We now withdrew to one of the small tables in a corner of the room, a servant bringing thither our nuts and hot bowls, and also some writing materials for me.
These I prepared to use at once, pushing the nut-shells clear, and seized the pen to cramp it in my fist and set to work, tongue-moistening my determined lips:
"October 28, 1774.
"Thos. Foxcroft, Esquire,
Solicitor, Queen Street,
Boston.
"My dear Sir,—At what hour this evening will it prove convenient for you to receive the undersigned upon affairs of the utmost urgency and grave moment concerning Miss Warren whose interests I believe you represent?
"The instant importance of the matter I trust may plead my excuse for this abrupt intrusion on your privacy.
"Pray consider me, Sir,
"Yr most obliged and obedient Servt
"Michael Cardigan.
"At the Wild Goose
near Wiltshire and Chambers Streets."
Sealing the letter, I bade the servant take it and bring an answer if the gentleman was at home, but in any event to leave the letter.