The invasion had, as we shall see, a disturbing effect on the household and it was well that Johnson had a devoted servant.
This was Francis Barber, a negro who had been brought to England in 1750 and received his freedom (for the slave trade still flourished) from his master, Colonel Bathurst. Dr Bathurst, the Colonel's son, was a very intimate friend of Johnson and gave him Francis as a servant. Johnson, as his way was, made of him a friend. Francis once took a fancy to go to sea; but Johnson had a horror of the sailor's life and got him back. Finding him intelligent and worth a better education he sent him to school at Bishop Stortford.
Here are two letters which shew Johnson's fatherly kindness:
"To Mr Francis Barber.
Dear Francis,
I have been very much out of order. I am glad to hear that you are well, and design to come soon to see you. I would have you stay at Mrs Clapp's for the present, till I can determine what we shall do. Be a good boy.
My compliments to Mrs Clapp and to Mr Fowler. I am,
Yours affectionately,
Sam. Johnson.
May 28, 1768."