XII.
Persano, Sunday,
Jan. 15, 1792.
You did admirably, my Dear Em. in not inviting Lady A.H. to dine with the Prince; and still better, in telling her, honestly, the reason. I have always found, that going straight is the best method, though not the way of the world.
You did, also, very well, in asking Madame Skamouski; and not taking upon you to present her, without leave.
In short, consult your own good sense, and do not be in a hurry; and,
I am sure, you will always act right.
We have been at it again, this morning, and killed fifty boars; but were home to dinner, at one o'clock: and this is the first dinner I have had, since I left you; for I cannot eat meat breakfasts or suppers, and have absolutely lived on bread and butter and tea.
As the Prince asked you, you did well to send for a song to
Douglass's; but, in general, you will do right to sing only at home.
The King is very kind to me, and shews every one that he really loves me: and he commends my shooting; having missed but very few, and killed the largest of the society. Only think of his not being satisfied with killing more than thirty, yesterday! He said, if the wind had favoured him, he should have killed sixty at least.
We must be civil to Mr. Hope, as recommended by Lord Auckland; and also to Monsieur de Rochement, and Prince Bozatinsky, as recommended by my friend Saussure. I inclose his letter, as you are mentioned in it; also Knight's, as you desire. God knows, we have no secrets; nor, I hope, ever shall.
We have much business between this and Saturday: and we are to shoot,
Saturday morning; so that we shall arrive late.