“I write to let you know I do not come home to dinner, being obliged to attend some business abroad, of which I shall give you an account (when I see you in the evening), as becomes your dutiful and obedient husband.”
“Devil Tavern, Temple Bar.
“Jan. 3, 1707-8.
“Dear Prue,—
“I have partly succeeded in my business to-day, and inclose two guineas as earnest of more. Dear Prue, I cannot come home to dinner. I languish for your welfare, and will never be a moment careless more.
“Your faithful husband,” &c.
“Jan. 14, 1707-8.
“Dear Wife,—
“Mr. Edgecombe, Ned Ask, and Mr. Lumley, have desired me to sit an hour with them at the George, in Pall Mall, for which I desire your patience till twelve o'clock, and that you will go to bed,” &c.
“Gray's Inn, Feb. 3, 1708.