The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 12/From Jonathan Swift to John Carteret - 1
TO HIS EXCELLENCY LORD CARTERET,
MANY of the principal persons in this kingdom, distinguished for their loyally to his present majesty, hearing that I had the honour to be known to your excellency, have for some time pressed me very earnestly, since you were declared lord lieutenant of this kingdom, to represent to your excellency the apprehensions they are under concerning Mr. Wood's patent for coining halfpence to pass in Ireland. Your excellency knows the unanimous sentiments of the parliament here upon that matter: and upon inquiry, you will find, that there is not one person of any rank or party, in this whole kingdom, who does not look upon that patent as the most ruinous project, that ever was contrived against any nation. Neither is it doubted, that when your excellency shall be thoroughly informed, your justice and compassion for an injured people, will force you to employ your credit for their relief.
I have made bold to send you enclosed two small tracts on this subject, one written (as it is supposed) by the earl of Abercorn; the other is entitled to a weaver, and suited to the vulgar, but thought to be the work of a better hand.
I hope your excellency will forgive an old humble servant, and one who always loved and esteemed you, for interfering in matters out of his province; which he would never have done, if many of the greatest persons here had not, by their importunity, drawn him out of his retirement, to venture giving you a little trouble, in hopes to save their country from utter destruction; for which the memory of your government will be blessed by posterity.
I hope to have the honour of seeing your excellency here; and do promise neither to be a frequent visitor, nor troublesome solicitor, but ever, with the greatest respect, &c.