The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 18/Letter from Thomas Sheridan to Jonathan Swift - 5
FROM DR. SHERIDAN.
I DO not yet hear of master Lucas from Castle Shane, for whom I have agreed, and have kept a room. If you see Dr. Coghill, perhaps he may resolve you what I have to depend upon, that I may not refuse another in his place. I wish with all my soul you were here before my chickens and ducks outgrow the proper season; as for the geese, they have ceased to be green, and are now old enough to see the world, which they do as far as our river will let them sail commodiously.
Our mutton is the best I ever tasted, so is our beef, our trouts, or pheasants, particularly the eels. Dear sir, I am almost persuaded that the journey hither will not only remove your disorder, but the good air will also get you a stomach, and of consequence new flesh, and good health. Your little starts to the country from Dublin, only make your lungs play quicker, to draw in more of your city poison; whereas being here with me in the midst of Arabia Felix, you draw in nothing but balsamick aromatick air, the meanest odour of which is that of our bean blossom and lily of the valley. Every one swears who looks on my face, that I am grown already ten years younger, and this I am almost persuaded to believe, because I labour more than ever, drink less, see fewer company, and have abundantly more spirits.
I have almost finished a walk of half a mile for you, and now it is ready for a coat of coarse gravel; for I cannot afford a rollingstone; so that my garden walks will require a strong pair of German shoes. To my great grief I hear that my lord Orrery is landed, and I fear will not be in Dublin at my August vacation. You are too happy while he is in Dublin for me to inveigle you from thence with all the charms of our Elysium. What would I give that some necromancer would set you both down at Cavan upon an easy cloud, while my good wine lasts? If you would think it proper to let five dozen of my Mullan's wine come down for yourself, I do not think it would be amiss: for I have a good cool cellar for it. I beseech you to let me know the day you intend to set out, that I may meet you at Virginia; and be pleased to be there on a Saturday.
You give me a great deal of good advice in your letter, for which I return you my hearty thanks, and I wish with all my soul I could take it as easily as you give it; but alas, I must say as Tasso did in a letter to his friend Antonio Constantini, Il consigilo di V. S. è ottimio; ma io conosco grandissima difficoltà nell’ eseguire lo.
It is the fashion here, among all manner of parties, to drink the drapier’s health. The reason I give you this caw shun is, that you may not ralph use it, when you come among us.
Ibis see itch yew torn eak my come plea meant to Mrs. Whiteway, and tell her no one in Ireland shall be more welcome to my house; do not fail to hawl her down with you. I can billet her at a relation's house; and she can live and joke with us the best of the day. Pray let me know her resolution, that I may settle my mind accordingly.
My next to you shall be in verse, and what you little think of; nor is it to be wondered, because I declare solemnly, I am an utter stranger to what I intend, either, as to measure, rhyme, diction, or thought. May all happiness attend you. I am, dear sir, with all respect your most obedient and very humble servant,