The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 19/From Jonathan Swift to John Barber - 3

by Jonathan Swift

TO MR. ALDERMAN BARBER^[1].

DUBLIN,

THERE is a young gentleman of the clergy here, for whom I have great regard. And I cannot but wish this young gentleman (for whose learning and oratory in the pulpit I will engage) might have the honour to be your chaplain in your mayoralty. His name is Matthew Pilkington; he is some years under thirty, but has more wit, sense, and discretion, than any of your London parsons ten years above his age. He has a great longing to see England, and appear in the presence of Mr. Pope, Mr. Gay, and others, in which I will venture to befriend him. You are not to tell me of prior engagements; because I have some title, as an old acquaintance, to expect a favour from you. Therefore pray let me know immediately that you have complied with my request before you had read half my letter. I expect your answer, to my satisfaction, and the happiness of the young gentleman; and am, with great sincerity,

Your most obedient servant,

J. SWIFT.

P. S. You need not be afraid of Mr. Pilkington's hanging upon you; for he has some fortune of his own, and somewhat in the church; but he would be glad to see England, and be more known to those who will esteem him and may raise him.

1. This letter was sent to Mrs. Barber the poetess and Dr. Delany, who were then in London, to be delivered by them to the alderman; but they never delivered it, out of a desire, as was supposed, to prevent the recommendation from succeeding: and the dean was under the necessity of writing a second letter to the same purpose, which secured the place to Mr. Pilkington.