The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 11/From Mary Butler to Jonathan Swift - 3

by Mary Butler

FROM THE DUCHESS OF ORMOND.

I WAS extremely pleased to find you had not forgot your friends, when it is so hard for them to write you, and by their concern for you, put you in mind of them. But I find no misfortunes can lessen your friendship, which is so great, as to blind you of the side of their faults, and make you believe you see virtues in them, it were happy for them they enjoyed in any degree; for, I am sure, some of those you named are much wanted at this time. I was, as you heard, very well pleased, that my friend^[1] was safe as to his person, but very uneasy at seeing his reputation so treated. As to his fortune, it is yet in dispute. However, as long as he is well, I am satisfied. It is with difficulty I do hear; but now and then a straggling body brings me an account of him: for there has been no encouragement to write by the post, all letters miscarrying, that either he or I have wrote that way, that we have given it over now, and trust to accident for the news of each other. I hope I shall hear from you oftener than I have done for some months past: for no friend you have has more respect for you, than your most humble servant,

M. ORMOND.

Your niece Betty^[2] is your humble servant.

1. The duke, who being suspected of treasonable practices, or designs, went abroad.
2. Her grace's daughter.