The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 18/Letter from Jonathan Swift to Theophilus Bolton - 1

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MY LORD,
DUBLIN, AUG. 14, 1735.


THE bearer, Mr. Faulkner, our famous printer, goes in an hour to see Kilkenny and Cashel, to gather up his country debts. Ten to one your grace may owe him a dozen shillings, and your town coffeehouse (if you have one) a dozen more. But his pretences to me for writing, are the honour of being admitted to your grace by a line in my hand. I am not in fear of his shaming me as others have done; however, I would not have you leave your manuscripts scattered about your room, for he would be terribly tempted to beg them, and return them back next winter in four volumes, as he served me; although I never let him touch or see one. He has the name of an honest man, and has good sense and behaviour. I have ordered him to mark narrowly whatever you are doing, as a prelate, an architect, a country gentleman, a politician, and an improver; and to bring me a faithful account when he returns; but chiefly about your health, and what exercise you make use of to increase or preserve it. But he is in haste to be gone, and I am forced to conclude.

I am, with the greatest respect,
My lord, your grace's
Most obedient humble servant,
J. SWIFT

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