N:4.
[dateline] London. 22d. Novemr. 1784
Very well, Madam; this fine house of the Comte de Rouhaut, spacious Gardens, Courts &c. have
seemingly banished from your thoughts
humble Basinghall Street. I say seemingly, since I am not willing to believe it really so. Don't you remember you told me once you wished me to write you, and that you would duly acknowledge my letters?
1 This was, however, when we were in different Quarters of the world; but shall our Correspondance drop, because we are now on the same side of the water? I hope not. You are reading now the page I have gone through; and you know my sentiments thereon. I would therefore wish to know if they correspond with yours: Besides, the giddiness of Youth may have passed over parts where maturer age and riper Judgment would have made some usefull reflections. These too, with judicious observations from you will be a most agreable ground-work to continue the Correspondance upon: therefore you will not let it fall to the ground, I hope.
This is only No. 4, and the long lapse of time, between this and the date of my last,
2 can only be excused from the unsettled, uncertain state you have been in this some time past: However, as I have but one letter from you,
3 there seems no apology necessary on my side.
By Mr. Bowdoin,
4 who is the bearer of this, I send you Buchan's
{p. 482}
family or domestic Medicine, which you desired. In regard to the
Japan Tea-Urn, I am afraid there will be some difficulty attending it, since I think it is a contraband Article.
5 However, Madam, if you are in want of it, I will make enquiries about the possibility of getting it to Paris and will do my best in respect to it. The only difficulty will not be at Calais: there are examinations at almost every town between that place and Paris, as you must have noticed on your journey. However, a little matter will gain the good will of these faithfull Servants of the King.
I want to hear your opinion of the gay world you are in—both as to itself and comparatively—with the many observations I know you will not be able to refrain from making.
My Sister
6 is at present very unwell; yet, (as does Mr. Atkinson,) joins with me in best Compliments to yourself and family. Yours, Madam,