DR. SWIFT.
189
sincerity and regard, dear sir, your most humble and obedient servant,
Lord Bolingbroke is going to France with lord Berkeley; but, I believe, will return again in a few months.
I will take a proper opportunity of recommending Dr. Stopford to the duke of Dorset; but I think it is not yet quite certain, that he will continue lord lieutenant. I mean, that if he perceives that he is to be turned out soon after his return from Ireland, possibly he may desire not to go.
MADAM,
MAY 5, 1735.
I FIND your ladyship seems not very much pleased with your office of secretary; which, however, you must be obliged to hold during the duke's government, if I happen to outlive it, which for your comfort, considering my health, is not very likely. I have not been a troublesome petitioner to his grace, and intend to be less; and, as I have always done, will principally consider my lord duke's honour. I have very few friends in want. I have kindred enough, but not a grain of merit among them, except one female, who is the only cousin I suffer to see me. When I had credit for some years at court, I provided for above fifty people in both kingdoms,
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