reports we had of you; for you remember that our newspapers take the privilege of killing all persons they do not like as often as they please. I have had the honour to be decently interred about six times in their weekly memoirs, which I have always read with great satisfaction.
I am very well satisfied with your character of Mr. Dunkin, and desire that he would immediately draw up a petition in form, directed to the governor, &c. which petition I desire that you only would underwrite, with your recommendation, and a character of him; which you will please to send to me, to be made use of at my discretion. He need not come over, but inform me, as soon as possible, of Dr. Squire's death.
I have made your compliments to lord and lady Oxford, who are both well, and rejoiced to hear of your health. They give you their thanks for your remembrance, and are your faithful friends.
His lordship is very well pleased with your present of the medals[1], and desires you would send them by the first safe hand that comes over. Is it not shocking that that noble lord, who has no vices (except buying manuscripts and curiosities may be called so) has not a guinea in his pocket, and is selling a great part of his estate to pay his debts? and that estate of his produces near 20000l. a year. I
- ↑ Alluding to some medals and other curiosities which had been purchased at Rome by captain Bernage, and sent to the dean as a present. This gentleman, who had been educated in the university of Dublin, obtained, at Dr. Swift's recommendation, an ensign's commission from the earl of Pembroke when lord lieutenant. He was afterward made a captain; but was disbanded at the peace of Utrecht. See also the Journal to Stella, February 10, 1710-11; and April 19, 1711.
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