“Dear Patmore,—No end to my thanks to you. This day’s —— is more glowing even than the last. You are certainly resolved to allay any anxiety I might have (even were it greater than it is) as to the fate of ‘De Clifford.’ You have, I have no doubt, also given the tone to others, whose proofs of favour, through to-day’s post, in addition to those during the week, have flowed in beyond imagination. Can you help me to find out the authors of some of them, especially of the article in the ‘Britannia’? If Dr. ——, who I heard wrote in that paper, I shall be flattered. There was also a notice in the ‘Morning Herald,’ of last Tuesday (the 20th), very eloquent indeed, and very clear; perhaps, yours? If not, I should really like to know by whom, if you can help me.
“Many private letters (one from a gentleman, a
Mr. Stevens, whom I don’t know, but evidently a
person of reading and education,) ought also to satisfy me that I have got the
town with me, and, as Pope said,
‘I will
| 170 | R. PLUMER WARD. |
“I see you have lost your dramatic mentor and neighbour Reynolds, who agreed so with me about your comedy. I have no patience with your modesty, and have long hoped said comedy would be in rehearsal. I also wish to hear more of your decision as to your other manuscripts, actual or intended. Pray write to me when you can, though I know how much you must be engaged. Meantime, believe me, always yours,
