“Dear Mr. P.—I hope this will find you in the best health and spirits. I am overwhelmed and distracted by the kindness of my friends. Actually, I have not one moment clear from the engagements of calls, letters, and visitings. I am sitting for my picture to one artist, who will soon finish it; and must sacrifice hours to another, who is equally anxious to take my visage. You do right to tell me of B—’s misfortune. I shall give him a guinea. Again, I repeat, never, never was I so overwhelmed by dukes, bishops, lords, ladies, baronets, and scholars. Your true friend,—S. P.”
