Sixty-four years old today. If H—— and F—— in the
estimation of the doctor, are better out
of town,
| MEMOIR OF THE REV. SYDNEY SMITH. | 363 |
A fall of wood, greater than any of the other falls has taken place; the little walnut-tree and the thorn removed, and a complete view up the valley, both from the library and drawing-room windows. Great opposition—the place would be entirely spoiled; and twelve hours after, an admission of immense improvement. You have seen, my dear Saba, such things as these at Combe Florey. We are both well: no events.
I am afraid of war; I go at once into violent opposition to any Ministry who go to war. What a long line are the —— of needy and rapacious villains! I thought old ——’s letter good and affecting.
I have bought two more ponies, so we are strong in pigmy quadrupeds; my three saddle-horses together cost me £43.10s., all perfect beauties, and warranted sound, wind and limb, and not a kick in them. Shall you ride when you come down? We are never without fires.
We are going through our usual course of jokes and dinners; one advantage of the country is, that a joke once established is good for ever; it is like the stuff which is denominated everlasting, and used as pantaloons by careful parents for their children. In London you expect a change of pleasantry; but M. and N. laugh more at my six-years-old jokes than they did when the jokes were in their infancy. Sir Thomas spoke at —— for two hours,—the Jew for one hour; the boys called out “Old clothes!” as he came into the town, and offered to sell him sealing-wax and slippers.
| 364 | MEMOIR OF THE REV. SYDNEY SMITH. |
Give my kindest regards to your excellent husband, and believe me always, your affectionate father,
