Letter LXXXI To J — S — , Esq
Charles Street, Jan. 1779.
“Beyond the fix’d and settled rules
“Of Vice and Virtue in the schools,
“Beyond the letter of the Law,
“Which keeps mere formalists in awe,
“The better sort do set before ’em
“A Grace—a manner—a decorum;
“Something that gives their acts a light;
“Makes ’em not only just—but bright,
“And sets ’em in such open fame,
“Which covers—quality—with shame.”
Judiciously elegant Prior has befriended me—and described my honoured friend Mr. S——. I wish I knew which way to shew my gratitude—the only method I think of is to enjoy the benefits with a thankful heart, and leave God in his own good time to reward you.
I should last night have gratefully acknowledged the receipt of your letter and note—but I hoped for a frank—I am disappointed, and a long delay would be unpardonable.—Be assured, dear Sir, I shall (with all the alacrity of a heavy man) bestir myself in the execution of your generous order.—I hope Mrs. S——, and every one of your family, enjoy health and every good.—Mrs. Sancho joins me in respects and thanks to Mrs. S—— and yourself.
I remain, dear Sir,
Your very obliged and faithful servant,
I. SANCHO.