[From Letters of Bishop Hildesley]

Letter XLIX

Bishopscourt, Jan. 29, 1766.

Dear Sir,—

Your closing your last with a "wish to have leave to use your discretion" puzzled me not a little, till my oracle here solved it, by saying you wanted to write on less paper. If that be all, says I, I'll return Mr Discrete the blank half. I think I have found another reason, viz., Mrs Moore's complaint, that I shall worry her dear to death with my long letters. So, you are to be discrete (sic) in giving me short answers; well, then, be it so, perhaps she won't think one I've just received from Dr. Monsey, when she hears it, too long.

I have a letter from the Glasgow printer (95) with sundry queries and proposals, among others, where I shall provide him with a room proper for the work — about whc h I would beg you to turn your thoughts and inquiries at Douglas.

As I conceive the pacquet goes off on Friday morning, I thought proper to send over on purpose with the enclosed, which I would desire you to pay the postage of, I understand, too, you are to be at Castletown ; but I hope this will catch you before you set out,

I an thankful to Mr Birket for his kind visit and should have been so, even if he had not brought me seven letters post free. But really such fine weather would tempt any man abroad that had not made a vow, or under some necessity to stay at home. I am very sorry for Mrs Black's impediment. Indeed, I was frightened to hear of it. What must they be who were present at the threatening appearances ?

Pray God be with you and all you love, and believe me,

Affectionately yours, M.S. M.

Is this short enough, madam?

(95)—The Bishop did not. come to terms with this printer