The general approbation of a literary work must be highly gratifying to
any Author. But the cordial approval of an eminent individual, whose
grave, sound judgment, and profound erudition, give authenticity to his
opinions, affords a gratification of an higher order.
Such was my feeling on your Lordship’s suggestion to me of a _third_
volume of those Sketches, “composed of _similar materials_.” To have
amused you gives me pleasure—to have informed you excites my vanity. My
gratitude for your kindness (when in office) has met no alloy by
retirement from a station where your repute will find no rivals. Your
_suggestion_ is in progress.
Time and declining health impair the vigour of men’s intellect,—in that
point I must bow to Providence. But such as my coming volume may be, if
it does not arrive at my own wishes, I hope it will not stop very short
of your Lordship’s expectation.
I am, my Dear Lord,
With true regard and respect,
Your Lordship’s sincere Servant, &c.
JONAH BARRINGTON.
10th July, 1828.
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