_Parson_ TICKLETEXT _to Parson_ OLIVER.
_Dear SIR_,
I Have read over the History of _Shamela_, as it appears in those
authentick Copies you favour'd me with, and am very much ashamed of
the Character, which I was hastily prevailed on to give that Book. I
am equally angry with the pert Jade herself, and with the Author of
her Life: For I scarce know yet to whom I chiefly owe an Imposition,
which hath been so general, that if Numbers could defend me from
Shame, I should have no Reason to apprehend it.
As I have your implied Leave to publish, what you so kindly sent me,
I shall not wait for the Originals, as you assure me the Copies are
exact, and as I am really impatient to do what I think a serviceable
Act of Justice to the World.
Finding by the End of her last Letter, that the little Hussy was in
Town, I made it pretty much my Business to enquire after her, but
with no effect hitherto: As soon as I succeed in this Enquiry, you
shall hear what Discoveries I can learn. You will pardon the
Shortness of this Letter, as you shall be troubled with a much longer
very soon: And believe me,
_Dear Sir_,
_Your most faithful Servant_,