The melancholy and long expected event of my father's death happened
last Monday the 12th instant. The expectation itself through the
course of a very painful illness had in some measure prepared me for
it. Yet notwithstanding these just motives of consolation it has
been a very severe shock. The multitude of affairs I find myself so
suddenly involved in, will not allow me to say when I can hope to
wait on you, or indeed what portion of the Winter I shall be able
to spend in town. I must however go there next week on particular
business. I should think myself very lucky, if, during my stay (which
will be about ten days) anything should call you to London. I shall
be in my old Lodgings opposite to the Duke of Cumberland's, Pall Mall.
Believe me, my dear Holroyd,
Most sincerely yours,
E. GIBBON.
86.
_To his Stepmother._
Pall Mall, November 26th, 1770.