Without reproaching you for your silence (which would indeed be the
height of assurance) give me leave to inform you of a piece of news,
with regard to which I am sure you will share my very agreeable
feelings. Mr. Eliot has in the most liberal manner assured me a seat
in Parliament, an event which changes the colour of my whole future
life. After such intelligence I could add nothing but what would be
flat and insipid.
I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.
214.
_To J. B. Holroyd, Esq._
24th Sept., 1774.
As the matter admitted of no delay, and the paper was anonymous, it
went by this morning's coach. Otherwise I am a great friend to County
meetings & resolutions to abide by their sense. They form a happy
medium between the Juntas of Grandees in town, and the Mob-archy
of the rout of freeholders, and preserve _the peace of the County_
without sacrificing its independence. Moreover, I do not comprehend
your plot---- You are totally in the wrong in not coming to town.
Does the Bath journey hold? Mrs. G. grows impatient, but it will
most wonderfully delay the fall of the Roman Empire. I gave your
holy paper, and reasonable request to Caplin. He graciously promised
to consider of it. Clarke is infinitely better, town very lively.
Dine next Tuesday at Atwood's with Duke of Portland, &c. Smythe is
sensible, for he agrees with me, and I hope September 24th, 1774, has
tranquillized you.
[Sidenote: DISSOLUTION AND GENERAL ELECTION.]
215.
_To his Stepmother._
Bentinck Street, Oct. 4th, 1774.