_A letter about apprenticing a lad to Mr. Strahan, and about a
presentation to the Blue Coat School, dated December 22_, 1774. [In
the possession of Messrs. Robson and Kerslake, 25, Coventry Street
Haymarket.]
'Sir,
'When we meet we talk, and I know not whether I always recollect what
I thought I had to say.
'You will please to remember that I once asked you to receive an
apprentice, who is a scholar, and has always lived in a clergyman's
house, but who is mishapen, though I think not so as to hinder him
at the case. It will be expected that I should answer his Friend
who has hitherto maintained him, whether I can help him to a place.
He can give no money, but will be kept in cloaths.
'I have another request which it is perhaps not immediately in your
power to gratify. I have a presentation to beg for the blue coat
hospital. The boy is a non-freeman, and has both his parents living.
We have a presentation for a freeman which we can give in exchange.
If in your extensive acquaintance you can procure such an exchange,
it will be an act of great kindness. Do not let the matter slip out
of your mind, for though I try others I know not any body of so much
power to do it.
'I am, Sir, Your most humble Servant,
'SAM. JOHNSON.'
'Dec. 22, 1774.'
The apprentice was young William Davenport, the orphan son of a clergyman.
His friend was the Rev. W. Langley, the master of Ashbourne School.
Strahan received him as an apprentice (_ante_, ii. 334, n. i). See also
Nichols' _Literary Anecdotes_, vol. iii. p. 287.
The 'case' is the frame containing boxes for holding type.