"January 11. 1814.
"Correct this proof by Mr. Gifford's (and from the MSS.),
particularly as to the _pointing_. I have added a section for
_Gulnare_, to fill up the parting, and dismiss her more
ceremoniously. If Mr. Gifford or you dislike, 'tis but a _sponge_
and another midnight better employed than in yawning over Miss * *;
who, by the by, may soon return the compliment.
"Wednesday or Thursday.
"P.S. I have redde * *. It is full of praises of Lord
Ellenborough!!! (from which I infer near and dear relations at the
bar), and * * * *.
"I do not love Madame de Staël; but, depend upon it, she beats all
your natives hollow as an authoress, in my opinion; and I would not
say this if I could help it.
"P.S. Pray report my best acknowledgments to Mr. Gifford in any
words that may best express how truly his kindness obliges me. I
won't bore him with _lip_ thanks or _notes_."
* * * * *