an, who was a farmer,
that, having paid my last duty to my parent, I had now no attachment
to detain me in the country, and therefore was resolved to set out
for London, and offer my play to the stage, where I did not doubt of
acquiring a large share of fame as well as fortune; in which case I
should not be unmindful of my friends and benefactors. My cousin was
ravished with the prospect of my felicity, and willingly contributed
towards the expense of fitting me out for my expedition.

"Accordingly I took a place in the waggon, and arrived in town, where I
hired an apartment in a garret, willing to live as frugally as possible,
until I should know what I had to expect from the manager, to whom I
intended to offer my play. For, though I looked upon myself as perfectly
secure of a good reception, imagining that a patentee would be as eager
to receive as I to present my production, I did not know whether or not
he might be pre-engaged in favour of another author, a circumstance
that would certainly retard my success. On this consideration, too, I
determined to be speedy in my application, and even to wait upon one of
the managers the very next day. For this purpose, I inquired my landlord
if he knew where either or both of them lived: and he, being curious
to know my business, and at the same time appearing to be a very honest
friendly man (a tallow chandler), I made him acquainted with my design,
upon which he told me that I went the wrong way to work; that I would
not find such easy access to a manager as I imagined; and that if I
delivered my performance without proper recommendation, it would be as
one to a thousand if ever it would be minded. "Take my advice," said he,
"and your business is done. One of the patentees is a good catholic,
as I am, and uses the same father who confesses me. I will make you
acquainted with this good priest, who is an excellent scholar, and if he
should approve of your play, his recommendation will go a great way
in determining Mr. Supple to bring it on the stage." I applauded his
expedient, and was introduced to the friar, who, having perused the
tragedy, was pleased to signify his approbation, and commended me in
particular for having avoided all reflections upon religion. He promised
to use all his influence with his son Supple in my behalf, and to inform
himself that very day at what time it was proper for me to wait upon him
with the piece. He was punctual in performing his engagement,