d--some time ago; but the rest are but indifferent.

"I shall think about your _oratorical_ hint[17];--but I have never
set much upon 'that cast,' and am grown as tired as Solomon of
every thing, and of myself more than any thing. This is being what
the learned call philosophical, and the vulgar lack-a-daisical. I
am, however, always glad of a blessing[18]; pray, repeat yours
soon,--at least your letter, and I shall think the benediction
included.

"Ever," &c.

[Footnote 17: I had endeavoured to persuade him to take a part in
parliamentary affairs, and to exercise his talent for oratory more
frequently.]

[Footnote 18: In concluding my letter, having said "God bless you!" I
added--"that is, if you have no objection."]

* * * * *

LETTER 167. TO MR. DALLAS.

"February 17. 1814.

"The Courier of this evening accuses me of having 'received and
pocketed' large sums for my works. I have never yet received, nor
wish to receive, a farthing for any. Mr. Murray offered a thousand
for The Giaour and Bride of Abydos, which I said was too much, and
that if he could afford it at the end of six months, I would then
direct how it might be disposed of; but neither then, nor at any
other period, have I ever availed myself of the profits on my own
account. For the republication of the Satire I refused four
hundred guineas; and for the previous editions I never asked nor
received a _sous_, nor for any writing whatever. I do not wish you
to do any thing disagreeable to yourself; there never was nor shall
be any conditions nor stipulations with regard to any accommodation
that I could afford you; and, on your part, I can see nothing
derogatory in receiving the copyright. It was only assistance
afforded to a worthy man, by one not quite so worthy.

"Mr. Murray is going to contradict this [19]; but your name will
not be mentioned: for your own part, you are a free agent, and are
to do as you please. I only hope that now, as always, you will
think that I wish to take no unfair advantage of the accidental
opportunity which circumstances permitted me of being of use to
you. Ever," &c.

[Footnote 19: The statement of the Courier, &c.]

* * * * *

In consequence of this letter, Mr. Dallas addressed an explanation to
one of