Autobiography, a Collection of the Most Instructive and Amusing Lives Ever Published (Volume 15,pt. 2) - Softcover
Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1827. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... equally publications; and has Mr Gibbon never thought himself at liberty to shew r. copy of a letter to a third person? Mr Gibbon may easily escape all further altercation by discontinuing this mutually disagreeable correspondence, by leaving Dr Priestley to act as his own discretion or indiscretion may dictate; and for this himself only, and not Mr Gibbon, is responsible. . No. CXXXVIII. Mr Gibbon To Lord Thurlow. My Lord, Without presuming to inquire into the state of public measures, which must be secret in order to be successful, I cannot but observe and congratulate, with the rest of my countrymen, the fair prospect of peace, or at least of negociation, which seems to be opening upon us. I find it generally understood that the principal conduct of this important event will be entrusted to a minister whose eminent abilities have been long tried and distinguished. But a scene of business so various and extensive must afford several collateral and subordinate lines of negociation. If in any of these I should be thought qualified for public trust, I am ready to devote my time and my best industry to the service of my country, and shall think myself happy if I can discharge, in any degree, my debt of gratitude to his majesty's government. Your lordship's experience of mankind has undoubtedly taught you to distrust and dislike ostentatious professions; yet I may affirm with the confidence of truth that, if I consulted only my private interest and inclination, I should not be lightly tempted to interrupt the tranquillity and leisure which I now enjoy, and in which I am never busy and never idle. The grateful recollection of your lordship's indulgence on a former occasion has strongly solicited me to make this offer of my services. I should deem it no vulg...
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