My dear Sir,—I received your letter yesterday evening on my return from town, where I have been for these ten days past, giving myself up ‘à tous les diables’ of Paternoster Row. I corrected a proof sheet before I left town, so you may imagine the nervousness of my situation, as they say I must be out early in May. Do pray to your friends the Muses for my safe deliverance. Nothing could give me greater pleasure than the visit you propose, but every moment here will be occupied till our departure, which must be on Tuesday next. I am desired, however, by my friend, Mr. John Cooper (with whom we are housed at present), to say that it will make him most happy to see you here to a dinner and a bed on Monday next, and I most anxiously hope you will accept of his invitation, as it is the only chance I shall have of seeing you for Heaven knows how long. Pray come, and come early that we may have a walk and talk together. I have had four or five letters from Lord Byron within these two months past. He is now at Venice, and speaks much and warmly in his letters about you.
