Chapter 75

CHARLES LAMB TO WILLIAM GODWIN

Dec. 10th, 1800. Wednesday Morning.

Dear Sir,--I expected a good deal of pleasure from your company to-morrow, but I am sorry I must beg of you to excuse me. I have been confined ever since I saw you with one of the severest colds I ever experienced, occasioned by being in the night air on Sunday, and on the following day, very foolishly. I am neither in health nor spirits to meet company. I hope and trust I shall get out on Saturday night. You will add to your many favours, by transmitting to me as early as possible as many tickets as conveniently you can spare,--Yours truly,

C. L.

I have been plotting how to abridge the Epilogue. But I cannot see that any lines can be spared, retaining the connection, except these two, which are better out.

"Why should I instance, &c., The sick man's purpose, &c.,"

and then the following line must run thus,

"The truth by an example best is shown."

Excuse this _important_ postscript.