Chapter 102

CHARLES LAMB TO THOMAS MANNING

[Not dated. ? February, 1825.]

My dear M.,--You might have come inopportunely a week since, when we had an inmate. At present and for as long as _ever_ you like, our castle is at your service. I saw Tuthill yesternight, who has done for me what may

"To all my nights and days to come, Give solely sovran sway and masterdom."

But I dare not hope, for fear of disappointment. I cannot be more explicit at present. But I have it under his own hand, that I am _non_-capacitated (I cannot write it _in_-) for business. O joyous imbecility! Not a susurration of this to _anybody!_

Mary's love.

C. LAMB.

[Lamb had just taken a most momentous step in his career and had consulted Tuthill as to his health, in the hope of perhaps obtaining release and a pension from the East India House. We learn more of this soon.

Here might come two brief notes to Dibdin, of no importance.]