LETTER XXV.

TO MR JACOB TONSON.

MR TONSON, Wednesday, [f. Dec. 1697.]

I have broken off my studies from the “Conquest of China,”[134] to review Virgil, and bestowed nine entire days upon him. You may have the printed copy you sent me to-morrow morning, if you will come for it yourself; for the printer is a beast, and understands nothing I can say to him of correcting the press. Dr Chetwood[135] claims my promise of the Ode on St Cecilia’s Day, which I desire you to send to him (according to the Parliament phrase) forthwith. My wife says you have broken your promise about the picture, and desires it speedily; the rest I will tell you when you come.

Yours,

JOHN DRYDEN.