LETTER XXXIV.

TO MRS STEWARD.

MADAM, Tuesday, July the 11th, [1699.]

As I cannot accuse myself to have receiv’d any letters from you without answer, so, on the other side, I am oblig’d to believe it, because you say it. ’Tis true, I have had so many fitts of sickness, and so much other unpleasant business, that I may possibly have receiv’d those favours, and deferr’d my acknowledgment till I forgot to thank you for them. However it be, I cannot but confess, that never was any unanswering man so civilly reproach’d by a fair lady. I presum’d to send you word by your sisters[156] of the trouble I intended you this summer; and added a petition, that you would please to order some small beer to be brew’d for me without hops, or with a very inconsiderable quantity; because I lost my health last year by drinking bitter beer at Tichmarsh. It may perhaps be sour, but I like it not the worse, if it be small enough. What els I have to request, is onely the favour of your coach, to meet me at Oundle, and to convey me to you: of which I shall not fail to give you timely notice. My humble service attends my cousin Stewart and your relations at Oundle. My wife and sonn desire the same favour; and I am particularly,

Madam,

Your most obedient servant,

JOHN DRYDEN.

_For Mrs Stewart, etc._