In the morning, my uncle was not a
little surprised to receive, from the waiter a billet couched in
these words --
'SIR,
I could easily perceive from your looks, when I had the honour to
converse with you at Hatfield, that my character is not unknown
to you; and, I dare say you won't think it strange, that I should
be glad to change my present way of life, for any other honest
occupation, let it be ever so humble, that will afford me bread
in moderation, and sleep in safety -- Perhaps you may think I
flatter, when I say, that from the moment I was witness to your
generous concern in the cause of your servant, I conceived a
particular esteem and veneration for your person; and yet what I
say is true. I should think myself happy, if I could be admitted
into your protection and service, as house-steward, clerk,
butler, or bailiff, for either of which places I think myself
tolerably well qualified; and, sure I am, I should not be found
deficient in gratitude and fidelity -- At the same time, I am very
sensible how much you must deviate from the common maxims of
discretion, even in putting my professions to the trial; but I
don't look upon you as a person that thinks in the ordinary
stile; and the delicacy of my situation, will, I know, justify
this address to a heart warmed with beneficence and compassion --
Understanding you are going pretty far north, I shall take an
opportunity to throw myself in your way again, before you reach
the borders of Scotland; and, I hope, by that time, you will have
taken into consideration, the truly distressful case of,
honoured sir,
your very humble, and devoted servant,
EDWARD MARTIN'
The 'squire, having perused this letter, put it into my hand,
without saying a syllable; and when I had read it we looked at
each other in silence.
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