The Essays of "George Eliot": CompleteEliot, George
History
The Essays of "George Eliot": Complete
Eliot, George
Literature -- History and criticism
“My ancient gentleman here is still full of trouble, which moves my
concern, though it moves only the secret laughter of many, and some
untoward surmises in disfavor of him and his household. The loss of
a very large sum of money (about 200_l._) is talked of; whereof this
vill and neighborhood is full. Some disbelieve; others says, ‘_It is
no wonder_, _where about eighteen or more servants are sometimes
taken and dismissed in the course of a year_.’ The gentleman himself
is allowed by all to be far more harmless and easy in his family than
some one else who hath too much the lead in it. This, among others,
was one reason for my late motion to quit.”
No other mention of Young’s affairs occurs until April 2d, 1765, when he
says that Dr. Young is very ill, attended by two physicians.
“Having mentioned this young gentleman (Dr. Young’s son), I would
acquaint you next, that he came hither this morning, having been sent
for, as I am told, by the direction of Mrs. Hallows. Indeed, she
intimated to me as much herself. And if this be so, I must say, that
it is one of the most prudent Acts she ever did, or could have done
in such a case as this; as it may prove a means of preventing much
confusion after the death of the Doctor. I have had some little
discourse with the son: he seems much affected, and I believe really
is so. He earnestly wishes his father might be pleased to ask after
him; for you must know he has not yet done this, nor is, in my
opinion, like to do it. And it has been said farther, that upon a
late application made to him on the behalf of his son, he desired
that no more might be said to him about it. How true this may be I
cannot as yet be certain; all I shall say is, it seems not improbable
. . . I heartily wish the ancient man’s heart may prove tender toward
his son; _though_, _knowing him so well_, _I can scarce hope to hear
such desirable news_.”
Eleven days later he writes:
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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