I received them trembling, and read what follows: 'To Mr.Roger Potion 'Sir, 'This is to let you know that I have quitted the Thunder man of war, being obliged to sheer off for killing my captain, which I did fairly on the beach, at Cape Tiberoon, in the Island of Hispaniola; having received his fire and returned it, which went through his body: and I would serve the best man so that ever stepped between stem and stern, if so be that he struck me, as Captain Oakum did.

I am (thank God) safe among the French, who are very civil, thof I don't understand their lingo; and I hope to be restored in a little time, for all the great friends and parliamentary interest of the captain, for I have sent over to my landlord in Deal an account of the whole affair, with our bearings and distances while we were engaged, whereby I have desired him to lay it before his majesty, who (God bless him) will not suffer an honest tar to be wronged.

My love to your spouse, and am your loving friend and servant to command, while 'Thomas Bowling,' 'To Roderick Random 'Dear Rory, 'Don't be grieved at my misfortune, but mind your book, my lad.

I have got no money to send you, but what of that?
Mr.Potion will take care of you for the love he bears to me, and let you want for nothing; and it shall go hard but I will see him one day repaid.

No more at present, but rests 'Your dutiful uncle 'and servant, till death, 'Thomas Bowling.' This letter (which, with the other, was dated from Port Lonis, in Hispaniola) I had no sooner read than the apothecary, shaking his head, began: "I have a very great regard for Mr.Bowling that's certain; and could be well content--but times are very hard.