This, however, was necessarily distant.

Many preliminaries must first be settled; many arduous accomplishments be first obtained; and my virtue be subjected to severe trials.

At present it was not in his power to be more explicit; but if my reflections suggested no better plan, he advised me to settle my affairs in Spain, and return to him immediately.

My knowledge of this country would be of the highest use, on the supposition of my ultimately arriving at the honours to which he had alluded; and some of these preparatory measures could be taken only with his assistance, and in his company.
This intimation was eagerly obeyed, and, in a short time, I arrived at Dublin.

Meanwhile my mind had copious occupation in commenting on my friend's letter.