1728-1729 "POLLY" The success of "The Beggar's Opera" heartened Gay, as a first great success heartens any man.

At once he conceived the idea of following up this triumph with another opera, but, before actually getting to work, he took things easily.

In March he stayed at Cashiobury with Pulteney, visiting from there Lord Bathurst and the Bolingbrokes.

Shortly after he went to Bath, where he found many friends, including Henrietta, Duchess of Marlborough.
JOHN GAY TO DEAN SWIFT.
Bath, May 16th, 1728.
"I have been at the Bath about ten days, and I have played at no game but once, and that at backgammon with Mr.Lewis, who is very much your humble servant.

He is here upon account of the ill state of health of his wife, who has as yet found very little benefit from the waters.