He has engaged to translate the Odyssey in three years, I believe rather out of a prospect of gain than inclination, for I am persuaded he bore his part in the loss of the South Sea.

I supped about a fortnight ago with Lord Bathurst and Lewis at Dr.Arbuthnot's."[9] * * * * * During the summer of 1723 Gay, still troubled with the colic, went to Tunbridge Wells, where he carried on a vigorous correspondence with Mrs.
Howard.
THE HON.MRS.HOWARD TO JOHN GAY.
Richmond Lodge, July 5th, 1723.
"I was very sorry to hear, when I returned from Greenwich, that you had been at Richmond the same day; but I really thought you would have ordered your affairs in such a manner that I should have seen you before you went to Tunbridge.

I dare say you are now with your friends, but not with one who more sincerely wishes to see you easy and happy than I do; if my power was equal to theirs the matter should soon be determined.
"I am glad to hear you frequent the church.

You cannot fail of being often put in mind of the great virtue of patience, and how necessary that may be for you to practise I leave to your own experience.

I applaud your prudence (for I hope it is entirely owing to it) that you have no money at Tunbridge.