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To Agnes McLehose (Clarinda)

Sunday noon (27th January 1788) 

I have almost given up the excise idea.-I have been just now to wait on a great person, Miss Nimmo's friends, Mrs Stewart.-Why will Great people not only deafen us with the din of their equipage, and dazzle us with their fastidious pomp, but they must also be so very dictatorially wise? I have been question'd like a child about my matters, and blamed and schooled for my Inscription of Stirling window.-Come, Clarinda-"Come, curse me Jacob; come, defy me Israel!."

 Sunday Night 

I have been with Miss Nimmo. She is indeed, "a good soul," as my Clarinda finely says.-She has reconciled me, in a good measure, to the world, with her friendly prattle.- 

Schetki has sent me the song, set to a fine air of his composing.-I have called the song, Clarinda: I have carried it about in my pocket, and thumbed it over all day.- 

I trust you have spent a pleasant day: and that no idea or recollection of me gives you pain.- 

Monday morning- 

If my prayers have any weight in Heaven, this morning looks in on you and find you in the arms of peace; except where it is charmingly interrupted by the ardours of Devotion.- 

I find so much serenity of mind, sop much positive pleasure so much fearless daring toward the world, when I warm in devotion, or feel the glorious sensation, a consciousness of Almighty Friendship, that I am sure I shall soon be a honest Enthusiast-

 "How are Thy servants blest, O Lord,
 How sure is their defence! 
Eternal wisdom is their guide, 
Their help Omnipotence!" 

I am, my dear Madam,
 yours,
 Sylvander


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