ll allow, that nothing receives infection sooner, or
retains it longer, than blankets, feather-beds, and matrasses - 'Sdeath! how do
I know what miserable objects have been stewing in the bed where I now lie! - I
wonder, Dick, you did not put me in mind of sending for my own matrasses - But,
if I had not been an ass, I should not have needed a remembrancer - There is
always some plaguy reflection that rises up in judgment against me, and ruffles
my spirits - Therefore, let us change the subject -
    I have other reasons for abridging my stay at Bath - You know sister Tabby's
complexion - If Mrs. Tabitha Bramble had been of any other race, I should
certainly have looked upon her as the most - But, the truth is, she has found
means to interest my affection; or, rather, she is beholden to the force of
prejudice, commonly called the ties of blood. Well, this amiable maiden has
actually commenced a flirting correspondence with an Irish baronet of
sixty-five. His name is Sir Ulic Mackilligut. He is said to be much out at
elbows; and, I believe, has received false intelligence with respect to her
fortune. Be that as it may, the connexion is exceedingly ridiculous, and begins
already to excite whispers. For my part, I have no intention to dispute her
free-agency; though I shall fall upon some expedient to undeceive her paramour,
as to the point which he has principally in view. But I don't think her conduct
is a proper example for Liddy, who has also attracted the notice of some
coxcombs in the Rooms; and Jery tells me, he suspects a strapping fellow, the
knight's nephew, of some design upon the girl's heart. I shall, therefore, keep
a strict eye over her aunt and her, and even shift the scene, if I find the
matter grow more serious - You perceive what an agreeable task it must be, to a
man of my kidney, to have the cure of such souls as these - But, hold, you shall
not have another peevish word (till the next occasion) from
yours,
                                                                   MATT. BRAMBLE
    Bath, April 28.
 

                To Sir Watkin Phillips, of Jesus college, Oxon.

Dear Knight,
    I think those people are unreasonable, who complain that Bath is a
contracted circle, in which the same dull scenes perpetually revolve, without
variation - I am, on the contrary, amazed to find so small a place, so crowded
with entertainment and variety.
