I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.
107.
To his Stepmother
Pall Mall, June the 1st, 1771.
Dear Madam,
I have deferred writing to you for some posts, in expectation of hearing of Mrs. Eliott's visit, who I find from Mr. E – was still with you on Tuesday. The hour of eleven (the common excuse) only allows me time to say that I am well, and propose being at Beriton in eight or ten days.
I hope the eternal Bricknall is not idle, and must intreat you to quicken him. If Mrs. E. is still with you, I beg you would present my love and compliments. I am this instant come from a very agreeable dinner in Spring Gardens.
I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.
108.
To his Stepmother
June 11th, 1771.
Dear Madam,
I know you will excuse short letters, and that you are persuaded that the expression of my love and regard are very unnecessary. It was my intention to have been at Beriton next Sunday, but the Scotch affair of Mr. Lockwood & myself has just intervened. The final Deeds I have sent to King's Cliffe this post, nor can I leave town till Mrs. Eliott has returned them from Cornwall. I hope that before Sunday Sevennight, I may have the pleasure of assuring you how truly
I am, your
E. G.
109.
To his Stepmother
Pall Mall, Saturday Evening, June 22nd, 1771.
Dear Madam,
Mrs. Hester Gibbon makes some very unmeaning difficulties about signing the Scotch Papers. I hope notwithstanding that Mr. Lockwood will be able to clear these up to her, and that it will be in my power, as it really is in my inclination, to dine at Beriton next Thursday. Unless you have any objection to it, I propose inviting Mr. Scott, as his company may be agreeable, and his advice of use to us.
I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.
Your Commissions shall be taken care of.
110.
To his Stepmother
Pall Mall, June 25th, 1771.
Dear Madam,
I only write two lines to desire that you would not be surprized if you do not see me Thursday. I have neglected so many little things that I fear they will require another day. Friday you may depend on seeing or hearing from me. I hope the former, as I am extremely desirous of being at Beriton.
Most truly yours,
E. G.
111.
To his Stepmother
Sheffield Place, August the 2nd, 1771.
Dear Madam,
MR. HOLROYD AT BERITON.
I got here Tuesday Evening, and find great satisfaction in a pleasant place, and a friend's Company. According to the present plan, we, family and all go to Brighthelmstone next Sunday. From thence Holroyd and myself shall set off and arrive at Beriton, Wednesday, or more probably Thursday. Should anything on his side occasion any further delay, I will apprize you of it by Wednesday's post.
I hope Mr. Scott is arrived in good health and good spirits. Present him with my best Compliments and every proper Apology, for my running away at the very time when we expected his Company.
I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. Gibbon.
112.
To J. B. Holroyd, Esq
August 18th, 1771.
Dear Holroyd,
I am glad you are returned. I detest your races. I abhor your assizes. Supposing therefore that all will be ended, and you at Sheffield place again by Saturday the 27th instant, I propose being with you, the Wednesday or Thursday following, with a design of passing a few days in your chateau, and from thence, bringing you away in triumph to my cottage. Till when we bid you heartily farewell.
Gibbon.
113.
To his Stepmother
1771.
Dear Madam,