pushing on my work through difficulties, of which it is useless to
complain, and have brought it, at last, to the verge of publication,
without one act of assistance, one word of encouragement, or one smile
of favour. Such treatment I did not expect; for I never had a patron
before.

The shepherd in Virgil grew acquainted with love, and found him a
native of the rocks.

Is not a patron, my lord, one who looks with unconcern on a man
struggling for life in the water, and, when he has reached ground,
encumbers him with help? The notice which you have been pleased to
take of my labours, had it been early, had been kind; but it has been
delayed, till I am indifferent, and cannot enjoy it; till I am
solitary, and cannot impart it; till I am known, and do not want it. I
hope it is no very cynical asperity not to confess obligations, where
no benefit has been received; or to be unwilling that the publick
should consider me as owing that to a patron, which providence has
enabled me to do for myself.

Having carried on my work, thus far, with so little obligation to any
favourer of learning, I shall not be disappointed, though I should
conclude it, if less be possible, with less; for I have been long
wakened from that dream of hope, in which I once boasted myself, with
so much exultation,

My lord,
your lordship's most humble
and most obedient servant,
SAMUEL JOHNSON."