Your correspondent has given a graphic description of our great
lexicographer and his two associates, Savage and Boswell, all three
of whom, he says, met at Johnson's house in Bolt Court, and discussed
subjects of polite literature; whereas his acquaintance with Boswell began
only in 1763, and Savage died in Bristol, in 1742. The work Johnson wrote,
at the time of compiling the Dictionary, was the "Rambler," and not the
"Guardian," as your correspondent asserts. The latter was the joint
production of Addison and Steele.

The principal events of the Doctor's life are well known; and it is
interesting and not uninstructive to contemplate this master-spirit
struggling with the vicissitudes of fortune, and depending frequently for
his next meal, on the resources of his genius, till his merit became
known. View him and his cotemporary, Garrick, travelling to London
together, mere adventurers, with many plans in their heads, and very
little money in their pockets; we see them both rising to the pinnacle of
fame; one the majestic teacher of moral virtue, and the other delighting
by the versatility of his histrionic powers. Go one step further. They are
consigned to the tomb, and these men, whom friendship had united whilst
living, death has not divided. Near Shakspeare's monument, in Westminster
Abbey, they lie interred side by side. Of Garrick it has been said, "that
the gaiety of nations was eclipsed at his death," and of Johnson we may
truly say he has given "ardour to virtue and confidence to truth."

HEN. B.

* * * * *


ON GOOD AND EVIL DAYS.