NUSSDORF, July 23, 1817.

MY DEAR GOOD ZMESKALL,--

I shall soon see you again in town. What is the proper price for fronting a
pair of boots? I have to pay my servant for this, who is always running
about.

I am really in despair at being condemned by my defective hearing to pass
the greater part of my life with this most odious class of people, and to
be in some degree dependent on them. To-morrow, early, my servant will call
on you, and bring me back a _sealed answer_.


238.

TO ZMESKALL.

August 12, 1817.

MY DEAR GOOD Z.,--

I heard of your indisposition with great regret. As for myself, I am often
in despair, and almost tempted to put an end to my life, for all these
remedies seem to have no end. May God have compassion on me, for I look
upon myself to be as good as lost! I have a great deal to say to you. That
this servant is a _thief_, I cannot doubt--he must be sent away; my health
requires living _at home_ and greater comfort. I shall be glad to have your
opinion on this point. If my condition is not altered, instead of being in
London I shall probably be in my grave. I thank God that the thread of my