the last. You shall feel all the torments of the damned and become inured
to the scorching flames of hell! But, as recompense, the splendors of the
Celestial Kingdom shall open upon your inward vision, and your soul shall
behold that which the eyes of earth have lost. Something great and proud
shall go out from your presence to all the discerning ones who shall
approach you; and your end shall be like the setting of the sun, bright,
calm, poised and resplendent.




SAMUEL JOHNSON

* * * Seven years, my Lord, have now passed since I waited in
your outward rooms and was repulsed from your door; during which
time I have been 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 favor. Such treatment I did not
expect, for I never had a patron before.

The shepherd in Vergil grew at last 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 the
ground encumbers him with help? The notice which you have been
pleased to take of my labors, had it been early, had been kind;
but it has been delayed till I am indifferent, and can not enjoy
it; till I am a solitary, and can not impart it; till I am known,