has been the cause of ousting him: and they say--her enemies--that her
conduct is all French. That, I do not believe; although she is likely
to be the dupe of French emigrés, who always beset her.

I doubt much, my dear Emma, even her constancy of real friendship to
you; although, in my letter to Acton, which Mr. Elliot says he read to
her, I mentioned the obligations she was under to you, &c. &c. in very
strong terms.

What could the name of the minister signify! It was the letter which
was wanted to the Prime-Minister.

But, never mind; with prudence, we shall do very well.

I have wrote to Davison, by land: who, I am very sorry for; but, he
never would take a friend's caution, and he has been severely bit.

Your accounts of Merton delight me; and you will long ago have known,
that I have directed the bills for the alterations to be paid. I never
could have intended to have taken it from the hundred pounds a month.

You will not hear of my making prize-money. I have not paid my
expences these last nine months.

I shall expect to eat my Christmas dinner at Merton; unless those
events happen which I can neither foresee nor prevent.

I am not well: and must have rest, for a few months, even should the
country [want me;] which, very likely, they will not. News, I can have
none. April 9th, Leviathan sailed; so government don't care much for