and having given two empresses to Germany. I have not forgot to
drink your health here in mum, which I think very well deserves its
reputation of being the best in the world. This letter is the third
I have writ to you during my journey; and I declare to you, that if
you don't send me immediately a full and true account of all the
changes and chances among our London acquaintance, I will not write
you any description of Hanover (where I hope to be to-night) though I
know you have more curiosity to hear of that place than any other.

LET. XVII.

TO THE COUNTESS OF B----.

_Hanover, Nov_. 25. O. S. 1716.

I RECEIVED your ladyship's letter, but the day before I left Vienna,
though, by the date, I ought to have had it much sooner; but nothing
was ever worse regulated than the post in most parts of Germany.
I can assure you, the pacquet at Prague was behind my chaise, and in
that manner conveyed to Dresden, so that the secrets of half the
country were at my mercy, if I had had any curiosity for them. I
would not longer delay my thanks for yours, though the number of my
acquaintances here, and my duty of attending at court, leave me
hardly any time to dispose of. I am extremely pleased that I can
tell you, without flattery or partiality, that our young prince
[Footnote: The father of his present Majesty.] has all the
accomplishments that 'tis possible to have at his age, with an air of
sprightliness and understanding, and something so very engaging and
easy in his behaviour, that he needs not the advantage of his rank to
appear charming. I had the honour of a long conversation with him