104.--To Francis Hodgson.


Newstead Abbey, Notts., Nov. 27, 1808.


My Dear Sir,--Boatswain [1] is to be buried in a vault waiting for
myself. I have also written an epitaph, which I would send, were it
not for two reasons: one is, that it is too long for a letter; and the
other, that I hope you will some day read it on the spot where it will
be engraved.

You discomfort me with the intelligence of the real orthodoxy of the
Arch-fiend's name, [2] but alas! it must stand with me at present; if
ever I have an opportunity of correcting, I shall liken him to
Geoffrey of Monmouth, a noted liar in his way, and perhaps a more
correct prototype than the Carnifex of James II.

I do not think the composition of your poem "a sufficing reason" for
not keeping your promise of a Christmas visit. Why not come? I will
never disturb you in your moments of inspiration; and if you wish to
collect any materials for the _scenery_?,[3] Hardwicke (where Mary was
confined for several years) is not eight miles distant, and,
independent of the interest you must take in it as her vindicator, is
a most beautiful and venerable object of curiosity. I shall take it
very ill if you do not come; my mansion is improving in comfort, and,
when you require solitude, I shall have an apartment devoted to the