To James Barker, Esq;
S I R,
I AM extremely concerned any accident
should have happened, which makes
it possible I should lose from my neighbourhood
a gentleman of family, of so very
worthy a character, land one I so greatly
esteem: but I hope means may be found
to prevent what would be so extremely
regretted by all who have the pleasure of
knowing you.
As I have always regarded the independent
country gentlemen as the strength and
glory of this kingdom, and the best supports
of our excellent constitution, no increase
of power or property to myself shall
ever tempt me to lessen the number of them,
where it can possibly be avoided. If you
have resolution to enter on so exact a system
of œconomy as will enable you to repay any
sum you may want in seven years, whatever
that sum is, I shall be most happy in
advancing it, and will take it back in the
manner most easy to you. I think I could
trace out a plan by which you might retrench
considerably in a manner scarce perceptible.
I will to-morrow morning call
upon you when I am riding out, when we
will talk further on this subject; be assured,
none of the greedy Leviathans of our days
can feel half the pleasure in compleating a
purchase that I shall do in declining this, if
I can be so happy as to keep you amongst
us. Your accepting this without hesitation,
will be a proof of your esteem
which I can never forget, as it will shew
you think too highly of me to fear my
making an ill use hereafter of having had
the happiness of doing for you what, if
we were to change present situations, I
know you would rejoice in doing for me.
I have a fund, which I call the bank of
friendship, on which it is my rule to take
no interest; and you may command to its
utmost extent.
I am, dear Sir,
Your affectionate friend,
and obedient servant,
Belmont.
