’To MR. THOMAS DAVIES.

’DEAR SIR, I have had, indeed, a very heavy blow; but GOD, who yet spares my life, I humbly hope will spare my understanding, and restore my speech.  As I am not at all helpless, I want no particular assistance, but am strongly affected by Mrs. Davies’s tenderness; and when I think she can do me good, shall be very glad to call upon her.  I had ordered friends to be shut out; but one or two have found the way in; and if you come you shall be admitted:  for I know not whom I can see, that will bring more amusement on his tongue, or more kindness in his heart.  I am, &c.

SAM.  JOHNSON.  June 18, 1783.’

It gives me great pleasure to preserve such a memorial of Johnson’s regard for Mr. Davies, to whom I was indebted for my introduction to him[715].  He indeed loved Davies cordially, of which I shall give the following little evidence.  One day when he had treated him with too much asperity.  Tom, who was not without pride and spirit, went off in a passion; but he had hardly reached home, when Frank, who had been sent after him, delivered this note:—­’Come, come, dear Davies, I am always sorry when we quarrel; send me word that we are friends.’

’To JAMES BOSWELL, ESQ.

DEAR SIR, Your anxiety about my health is very friendly, and very agreeable with your general kindness.  I have, indeed, had a very frightful blow.  On the 17th of last month, about three in the morning, as near as I can guess, I perceived myself almost totally deprived of speech.  I had no pain.  My organs were so obstructed, that I could say no, but could scarcely say yes.  I wrote the necessary directions, for it pleased GOD to spare my hand, and sent for Dr. Heberden and Dr. Brocklesby.  Between the time in which I discovered my own disorder, and that in which I sent for the doctors, I had, I believe, in spite of my surprize and solicitude, a little sleep, and Nature began to renew its operations.  They came, and gave the directions which the disease required, and from that time I have been continually improving in articulation.  I can now speak, but the nerves are weak, and I cannot continue discourse long; but strength, I hope, will return.  The physicians consider me as cured.  I was last Sunday at church.  On Tuesday I took an airing to Hampstead, and dined with THE CLUB[716], where Lord Palmerston was proposed, and, against my opinion, was rejected[717].  I designed to go next week with Mr. Langton to Rochester, where I purpose to stay about ten days, and then try some other air.  I have many kind invitations.  Your brother has very frequently enquired after me.  Most of my friends have, indeed, been very attentive[718].  Thank dear Lord Hailes for his present.

I hope you found at your return every thing gay and prosperous, and your lady, in particular, quite recovered and confirmed.  Pay her my respects.

I am, dear Sir, Your most humble servant, SAM.  JOHNSON.  London, July 3, 1783.’