a man whose fortune is very narrow; whatever be his rank by birth, or whatever his reputation by intellectual excellence, what good can he do? or what evil can he prevent?  That he cannot help the needy is evident; he has nothing to spare.  But, perhaps, his advice or admonition may be useful.  His poverty will destroy his influence:  many more can find that he is poor, than that he is wise; and few will reverence the understanding that is of so little advantage to its owner.  I say nothing of the personal wretched-ness of a debtor, which, however, has passed into a proverb[476].  Of riches, it is not necessary to write the praise[477].  Let it, however, be remembered, that he who has money to spare, has it always in his power to benefit others; and of such power a good man must always be desirous.

’I am pleased with your account of Easter[478].  We shall meet, I hope in Autumn, both well and both cheerful; and part each the better for the other’s company.

’Make my compliments to Mrs. Boswell, and to the young charmers.

’I am, &c.

‘SAM.  JOHNSON.’  ‘London, June 3, 1782.’

’To MR. PERKINS[479].

’DEAR SIR,

I am much pleased that you are going a very long journey, which may by proper conduct restore your health and prolong your life.

’Observe these rules: 

1.  Turn all care out of your head as soon as you mount the chaise.

2.  Do not think about frugality; your health is worth more than it can cost.

3.  Do not continue any day’s journey to fatigue.

4.  Take now and then a day’s rest.

5.  Get a smart sea-sickness, if you can.

6.  Cast away all anxiety, and keep your mind easy.

’This last direction is the principal; with an unquiet mind, neither exercise, nor diet, nor physick, can be of much use.

’I wish you, dear Sir, a prosperous journey, and a happy recovery.

I am, dear Sir,

’Your most affectionate, humble servant,

‘SAM.  JOHNSON.’

‘July 28, 1782.’

’To JAMES BOSWELL, ESQ.

’DEAR SIR,

’Being uncertain whether I should have any call this autumn into the country, I did not immediately answer your kind letter.  I have no call; but if you desire to meet me at Ashbourne, I believe I can come thither; if you had rather come to London, I can stay at Streatham; take your choice.

’This year has been very heavy.  From the middle of January to the middle of June I was battered by one disorder after another!  I am now very much recovered, and hope still to be better.  What happiness it is that Mrs. Boswell has escaped.

’My Lives are reprinting, and I have forgotten the authour of Gray’s character[480]:  write immediately, and it may be perhaps yet inserted.

’Of London or Ashbourne you have your free choice; at any place I shall be glad to see you.  I am, dear Sir,