TO THE

RIGHT HONOURABLE JAMES CRAGGS, ESQ.

HIS MAJESTY'S PRINCIPAL SECRETARY OF STATE.

I

DEAR SIR,

CANNOT wish that any of my writings should laft longer than the memory of our friendship; and, therefore, I thus publicly bequeath them to you, in return for the many valuable inftances of your affection.

That they may come to you with as little disadvantage as poffible, I have left the care of them to one, whom, by the experience of fome years, I know well qualified to anfwer my intentions. He has already the honour and happiness of being under your protection; and, as he will very much stand in need of it, I cannot wish him better, than that he may continue to deferve the favour and countenance of such a patron.

I have no time to lay out in forming fuch compliments, as would but ill fuit that familiarity between us, which was once my greatest pleasure, and will be my greatest honour hereafter. Instead of them, accept of my hearty wishes, that the great reputation you have acquired so early, may

* Mr. Tickell.

increase more and more: and that you may long serve your country with those excellent talents, and unblemished integrity, which have fo powerfully recommended you to the most gracious and amiable Monarch that ever filled a throne. May the franknefs and generosity of your spirit continue to soften and fubdue your enemies, and gain you many friends, if poffible, as fincere as yourself. When you have found fuch, they cannot wish you more true happiness than I, who am, with the greatest zeal,

Dear SIR,

Your most entirely affectionate friend,

and faithful obedient fervant,

June 4, 1719.

J. ADDISON.