3036. Robert Southey to John Rickman, 6 November 1817⁠* 

My dear R.

Thank you for your letter. [1]  You have I think made me clearly comprehend the subject; (one of those, as you must needs know, not very congenial to my mind) – its importance is self-evident, – & I hope I shall be able to place the matter in a clear point of view, & play the battery with effect. [2] Murray has sent down Davisons pamphlett, [3]  I just looked at his plan, which he himself would acknowledge to be much inferior to yours if he saw them compared; – & I sufferd D^r Bell to take it in his pocket last night to his lodgings. Davison however is a good ally. – The beginning is always the most difficult part of any composition with me, – I must beat about for one without delay, & when that is accomplished the work will go on smoothly & steadily.

I am holding my course as steadily as an East India-man in the track of the trade winds; & God willing shall make great way during the winter.

This General Craufurd has sent me some pamphletts de pauperibus [4]  &c, – & the letter is to express my thanks in course.

Warner [5]  has procured for me a printed account of the Bath Institution, which I will send you when next I write. [6]  The scheme is well meant, & well patronized, but likely (I think) to fall to pieces for want of cement. – I must ask him some questions which he says the Lady President [7]  will readily answer.

You have been a friend in deed (as the proverb has it) to R Lovell. The lad has a right spirit, & will do well, – the better for his difficulties. I do not doubt of his success in life, & when the time comes will do my utmost to promote it. The prospect is very different where there is neither the same spirit nor the same steadiness, but a pride of the wrong sort instead, & that too in close alliance with inordinate vanity. [8]  You will understand me. In this case I can do nothing – & can neither look on with comfort, nor forward with hope.

Remember us most kindly to M^rs R.

God bless you

RS.

6 Nov. 1817.