LETTER 1
TO SEPTICIUS
You have frequently pressed me to make a select collection of my Letters (if there be any which show some literary finish) and give tbem to the public. I have accordingly done so; not indeed in their proper order of time, for I was not compiling a history; but just as they presented themselves to my bands. And now it remains to wish that neither you may have occasion to repent of your advice, nor I of my compliance. If so, I may probably inquire after the rest, which at present lie neglected, and not withhold those I shall hereafter write. Farewell.