Johnson took in behalf of a distressed and deserving person. I
am, Sir,
'Your most obedient humble servant,
'W. VYSE.'
'DR. JOHNSON TO MR. EDWARD DILLY[375].
'SIR,
'To the collection of _English Poets_, I have recommended the volume of
Dr. Watts to be added; his name has long been held by me in
veneration[376], and I would not willingly be reduced to tell of him only
that he was born and died. Yet of his life I know very little, and
therefore must pass him in a manner very unworthy of his character,
unless some of his friends will favour me with the necessary
information; many of them must be known to you; and by your influence,
perhaps I may obtain some instruction. My plan does not exact much; but
I wish to distinguish Watts, a man who never wrote but for a good
purpose. Be pleased to do for me what you can.
'I am, Sir, your humble servant,
'SAM. JOHNSON.'
'Bolt-Court, Fleet-street,
July 7, 1777.'
'To DR. SAMUEL JOHNSON.
'Edinburgh, July 15, 1777.
'MY DEAR SIR,
'The fate of poor Dr. Dodd made a dismal impression upon my mind.
* * * * *
'I had sagacity enough to divine that you wrote his speech to the
Recorder, before sentence was pronounced.
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