74. Robert Southey to Grosvenor Charles Bedford, [before 18 December 1793] ⁠* 

Grosvenor this very shabby paper but I am in a hurry. past two o clock — off at three for Bristol & must pack up.

I have found out a friend for us. he has a letter for you. when I wrote it I was not <so> well acquainted with his merit. you will probably see him this week. Mr Lovell Mr Bedford &c. you are introduced.

my dear Grosvenor do see him. he will show you some incomparable poems <with> which I have been delighting myself for this last two hours. & now we are a triumvirate. & now for a paper! ecce iterum Gualbertus.  [1]  & volumes of poems. NB. he is very moderate in democracy & no politician in poetry. so you two must curb me.

do not hesitate & think of propriety & reserve. Lovell is going to marry a very amiable woman. you know you & I have but one mind. & as I have approved of him of course you will. now you should have a good ode if I had time.

you will pardon my freedom in introducing you. or you will thank me.

show him the Witch of Endor [2]  &c. you will not quarrel upon any subject. not even upon our old stumbling block.

now God bless you. I hope to find a letter. make my respects to all your good family.

yrs most sincerely

R Southey.

who would think we should find a third! now for home & no dinner — but I will feed on thought & the belly ache.