The Versification of Joseph Brodskii, 1993

A Headmaster’s Correspondence 1754–1756

“…66 If I look out of my window I see such varied scenes of woods, hills, rocks, gardens & serpentine walks that I cannot help wishing Mr. Thorpe 67 & his scollars were here to draw the landscape & flourish off a description w ch woud entertain you much better than I am able to do & woud certainly find a place amidst ye ornaments & decorations of Mr. Smith's next finion-performances. 68 My Doctor having or seeming to have a greater judgement in Physiognomy than most other of my Acquaintance, orders me not to apply myself to study w ch makes me not know wt to do, & I long for Mr. Cole's Cebetis Tabulae or Church's Aesopi Fabulae to help me pass my time & bear patiently the want of your good company. 69 All ye connoisseurs promise me so good effects from ye waters that I shall be forced wn I return to beg you will let me join yours w th ye vacancies that are to follow that I may be sure to have good cheer enough to satisfie the demands of a voracious appetite.…”