derived from the happiness of those around her, must have the effect by degrees of turning her mind from the memory of what she has lost to the contemplation of what still remains to her. Mrs. Windham and I regretted not a little the absence of Miss H- 9 as well on her account, if indeed on that account it was to be regretted, as from the consolation and aid which she might have afforded to Mrs. HHer own situation, left to herself, was in fact truly pitiable, though free from every sentiment of self-reproach, which people on such occasions are so apt to conceive, as having been absent by any want of prudence or foresight, or by any act which she could attribute to herself. "Most deeply are we interested in the welfare of all that remains of the family, and have heard, therefore, with no small satisfaction, what I hope is a true representation of the present and probable future situation of your affairs. Mrs. Windham has forborne to write to Mrs. H knowing that such a letter could convey nothing but what Mrs. Hwould feel already assured of, and depending upon my writing to you which she supposes me, indeed, to have done long since. I have been, in like manner, little anxious about writing, from a full conviction that you would never doubt for a moment how I felt upon this occasion, either with respect to your father, whom I loved and valued beyond most men I ever knew, or with respect to those whom he loved and valued; yourself, my dear Sir, in the first instance, whom I have always considered as the genuine representative of your father's virtues. Every sentiment of affection and attachment which the merits, as well as kindness, of each individual of your family claim so strongly from Mrs. Windham and myself, must be enhanced by the memory of what we felt for your father, and of what he proved so amply that he had the goodness to feel for us. "With my mind full of such a subject, I cannot bring myself to touch on any other, and therefore can only request you to receive and convey to Mrs. H and all your family, the assurance of our most affectionate regards, and to believe me to be, dear Sir, "Your sincere and unalterable friend, " W. WINDHAM." The Writer of the foregoing Narrative is happy to avail himself of the permission which has been obligingly given to him by J. COURTENAY, Esq. (a gentleman with whom Mr. Windham maintained a long and valued friendship) to lay before the Reader the following CONGRATULATORY ADDRESSED TO ODE, WILLIAM WINDHAM, ESQ. OF FELBRIGG, NORFOLK, ON HIS RECOVERY FROM A DANGEROUS FIT OF ILLNESS, * Mr. Windham had very lately distinguished himself by a II. Again, he'll shine in bloom of youth, Let the same skill + our WINDHAM save, That snatch'd a GLO'STER + from the grave; III. When anxious fears the mind deprest, Of thee, my Friend, alone we speak, And on each visage low'rs. IV. For you, the timid, blushing Maid, Love every accent wings: But now she tunes her grateful voice, While rapture wakes the strings. wich, in support of the American War. He set off the night before from Mr. Sheridan's house, and just arrrived in time to attend the Meeting. For an account of the illness from which Mr. Windham had recovered, see page 10 of the preceding Narrative. ED. + His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester, who had lately been attended by Dr. Jebb. V. Again, in social circles gay,. While brilliant fancy glows; A double lustre throws. VI. O! born to bless the common weal; To emulate a KEPPEL'S zeal, In naval annals bright; When each indignant sailor rav'd, VII. Oft have I seen thy spirit rise, Oft mark'd the lightning of thine eyes, Ardent, proud Freedom's sword to wield, To lead her offspring to the field, And like a HAMPDEN shine. VIII: Again, we'll turn the classic page, And soars above controul; Then Liberty her sons could charm, IX. TOWNSHEND, with quick sensations blest, By sacred ties ally'd ; Who priz'd and lov'd thy noble Sire; And feels a father's pride. X. Already see the Patriot Band, By hope elated, press your hand, XI. When Britain shall revere your name, Unbought by paltry art 92 Still o'er your voice will truth preside, XII. While long debates protract the night, In every languid eye; Your wit the dullness shall illume, As flames electric chase the gloom * The late Sir George Saville. + Lord John Cavendish. |