A little time after the publication of "The Bible in Spain," the
Tories being still in power, this individual, full of the most
disinterested friendship for the author, was particularly anxious
that he should be presented with an official situation, in a
certain region a great many miles off. "You are the only person
for that appointment," said he; "you understand a great deal about
the country, and are better acquainted with the two languages
spoken there than any one in England. Now I love my country, and
have, moreover, a great regard for you, and as I am in Parliament,
and have frequent opportunities of speaking to the Ministry, I
shall take care to tell them how desirable it would be to secure
your services. It is true they are Tories, but I think that even
Tories would give up their habitual love of jobbery in a case like
yours, and for once show themselves disposed to be honest men and
gentlemen; indeed, I have no doubt they will, for having so
deservedly an infamous character, they would be glad to get
themselves a little credit, by a presentation which could not
possibly be traced to jobbery or favouritism."
The writer begged his friend to give himself no trouble about the
matter, as he was not desirous of the appointment, being in
tolerably easy circumstances, and willing to take some rest after a
life of labour.
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