From E. Stubbs (unpublished)
Versailles ce 1er. Otr. 1783
Sir

Between two evils, I know not which I have most reason to dread. I took the (perhaps unpardonable) liberty of writing you a fortnight agoe and having receiv’d no answer whatever, I fear lest my letter shou’d be lost, or, what is still worse, that you shou’d find it ridiculous or perhaps impertinent. Wou’d you be kind enough to clear this doubt. You wou’d do me a most singular favour. I knew the step I took was daring; but I likewise knew I had a great Philanthropist for judge. A knowledge of your unlimited bounty is then the only excuse I have to plead; but you may be assured, Sir, I shall heretofore content myself with a tacit admiration of your many and rare qualities and that you will never receive any farther trouble from, Sir Your most Obedient humble Servant

Stubbs

A L’hotel de Madame la Comtesse d’har   Avenues des paris A Versailles
Endorsed: Stubb, 1er. Oct. 1783
640339 = 040-u428.html