The readiness with which you are known to patronize the interests of literature, emboldens me to solicit a favour which may not only be advantageous to an individual, but, in some degree, to the republic of letters. It respects the choice of a Library.
Secluded, in a great measure, from literary society, and, of course, depending principally on books for the acquisition of knowledge, it is my wish to obtain a most judicious selection, that so a prodigal waste of money, and (what is of more value) of Time, may be prevented.
Though Divinity will be my chief study, as it is my professional one, yet I shall aim to pay attention to literature in general.
I will, therefore, acknowledge it a very particular favour, if you will be pleased to furnish me with a list of such books as you shall see fit to recommend for a general (private) Library. The Collection which I purpose to make will consist of about 400 Volumes, according to which number, I wish the books on the several branches of learning to be proportioned. I am, Sir, with the highest respect, Your most obedient and very humble Servant