1761 EEBECCA WHITE MAKRIES 121 



In November was purchased '*a large Portland 

 dial-post and slab from Andover," and " a brass dial 

 plate " for a sundial. 



On September 7tli, 1761, Mulso writes from his 



Yorkshire living, adjuring his friend to write more 



frequently — 



"By Hercules* and by the Dragon on the Cynic Tub, I swear, 

 I ought not to be forgotten upon Selbournian Ground. . . . 

 I desire that you would make a better use of this winter 

 than you did of the last. How can Mice [Miss White] 

 and you sit one on one side and t'other on the other side 

 of the fire, when you ought to be both at the great table 

 in the middle of the room, she writing to her lover, and you 

 to your friend ? I mean after your Journal book is filled for 

 the day, for I do not expect to be served first." 



In the autumn of this year Mrs. Chapone lost her 

 husband, after a short married life of ten months. 

 On October 29th, 1761, Mulso communicated his 

 .sister's ** irreparable loss " to his friend, and con- 

 tinued — 



"Your employment has of late been of a more cheerful 

 nature; the entertainment of your friends, in which you 

 shine; and in the disposal of your sister. . . . Her temper 

 and conduct must, I am sure, very much endear her to the 

 man whom she has honoured with her Choice. But what 

 will you do for a housekeeper ? or have you looked till you 

 have found one who will more than supply her place ? . . . 

 I long to see your alterations and improvements at Selborne, 

 tho' I have a pretty strong idea of them. ... I thank you 



* In 1758 a "Board-statue of Hercules" appears in his account-book. 

 Cf. " The Invitation "— 



"Or with the mimic statue trap the sight." 



