"It is natural for distant relations to claim kindred with a rising family; though at this time, zeal to my country, not interest, calls me out. The City forces[88] being shortly to take the field, all good Protestants would be pleased that their arms and valour should shine with equal lustre. A council of war was lately held, the Honourable Colonel Mortar being president. After many debates, it was unanimously resolved, that Major Blunder, a most expert officer, should be detached for Birmingham to buy arms, and to prove his firelocks on the spot, as well to prevent expense, as disappointment in the day of battle. The major being a person of consummate experience, was invested with a discretionary power. He knew from ancient story, that securing the rear, and making a glorious retreat, was the most celebrated piece of conduct. Accordingly such measures were taken to prevent surprise in the rear of his arms, that even Pallas herself, in the shape of rust, could not invade them. They were drawn into close order, firmly embodied, and arrived securely without touch-holes. Great and national actions deserve popular applause; and as praise is no expense to the public, therefore, dearest kinsman, I communicate this to you, as well to oblige this nursery of heroes, as to do justice to my native country. I am
"Your most Affectionate Kinsman, OFFSPRING TWIG.
"A war-horse, belonging to one of the colonels of the artillery, to be let or sold. He may be seen, adorned with ribands, and set forth to the best advantage, the next training day."
[81] Perhaps Lord Forbes (afterwards third Earl of Granard), a naval officer on friendly terms with Swift. (See "Journal to Stella," July 21-23, 1711, and No. 271, note.) He was born in 1685, and was therefore only 24 in 1709.
[83] Probably Sir Humphrey Mackworth (1657-1727), the governor of a company formed for working copper mines in England. Yalden wrote verses "To Sir Humphrey Mackworth on working the mines." In 1709, after internal quarrels in the Corporation, Mackworth was accused of peculation, and in 1710 the House of Commons voted him guilty of fraud; but a bill alienating his estates fell through owing to the failing power of the Whigs. Mackworth was one of the founders of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, and published some books on religious subjects, besides many political pamphlets.