rioted in imaginary opulence, this cold recep-

tion had been scarce a disappointment ; and from your Lordship's kindness I have received a benefit which only men like you are able to bestow. I shall now live mihi carior, with a higher opinion of my own merit. I am, my Lord,

Your Lordship's most obliged, most grateful, and most humble servant,

SAMUEL JOHNSON. Sept. 1784.

To the author of " Ossian "

MR. JAMES MACPHERSON,

I received your foolish and impudent letter. Any violence offered me I shall do my best to repel ; and what I cannot do for my- self the law shall do for me. I hope I shall never be deterred from detecting what 1 think a cheat by the menaces of a ruffian.

What would you have me retract ? I thought your book an imposture ; I think it an im- posture still. For this opinion I have given my reasons to the public, which I here dare you to refute. Your rage I defy. Your abili- ties since your Homer are not so formidable, and what I hear of your morals inclines me to pay regard not to what you shall say, but to

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