The Literary Repository: Number VII

Summary

Six Original Letters Upon Duelling. Written by the late MR. SAMUEL RICHARDSON, Author of the History of Sir Charles Grandison, &c.

FROM THOMAS GILLES, ESQ; TO ANDREW CRISP, ESQ;

Dear Sir,

The concern I have for your welfare, as well for your own sake, as for that of my good friend your father, who in some manner intrusted you to my care, obliges me to send you these few lines. I understand that you and Mr. Orme have had high words, and that he has given you a challenge, and you are to meet next Saturday to decide the quarrel. Let me intreat you to consider what you are about; and how you are entering upon a measure, that may, if you overcome, give you everlasting inquietude and remorse; and if you fall, must destroy in one rashmoment all the hopes of the best of parents, and in all probability your own soul; for a sudden death admits of no repentance. I know what belongs to honour as well as anyman, and can allow a great deal on this score; but I think there is something so impious, so presuming in Duelling; something so contrary to the laws of God and man, so arrogant, in taking upon one's self to be both our own judge and jury, that it is an execrable action, and deserves punishment here, in case of survival, as it will very likely meet with it hereafter. Waive therefore, I beseech you, for God's sake, for your family's sake, for your own sake, for my sake, your resentment on this occasion, and submit the cause between you to arbitration. I have a respect for Mr. Orme, and shall write to him pretty much to the same effect; and hope you will both of you moderate your resentments, and submit the affair to some discreet friends; and I am sure you will have cause to rejoice, both of you, that ye have followed my advice, when reflection takes place of the present heat: And will join to thank

Your truly affectionate and faithful friend,

THOMAS GILLES