Henry Esmond; The English Humourists; The Four Georges

  Dedication.

  TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE

  WILLIAM BINGHAM, LORD ASHBURTON

  MY DEAR LORD,

  The writer of a book which copies the manners and language of Queen Anne'stime, must not omit the Dedication to the Patron; and I ask leave toinscribe this volume to your lordship, for the sake of the great kindnessand friendship which I owe to you and yours.

  My volume will reach you when the Author is on his voyage to a countrywhere your name is as well known as here. Wherever I am, I shallgratefully regard you; and shall not be the less welcomed in Americabecause I am

  Your obliged friend and servant,

  W. M. THACKERAY.

  LONDON, October 18, 1852.