Sir Joshua, indeed, was lucky enough
at their very first meeting to make a remark, which was so much above
the common-place style of conversation, that Johnson at once perceived
that Reynolds had the habit of thinking for himself. The ladies were
regretting the death of a friend, to whom they owed great obligations;
upon which Reynolds observed, 'You have, however, the comfort of being
relieved from a burthen of gratitude.' They were shocked a little at
this alleviating suggestion, as too selfish; but Johnson defended it in
his clear and forcible manner, and was much pleased with the MIND,
the fair view of human nature, which it exhibited, like some of the
reflections of Rochefaucault. The consequence was, that he went home
with Reynolds, and supped with him.
Sir Joshua told me a pleasant characteristical anecdote of Johnson
about the time of their first acquaintance. When they were one evening
together at the Miss Cotterells', the then Duchess of Argyle and another
lady of high rank came in.
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