I was glad to understand
from him that it was still resolved that his tour to Italy with Mr. and
Mrs. Thrale should take place, of which he had entertained some
doubt, on account of the loss which they had suffered; and his doubts
afterwards proved to be well-founded. He observed, indeed very justly,
that 'their loss was an additional reason for their going abroad; and
if it had not been fixed that he should have been one of the party, he
would force them out; but he would not advise them unless his advice was
asked, lest they might suspect that he recommended what he wished on
his own account.' I was not pleased that his intimacy with Mr.
Thrale's family, though it no doubt contributed much to his comfort and
enjoyment, was not without some degree of restraint: not, as has been
grossly suggested, that it was required of him as a task to talk for the
entertainment of them and their company; but that he was not quite
at his ease; which, however, might partly be owing to his own honest
pride--that dignity of mind which is always jealous of appearing too
compliant.
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