Let the request be made with a
happy ambiguity of expression, so that we may have the chance of his
sending IT also as a present.' JOHNSON. 'I am willing to offer my
services as secretary on this occasion.' P. 'As many as are for Dr.
Johnson being secretary hold up your hands.--Carried unanimously.'
BOSWELL. 'He will be our Dictator.' JOHNSON. 'No, the company is
to dictate to me. I am only to write for wine; and I am quite
disinterested, as I drink none; I shall not be suspected of having
forged the application. I am no more than humble SCRIBE.' E. 'Then you
shall PREscribe.' BOSWELL. 'Very well. The first play of words to-day.'
J. 'No, no; the BULLS in Ireland.' JOHNSON. 'Were I your Dictator you
should have no wine. It would be my business cavere ne quid detrimenti
Respublica caperet, and wine is dangerous. Rome was ruined by luxury,'
(smiling.) E. 'If you allow no wine as Dictator, you shall not have me
for your master of horse.'
On Saturday, April 4, I drank tea with Johnson at Dr.
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