I am sorry that John did not take more pains to
inquire into the evidence for it.' MISS SEWARD, (with an incredulous
smile,) 'What, Sir! about a ghost?' JOHNSON. (with solemn vehemence,)
'Yes, Madam: this is a question which, after five thousand years, is
yet undecided; a question, whether in theology or philosophy, one of the
most important that can come before the human understanding.'
Mrs. Knowles mentioned, as a proselyte to Quakerism, Miss ------,
a young lady well known to Dr. Johnson, for whom he had shewn much
affection; while she ever had, and still retained, a great respect for
him. Mrs. Knowles at the same time took an opportunity of letting him
know 'that the amiable young creature was sorry at finding that he was
offended at her leaving the Church of England and embracing a simpler
faith;' and, in the gentlest and most persuasive manner, solicited his
kind indulgence for what was sincerely a matter of conscience. JOHNSON.
(frowning very angrily,) 'Madam, she is an odious wench.
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