No doubt Mr.Highley would have thought this a rash proceeding.
_John Murray to Mr.Colman_.
"The truth is that during my minority I have been shackled to a drone of a partner; but the day of emancipation is at hand.

On the twenty-fifth of this month [March 1803] I plunge alone into the depths of literary speculation.

I am therefore honestly ambitious that my first appearance before the public should be such as will at once stamp my character and respectability.

On this account, therefore, I think that your Play would be more advantageous to me than to any other bookseller; and as 'I am not covetous of Gold,' I should hope that no trifling consideration will be allowed to prevent my having the honour of being Mr.Colman's publisher.

You see, sir, that I am endeavouring to interest your feelings, both as a Poet and as a Man." Mr.Colman replied in a pleasant letter, thanking Mr.Murray for his liberal offer.