It is therefore a maxim which I laid down soon after a separation which I _had_, never to say or do to my late colleague what he could say or do against me in return.

I knew that I had the personal superiority, but what his own ingenuity could not suggest, others could write for him.
I must apologise again for having been so tedious, but I am sure that the same friendliness on your part which has produced these hasty but well-meant expostulations will excuse them.

After this, I trust it is unnecessary for me to state with how much sincerity, I am, dear sirs, Your faithful friend, JOHN MURRAY.
Ten days after this letter was written, Mr.Murray sent a copy of it to Messrs.

Longman & Co., and wrote: _John Murray to Messrs.

Longman & Co_, _December_ 24, 1805.
GENTLEMEN, The enclosed letter will show that I am not ignorant that a misunderstanding prevails betwixt your house and that of Messrs.
Constable & Co.