[My uncle was fond of telling us how he would walk miles out of Cambridge in order to meet the coach which brought the last new Waverley novel.] As to the question whether or not I am wasting time, I shall leave that for time to answer.

I cannot afford to sacrifice a day every week in defence and explanation as to my habits of reading.

I value, most deeply value, that solicitude which arises from your affection for me; but let it not debar me from justice and candour.

Believe me ever, my dear Father, Your most affectionate son, T.B.M.
The father and son were in sympathy upon what, at this distance of time, appears as the least inviting article of the Whig creed.

They were both partisans of the Queen.