XXVIII. Mrs. Johnson to Lady Susan

by Jane Austen

　　Edward Street.My dearest Friend,--I write in the greatest distress; the mostunfortunate event has just taken place. Mr. Johnson has hit on the mosteffectual manner of plaguing us all. He had heard, I imagine, by some meansor other, that you were soon to be in London, and immediately contrived tohave such an attack of the gout as must at least delay his journey to Bath,if not wholly prevent it. I am persuaded the gout is brought on or kept offat pleasure; it was the same when I wanted to join the Hamiltons to theLakes; and three years ago, when I had a fancy for Bath, nothing couldinduce him to have a gouty symptom.I am pleased to find that my letter had so much effect on you, and thatDe Courcy is certainly your own. Let me hear from you as soon as youarrive, and in particular tell me what you mean to do with Mainwaring. Itis impossible to say when I shall be able to come to you; my confinementmust be great. It is such an abominable trick to be ill here instead of atBath that I can scarcely command myself at all. At Bath his old auntswould have nursed him, but here it all falls upon me; and he bears painwith such patience that I have not the common excuse for losing my temper.Yours ever,ALICIA.