643. Robert Southey to Charles Watkin Williams Wynn, 22 December 1801 ⁠* 

Your letter with the draft arrived this morning. our two earlier ones past each other on the road. My Mother is rather worse than better – yet in such a mood of mind – that the sight of her daily decay (which I bless God is wholly free from all pain – has nothing in it to shock & mangle the feelings – like the sight of death when it comes in agonies – it is such a decline that to the last breath there must be hope –

I was to day with Corry & adverted to a wish he had expresst that I would read Gregorys Elementary book of Natural Philosophy [1]  with his son – it was right to offer any service that way – & I did it with a willing earnestness that he seemed to feel – to night therefore I give an hours tutoring –

God bless you Wynn

Robert Southey –

I have only seen the first volume of xxx Turners book [2]  – & gladly forgave its unequal style for the pains-taking wisdom of his research – he has not had due applause for it. I was this day contriving how to get introduced to him for the love of the Archaiology – & a scheme I have to raise a subscription sum for translating it – [3] 

You wish me “contented” – now if I understand my own feelings there lives not a more contented – nor happier man. if you wish my advancement in life – it is that very contentment that most stands in its way – that Epictetism [4]  that will not leave willingly its bread & cheese – to dress & go abroad & dine on venison.