The Poems of Jonathan Swift

-To Mr. Delany

[1] OCT. 10, 1718

NINE IN THE MORNING

If he be guilty, you must mend him;

If he be innocent, defend him.

[Footnote 1: The Rev. Patrick Delany, one of Swift's most valued friends, born about 1685. When Lord Carteret became Lord Lieutenant, Swift urged Delany's claims to preferment, and he was appointed Chancellor of St. Patrick's. He appears to have been warm-hearted and impetuous, and too hospitable for his means. He died at Bath, 1768.--W. E. B.]

[Footnote 2: Famous as poet and letter writer, born 1598, died 1648.--W. E. B.]

[Footnote 3: Dr. Sheridan.]

[Footnote 4: Mentioned in "The Country Life," as one of that lively party, post, p. 137.--W. E. B.]