His indispensable avocations, added to an indifferent state of health, have reluctantly obliged him to resign a command which has been flattering to him in the extreme. Indeed the cordial and able co-operation of his brother officers in effecting that, which has called forth the encomiums of illustrious and distinguished characters, can never be effaced from his memory.

To the non-commissioned officers and privates he offers his full tribute of commendation; and if he has a wish beyond that of the prosperity of the Loyal Tooting Volunteers, it is, that he may live in their

esteem.

To MISS HANNAH OAKLEY, BALHAM HILL.

MY DEAR HANNAH,

Tooting Lodge, February 27, 1804.

I RECEIVED your pretty letter yesterday, and should have answered it before, but have been particularly engaged: this you will excuse, as also my neglect in not noticing your first letter. I have great satisfaction in answering your inquiry respecting Adriana, in being able to say she is greatly better; indeed, so much so, that she will in a few days return to the drill.

I beg my compliments to Miss Gregory, to whom I mean to pay my personal respects in a few days. Kiss your sisters for me, be kind to each other, and you will command the affection of your mamma and your loving father.

B. O.

To MR. TAYLOR.

DEAR MR. TAYLOR,

October 30th, 1804.

I MOST sincerely sympathize with you for the loss you have sustained, in having snatched from your society one of the most virtuous of women. No panegyric that I can draw can possibly equal the original. Her patient sufferings cannot but have been sensibly felt by all who knew her; and those who were fortunate in a near acquaintance with her, cannot but regret the loss of so much worth. Your faithful and steady attachment to her will be the best consolation that can be afforded you in this keen and sad separation; and if my approbation and thanks can in any way tend to alleviate your sorrows, I beg you to accept them from my heart.

I need not point out to you where your attention now should centre. You will feel your children's happiness and your own as one; and you will, I sincerely hope, realize that comfort in them which was fondly anticipated by my dear sister.

I am, dear TAYLOR,

Your affectionate Friend and Brother,

B. O.

TO MASTER BENJAMIN OAKLEY, MR. ELWELL'S ACADEMY,

HAMMERSMITH.

MY DEAR BENJAMIN,

IT

Tooting Lodge, October 9, 1806.

appears a long time since I saw you, and, but that Mr. Elwell takes great care of you, I should see you oftener. I believe that you are a good boy, and