It is emblematical and quite apropos to my Liliputian Bookstore!—Several
children are represented playing the two of them in the act of quarreling.
The Devil is preparing to claw them, but is assailed by the spear of Minerva
who is at the same time presenting a small book to the children.
Some desponding thoughts are now and then popping in along
with the Bookstore; but pride and shame forbid me to retreat until I have
given the plan a fair chance.
18th. I came to a resolution of dismissing my lad, and
sending my books (of which I have above 7000) to my Father’s Auction.*
This was disagreeable news to the lad who was fix’d in
a snug berth, and was earning 3/ every day; but poor I had not receiv’d
enough from the sales to pay his wages. Well, this pretty scheme of mine
must be broken up, for these reasons as well as some others. It has been
a very clever hobby-horse for me, but has almost thrown me in the mud,
for the expenses have run up to £25, or thereabouts.—The printer
has a good job of it, & I have gain’d a lesson, and must have patience
while the money comes slowly dribbling in.
* At 77 Wall Street.
