Bentley, William, 1759-1819. Papers of William Bentley, 1783-1815: an inventory. Letter from James Winthrop to William Bentley, 1788 December 7. HUG 1203.5 Box 1, Harvard University Archives.

Cambridge 7 Decr 1788

Rev. Sir,

You will gratify me by accepting the Henriad in french. I once read it in english & it much pleased me, but I am not sufficient master of the original language to read poetry, tho' I can hobble along pretty well in prose. In your line of study it is more necessary to read languages critically than in mine, & I suppose poetical works to be fitted for teaching the niceties of a language. Accept this as a token of respect, if indeed there is any respect in giving away what is of no use to ourselves.

It is hardly time yet for the expected comet, but my own opinion of it I gave you in 1784, & of course my expectations are but small with respect to its coming next year. If it should come, I shall be obliged to you for the globe.

Anewn Inscription is newly found at Tiverton which represents a man in ancient armor. I have a copy

Yours Affectionately James Winthrop

Rev. Mr. Bentley.

J. Winthrop 4 December 1788.