Thomas Gray to Horace Walpole, [12 September 1756]

I have the pleasure to tell you that after repeating once again his infusion of Poppies, wch caused each time an entire cessation from pain, & an easy perspiration for near 24 hours, Mr Chute has had no return of his tortures, but for these four days has continued in a very tolerable state, chearful enough & in good spirits in the day-time, his appetite beginning to return, & all last night pass'd in quiet & natural sleep. but he is (as you may imagine) still nail'd to his bed, & much weaken'd. God knows, when he will be able to get up, or bear any motion, & the least cold, as Autumn is coming on, will certainly bring it all back again. I am quite of your opinion about going to Town, as soon as it is possible; & had of my own accord talk'd about it, but he seems rather set against it: however I hope to prevail. as to the Tracies, I think he told me just before this illness, that they were all coming, & he had wrote to hinder it on some pretence or other. what you say about Mrs P: is very true. I only mention'd her, because she was more within reach than any body else: but I have now no farther thought of danger.

We are much obliged to you for your News, & hope, when you have leisure, again to hear from you.