[Dorothy, Lady Bradshaigh to Samuel Richardson, in undated letter:] 'I have lately very often put the question to myself, whether I would chuse to live my time over again, if I had it in my power [...] I am positive I would rather advance than retire, tho' my days have been happy. I have a pleasing view before me, thanks to you, Sir, Seneca, the Spectator, and the [italics]wise son of Sirach[end italics], which last I have just read, with much greater attention than I ever did before, and think it is the most beautiful and instructive, as well as the most entertaining piece I ever met with in the course of my divine studies.'