316. To his Stepmother.

Calais, May the 7th, 1777.

Dear Madam ,

I am this moment (about one o’clock in the afternoon) landed after a very pleasant passage. I already feel my mind expand with the unbounded prospect of the Continent. But notwithstanding my love of freedom you may rest assured that in due season, I shall return without reluctance to my cage in Bentinck Street.

I am, Dear Madam, Most truly yours, E. Gibbon .