359. Robert Bloomfield to John Clare, 3 May 1822 * 

Shefford, Beds, May 3d. 1822

Neighbour John,

If we were still nearer neighbours I would see you, and thank you personally for the two vollums of your poems sent me so long ago. I write with such labour and difficulty that I cannot venture to praise or discriminate like a critic, but must only say that you have given us great pleasure.

I beg your acceptance of my just publishd little vollumn; [1]  and, sick and ill as I continually feel, I can join you heartily in your exclamation—

'What is Life?' [2] 

With best regards and wishes

I am yours sincerely

Robt. Bloomfield