New Hampshire Statesman And Concord Register

Miscellaneous.

GILBERT STUART'S CONVERSATION WITH Dr. JOHNSON, Oct. 11th, 1821. I this day visited that eminent painter, Mr Stewart, whose excellent portraits have conferred an honor on the country that gave him birth. In the course of conversation, I inquired of him if he had ever been, while in London, acquainted with Dr. Johnson? He replied that he had, and that their acquaintance commenced with something like a quarrel. He then stated that after he had left College, (the University of Glasgow) when he felt strong in classical literature, and just after he had placed himself under the tuition of the celebrated West, in London, the renowned Lexicographer, called to see Mr West, and inquired of him if he could communicate any information concerning America? Mr West replied, that it was now so long since he had left his country, that it was not in his power, but that he had a young man then with him, and who was recently from America, who probably might be able to gratify his curiosity. Upon which I was called into the room, and Dr, Johnson thus addressed me—“ My little fellow, can you tell me any thing new concerning your country?” Feeling my pride wounded, I made no reply. The Doctor then reiterated the question in the same language.—Feeling my cheeks glowing with indignation, I remained silent. Mr West inquired of me if I did not hear Dr. Johnson? The Doctor then said, "Sir, if you can give me any information respecting America, you will oblige me." I now thought that I might speak, consistently with a proper degree of self-respect; and in the most select language that I could command, proceeded to relate to Dr. Johnson whatever I thought might be new and interesting to him on the subject. When I had finished speaking, the Doctor asked Mr West how it happened that the Americans excelled the English in speaking their own language. Mr West then asked the Doctor if it could be so? To which the Doctor replied, "You may find, Sir, that it is so from the conversation of this gentleman." The Doctor immediately turned to me, and asked from what source I had derived my knowledge of the English language? Not yet having got over my irritation, I replied, "Not, Sir, from your Dictionary." The Doctor now burst into so violent a fit of laughter that he shook the whole room, and almost the house. Ever after this we were on the best terms."—Salem Obs.