From a letter written by Handel in London, a few days after his return from Dublin, it may be gathered that he had not then absolutely determined upon what he should do.

“To Charles Jennens, Esq., Junior, at Gopsal, near Atherstone. {Coventry Bag.)

“London, September 9th, 1742. “Dear Sr.,—It was indeed your humble servant which intended you a visit in my way from Ireland to London, for I certainly would have given you a better account by word of mouth as by writing, how well your Messiah was received in that country; yet, as a noble Lord, and not less than the Bishop of Elphin (a nobleman very learned in musick), has given his observations in writing on this oratorio, I send you here annexed the contents of it in his own words. I shall send the printed book of The Messiah to Mr. J. Steel for you.

“As for my success in general in that generous and polite nation, I reserve the account of it till I have the honour to see you in London. The report that the direction of the Opera next winter is committed to my care is groundless. The gentlemen who have undertaken to meddle with harmony cannot agree, and are quite in a confusion. Whether I shall do something in the oratorio way (as several of my friends desire) I cannot determine as yet. Certain it is, that this time twelvemonth I shall continue my oratorios in Ireland, where they are going to make a large subscription already for that purpose.