It was ever thus, of course. When he was struggling to finish his great Dictionary, Samuel Johnson sorely needed some support from one of his patrons, Lord Chesterfield. But the noble Lord wasn’t forthcoming, until the dictionary was nearing completion and he realised that being associated with this massive endeavour would be good for his reputation. Johnson’s letter in response to this tardy offer (which in any case was only in the form of words, not hard cash) was superb. “Is not a patron, my lord, one who looks with unconcern on a man struggling for life in the water, and when he has reached ground, encumbers him with help? The notice which you have been pleased to take of my labours, had it been early, had been kind: but it has been delayed till I am indifferent and cannot enjoy it; till I am solitary and cannot impart it; till I am known and do not want it.”