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The Father's Answer to the young Gentleman

MY DEAR YOUNG FRIEND: Ever since I first had the pleasure of your conversation, I considered you as a young gentleman of real merit, who would not be guilty of an ungenerous action, and to that was owing not only the respect with which I always treated you, but the common indulgence to converse freely with my daughter. I can freely excuse your not communicating your sentiments to me before you left this place. Your ardor was somewhat precipitate, and, as you well observe, I know what it is to be in love. The account of your uncle and family I know to be true, for I met with that worthy person who is your benefactor a few days ago at the stage-office in this city, and he confirms the truth of all you have written. My dear sir, if ever you live to be a father, you will know what I feel on the present occasion-a willingness to give her to you, from a firm persuasion of your merit; and anxiety for her preservation, from a conviction in my own mind that there is nothing permanent in this world. However, sir, you have my free consent to marry my child, and may the Divine Providence be your guide in the whole of your progress through this life! My ill state of health serves as a monitor to inform you that my time in this world will be but short; and there is nothing would give me greater pleasure than to see my dear Sophia happily settled before I retire to the land of forgetfulness, where the wicked cease from troubling, and where the weary are at rest. How great, sir, is the charge which I commit to your care; the image of a beloved wife long since dead, and the hope of my declining years! Her education has been consistent with her rank in life, and her conduct truly virtuous. I have not the least doubt of her conjugal duty, and your felicity in acting conformably to the character of a husband. Upon that supposition I leave her entirely to you; and as soon as you can obtain leave from the colonel, I shall expect to see you at this place, to receive from my hands all that is dear to me in this world. Your uncle has likewise promised to be here, so that all things are according to your professed wishes.

I am, sir, yours sincerely.