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The young Lady's Answer

MADAM: I will excuse the fondness of a tender mother for her only child. I had heard before of the unaffected piety and the many accomplishments of your son, so that I was in nowise surprised at what you said concerning him. I do assure you, madam, that I would prefer an alliance with you before even nobility itself, and I think it must be my own fault if I ever repent calling you mother. I was going to say that you had known but few pleasures in this life, to be deprived of your husband so soon, and the rest of your life spent under so many infirmities. But your letter convinces me that you have felt more real pleasure in the practice of virtue and resignation to the Divine will, than ever can be had in any, nay, even the greatest temporal enjoyments. I have sent enclosed a few lines to your son, to which I refer you for a more explicit answer, and am, madam, Your sincere well wisher.

The young Lady to the young Gentleman.

SIR: I received yours, together with one enclosed from your mother, and congratulate you on the happiness you have had in being brought up under so pious and indulgent a parent. I hope that her conduct will be a pattern for you to copy after, in the whole of your future life. It is virtue alone, sir, which can make you happy. With respect to myself, I freely acknowledge that I have not at present any reason to reject your offer, although I cannot give you a positive answer until I have first consulted with my guardian. Monday next I set out for his seat at Bloomingdale, whence you may be sure of hearing from me as soon as possible, and am Your sincere well wisher.