Chapter XXII: Letter XXI: To Miss L

Charles Street, June 20, 1775.

I PROTEST, my dear Madam, there is nothing so dangerous to the calm philosophic temper of fifty--as a friendly epistle from a pretty young woman;--but when worth--benevolence--and a train of amiabilities--easier felt than described--join in the attack,--the happy receiver of such an epistle must feel much in the same manner as your humble servant did this day;--but I did not mean to write a starch complimentary letter--and I believe you will think I have flourished rather too much;--here then I recover my wits--and the first use I make of them is to thank you, in Mrs. Sancho’s name, for your friendly enquiries--and to assure you, we both rejoice that you had so pleasant a passage--and that you enjoy your health. We hope also, that your young gallant will repay your humane attentions--with grateful regard--and dutiful attachment.--I beg your pardon, over and over, for my blundering forgetfulness of your kind order--it was occasioned by being obliged to say goodbye.--Taking leave of those we esteem is, in my opinion, unpleasant!--the parting of friends is a kind of temporary mourning. Mrs. Sancho is but indifferent--the hot weather does not befriend her--but time will, I hope;--if true worth could plead an exemption from pain and sickness--Miss L---- and Mrs. Sancho would, by right divine, enjoy the best health--but, God be blessed! there is a reward in store for both, and all like them--which will amply repay them for the evils and cross accidents of this foolish world. I saw Miss and Mrs. S----, and Johnny, at church last Sunday--they all looked pleasant, and told me they had heard you were well.--I would recommend a poem, which, if you have not, you should read--it is called Almeria; I have not read it--but have heard such an account of it as makes me suspect it will be worth your notice. This end of the town is fairly Regatta-mad--and the prices they ask are only five shillings each seat.--They are building scaffoldings on Westminster-hall--and the prayers of all parties is now for a fine evening--May your evenings be ever fair--and mornings bright! I should have said nights happy--all in God’s good time! which, you must be convinced, is the best time.--Lydia mends--she walks a little--we begin to encourage hope--Kitty is as lively as ever--and almost goes alone--the rest are well.--Mrs. Sancho joins me in cordial wishes for your health and wealth.--I am, dear Madam,

Your most sincere friend,
and obliged humble servant,

IGN. SANCHO.