Chapter I: Part 1

THE GENTLEMAN'S MODEL LETTER-WRITER

A Complete Guide to

_CORRESPONDENCE ON ALL SUBJECTS_

WITH COMMERCIAL FORMS

LONDON AND NEW YORK:
FREDERICK WARNE & CO.

PREFACE.

Though the number of existing "Letter Writers" is many, the publishers feel that there is yet a want which this little Manual, it is hoped, will supply.

It has been compiled with great care from several sources, and contains much original matter, for which experience assures them there is a necessity.

CONTENTS.

A Book-keeper and Accountant applying for Employment

Acknowledging a Letter of Congratulation on the Birth of a Child

A Father applying to the Principal of a School to ascertain Terms,
&c.

A Gentleman applying for a Loan on the Insurance of his Life

A Gentleman applying to an Agent at a Watering-place for Lodgings
Reply

A Gentleman having visited a Property, making an Offer for it
Reply

A Gentleman in the Corn Trade to another

A Gentleman regretting he cannot Accept an Invitation

A Gentleman to a Friend relative to a Bill

A Gentleman ordering a Set of Harness from a Saddler
Saddler in reply
Gentleman in reply, objecting to Price
Saddler in reply

A Gentleman's Servant applying for a Situation

A Gentleman to a Friend, speaking of Kindness received at another
Friend's House
Reply

A Letter from a Father to a Son at School, on the necessity of
Attention to his Studies

A Letter from a Marine Engineer, seeking an eligible Partnership

A Letter of Condolence

A Letter to a Gentleman who has been making Enquiries about a
Lady's Horse

An Application for a Donation to a Charitable Institution in the
Country, such as Coal and Blanket Clubs, and Soup Kitchen
Reply, enclosing Donation
Reply, unfavourable

An Application for an Appointment on a Railway

An Estate Agent, relative to a House of which his Client is
anxious to dispose

Answer from a Landlord in reply to a Tenant, relative to
Non-payment of Rent

An Application for a Situation in the Police

A Parent to his Daughter at Service

A Person desirous of entering into Partnership in a Lucrative
Profession

Application for a Debt some time owing

Application for a House, Furnished, desiring Lowest Terms

Application for an outstanding Account

Application for Employment in an Auctioneer's and Estate Agent's
Office

Application to Borrow Money
Reply granting the Loan

Applying for a Clerkship

Applying for an Account, and furnishing Particulars

Applying for a Situation as a Gardener

Applying to a Friend for a Recommendation, by a Young Man desirous
of obtaining an Appointment

Appointing an Interview relative to a Loan

A Reply to an Advertisement for an Appointment as Secretary to an
Institution

A Sailor to his Sweetheart

A Sugar Refiner applying for a Situation

A Tenant to a Landlord, requesting time to Pay Rent

Commercial Forms
Form of Cheque to "Bearer"
Form of Cheque to "Order"
Form of Ordinary Bill of Exchange
Form of Promissory Note
Form of Foreign Bill of Exchange
Form of Ordinary Receipt
Form of Receipt for Rent
Form of Agreement for Taking a House
Form of Notice to Quit, from Landlord to Tenant
Form of Notice to Quit, from Tenant to Landlord
Form of Will
Form of Bill of Sale

Directions for Addressing Persons of Rank, &c. 85
The Royal Family
The Nobility
Official Members of the State
Ambassadors and Governors under Her Majesty
Judges
The Parliament
The Clergy

From a Child acknowledging the Receipt of the Present of a Book

From a Coachman, requiring a Place
Reply
Coachman's reply

From a Father to a Son, relative to his Expenditure

From a Father to his Son beginning the World

From a Father to his Son, who has been complaining of the Severity
of his Master

From a Father who has lately lost his Wife, to his Daughter at
School

From a Friend at Bradford, to his Friend in London, on Business
(Wool)

From a Gentleman accepting an Invitation, though suffering from
Illness (temporary)

From a Gentleman applying for Sittings, or a Pew in a Parish
Church, in the Country

From a Gentleman, enclosing a Certificate of Illness from a
Medical Man, excusing himself from attending at his office
Medical Attendant's Certificate

From a Gentleman in India to a Relation in England

From a Gentleman in Town to another in the Country, enclosing a
Wedding Gift

From a Gentleman to a Lady with whom he is in Love

From a Gentleman to a Young Lady

From a House and Estate Agent, acknowledging Receipt of a
Communication relative to Sale or Letting of Property

From a Husband, Absent on Business, to his Wife

From a Husband to his Wife, on Sailing from England

From a Man with a small Capital intending to go into Business,
asking for Advice
Reply

From a Merchant abroad to his Brother forwarding Goods for Sale,
and requesting others
Brother, answering his Brother or Friend, relative to receipt
of Goods

From an Agent who has been engaged in endeavouring to arrange a
Matter of Importance, applying for Remuneration

From a Person desirous of Employment as a Manager of a Wholesale
or Retail Business

From a Soldier abroad to his affianced Bride

From a Shopkeeper in the Country to a Wholesale Dealer
Answer

From a Son who has misconducted himself towards his Employer, to
his Father
The Father's Answer

From a Young Man who has taken his late Employer's Business, to an
old Customer
Reply

From a Young Tradesman asking Advice in Difficulties
Reply

From one Brother to another, on having unexpectedly amassed a
Fortune

From one Gentleman to another, relative to a Dog
Reply

From one Gentleman to another, explaining the Cause of not
replying to a Letter from a Gentleman abroad

From the Secretary of a Convalescent Hospital applying for
Expenses of Patient

Gentleman's reply to a Lady, imagining he was indifferent to her

Giving Information about Trains

In reply to a Gentleman asking the Loan of a Book relative
to German Spa Waters

In reply to a Gentleman inquiring for a Solicitor who may be
moderate in his charges

Invitation to a Gentleman to Row in a Boat
Accepting

Invitation to a Bachelor Party
Accepting

Invitation to a Croquet Party
Accepting
Declining

Invitation to a Dinner (Bachelor's)
Accepting

Invitation to a Family Dinner
Accepting

Invitation to a Family Dinner

Invitation to a Gentleman to a Friendly Dinner

Invitation to "Best Man" at a Wedding
Same
Accepting

Invitation to Join a Party to the Derby
Same
Accepting
Refusing

Letter from a Traveller at Manchester, to his Employers in London

Letter urging Payment of a Debt

Love Letter from a Gentleman to a Lady

Postponing a Visit
Same

Regretting being unable to give an Appointment to a Situation

Relative to an Advertisement requesting a Copy

Reply from Landlord to a Tenant, relative to Non-payment of Rent

Reply to a Gentleman Recommending a Young Man for Employment as a
Porter

Reply to a Gentleman requiring a Situation as Clerk and Foreign
Correspondent

Reply to a Gentleman who wishes to claim an Estate in Chancery

Reply to a Letter from a Young Man informing his Uncle he had
Contracted Debts

Reply to an Advertisement for the Appointment of Medical Officer
to an Union Division

Reply to an Application relating to an Advertisement

Reply to Question as to Rent of, and permission to View, a House

Requesting the Renewal of a Bill

To a Child who has been Guilty of telling a Falsehood

To a Gentleman in reply as to an Agency for a Bordeaux Firm

To a Gentleman whose Brother is dangerously Ill, offering him
Consolation and Comfort

To a Relieving Officer, by a Neighbour of a Poor Woman taken Ill

To a Theatrical Manager

To a Young Man, relative to his late Employer's Business which he
proposes to carry on

Urging a Son to relinquish the Naval Profession
Reply

THE GENTLEMAN'S MODEL LETTER-WRITER.

_Invitation to Dinner_ (_Bachelor's_).

The Albany, June 10th.

DEAR BROWNE,

Will you dine with me at eight o'clock to-morrow? Some of our
fellows are coming, and we mean to have a quiet game of whist in the
course of the evening. Come if possible.

Yours truly,

----

_Accepting._

Gower Street, June 18th.

DEAR ----,

I will come without fail, and win your money if I can.

Yours truly,

----

_Invitation to Family Dinner._

Camden Town, March 4th.

DEAR SMITH,

Will you dine with us to-morrow? It is the old lady's birthday, and
I can offer her no greater pleasure, I am sure, than your pleasant
company. Do come if you can, there's a good fellow.

Yours ever,

----

_Accepting._

Russell Square, March 4th.

DEAR ----,

I shall be delighted to accept your kind invitation for to-morrow,
and offer my good wishes to your charming wife on her birthday.

Yours ever,

----

_Invitation to Family Dinner._

Medway Villas, June 8th.

DEAR CAPTAIN MAURICE,

Will you favour Mrs. Trevor and myself with your company at dinner
on Monday next at 6 o'clock? We expect General Hill and his wife,
and think you may like to make their acquaintance.

With our united regards,

Believe me,

Yours truly,

----

_Invitation to a Croquet Party._

Havant, May 17th.

DEAR HOWARD,

The girls talk of having a croquet party on Thursday next. Will you
join it? We shall be delighted to see you if you can come. Little
Totty desires me to add, that you must play on her side, because
then she will be sure to be one of the winners.

Ever yours most truly,

----

_Accepting._

Havant, May 18th.

DEAR ----,

I shall be delighted to join your croquet party. Pray offer my best
respects to Miss Totty, and tell her I will do all I can to prove
myself her obedient servant.

Believe me, ever yours truly,

HOWARD.

----

_Declining._

Havant, May 18th.

DEAR ----,

I regret extremely that I cannot accept your invitation, and put
myself at Miss Totty's disposal for a game of croquet; but,
unluckily, I am obliged to go to town to-morrow, and shall not
return till Monday week.

Yours ever,

----

_From a Gentleman, accepting an Invitation, though suffering from
illness_ (_temporary_).

Hampstead, May 4th.

DEAR MRS. THURGOOD,

I have been laid up with neuralgia for some days, and have not yet
recovered from it. I will, however, accept your kind invitation for
Saturday next, and hope to be able to come.

With kind regards to yourself and sister,

I remain,

Yours very truly,

WALTER BOSSORA.

----

_A Gentleman regretting he cannot accept an Invitation._

The Albany, February 1st, 187--

MY DEAR MADAM,

Thank you very much for thinking of me on Saturday. I should have
liked to have joined your party immensely, but I go to Ventnor that
afternoon, and am therefore unable to have the pleasure of accepting
your very kind invitation.

My mother and sisters have gone to Beaumaris; they left on
Wednesday, and on the same day our friends the Boscawens returned to
Ventnor. I hope to reach that truly lovely place on Saturday.
Although a month has elapsed since the last year left us, I must
send you and your sister all good old-fashioned New Year's wishes,
hearty and sincere; will you both accept them? And with many thanks,
repeated, for your kind note,

Believe, me,

Dear Mrs. B----,

Your sincere friend,

HENRY ROSS.

----

_Invitation to a Gentleman to Row in a Boat._

Chester, June 18th, 187--

DEAR GEORGE,

Will you join three friends and myself on Saturday next for a row up
the river? You are a capital stroke, and we wish to get into the way
of pulling a longer stroke than we have at present: little Jerry
will steer us. Do not say No. We will finish the evening at the
----, where I have ordered supper.

Yours sincerely,

BEDFORD PRICE.

----

_Accepting._

Rock Terry, June 19th, 187--

DEAR BEDFORD,

I fancy you have formed too good an idea of my performance as a
stroke oar; however, if you think I can be of any use to your crew,
I will readily do my best. I shall sleep in Chester, so we need not
hurry in returning from our practice.

Yours sincerely,

GEORGE SHEEPSHANKS.

----

_Invitation to a Bachelor Party._

Kidderminster, February, 187--

DEAR FELLOWS,

Yesterday I met Donovan and our four other old friends, who are here
for a few days; they are coming to dine with me to-morrow at seven.
I know it is some years since you met them; I hope you will make one
of our party.

Believe me,

Yours sincerely,

F. CUNNINGHAM.

----

_Accepting the same._

Hill House, Kidderminster, Feb. 187--

DEAR CUNNINGHAM,

It will afford me the very greatest pleasure to dine with you
to-morrow at seven. It is many years since I met those you mention,
but I have a vivid recollection of passing many pleasant hours in
their society and companionship.

Believe me,

Yours sincerely,

HARRY FELLOWS.

----

_Invitation to a Gentleman to a Friendly Dinner._

Dunland Place, Oct. 1st, 187--

DEAR HINDMARSH,

I heard by the merest accident, yesterday evening, that you were in
town. Will you come and dine with us to-morrow? You know our time,
but I may as well remind you that it is seven o'clock. I met J.
F----, and our intimate friend from the north, yesterday. They will
be here, and we shall have a little music in the evening, when I
hope your tenor voice will be in its usual power and sweetness. All
join in best regards.

Yours very sincerely,

----

_Postponing a Visit._

Greenfield, October 10th.

MY DEAR GEORGE,

I regret extremely that we are obliged to ask you to postpone your
visit till next month.

We can not get the house at Brighton for which we were in treaty,
till that time, and our present abode is so small that we are unable
to offer a bedroom to a friend.

I trust this delay will not inconvenience you. It is a great
disappointment to us, as we longed equally for the sea and your
company.

My wife unites with me in kind remembrances.

I am ever,

Yours very truly,

----

_Same._

The Beeches, Sydenham, November 6th.

MY DEAR TOM,

I am sure you will be truly grieved to hear that the sudden and
dangerous illness of my mother will oblige me to postpone our dinner
party fixed for the 17th.

I hope to give you better news shortly, and renew my invitation.

Truly yours,

----

_Invitation to be "Best Man" at a Wedding._

Reading, May 6th.

DEAR TOM,

I intend to be "turned off" next Tuesday week! Will you attend on
the mournful occasion as "best man?"

_Seriously_, I am to be married to my charming little Ada on the
----, and I look for your presence at our bridal as the completion
of my happiness, for then the man and woman I love best will unite
in confirming my happiness.

Always yours,

----

_Same._

Liphook, May 6th.

DEAR JOHN,

Julia has consented to our marriage on the 15th inst., and I
scribble a line to remind you of your promise to be "best man" on
the occasion. Marriage is supposed sometimes to separate bachelor
friendships, but such will not be the case in my instance, my dear
fellow. Julia has a great regard for you, and is too sensible and
good to interfere between us with petty jealousies.

I am awfully happy, Jack! Wish me joy, and

Believe me

Ever your true friend,

----

_Accepting._

The Albany, May 7th.

DEAR ----,

I shall be delighted to assist at the important event fixed for the
----, and beg to offer my best congratulations to Miss ---- and
yourself on your approaching happiness.

I intend to offer as my wedding gift a drawing-room clock. My object
in naming this intention to you is that, if you are likely to
receive a similar gift from any other friend, you will tell me so,
and I will exchange it for something else, as duplicate gifts are a
great bore.

Ever, dear Hal,

Your true old friend,

JOHN.

----

_Invitation to join a Party to the Derby_.

Knightsbridge, May 22.

DEAR NORRIS,

Three of our fellows have agreed to go to the Derby together in a
drag, and we shall be very glad if you will make a fourth. Jervis
drives.

Don't refuse, old fellow; we shall have a jolly day, and I shall
enjoy it doubly if you go with us.

Yours truly,

----

_Same._

Green Bank, May 23rd.

DEAR REID,

Will you accompany a party of us to-morrow to the Derby?

Let me have an answer by bearer, and take care that it is in the
affirmative.

Yours ever,

----

_Accepting_.

London, May 23rd.

DEAR GEORGE,

I shall have much pleasure in accompanying you to the Derby. Let me
know, please, the hour at which you start.

I am, ever,

Yours truly,

J. REID.

----

_Refusing_.

London, May 23rd.

DEAR BOB,

It is awfully unlucky, but I am obliged to go to Chester on the
Derby day, and _can't_ do as I desire. I wish you a pleasant trip.

I am ever, yours truly,

----

_Love-letter from a Gentleman to a Lady._

The Temple, June 4th.

DEAREST,

Days have passed by now since we have had the pleasure of a few
moments' conversation even; how these hours have dragged their slow
pace along you and I alone can tell. It is only when we are left to
the peaceful enjoyment of our own society that time flies. It may be
that to-morrow at Mrs. E.'s we shall have a little time alone. We
all dine there; she told me she should have a dance also, and that
your mamma had promised her your sister and yourself should be of
the party. May I ask for the first waltz? I send a few flowers, but
I imagine you will only wear one, the rose in your hair; your sister
is always pleased with a bouquet, so I shall not be very angry if
you let her have them, only wear my rose.

Your own

EDWARD.

----

_A Sailor to his Sweetheart._ H.M.S. Centaur, June 14th, 187-

MY DEAR FANNY,

You are never out of my mind. If you only think of me half as much,
I shall be satisfied. Sleeping or waking it is all the same, Fanny,
you are my only thought. What have you done with your piece of the
half-sovereign we cut in halves? I have bored a hole in mine, and
wear it round my neck on a bit of blue ribbon, to show that your
William is true blue. Do you wear yours the same, my dearest Fanny?
When I come home we will splice the halves, and Fanny and her
William will be one--will we not, darling girl? Our cruise will now
soon be over; I only hope, Fanny, you have been as true to me as I
have been to you; never have I ceased thinking of you. Bear in mind
your faithful William, who loves you as fondly as ever.

Your devoted lover,

WILLIAM.

----

_Gentleman's reply to the Lady, imagining he was indifferent to
her._

Gillingham, April 16th, 187-

DEAREST LOVE,

Such I must and will, with your permission, always call you. Your
letter really caused me much uneasiness. But, Dr. B., who came in
just as it arrived, strictly forbade me to excite myself in any way,
and would not allow me to reply to it immediately, as he feared an
immediate return of my old heart complaint. Who can have been so
mischievous, so ungenerous, so determined to make two hearts
miserable, as to invent this wicked story of my flirtation with Miss
G.? You name Mrs. G. On inquiring of her this morning I find she
heard it somewhere spoken of, she says, but cannot recall to her
mind the person who mentioned it. Let me at once and for ever
disabuse you of such a suspicion. My affection for you is unchanged
and unchangeable; often and often I have by letter and verbally too,
pledged myself that you alone, Katie dearest, were my only thought,
my only joy. Banish all vain suspicions from your mind. Trust in me;
I will never deceive you; my love is inviolably yours; for you I
breathe, for you I live, without you I should die. Believe me,
dearest, night and day you are uppermost in my thoughts, and a sad,
sad day it would be for me if for one moment you withdrew that
confidence in me that I have so long happily possessed. Believe no
aspersions against one who loves you madly. The time, I trust, will
soon arrive when I can call you mine alone, and no breath of
suspicion shall ever fall upon my fidelity. Love me then, my
dearest, as your own heart dictates; have no cares in future as to
any attention even in the least degree being shown by me to any one,
further than due civility, or what is required from the usages of
society, exacts. To-morrow I will do myself the pleasure of calling,
and trust then to succeed (if not successful now) in fully
explaining away any doubts or fears you may entertain.

Believe me,

Dearest Katie,

Your ever affectionate,

----

_From a Gentleman to a Lady with whom he is in love._

Braintree, Essex.

DEAR MISS ----,

As no opportunity has presented itself of speaking to you lately
alone, I venture to address you by letter, and I assure you my
happiness greatly depends on the reply with which you may deign to
favour me.

I love you, dear Miss ----, very sincerely, and if you can return my
affection and become my wife, I shall consider myself the most
fortunate of men.

The income which I can place at your disposal is not large, but in
my family you will find the most tender and affectionate connexions.
My mother (to whom alone I have confided my secret) is rejoiced at
the hope of having you for a daughter. Do not, best beloved Miss
Johnstone, disappoint her and myself! Should you not reject me--if I
am ever so happy as to call you my wife--the tenderest and most
affectionate devotion shall be yours, and the principal and only
study of my future days shall be to render your life as happy as you
deservedly merit it should be. Your reply is most impatiently
awaited by one whose life is wrapped up in yours. My aunt has just
called, and it appears that some years since she was very intimately
acquainted with your father, to whom I have written, enclosing this
note for you, and stating to him the purport of its contents.

I remain,

Dear Miss Johnstone,

Yours very truly,

HARRY CLINTON.

----

_From a Soldier ordered Abroad, to his affianced Bride._

Portsmouth, April 15th, 187-

DEAREST JULIA,

I can scarcely compose myself to write, for this very morning, at
mid-day parade, a telegram was received by our commanding officer
directing the regiment to hold itself under orders for immediate
foreign service; so that of course I shall be prevented seeing you
before our departure, as all leave is stopped for officers as well
as for the non-commissioned officers and men. Where our future
destination may be no one can at present conjecture, but we think it
may be Canada. How blighted now are our hopes! where all seemed
bright and joyous, nothing is left but separation and blank despair.
Julia, you love me; you are mine, are you not, dear Julia? Although
separated for a time, we shall love each other faithfully; no doubts
must arise, no feelings of suspicion or fear between us; but firm in
the knowledge that we are devotedly attached to each other, and that
nothing can change the ardent feelings we entertain, we must wait
and hope. I trust in a few short years, my darling Julia, to call
you mine. Your Ronald will be true to his promise and his love, and
in faith that his Julia will bear up bravely, as a soldier's
destined wife should do, he obeys his country's call in anguish but
not in despair. Accept the little present I send you (forwarded by
registered letter by this evening's post), and with most
affectionate and enduring love,

Believe me,

My dearest Julia,

Your ever devoted,

RONALD DUGAN.

----

_From a Gentleman to a Young Lady._

Snow Hill, January 1st, 187-

DEAR ROSY,

On returning from skating yesterday afternoon, and reflecting alone
on the pleasant morning we had passed, I was more than ever
impressed with my wretched solitary existence. Will you break for me
this monotonous routine of life by saying, "It need not be,
Charlie."

I have loved you fondly and long; your parents and mine are intimate
friends; they know my private character. Will you accept me as your
husband, dearest Rosy?

Believe me,

Your ever fondly attached,

CHARLIE BYERS.

----

_From a Husband to his Wife, on sailing from England._

H.M.S. Psyche, June 8th.

MY DEAREST WIFE,

I take the opportunity of the pilot's return to send you a hurried
and last farewell. Oh, my dearest, what but duty could reconcile me
to leaving you? What but the certainty that we are both protected by
our Heavenly Father could support me through the weary days and
nights which I am destined to spend far from you? Ah! the waves that
are now washing the sides of our vessel will soon cease to beat upon
that shore where my wife, where my friends are all thinking of me.

Farewell my dearest wife; be assured I am in good health and
tolerable spirits.

Comfort yourself, my dearest! we shall all meet soon and happily
again. I have not time to write to my mother, but pray tell her she
is always in my thoughts. God bless you, dearest!--my heart is full
of you.

Ever your devoted husband,

H. P.

----

_From a Husband absent on Business to his Wife._

The Fens, Lincolnshire, June 1st, 187-

DEAREST ISABELLA,

This is the first time, my darling, we have ever experienced the
bitterness and misery of separation, and the few days I have
already been absent from you appear like years. What my state of
mind will be at the expiration of another two or three weeks I will
let your little affectionate heart conjecture. But I must not be
selfish, my dearest Isa. You share my trial, but do not be
down-hearted, the time will soon pass away. You must go out and
visit the nice friends near you. Your dear kind mother also is
within an easy walk, I am glad to think.

Roger Hughes is going to stay with his family for some little while;
I do not care much about him (you remember we met him at ----). He
is certain to call upon you, but it will be just as well not to be
at home to him always. Hoping to return in a fortnight, I remain,
with very best love to your mother and yourself,

Your ever affectionate husband,

JOSIAH WEBB.

----

_From a Father to his Son beginning the World._

Hampstead, May 6th, 187-

MY DEAREST SON,

Separated as you will shortly be from your childhood's home--for
many years, perhaps--and not having your poor old father to consult
and obtain advice from, when any difficulties may arise, you will
naturally be inclined to appeal to those among your acquaintances
whom you may consider from intimate association as entitled to the
name of friends.

Now this is a matter in which you must observe the very greatest
caution and discrimination; a mistake made in selecting a friend and
acting up to his advice, is a fatal one, and no one can for a moment
form an idea of the consequences which may arise from it. In the
first place, do not seek the friendship of the "fast young man"
whose sole thought is to gratify himself in the enjoyment of this
world's pleasures, without any regard to the misery or disgrace his
conduct may be entailing on a happy, innocent family. Make friends
of those who, by their actions, have raised themselves in the
estimation of their superiors, and are regarded with eyes of jealous
admiration by their equals. Remember the old proverb, "Tell who are
your friends, and I will tell you what you are."

I hope, dear boy, your own good sense will lead you to avoid bad
companions. Should you ever (which I trust may never be the case) be
tempted to do anything contrary to the laws of honour or of duty,
question yourself thus: "Should I do this in my father's house?
should I act thus in my mother's presence?" The answer will be the
best talisman to keep you from falling in your combat with the
world.

We have great hopes in you, my dear son. Never omit to write to your
dear mother and myself, when you possibly can; and with our best and
fondest love,

Believe me,

Ever your affectionate father,

----

_From a Son who has misconducted himself towards his Employer, to
his Father._

Eastcheap, November 18th, 187-

DEAR FATHER,

I am in such distress I scarcely know how to commence my letter.
Without the least reason, without the least provocation, I left my
master at the most busy season, just for a temporary, trifling
amusement. He--the best of masters--for the moment was forgotten by
me: self predominated. I ran away from my service, and here I find
myself disgraced and miserable, and grieve to think how
indescribably shocked you will be when Mr. Evans communicates with
you relative to my absence. However, dear father, there is one
consolation: I cannot be accused of dishonesty; so I hope my
character is not irretrievably ruined. Will you see my master, and
tell him how deeply I regret my fault, and entreat him to forgive
me? It shall hereafter be my constant study to perform my duty in
the most upright manner, and with the most assiduous attention. Let
me hear also, dear father, in sending me Mr. Evans's reply, that you
also forgive

Your erring, but heartbroken son,

H. H. H.

----

_The Father's Answer._

Bedhampton, November 21st, 187-

MY DEAR SON,

Words cannot express my grief at the receipt of your letter. How can
you so soon have forgotten all the home lessons of duty you have
learned? What society can you have mingled in to have caused you to
be guilty of such folly? I have seen your master, and read him your
letter; and he agrees with myself that from the manner you have
acted in immediately informing me of your position, it is probable
you may, in an untoward moment, have been induced to commit an act
which you will never cease to regret. It is your first offence, and
he bids me say he rejoices that you are sensible of your grievous
error, and he will allow you to return, and never mention what has
occurred to you. Never, dear son, forget yourself again, be grateful
to your master, who is charity itself, and

Believe me,

Your affectionate father,

----

_A Father applying to a Principal of a School to ascertain Terms,
&c._

Hopwood House, June 16th, 187-

SIR,

Being desirous of sending my son, aged thirteen, to school, my
friends have strongly recommended me to apply to you on the subject.

I should be glad to learn your terms, and to be informed as to your
plan of tuition.

Will you favour me with a prospectus of your School, and also inform
me whether you have a vacancy?

I remain,

Yours faithfully,

----

_To a Child who has being guilty of telling a Falsehood._

Brecon, May 14th, 187-

MY DEAR SAMUEL,

I was much grieved to find after you had left us in the early part
of the week, that the replies you gave me relative to your
acquaintance with the L----s were utterly at variance with the
truth. Little did I think you would ever deceive us, when such
confidence has been always placed in you. Why did you try to
deceive me by a falsehood?

Let me entreat of you never again to deviate from the truth; should
you do so you will soon obtain a character as an untrustworthy
person, and no one will believe you, even when you speak the truth.
Every one will shun you, as they will always suspect that you are
trying to deceive them; even when you are acting rightly they will
look upon you with suspicion.

Have you forgotten that Truth is the point of honour in a gentleman,
and that no one can tell a falsehood and retain the character of
one?

I cannot tell you the shame I felt when I discovered your untruth; I
felt degraded by it.

Strive to retrieve your character in the future, by perfect
truthfulness and a high sense of what honour requires from you.

Till I believe that you feel the enormity of your fault I cannot
sign myself other than

Your afflicted father,

----

_Urging a Son to relinquish the Naval Profession._

Upton, June 12th, 187-

DEAR FREDERICK,

Your letter of the 1st, informing me that you had determined to
remain in your present profession, caused me great distress. If you
wish to add some little portion of comfort to the last years of a
father's life, which your headstrong passions have already greatly
embittered, you will immediately relinquish it. Remember you are the
only representative of our family. Why then persist in remaining in
a profession wherein you are exposed to constant and imminent
danger?

I wish you to marry, and hope to see you settle down and discharge
the duties of your position in society as a country gentleman; you
have ample means at your disposal now, as the whole of your late
uncle's property is yours. Concede a little to your father, whose
only desire is to see his name honourably upheld, his family
perpetuated, in the county in which we are now so much respected.
Age is creeping on me, Frederick, I am widowed and alone. I trust
this appeal will not be made in vain. You know my deep and lasting
affection for you; do not wound it by a refusal. Awaiting with great
anxiety your determination,

Believe me,

Your affectionate father,

----

_Reply._

H.M.S. Psyche, June 19th.

MY DEAR FATHER,

Dearly as I love my noble profession, I am unable to resist your
last earnest appeal, and agree therefore to give up my commission,
and return to a life on land. The pang this resolution costs me is
softened by the remembrance that I may thus hope to ensure the
happiness of so good a father.

I shall shortly return to you, and will endeavour in all things to
prove

Your most dutiful and affectionate son,

----

_A Letter from a Father to a Son at School, on the necessity of
attention to his Studies._

Mudiford, January 28th, 187-

MY DEAR BOY,

Now you have returned to school it is my duty to point out to you
how absolutely necessary it is for your future success that you
should persevere in your studies, more especially if you wish to
leave college (for which you are destined) with honour. Do not be
carried away with the natural love of ease and pleasure, but
accustom yourself at once to really hard work. If you cannot
reconcile yourself to do so in your youth you will be unable to do
so as you grow older, and you will become incapable of achieving
anything great. Application may be difficult at first, but when once
you have accustomed yourself to it you will find study pleasant,
easy, and agreeable, and in years to come you will be well repaid
for the toil and trouble you now undergo. What can be pleasanter
than to find yourself at the head of your school, leaving all
competitors behind? what more gratifying than to give pleasure to
your father and mother, and to obtain the admiration and approval of
your teachers? That, dear boy, will be your reward if you study
constantly and patiently; but if you neglect the opportunities
offered to you now, your future life will be nothing but
disquietude, and you will grow up ignorant, and be despised. Pay
attention to my advice, and work in the morning of your days. With
your mother's best love and mine,

Believe me,

Your ever affectionate father,

R. R.

----

_Reply to a Letter from a young Man informing his Uncle he had
contracted Debts._

Soltney, March 4th, 187-

MY DEAR NEPHEW,

I was indeed deeply grieved on the receipt of your letter to find
you had forgotten, or at least not acted up to the advice I gave
you--to pay for everything you purchased at once, and not to go into
debt on any account. I must put things before you now in a plain
unvarnished manner, and give you my opinion, formed after many
years' experience. The man who contracts debts which he is unable to
pay, more especially for articles of useless luxury, is much more
culpable than the poor creature who, distracted by all the miseries
of his starving family at home, rushes into the first shop he sees
and steals something to relieve their necessities.

When men find themselves encumbered with debts which they are unable
to pay, mean subterfuges are resorted to; applications for delay of
payment are made--and granted, without any good result; the final
crash comes at last: the patience and temper of the tradesmen become
exhausted, they have recourse to their legal remedy, and
wretchedness and beggary are the result.

It may be that you have been endeavouring to keep pace with some
young man of greater fortune than your own. Be not led away by such
absurd vanity. The largest income will be and has been squandered,
unknown as it were to its possessor, solely from the crime (and a
great one too it is) of running into debt. I regret that I cannot
assist you at present with the loan you request, and remain

Your affectionate uncle,

T. H. P.

----

_Acknowledging a Letter of Congratulation on the Birth of a Child._

Duke Street, St. James's, Dec. 24th, 187-

DEAR ----,

Thanks for your kind letter and good wishes. I am happy to say that
my wife and the baby are going on well. I have told Mrs. Compton
about Mr. Denville; she is glad to hear so good an account of him.
Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy New Year,

Believe me,

Yours sincerely,

D. W.

----

_From a Child, acknowledging the receipt of the Present of a Book._

Ramsden Hall, January 18th, 187-

MY DEAR MRS. ----,

Thank you very much for the beautiful book you have sent me. It is
very pretty and nice, and I like it very much. I long to see you
again. I have been out driving this morning in the pony carriage.
There is a hard frost. With best love to Dr. G. and yourself

I remain,

Your most affectionate little friend,

R. D. A.

----

_From a Father to a Son, relative to his Expenditure._

Hackney, March 5th, 187-

MY DEAR SON,

Your last letter gave us pleasure not unmixed with pain: pleasure to
learn that you were well, and held in esteem by your superiors, and
on friendly terms with those of your own standing; and pain from the
request which it contained. Your mother, like myself, feels grieved
that you should ask for an additional allowance. You should consider
that you have brothers and sisters for whom I have also to make a
provision, and that if the allowance I now give you (which is
considered large) be increased, it must deprive us all of some of
our necessary comforts. You must reflect on this, dear boy, and then
I am well assured that you will not urge your request. I will,
however (for this once alone, understand me), make you a present of
Thirty Pounds. Your own good sense, I am certain, will show you the
necessity of retrenchment, so I shall not allude to the matter
further. The presents you sent us each by last mail are much
appreciated and treasured by us.

We are going to move from this neighbourhood, as we find it too
expensive; when next you write, therefore, address to Durnford
Street.

Your brother Fred is going to be married, but will live near us. His
future wife is a daughter of Mr. Passmore, and at his death she will
have about 2000_l_.; at present he will make her an allowance of
80_l_. per annum.

All your pets are well, and we guard them jealously for your sake.
Trusting you will remain some time at Shopoo, as it agrees with you
so well, and that we may constantly hear from you,

Believe me, with our united kindest love,

Your affectionate father,

H. V. ROSSITER.

----

_From one Brother to another, on having unexpectedly amassed a
Fortune._

Natal, S. Africa, February 1st, 187--

DEAR WILLIAM,

You are well aware that when I sailed from England a few years ago,
after paying my passage out I had but a very few pounds left; but I
soon got good employment, and saved out of my wages all that I
possibly could. I never was very fond of company, and have no
expensive habits; so at the end of two years I found myself with
30_l._ to my credit in the bank. When the report came here of
diamonds being found up the country, I started off, bag and baggage,
and on my arrival got an allotment, and went to work with a hearty
good will. For many a weary day I toiled, giving myself little time
for rest. At last I was rewarded: among the washings I found a
diamond, a small one, yet what a treasure I thought it! On and on I
toiled--some weeks with success, and others with none; however, my
labours have been successful: I have been fortunate enough to find
diamonds, which, when valued, have realized the handsome sum of
L----.

Tell my dearest mother that now she will never want. I am coming
home, and shall invest for her sole use during her lifetime L----.

Will you, dear William, look out for a good school for my little
sister? She must be nine years of age now. Ask the clergyman's wife
to recommend you one. I wish her to be educated as a lady, and she
shall have the L---- at my mother's death. How I wish our poor
father had lived to derive some comfort from my fortune! You shall
have 100_l._ paid to your credit to provide the things Jane will
require on going to school, and to pay for the first half-year's
expenses there. I hope to be home in six months, when I will take a
suitable house for our dear mother. If you will accept it from me, I
make you a present of L----; with the remainder of my earnings I
shall purchase a nice property, so that I may be certain my money
will be secure, for were I to speculate I might lose all.

With best love, and hoping shortly to see you happy and well,

Believe me,

Your affectionate brother,

ANGUS M'DONALD.

----

_From a Gentleman in India to a Relation in England._

Camp, Booltan, Feb. 1st, 187--

MY DEAR ----,

Many thanks for your last letter, which arrived some three weeks
ago. We never received the letter to which you allude, containing
the photographs; and I am very sorry it went astray, for we should
have liked so much to have them. I hope, if you have other copies,
that you will kindly send them to us when you next write.

We both desire to thank you for your kind and cordial reception of
dear Richard. He wrote and told us how warmly you received him, and
how pleased and gratified he was to see you. I trust he will come to
see you again on his return from Devon, where he was when we last
heard from him. We miss him terribly, and look forward anxiously to
meeting him out here again next year, if, please God, we are all
spared. James, his wife, and children are living down at
Cheltenham. I wonder if there is any chance of your meeting? Sarah
Maria is in Cornwall, but they took a house for a term of years near
Watford, and will be back there, certainly before Christmas; she had
no idea you were in London, and I must tell her of it when I next
write to her. We are now in camp, marching about the district; of
course I do my office as usual in tents every day--a happy, gipsy
kind of life--and dearest Sophie and the little ones always enjoy
it. Give my kindest love to Emma and Blanche. I have been intending
to write to Emma, and I will really write soon; but in the hot
weather one feels terribly indisposed for letter-writing, and I have
quite quill-work enough to do every day. Our kindest love to
yourself and Horace, and to Jane and Sophia; and many kisses from
our little darling.

Always your very affectionate cousin,

HAROLD SOTHERN.

----

_A Father, who has lately lost his Wife, to his Daughter at School._

Woburn, July 20th.

MY DARLING CHILD,

I was very pleased and comforted by your last affectionate letter.
Bitterly indeed do I miss you! Had I given way to my own selfish
wishes, I think I should not have allowed you to return to school.
Your dear aunt, however, who is now looking carefully after my
domestic affairs, showed me so plainly that by keeping you at home I
should be depriving you of the advantages of education, that I
sacrificed my feelings for your sake. On reflection, also, I hoped
that you would find some little consolation and comfort from
association with young ladies of your own age, for here all is
cheerless and dreary. The void caused by your dear mother's death
can never be refilled; my home is truly desolate. It would have been
wrong to keep you at home to share my grief, and thus uselessly add
bitterness to your younger years. Do not grieve too long and
bitterly, my child, for your dearly loved mother; imitate her in
every action of her life; and when Time has slightly moderated your
poor father's sorrow, and you are in charge of his home and your
own, things may be brighter and more cheerful again.

Pray write to me soon, and

Believe me,

Your ever affectionate father,

----

_A Parent to his Daughter at Service._

Farndon, March 1st, 187--

MY DEAR DAUGHTER,

When you left home for service, you were so young and inexperienced
that we were most anxious as to your welfare. We are truly thankful
to find from your letter, received a few days ago, that you are in a
place that is likely to prove comfortable. I need not give you much
advice as to obedience, for you have always been, both to your
mother and myself, a most obedient and dutiful child. Your mistress
is very kind in showing you how to perform your duties. Be
attentive, and grateful to her for such kindness.

Do not make acquaintances too hurriedly; never stay out later than
the hour appointed for you to be at home; and on no account whatever
admit any one into the house, without first obtaining leave from
your mistress. Never miss an opportunity of attending Divine
worship. Write to us as often as you can; and with the love of your
mother and myself,

Believe me, your affectionate father,

JOSEPH HODGES.

----

_From a Father to his Son, who has been complaining of the severity
of his Master._

Putney, March, 187--

MY DEAR FREDERICK,

I was very sorry indeed to find from your last that you were not
satisfied with your place, and that your master was always finding
fault with you. You must not imagine that in doing so he is at all
cruel or severe; but, having a great interest in your future
welfare, he wishes, whilst there is yet time, to correct the faults
he sees you commit. It is not with you that he is angry; it is with
the faults and errors he sees you fall into. It is for your good,
believe me, my dear Fred, that he speaks; and in after years you
will look with gratitude and respect on Mr. C----, who now appears
to you to be harsh and unkind. With our fondest love, hoping you are
well, and that you will become more contented soon,

Believe me,

Your ever affectionate father,

----

_A Letter of Condolence._

Hampton Road, April 4th, 187--

MY DEAR J----N,

I sincerely commiserate you in this your fearful and awful
visitation. Sad indeed it is to lose your wife and your expected
child in one short moment! Your dear wife, we are well aware (as far
as human beings can form a judgment of the lives of their fellow
creatures) was in every act, deed, and word a true Christian. Your
account of her death is deeply touching; but how grateful you must
have felt to have seen her so resigned and happy in the thought
that, although her loss would cast a shadow on your life on earth,
you would meet her hereafter in that better world, where no trouble
or sorrow is to be found. She was good in every acceptation of the
term: her charities (so unostentatiously dispensed), her cheerful
willingness to relieve any real distress, her talents and charms,
endeared her to all. Naturally you must deeply grieve for the loss
of one so dear and excellent. You have again another source of grief
in the loss of your child; dear J----, and at present all
consolation must seem to you impossible; but God has ordained that
Time shall bring comfort and soothing for all earthly sorrows, and
to its healing influence we must leave you. As soon as you feel
equal to the journey, come to us, and stay as long as you feel
inclined. We will walk and ride together. There is great healing in
Nature, and open-air exercise--I speak from experience--does as much
as reason and philosophy in soothing a great grief.

My wife unites with me in best regards and truest sympathy.

I am ever,

Dear J----,

Yours most truly,

----

_To a Gentleman whose Brother is dangerously Ill, offering him
Consolation and Comfort._

MY DEAR ----,

Every morning we listen for the post with the greatest anxiety,
trusting that it will bring us better news of your dear brother. The
accounts yesterday gave us a very lively idea of your situation,
while you are expecting so critical and dangerous an hour as that
which you have in view. We deeply feel for you, yet we know you are
and will be supported. We pray for you and your brother, and we know
and believe that He on whom we call is rich in mercy and mighty to
save. We see many around us who have been restored from the very
gates of the grave when every human effort has proved ineffectual.
This gives us hopes that our supplications may terminate in praises
for your dear brother's restoration to health.

Yours most truly,

----

_Giving Information about Trains._

Chatham, June 3rd.

MY DEAR ----,

We were all very glad to find on Martha's return yesterday that you
would come on Saturday, and we trust we may induce you to stay until
Monday.

I enclose you a list of the departure and arrival of the trains. The
launch takes place at three o'clock, but (if you can manage it) you
had better come early, that you may have a rest after your journey.
Let us know at what time you propose leaving London, and we will
meet you at the station. It appears to me the one leaving at 10.30,
and arriving at 11.30, is the best, as you will only be an hour on
the road. However, let us know.

We unite in kindest love to all, and best regards to A----

Your affectionate brother,

Leave Victoria. Arrive at Chatham.
9.15 11.20
10.30 11.30
11.35 1.15
12.30 1.36

----

_From a Gentleman applying for Sittings or a Pew in a Parish Church,
in the Country._

Wales, October 18th, 187-

DEAR SIR,

I should feel much obliged if you would use your influence with the
churchwardens to procure me a pew or sittings for myself and family
in the Parish Church. I need not point out to you the inconvenience
arising from not having one allotted to me. I purposed making a
formal application to the churchwardens, but being a stranger to
them all, I believe a word from you would procure them for me. For
some weeks I have been confined to the house from indisposition, or
I would have done myself the pleasure of making my request in
person.

I remain,

Dear Sir,

Very truly yours,

The Rev. ----

----

_A Gentleman applying to an Agent at a Watering-place for Lodgings._

Thickset Lodge, Howbury, May 1st, 187--

SIR,

Wishing to leave my house in the country for some months in the
summer, I should feel obliged if you would inform me whether there
would be much difficulty in obtaining furnished apartments at ----.
I am well aware that at some of the towns on the South Coast
(especially at this time, when a demonstration of our naval forces
is to be made) it may be difficult to find them. You know the place
well, and also about the terms I generally give.