Chapter XXXII: Letter XXXI: Mrs. Holmes to Myra

_Belleview._

IF the affair of your brother and _Harriot_ be serious, and matrimony is really on the _tapis_, do not fail to make me _previously_ acquainted with it.—I very much doubt the evidence of the verses—they weigh little in my mind—and he is easily excused for sending them to so fine a girl as _Harriot_.

YOUR observations on her dependence on Mrs. _Francis_ do honour to your heart—virtue does not consist in affluence and independence—nor can it be reflected on us by the glory of our connexions—those who pride themselves on it, make but an indifferent figure; for in the estimation of all sensible people—true merit is personal.

HOWEVER, my dear friend, as one who wishes for your welfare and the happiness of your family, I advise you to discourage the proposed connexion—and if you cannot undertake this disagreeable talk with a _certain of success_, do not fail to acquaint me of it _speedily_.

Adieu!