re than pain to survivors--especially if they
can comfort themselves with the humble hope, that the Divine mercy has
taken the dear departed to itself.

And what is the space of time to look backward upon, between an early
departure and the longest survivance!--and what the consolation attending
the sweet hope of meeting again, never more to be separated, never more
to be pained, grieved, or aspersed;--but mutually blessing, and being
blessed, to all eternity!

In the contemplation of this happy state, in which I hope, in God's good
time, to rejoice with you, my beloved Mrs. Norton, and also with my dear
relations, all reconciled to, and blessing the child against whom they
are now so much incensed, I conclude myself

Your ever dutiful and affectionate
CLARISSA HARLOWE.

LETTER VII

MR. LOVELACE, TO JOHN BELFORD, ESQ.
SUNDAY, AUG. 13.

I don't know what a devil ails me; but I never was so much indisposed in
my life. At first, I thought some of my blessed relations here had got a
dose administered to me, in order to get the whole house to themselves.
But, as I am the hopes of the family, I believe they would not be so
wicked.

I must lay down my pen. I cannot write with any spirit at all. What a
plague can be the matter with me!

***

Lord M. paid me just now a cursed gloomy visit, to ask how I do after
bleeding. His sisters both drove away yesterday, God be thanked. But
they asked not my leave; and hardly bid me good-bye. My Lord was more
tender, and more dutiful, than I expected. Men are less unforgiving than
women. I have reason to say so, I am sure. For, besides implacable Miss
Harlowe, and the old Ladies, the two Montague apes han't been near me
yet.

***

Neither eat, drink, nor sleep!--a piteous case, Jack! If I should die
like a fool now, people would say Miss Harlowe had broken my heart.--That
she vexes me to the heart, is certain.

Confounded squeamish! I would fain write it off. But must lay down my
pen again. It won't do. Poor Lovelace!----What a devil ails thee?

***

Well, but now let's try for't--Hoy--Hoy--Hoy! Confound me for a gaping
puppy, how I yawn!--Where shall I begin? at thy executorship--thou shalt
have a double office of it: for I really think thou mayest send me a
coffin and a shroud. I shall be ready for them by the time they can come
down.

What a little fool is this Miss Harlowe! I warrant she'll now repent
that she refused me. Such a