obodies then who are
thought to have good blood in their veins now.

But I do not say this because I differ from you. I agree
with you so fully, that I at once made up my mind to
reject the man; and, consequently, I have done so.

When I told him I could not accept him from family
considerations, he asked me whether I had spoken to papa.
I told him, no; and that it would be no good, as I had
made up my own mind. I don't think he quite understood me;
but it did not perhaps much matter. You told me to be very
cold, and I think that perhaps he thought me less gracious
than before. Indeed, I fear that when he first spoke,
I may seem to have given him too much encouragement.
However, it is all over now; quite over! [As Augusta wrote
this, she barely managed to save the paper beneath her
hand from being moistened with the tear which escaped from
her eye.]

I do not mind confessing now, [she continued] at any rate
to you, that I did like Mr Gazebee a little. I think his
temper and disposition would have suited me. But I am
quite satisfied that I have done right. He tried very hard
to make me change my mind. That is, he said a great many
things as to whether I would not put off my decision. But
I was quite firm. I must say that he behaved very well,
and that I really do think he liked me honestly and truly;
but, of course, I could not sacrifice family
considerations on that account.

Yes, rank has its responsibilities as well as its
privileges. I will remember that. It is necessary to do
so, as otherwise one would be without consolation for what
one has to suffer. For I find that one has to suffer,
Amelia. I know papa would have advised me to marry this
man; and so, I dare say, mamma would, and Frank, and
Beatrice, if they knew that I liked him. It would not be
so bad if we all thought alike about it; but it is hard to
have the responsibilities all on one's own shoulder; is it
not?

But I will go over to you, and you will comfort me. I
always feel stronger on this subject at Courcy than at
Greshamsbury. We will have a long talk about it, and then
I shall be happy again. I purpose going on next Friday, if
that will suit you and dear aunt. I have told mamma that
you all wanted me, and she made no objection. Do write at
once, dearest Amelia, for to hear from you now will be my
only comfort