, till I had accomplished my
purpose, improbable as it might have appeared to a more timid mind. In
the course of near nine-and-twenty years, I have gathered some
experience, and felt many _severe_ disappointments--and what is the
amount? I long for a little peace and _independence_! Every obligation we
receive from our fellow-creatures is a new shackle, takes from our native
freedom, and debases the mind, makes us mere earthworms--I am not fond of
grovelling!

I am, sir, yours, &c.

MARY WOLLSTONECRAFT.

* * * * *

LETTER III.

Market Harborough, Sept. 20.

My dear sir,

YOU left me with three opulent tradesmen; their conversation was not
calculated to beguile the way, when the sable curtain concealed the
beauties of nature. I listened to the tricks of trade--and shrunk away,
without wishing to grow rich; even the novelty of the subjects did not
render them pleasing; fond as I am of tracing the passions in all their
different forms--I was not surprised by any glimpse of the sublime, or
beautiful--though one of them imagined I would be a useful partner in a
good _firm_. I was very much fatigued, and have scarcely recovered
myself. I do not expect to enjoy the same tranquil pleasures Henley
afforded: I meet with new objects to employ my mind; but many painful
emotions are complicated with the reflections they give rise to.

I do not intend to enter on the _old_ topic, yet hope to hear from
you--and am yours, &c.

MARY WOLLSTONECRAFT.

* * * * *

LETTER IV.

Friday Night.

My dear sir,

THOUGH your remarks are generally judicious--I cannot _now_ concur with
you, I mean with respect to the preface[67-A], and have not altered it.
I hate the usual smooth way of exhibiting proud humility. A general rule
_only_ extends to the majority--and, believe me, the few judicious
parents who may peruse my book, will not feel themselves hurt--and the
weak are too vain to mind what is said in a book intended for children.

I return you the Italian MS.--but do not hastily imagine that I am
indolent. I would not spare any labour to do my duty--and, after the most
laborious day, that single thought would solace me more than any
pleasures the senses could enjoy. I find I could not translate the MS.
well. If it was not a MS, I should not be so easily intimidated; but the
hand, and errors in orthography, or abbreviations, are a stumbling-block
at the first setti