onsented; and we had a very sociable ride. The fineness of
the day induced me to protract the enjoyment of it abroad; but Miss
Lawrence declined riding so far as I proposed, as she had engaged
company to dine. We therefore parted till the evening, when we are to
meet again." "What, another engagement!" said Mrs. Richman. "Only to
the assembly, madam." "May I inquire after your gallant, my dear? But I
have no right, perhaps, to be inquisitive," said Mrs. Richman. Miss
Wharton made no reply, and the conversation took a general turn. Miss
Wharton sustained her part with great propriety. Indeed, she discovers a
fund of useful knowledge and extensive reading, which render her
peculiarly entertaining; while the brilliancy of her wit, the fluency of
her language, the vivacity and ease of her manners are inexpressibly
engaging. I am going myself to the assembly this evening, though I did
not mention it to General Richman. I therefore took my leave soon after
dinner.

I have heard so much in praise of Miss Wharton's penmanship, in
addition to her other endowments, that I am almost tempted to break the
seal of her letter to you; but I forbear. Wishing you much happiness in
the perusal of it, and more in the possession of its writer, I subscribe
myself yours, &c.,

T. SELBY.

LETTER XXV.

TO THE REV. J. BOYER.

NEW HAVEN.

Sir: Your favor of the 4th instant came to hand yesterday. I received it
with pleasure, and embrace this early opportunity of contributing my
part to a correspondence tending to promote a friendly and social
intercourse. An epistolary communication between the sexes has been with
some a subject of satire and censure; but unjustly, in my opinion. With
persons of refinement and information, it may be a source of
entertainment and utility. The knowledge and masculine virtues of your
sex may be softened and rendered more diffusive by the inquisitiveness,
vivacity, and docility of ours, drawn forth and exercised by each
other.

In regard to the _particular_ subject of yours, I shall be silent. Ideas
of that kind are better conveyed, on my part, by words than by the pen.

I congratulate you on your agreeable settlement, and hope it will be
productive of real and lasting happiness. I am convinced that felicity
is not confined to any particular station or condition in life; yet,
methinks, some are better calculated to afford it to me than others.

Your extract from a favorite poet is charmingly descriptive