ortant interest. I believe
you must substitute some more indifferent epithet for the present."
"Well, then," said he, "if it must be so, let it be esteem or
friendship." "Indeed, sir," said I, "you are entitled to them both.
Merit has always a share in that bank; and I know of none who has a
larger claim on that score than Mr. Boyer." I suppose my manner was
hardly serious enough for what he considered a weighty cause. He was a
little disconcerted, but, soon regaining his presence of mind, entreated
me, with an air of earnestness, to encourage his suit, to admit his
addresses, and, if possible, to reward his love. I told him that this
was rather a sudden affair to me, and that I could not answer him
without consideration. "Well, then," said he, "take what time you think
proper; only relieve my suspense as soon as may be. Shall I visit you
again to-morrow?" "O, not so soon," said I; "next Monday, I believe,
will be early enough. I will endeavor to be at home." He thanked me even
for that favor, recommended himself once more to my kindness, and we
walked towards the company, returned with them to the house, and he soon
took leave. I immediately retired to write this letter, which I shall
close without a single observation on the subject until I know your
opinion.

ELIZA WHARTON.

LETTER XIII.

TO MISS ELIZA WHARTON.

HARTFORD.

And so you wish to have my opinion before you know the result of your
own.

This is playing a little too much with my patience; but, however, I will
gratify you this once, in hopes that my epistle may have a good effect.
You will ask, perhaps, whether I would influence your judgment. I
answer, No, provided you will exercise it yourself; but I am a little
apprehensive that your fancy will mislead you. Methinks I can gather
from your letters a predilection for this Major Sanford. But he is a
rake, my dear friend; and can a lady of your delicacy and refinement
think of forming a connection with a man of that character? I hope not;
nay, I am confident you do not. You mean only to exhibit a few more
girlish airs before you turn matron; but I am persuaded, if you wish to
lead down the dance of life with regularity, you will not find a more
excellent partner than Mr. Boyer. Whatever you can reasonably expect in
a lover, husband, or friend, you may perceive to be united in this
worthy man. His taste is undebauched, his manners not vitiated, his
morals uncorrupted. His situation in life is, perha