on the New Road, of opening new avenues
for pain and misery to attack us."

The letter to which he refers is probably the following, written two
days after his departure:--

It was so kind and considerate in you to write sooner than I
expected, that I cannot help hoping you would be disappointed at
not receiving a greeting from me on your arrival at Etruria. If
your heart was in your mouth, as I felt, just now, at the sight of
your hand, you may kiss or shake hands with the letter, and imagine
with what affection it was written. If not, stand off, profane one!

I was not quite well the day after you left me; but it is past, and
I am well and tranquil, excepting the disturbance produced by
Master William's joy, who took it into his head to frisk a little
at being informed of your remembrance. I begin to love this little
creature, and to anticipate his birth as a fresh twist to a knot
which I do not wish to untie. Men are spoilt by frankness, I
believe, yet I must tell you that I love you better than I supposed
I did, when I promised to love you forever. And I will add what
will gratify your benevolence, if not your heart, that on the whole
I may be termed happy. You are a kind, affectionate creature, and I
feel it thrilling through my frame, giving and promising pleasure.

Fanny wants to know "what you are gone for," and endeavors to
pronounce Etruria. Poor papa is her word of kindness. She has been
turning your letter on all sides, and has promised to play with
Bobby till I have finished my answer.

I find you can write the kind of letter a friend ought to write,
and give an account of your movements. I hailed the sunshine and
moonlight, and travelled with you, scenting the fragrant gale.
Enable me still to be your company, and I will allow you to peep
over my shoulder, and see me under the shade of my green blind,
thinking of you, and all I am to hear and feel when you return. You
may read my heart, if you will.

I have no information to give in return for yours. Holcroft is to
dine with me on Saturday; so do not forget us when you drink your
solitary glass, for nobody drinks wine at Etruria, I take it. Tell
me what you think of Everina's situation and behavior, and treat
her with as much kindness as you can,--that is, a little more than
her