ws could tell them.

But, having thus satisfied myself in relation to the worst that can
happen to this charming creature; and that it will be her own fault, if
she be unhappy; I have not at all reflected upon what is likely to be my
own lot.

This has always been my notion, though Miss Howe grudges us rakes the
best of the sex, and says, that the worst is too good for us,* that the
wife of a libertine ought to be pure, spotless, uncontaminated. To what
purpose has such a one lived a free life, but to know the world, and to
make his advantages of it!--And, to be very serious, it would be a
misfortune to the public for two persons, heads of a family, to be both
bad; since, between two such, a race of varlets might be propagated
(Lovelaces and Belfords, if thou wilt) who might do great mischief in the
world.

Thou seest at bottom that I am not an abandoned fellow; and that there is
a mixture of gravity in me. This, as I grow older, may increase; and
when my active capacity begins to abate, I may sit down with the
preacher, and resolve all my past life into vanity and vexation of
spirit.

This is certain, that I shall never find a woman so well suited to my
taste as Miss Clarissa Harlowe. I only wish that I may have such a lady
as her to comfort and adorn my setting sun. I have often thought it very
unhappy for us both, that so excellent a creature sprang up a little too
late for my setting out, and a little too early in my progress, before I
can think of returning. And yet, as I have picked up the sweet traveller
in my way, I cannot help wishing that she would bear me company in the
rest of my journey, although she were stepping out of her own path to
oblige me. And then, perhaps, we could put up in the evening at the same
inn; and be very happy in each other's conversation; recounting the
difficulties and dangers we had passed in our way to it.

I imagine that thou wilt be apt to suspect that some passages in this
letter were written in town. Why, Jack, I cannot but say that the
Westminster air is a little grosser than that at Hampstead; and the
conversation of Mrs. Sinclair and the nymphs less innocent than Mrs.
Moore's and Miss Rawlins's. And I think in my heart I can say and write
those things at one place which I cannot at the other, nor indeed any
where else.

I came to town about seven this morning--all necessary directions and
precautions remembered to be given.

I besought the favour of an audien