o virtuous
and so discreet a daughter. How happy is our lot in the midst of our
poverty! O let none ever think children a burden to them; when the
poorest circumstances can produce so much riches in a Pamela! Persist,
my dear daughter, in the same excellent course; and we shall not envy
the highest estate, but defy them to produce such a daughter as ours.

'I said, we had not read through all yours in course. We were too
impatient, and so turned to the end; where we find your virtue within
view of its reward, and your master's heart turned to see the folly of
his ways, and the injury he had intended to our dear child: For, to be
sure, my dear, he would have ruined you, if he could. But seeing your
virtue, his heart is touched; and he has, no doubt, been awakened by
your good example.

'We don't see that you can do any way so well, as to come into the
present proposal, and make Mr. Williams, the worthy Mr. Williams! God
bless him!--happy. And though we are poor, and can add no merit, no
reputation, no fortune, to our dear child, but rather must be a disgrace
to her, as the world will think; yet I hope I do not sin in my pride, to
say, that there is no good man, of a common degree, (especially as your
late lady's kindness gave you such good opportunities, which you have
had the grace to improve,) but may think himself happy in you. But, as
you say, you had rather not marry at present, far be it from us to offer
violence to your inclination! So much prudence as you have shewn in all
your conduct, would make it very wrong in us to mistrust it in this, or
to offer to direct you in your choice. Rut, alas! my child, what can we
do for you?--To partake our hard lot, and involve yourself into as hard
a life, would not help us, but add to your afflictions. But it will be
time enough to talk of these things, when we have the pleasure you now
put us in hope of, of seeing you with us; which God grant. Amen, amen,
say 'Your most indulgent parents. Amen!'

'Our humblest service and thanks to the worthy Mr. Williams. Again we
say, God bless him for ever!

'O what a deal we have to say to you! God give us a happy meeting!
We understand the 'squire is setting out for London. He is a fine
gentleman, and has wit at will. I wish he was as good. But I hope he
will now reform.'

O what inexpressible comfort, my dear father, has your letter given
me!--You ask, What can you do for me?--What is it you cannot do for your
child!--You can g