them
on that subject, and his several proposals. But takes notice, that he
says not the least word of the solemnity which he so much pressed for
before they came to town; and which, as she observes, was necessary to
give propriety to his proposals.]

Now, my dear, she says, I cannot bear the life I live. I would be glad
at my heart to be out of his reach. If I were, he should soon find the
difference. If I must be humbled, it had better be by those to whom I
owe duty, than by him. My aunt writes in her letter,* that SHE dare not
propose any thing in my favour. You tell me, that upon inquiry, you
find,* that, had I not been unhappily seduced away, a change of measures
was actually resolved upon; and that my mother, particularly, was
determined to exert herself for the restoration of the family peace; and,
in order to succeed the better, had thoughts of trying to engage my uncle
Harlowe in her party.

* See Vol. III. Letter LII.
** Ibid. Letter VIII.

Let me build on these foundations. I can but try, my dear. It is my
duty to try all probably methods to restore the poor outcast to favour.
And who knows but that once indulgent uncle, who has very great weight in
the family, may be induced to interpose in my behalf? I will give up all
right and title to my grandfather's devises and bequests, with all my
heart and soul, to whom they please, in order to make my proposal
palatable to my brother. And that my surrender may be effectual, I will
engage never to marry.

What think you, my dear, of this expedient? Surely, they cannot resolve
to renounce me for ever. If they look with impartial eyes upon what has
happened, they will have something to blame themselves for, as well as
me.

I presume, that you will be of opinion that this expedient is worth
trying. But here is my difficulty: If I should write, my hard-hearted
brother has so strongly confederated them all against me, that my letter
would be handed about from one to another, till he had hardened every one
to refuse my request; whereas could my uncle be engaged to espouse my
cause, as from himself, I should have some hope, as I presume to think he
would soon have my mother and my aunt of his party.

What, therefore, I am thinking of, is this--'Suppose Mr. Hickman, whose
good character has gained him every body's respect, should put himself in
my uncle Harlowe's way? And (as if from your knowledge of the state of
things between Mr. Love