ing of his
advice would lead me,) might I be drawn by gentle words into the
penetration of the most violent acts!--For how could I gain possession,
but either by legal litigation, which, were I inclined to have recourse
to it, (as I never can be,) must take up time; or by forcibly turning
out the persons whom my father has placed there, to look after the
gardens, the house, and the furniture--persons entirely attached to
himself, and who, as I know, have been lately instructed by my brother?

Your third alternative, to meet and marry Mr. Lovelace directly; a man
with whose morals I am far from being satisfied--a step, that could
not be taken with the least hope of ever obtaining pardon from or
reconciliation with any of my friends; and against which a thousand
objections rise in my mind--that is not to be thought of.

What appears to me, upon the fullest deliberation, the most eligible,
if I must be thus driven, is the escaping to London. But I would forfeit
all my hopes of happiness in this life, rather than you should go away
with me, as you rashly, though with the kindest intentions, propose.
If I could get safely thither, and be private, methinks I might remain
absolutely independent of Mr. Lovelace, and at liberty either to make
proposals to my friends, or, should they renounce me, (and I had no
other or better way,) to make terms with him; supposing my cousin
Morden, on his arrival, were to join with my other relations. But they
would then perhaps indulge me in my choice of a single life, on giving
him up: the renewing to them this offer, when at my own liberty, will
at least convince them, that I was in earnest when I made it first: and,
upon my word, I would stand to it, dear as you seem to think, when you
are disposed to rally me, it would cost me, to stand to it.

If, my dear, you can procure a vehicle for us both, you can perhaps
procure one for me singly: but can it be done without embroiling
yourself with your mother, or her with our family?--Be it coach,
chariot, chaise, wagon, or horse, I matter not, provided you appear not
to have a hand in my withdrawing. Only, in case it be one of the two
latter, I believe I must desire you to get me an ordinary gown and coat,
or habit, of some servant; having no concert with any of our own: the
more ordinary the better. They must be thrust on in the wood-house;
where I can put them on; and then slide down from the bank, that
separates the wood-yard from the green la