Believe me,Respectfully yours,Edward Keane.210. Answer to the Above (Favorable).E——, June 5, 19—.My Dear Mr. Keane:—If I feel absolutely certain that my daughter's happiness is concerned in obtaining my consent to her engagement with you, I will offer no opposition to it, and shall be glad to receive you at our house as her accepted lover. I sincerely believe that you will, as you say, make her a good husband. Will endeavor to see your father in a day or two, and explain to him what I can afford to do for my daughter.Faithfully yours,Henry Longstreet.211. Answer to No. 209 (Unfavorable).E——, June 5, 19—.Edmund Keane, Esq.Dear Sir:—It is my firm opinion that you have been premature in speaking to my daughter as you have done, without previously learning my wishes on the subject. I am very much displeased with her for giving you any encouragement, as she fully understood that it would be contrary to my views were she to do so; however, it obliges me to tell you distinctly that I decline to give my consent to any engagement between you, and am not likely to alter this determination.Yours obediently,Henry Longstreet.212. From a Gentleman, asking for His Father's Approval to His Recent Engagement.L——, August 10, 19—.My Dear Father:—I am not sure that you will be fully pleased with the contents of this letter. I write to ask your consent to my marriage with Miss Ethel Blake. I anticipate all your objections, but hope your affection for me will induce you to waive them, and that my dear mother will use all her influence with you in my behalf. Need not tell you how good and amiable and charming Miss Blake is; you have seen enough of her in social circles, in C——, to appreciate her many lovable qualities. She will make the best of wives, and your and my dear mother's consent is all I want to complete my happiness.Believe me, my dear father,Your affectionate son,Lewis.213. Answer to the Above.My Dear Lewis:—B——, August 4, 19—.In answer to your rather startling communication, must state at once that it is quite out of the question that I should countenance your engagement with Miss Ethel Blake. Have no doubt that she is all you say, and what I have seen of her is quitein her favor, but you must be reminded that you are not in a position to maintain a wife; you have your own way to make in the world, and have no right to suppose that I can allow you sufficient income to marry upon. I should be unjust to your brothers and sisters were I to decide otherwise; and I beg you to understand that you have nothing to expect from me if you persist in your imprudence, which can only be regarded as a boyish infatuation. Your mother sends her love, and says she is sure you will not be so rash and foolish as to act contrary to my wishes.Believe me, my dear boy,Your true friend and affectionateFather.214. From a Young Lady to Her Guardian, asking for His Approval of Her Recent Engagement.C——, January 17, 19—.Dear Mr. Andrews:—Since you called last, I have received a proposal of marriage from Mr. Phillip Thompson, with whom you are slightly acquainted. He is very much attached to me, and I have a great esteem and regard for him; so much so, that I have told him I would endeavor to obtain your consent to our engagement, and I trust you will see no reason for withholding it. Mr. Thompson says he would be very pleased to explain his position and prospects fully to you if you allow him the opportunity, and he hopes that you will find both satisfactory. I thoroughly understand the importance of the step I wish to take, but as my future happiness is so deeply concerned in this matter, my earnest wish is that you will return a favorable answer.With all kind regards, believe me,Dear Mr. Andrews,Very sincerely yours,Gertrude Maywood.215. Answer to the Above.S——, January 10, 19—.My Dear Miss Maywood:—I am going to disappoint you greatly by stating that Mr. Phillip Thompson would not be a desirable husband for you. Am sorry that you should have allowed matters to go as far as they have, as I understand from your letter that you almost accepted him. However, I have your interest too much at heart to give my consent to a marriage which would not ultimately be for your happiness, and you are possessed of too much good sense to act contrary to my opinion. In my responsible position as your guardian, I must advise you to the best of my judgment in what affects your welfare; and, disagreeable as it is to me to oppose your wishes, I feel it my duty to give you my firm opinion on this serious subject.If you desire it, I will myself communicate with Mr. Thompson.Believe me, as ever, dear Miss Maywood,Your sincere friend and guardian,Alfred B. Andrews.216. From a Father to a Gentleman who has paid Marked Attentions to His Daughter Requesting to Know His Intentions.G——, April 17, 19—.Dear Sir:—I consider it my duty to ask you frankly what are your intentions towards my daughter. Your manner toward her has evidently awakened a deep interest in her affectionate heart. She has been too well brought up to think of bestowing her love where it was not properly and fully appreciated and returned, and I cannot allow her happiness to be trifled with; therefore hope that you will see the propriety of at once putting an end to a position embarrassing to her as it is painful to me.Awaiting your answer, believe me,Yours very truly,Adolphus Redding.217. Answer to the Above.G——, April 19, 19—.Dear Sir:—I was greatly surprised at the receipt of your letter, and can only hope you are mistaken in supposing your daughter to be interested in me. I flatter myself that she regards me as a friend, and as such have a sincere admiration and esteem for her; but it is my duty to say that I entertain no feeling of love towards her, and that I have only paid her such attentions as are due from a gentleman to a lady in whose society he is frequently thrown. Under these circumstances, I conclude you would wish me to discontinue my visits at your house and I shall do so with much regret. With the kindest remembrance of the hospitality I have there received and with compliments to Mrs. Redding,Believe me,Very truly yours,Alfred S. Baker.218. From a Father to a Gentleman, forbidding Him to Pay any further Attentions to His Daughter.C——, January 10, 19—.Dear Sir:—Permit me to say that your attentions to my daughter have become so marked of late, that I wish them discontinued. I do not approve of you as a suitor for her hand, simply on the ground of your pecuniary position; and consider that you have not been acting fairly in endeavoring to gain her affections, not being in a position to make a comfortable home for her. I have my daughter's promise that she will neither write to you nor see you without my consent. Relying upon your honor to respect my wishes, and not to attempt any further communication with her.I remain,Yours truly,Thomas D. Curran.219. Answer to the Above.C——, January 11, 19—.Dear Sir:—I felt much pained surprise when reading your letter, just delivered, as from the encouragement I have received to visit at your house and from the manner in which I have been allowed to devote myself to your daughter in public, at balls and parties and in society generally, I was under the impression that Mrs. Curran and yourself tacitly approved of my attentions to her.It would have been kinder had you thought proper to signify your disapproval six months ago, as my conduct must have been as patent to you as to every one else. However, as your daughter acquiesces in your views, I have nothing more to add beyond this, that I will respect your wishes, and beg to remain,Yours faithfully,Arthur Hatfield.220. From the Father of a Young Lady to the Father of a Young Gentleman, disapproving of the latter's Attentions to Writer's Daughter.P——, June 14, 19—.Dear Sir:—I am sorry to have to write to you on a somewhat delicate subject; the fact is, your son has been paying my daughter Alice considerably more attention than I think desirable, and a word from you would no doubt put a stop to the matter. He has been on such a friendly footing with my family that I did not apprehend that anything like a serious attachment was likely to spring up between your son and either of my daughters; however, from what I gather, such is the case.I am sure you will agree with me that a marriage between my daughter Alice and your boy would be most imprudent, if not altogether impossible. I take for granted that he cannot look to you for an allowance upon which to support a wife, while I am certainly not in a position to do anything for my daughter; under these circumstances, perhaps the best thing would be for the young people to discontinue meeting for the present.Were your son of age, I should take a different course with him; as it is, I leave it to you to bring him to reason; should he be so foolish as to persist, I shall make it a point that my daughter understands that she is not to encourage him in his attentions. Counting upon your kind and wise consideration of the matter,I remain,Yours faithfully,Walter Hubbard.221. From a Mother Announcing her Daughter's Engagement.T——, May 22, 19—.My Dear Mrs. Winslow:—I feel certain you will be pleased to hear that darling Mary is engaged to be married to Mr. Sanford; he is the son of a very old friend of ours, and everything we could wish as a son-in-law. It is delightful to see how happy the young people are in each other's society; he is as devoted to her as she is fond of him. Had it not been so, in spite of our liking the young man so much, I doubt if we should have given our consent, as at present his prospects are not very good, and they will have to wait till next year before thinking of being married: thus you see it is not yet a matter for congratulations, but I did not wish you to hear the news from any one but me.Believe me, dear Mrs. Winslow, with kind regards from my husband and myself,Very sincerely yours,Harriet Sanderson.222. Answer to the Above.B——, June 1, 19—.My Dear Mrs. Sanderson:—We are all delighted to hear of your daughter's engagement and sincerely wish her every happiness; please tell her so with my love. It must be a great source of pleasure to you to know that she is going to make so satisfactory a marriage, one of which you and her father so highly approve. I shall hope tobecome acquainted with your future son-in-law at an early opportunity, and you must tell me when the wedding is to take place, as should I not be in town at that time, I might yet embody my good wishes in the form of a suitable souvenir.With kind remembrances to all,Sincerely yours,Margaret Dean Winslow.223. From a Young Lady to a Girl Friend, Announcing Her Engagement.T——, May 22, 19—.My Dearest Girl:—I know you'll be delighted to hear the good news I have to tell you about myself: I am engaged to be married to Mr. Edward Lloyd, whom I mentioned so often lately in my letters to you. I was not very much surprised at his proposing, as I fancied he liked me, from his constant attentions. You can imagine how happy I am; he is everything one would wish one's lover to be. I am sure you will think he is handsome. I do, of course, and every one says he is very clever. He is five years older than I am, which mamma thinks is an advantage. I hope you will be one of my bridesmaids, dear Madge; we are to be married very soon. He has taken a nice house, and you must be one of our first visitors. Papa and mamma are delighted at my prospects, and think Edward will make me the best of husbands.With warmest love, believe me,Your ever affectionate,Fanny Sanderson.224. From a Young Lady, Congratulating a Girl Friend on Her Engagement.H——, June 3, 19—.My Dear Fanny:—How pleased I was to hear of your engagement. I want to be among the first to offer you the warmest congratulations. Do tell me a good deal more about your fiancé, and whether it is to be a long engagement. I need not ask if you are very happy,as I am sure you would not have accepted any one to whom you were not sincerely attached. You will doubtless have to answer a great many letters from friends and relatives, all desirous of wishing you joy, but still I hope you will find time to write me a few lines soon.With kindest love,Yours most affectionately,Madge Richardson.225. From a Gentleman Announcing His Engagement.Canadian Club,T——, May 22, 19—.My Dear Fawcett:—I wonder if you will be surprised to hear that I am going to be married, and that I shall want your services on the occasion as best man, but I will give you due notice when the day is fixed. In the meantime, you may, if you please, congratulate me, as I consider myself to be a very lucky fellow. She is one of the nicest girls in the world—Fanny Sanderson. Didn't you meet her at the last Country Club golf tournament? I get on very well with her people, and my future father-in-law is inclined to be very liberal about money matters. So, you see, it's an all-around delightful affair.Yours ever,Edward Lloyd.226. To a Young Lady, from the Mother of Her Fiancé.N——, December 20, 19—.My Dear Marion:—My son Phillip has suggested that I write you a few lines, and, although we had not the pleasure of meeting each other, yet from all he says I feel sure that he has chosen wisely. He has always been the best of sons to me—so affectionate, tender-hearted, and considerate; and you will understand something of the pride I feel in him, and how dearly I love him, and how anxious I am that the one who is to be his wife should value him at his true worth. It would be a great pleasure to meif your parents would allow you to pay me a little visit, as I much wish to make the acquaintance of my future daughter-in-law.My son has shown me your photograph, so I have some idea as to what you look like. He tells me how charming you are, and that he is certain I shall not be disappointed when we meet. Dear Marion, my boy's happiness is in your keeping, and I trust and pray you may be to him all his fond mother could wish.With kind love, I remain,Your affectionateSusan Deering.227. Answer to the Above.P——, December 22, 19—.My Dear Mrs. Deering:—It was most kind of you to write to me. I cannot help feeling a little shy in answering your letter, but trust we shall not long remain strangers to each other. Phillip has often talked of you, and is so anxious that we should meet; but I am sorry to say mamma cannot spare me just now, otherwise I should have been very pleased to have accepted your kind invitation. I quite appreciate all that you say in praise of your son, and think I love him almost as much as even a mother could wish, and indeed you may trust me to do all in my power to make him happy. Thanking you again for your kind letter, believe me,Affectionately yours,Marion White.228. From a Gentleman Congratulating a Friend on His Coming Marriage.M——, July 14, 19—.My Dear Swift:—I just received your kind invitation to attend your wedding on the 20th of August. I am greatly delighted, but not much surprised to receive this invitation. I have had my suspicions for some time that you were growing weary of a bachelor's lonely miserable life. One by one, you genial fellows are passing over tothe realm of the married, and very soon I alone shall be left to tell the sad story.Well, I congratulate you with all my heart. You have had a successful career; you have earned honor and competence in the battle of life, and now you have won the "dearest girl in the world." God bless you, old fellow, and make all your coming days bright and prosperous.You may depend on my putting in an appearance on the 20th of August. If the train fails, or the tires of my "bike" give out, the walking will no doubt be good.Ever, dear Swift,Yours truly,James T. Lord.229. From a Fiancée Asking a Young Lady to be Her Bridesmaid.A——, June 10, 19—.My Dear Miss Rice:—My marriage with Mr. Langdon is to take place on the 15th of next month, and I write to say it would give me much pleasure if you would be one of my bridesmaids. I thought of having eight—my two sisters of course, Mr. Langdon's sister and a cousin of his, the two Misses Whetherby, yourself if you will consent, and Miss Mordaunt.We have not yet decided about the dresses, but I will let you know what we settle upon as soon as I have your answer. We expect Miss Langdon here to-morrow to talk the matter over with us.With love to yourself and kind regards to Mrs. Rice, believe me,Very sincerely yours,Sylvia Marsden.CHAPTER IIIBETWEEN ENGAGED PEOPLE230. To a Lady on Being First Accepted.M——, June 10, 19—.My Dear Eva:—I cannot tell you with what impatient anxiety I have been awaiting your answer to my letter, and though you were too good to keep me long in suspense, still the interval between writing to you and hearing from you, was passed by me in alternate fear and hope—fear that I had mistaken your feelings, and hope that perhaps you did care for me a little. At present I can hardly realize the happiness of knowing that I may soon call you mine; it is the fulfillment of my most cherished wishes.Believe me, dearest, it will be my one thought and care to render your life a happy one, and if we both love and trust each other we may, I hope, look forward to a bright future together. I was much gratified by your father's message to me, and I shall hope to run down to R—— on Saturday next as he so kindly proposes. In the meantime, will you not send me a photo of yourself that I may show it to my mother, who is most anxious to know you, having heard from her son how sweet and lovable you are?I remain, dearest Eva,Your devotedEdwin Drummond.231. To a Lady to Whom the Writer Has Become Recently Engaged.Hotel Cecil, L——,July 18, 19—.My Dearest Maud:—I am conceited enough to hope that you have become a trifle impatient awaiting news from me. I arrived here last night rather fatigued from a hurried journey and a rough crossing. I shall hope to find a letter from you on my arrival at the Hotel du Palais, Paris. You may be sure I shall not remain away from youa day longer than is absolutely necessary to complete the business I have on hand, and you will, I am sure, give me the welcome I deserve for having made such haste to return to you. I picture you sitting under the chestnut trees on the dear old lawn, and, I trust, thinking of me. Excuse a short note to-day, I find it difficult to collect my thoughts. I leave this by the evening mail.Remember me to all your family; and believe me, dearest Maud,Yours devotedly,Max Dingley.232. From a Gentleman to His Fiancée asking Her to Accept a Present.O——, May 1, 19—.My Dearest:—Will you delight me by accepting the accompanying locket and wear it for my sake? I shall be much pleased to hear that you like it, and only regret that I cannot present it in person, but shall hope to see you ere long. Excuse a short letter to-day, and ever believe me,Yours affectionately,Harold Cummings.233. Answer to the Above.O——, May 2, 19—.Dearest Harold:—Thank you so much for the beautiful locket received this morning; I admire it immensely, and shall indeed be pleased to wear it for the sake of the dear giver. I should so like a good photo of you to put in it. Will you send me one when you next write, or, better still, bring it yourself? You can imagine how greatly I am looking forward to your promised visit; will it not be very soon? it seems so long since we saw each other. I trust, dearest Harold, you are quite well, and are not overworking yourself with too much writing as you told me you had been doing lately. How do you like your new quarters? Tell me everything about yourself. I think you know how interested I am in everything that concerns you.All are well at home; my aunt thinks of remaining here another three weeks. Until I have the great happiness of seeing you,Believe me, dearest,Yours lovingly,Louisa.234. To a Gentleman to Whom the Writer Has Just Become Engaged.O——, August 10, 19—.Dearest Fred:—You have expressed a most complimentary desire that I should write you a long letter in answer to yours. It is a great happiness to me to do so, and to know that you care to hear of all my thoughts, hopes, and wishes. I have read your letter again and again; the assurance it contains of your affection is very precious indeed. Dear Fred, do you really love me as much as you say you do? I ought not to doubt it, but still it seems so strange and new that I should have the power of winning the heart of one so good and clever as you are. I am very proud that it did happen; my heart is full of thoughts of you, and every hour of the day I look forward to being with you again. I try, oh so earnestly, to fit myself for the position that awaits me as your wife, that you may never regret your choice.Ever affectionately,Eva.235. From a Gentleman to His Fiancée.C——, January 10, 19—.My Own Dearest:—It is nine o'clock, and I am just home from the office. You see I am working hard. My only thought, all the time is not for myself, but for us. You won't forget it, darling? Do you dream sometimes of the little home we have planned? Can you not see it all? Is it not worth waiting for? Oh, dearest, do not forget that you have drawn my whole heart out of me—that it is all in your keeping, and that you are mine, mine. I live only in you, night and day, waking or sleeping. I love you so that it is pain not to have you, not to hold you.Yesterday night our friend Max took me around to a reception or party or something of the kind at his fiancée's, Miss Lord. It was a very pretty affair, the ladies were in full dress, and the house was decorated in green and red. Miss Lord was a gracious hostess, and couldn't have done more than she did to make it pleasant for me. I had a delightful evening, and I certainly told her so; but I was thinking only of you all the time—you in your little pink gingham under the apple tree. Do you remember?It was May, and the sun was setting, and I kissed you for the first time without being scolded for it. You are not sorry that you didn't scold me? Think hard, dear, and tell me when you write. And do so, very soon. You know how I watch the mails, and how disappointed I am when the longed-for letter isn't there.Good-night, my beloved, my precious little one.Yours devotedly,Edward.236. Answer to the Above.L——, January 13, 19—.Dearest Edward:—The snow is twenty inches deep, and we are almost buried. Jim brought me your letter this morning. He was quite exhausted ploughing his way up to the house. "Thought it would pay me, Polly," he said, "to see the love-light in your eyes." Dear, lonely old Jim, so faithful and unselfish! Mother brought him in and gave him a cup of coffee. I don't know why it is, Edward, but sometimes I want to share my happiness with everybody, and then again I like to feel that it is exclusively my own. It is splendid of you, Edward, to be working so hard, and I am proud, and proud that you love me. I have also been working hard since yesterday morning. You could never guess at what. Mother and I have been cataloguing and arranging the books in the school library; you cannot imagine what a task it was. And this evening Mr. Melville is coming around to consult with mother about library methods, and how to manage the circulation of the books. I am going to ask him to mail this letter for me, so must finish it as quickly as possible.Yes, Edward, I do remember that May sunset from under the apple tree. It is very long ago. We were only children. I didn't know what love was then—how deep and strong. Beloved, I never forget you, never pause in my loving of you.Your ownMary.237. Another Letter from a Gentleman to His Fiancée.S——, December 14, 19—.My Darling:—All day in the store, and then the long evening in my room alone, that is my outward life. And my inward life—it is you, only you, for I think of you all the time.The rush of business is increasing as the holiday season draws near; such hurrying, scurrying crowds of people, and only one little girl in all the wide world that I want. And my arms ache for her to-night.Eva, dear, your last letter is worn quite to tatters from being carried in my pocket and pulled out for frequent re-reading. You would laugh if you could see it, and take pity on me and write me a new one.Tell me, darling, what you are doing. Have you finished reading Romola? Do you like it! Are you keeping up your practicing? Did you have a good time at the sleighing party? Who was there? A regular string of questions, isn't it? You know everything you write interests me, and I like the little details most of all. Your letters are little fragments of you. I kiss them and treasure them most sacredly. O darlingest, dearest girl, I love you and long for you. Tell me, dear, can't you feel me loving you even though you are so far away? And do you love me? I like to have you say so. And how much? But, ah! you are too far away. I can't hold you until you laugh and have to tell.Every night and every morning I thank God that I have found the dearest, truest girl that ever was, and that she has given me her promise to be mine. Dearest, I think of it every hour. Nothing can ever separate us. Am wholly, wholly yours, and you are mine to love and cherish.With a heart full of devotion,Yours ever,Alfred Hinman.238. Answer to the Above.M——, December 16, 19—.Dear Alfred:—My walk to the office this morning after papa's mail was well rewarded by your letter. Charlie Darwin was there postingeight dozens of his circulars. He is perfectly jubilant over his prospects, and he had to walk home with me to tell all about them. He said he was going along my way, and if I didn't mind, as it was very slippery—Of course I said I didn't, so I put your letter into my pocket and waited for a good time to read it.It's very funny how you wear my letters out so soon. I wonder why they don't make note paper like the tough paper that is used in little Paul's Baby Goose picture book.I had a fine time at our Church Fair last night. Mrs. Sullivan changed her mind at the last, and had me serve as Rebecca at the Well, while Maggie presided at the candy booth, just as she had wanted to. Guess how many glasses of lemonade I sold. One hundred and seventeen. Charlie Darwin drank eight. Do you think you could have swallowed as many as that, Alfred?I am keeping up my practicing pretty well, that is, I practice an hour a day, except the days I write to you. Would you rather have me practiceeveryday? You know, I am keeping up my piano only because you are so anxious to have me, and I want you to be satisfied. People think I am getting on very nicely.The sleigh ride was grand. All the girls went, and nearly all the boys. Phillip Small could not get permission to go. It was a perfect shame. Every one missed him. We had a fine supper at the Davidsons' old place.Oh, Alfred, I wish you could come home for Christmas. It will be so lonely and dismal for you, away off by yourself, and it won't seem at all like Christmas here without you. How I long to see you! There is so much to tell. Do you remember last Christmas, dearest? Mamma is trying to send me to bed, so I must stop writing. But I haven't answered all your questions. Oh, Al. dear, are you never satisfied? What do you suppose Charlie said to me this morning? "Daisy, you're all heart—just one big heart." Doesn't that sound like him? And there wasn't anything to lead up to it. I was weighed last Wednesday at the butcher's. Guess how much? 122 pounds. There, mamma is calling. Good night, Al. But I was going to answer your question how much I love you. If Charlie and the scales spoke the truth I think about 122 pounds. But then, Charlie was only joking. He doesn't mean half he says. Do you think so?Your affectionateDaisy.239. To a Lady to Whom the Writer is Engaged, Asking Her to Name the Day.N——, October 30, 19—.My Darling Alice:—Don't you think we have been engaged quite long enough to understand each other thoroughly, and do you see any good reason for delaying our marriage? I have not pressed you before on this point, but if you really love me as I think you do, you will consent to make me happy by naming an early day. Why should we not be married immediately after Christmas? this would give you time for any preparations you may have to make, while, as for myself, I should be quite ready to receive my dear little wife next week, if she would only come to me. Dearest Alice, will you consult your mother? I feel sure she will say I am right in asking you not to put off our marriage any longer. Cannot possibly get away from here for the next ten days or so, but do write and tell me it shall be as I wish.God bless you, darling.Your affectionate and devoted,Albert Thurston.240. Answer to the Above (Favorable).F——, November 3, 19—.Dearest Albert:—Your affectionate letter touched me deeply. You asked me a very momentous question, to name the day of our marriage. Dear Albert, it shall be as you wish; your arguments are so convincing I can only feel that you are right, and say yes to all you propose. My mother also thinks that the 28th of December would not be too soon, and that I can make all my preparations within that time; therefore let it be the 28th. The period of our engagement seems very brief, indeed, but I have such perfect trust in you, and we know each other so thoroughly, that I need not postpone our marriage with the idea of seeing more of you, and can look forward to our passing a very happy life together.Good-bye, dearest Albert; fondest loveFrom your ownAlice.241. Answer to the Above (Unfavorable).F——, November 2, 19—.Dearest Albert:—I only wish I could write as you suggest, but really there are many reasons against our marriage taking place just at present. We have, as you say, been engaged some time, but three months is, after all, a very short period in which to learn the tastes, feelings, and ideas of one who is to be life's dearest companion; besides, we have seen so little of each other, and I cannot help feeling that this period of our life is perhaps the sweetest and pleasantest we may ever experience. Married life will bring cares and responsibilities with it, and I would prolong my present happiness as long as possible. You must not be angry with me for saying this, dear Albert, or for being rather reluctant to exchange happy certainty for the unknown future. My mother will not influence me either way, but allows me to judge for myself. She will be happy to see you here when you can arrange to come to us for a few days, and you and I can then talk the matter over, and perhaps your arguments may prove more convincing than mine, in which case I shall give way.In the meantime, believe me, as ever,Your affectionateAlice.242. From a Lady to Her Fiancé, Asking Him to Consent to the Postponement of their Marriage.N——, November 30, 19—.My Dear Albert:—A few weeks ago, when I promised that our marriage should take place in December, I fully intended to keep my word, but on consideration, feel compelled to ask you to let it be postponed for a few months longer. I have no good reason to urge for this delay—perhaps I am over-sensitive and anxious, but still, if you would agree to it I should be very grateful. It strikes me we entered upon our engagement rather hastily, and that I was persuaded against my better judgment to fix next month for our marriage. I think it will be better for both of us that we should endeavor to learn more of each other's tastes, and what each requires of the other. Your line of life is so decided thatI wish to be certain it will suit me exactly, or that you would meet me in some degree with little concessions to my individual tastes. I have written to you out of the fullness of my heart, and trust you will not misunderstand me, or think I do not love you. My request is for a little more time, which I am sure you will not refuse me.Believe me, dear Albert.Your ever affectionateAlice White.243. From a Gentleman to his Fiancée, Complaining of Her Coldness.S——, February 10, 19—.Dearest Alva:—Do you not realize how miserable you make me by the way you have acted recently? You cannot suppose it is very pleasant for me to see you, day after day, encouraging the attentions of other men. At the party last night you appeared to prefer every man in the room to myself as partner. If you acted in this way with the idea of arousing my jealousy, let me tell you it is a very dangerous game to play at; but I imagine nothing so flattering to myself was intended, and that a love of admiration and indifference to my feelings were the motives that actuated you. If this is the case, it would be best for both of us that our engagement should be at an end; if, however, you are able to assure me that you meant nothing by your thoughtless coquetry beyond the amusement of the moment, you shall never again hear a word of reproach from me on the subject, and I will trust you as fully as before.Believe me, dearest,Your ever faithful and affectionatePhilip Dorrimer.244. From a Lady to Her Fiancé, Complaining of His Indifference.C——, January 15, 19—.My Dear Paul:—For some time past I have been trying to make up my mind to put my anxieties into words, but have shrunk from doing so, hoping that perhaps it was all a mistake; now I can no longer deludemyself into thinking this is the case. I feel you are very much changed, your manner to me at times almost amounting to indifference. Your letters are short and cold, and but few words of affection can be extracted from them. I am beginning to think you no longer care for me; perhaps this is what you wish me to understand. And yet it is hard to believe this of you; it must be that something or some one has estranged you from me, and that an explanation between us will put things on their former footing; anyhow, I give you now the opportunity of telling me everything, and implore you to be frank, as our future happiness depends upon our never allowing any misunderstanding to stand between us.Believe me, dear Paul,Your affectionateMadge.245. From a Lady to Her Fiancé of Whom She is Jealous.W——, May 18, 19—.My Dear Charles:—May I hope that you will not think me foolishly exacting if I say that you have pained and hurt me by the attentions you so constantly offer to Mrs. Dunstable? I do not suppose you mean to vex me, and have no doubt it is more her fault than yours, but still I wish you would be a little lessempresséin your manner to her. You will think perhaps that I am jealous; it is not quite that, but yet I have a sort of feeling that you ought not to be so nice to her. You will not be angry with me for saying this, dear Charles; it is my great love for you that causes me to attach such importance to every look and word of yours, and to feel reluctant that other women should share them with me. You must not say that this argues a want of trust in you unworthy of us both; indeed, I do trust you, otherwise my self-respect would not allow me to write so frank a letter as this one is. Perhaps I have only to tell you what is in my heart for you to give me no further cause for—shall I say jealousy? although I have tried to leave this unpleasant word out of this letter.Always, dear Charles,Your lovingLaura.246. Answer to the Above (Protesting).W——, May 19, 19—.My Dear Laura:—I do not deserve, in any degree, the reproaches contained in your letter of yesterday, and am surprised at your permitting yourself to indulge in such feelings. Great as my attachment is, I must tell you, once for all, that I detest jealousy in a woman, and should soon cease to care for one who tormented me by repetition of such accusations. If, during our engagement, you are to feel aggrieved at my offering the slightest civility to any lady of my acquaintance, what chance of happiness is there in store for us in married life? I can see nothing but wretchedness ahead if you persist in giving way to this feeling; dismiss it from your mind, it is not worthy of you, and remember that perfect trust is what I expect and desire from the one who is to become my wife. I feel strongly on the subject, as so much alienation and misery are occasioned by unfounded jealousy.Believe me, my dearest Laura,Ever yours,Charles P. Worthington.247. Answer to No. 245 (Conciliating).W——, January 12, 19—.My Dearest Laura:—How foolish of you to underrate your own attractions so far as to think I could prefer any one to yourself! Do not entertain such a thought for a moment. My heart is wholly yours, and not a thought of mine is bestowed upon any one else. I did not in the least intend to convey anything beyond mere politeness by my attentions to Mrs. Dunstable; but if you think that I have inadvertently given you the least cause for uneasiness, you may depend upon my being very much on my guard in future, so as to avoid the faintest suspicion of a preference for the society of any young lady, save yourself, be she ever so charming.Believe me, dearest Laura,Your deeply attachedCharley.248. From a Gentleman to His Fiancée Acknowledging His Jealousy.P——, March 10, 19—.My Dear Ethel:—Do you really mean to break off your engagement with me? I can only suppose it is so from the way you allow Mr. Small to devote himself to you. It seems every one is aware he is paying you more attention than, under the circumstances, you ought to receive from any man except myself. Either he is ignorant of the engagement between us, or he is dishonorable enough to act thus in spite of it. If you have not sufficient regard for my feelings and for your own position as my promised wife, to put an end at once to any further acquaintance with Mr. Small, you will understand that I resign all pretensions to your hand; but should be sorry to think that you had changed so completely in the last few weeks as to care for me no longer. My sentiments have not altered towards you, in spite of all that has passed; and it rests with you to say whether you prefer that man to myself. I shall of course abide by your decision, and remain,Yours very truly,George Lindsay.249. From a Gentleman to His Fiancée Apologizing for His Unwarranted Jealousy.C——, August 10, 19—.My Dearest Girl:—I feel entirely satisfied, from the explanation you have given me, that my jealousy was unfounded, and I must ask for your forgiveness for having doubted you. Am afraid my accusations must have pained you very much, and I deeply regret writing as I did; but you are so good and gentle, am sure you will receive me into favor on my promising never to offend again in a like manner. You must not be very angry with me for fearing to lose what I prize so dearly, the love of my darling Helen.Once more, dearest, forgive me, and believe meYour devotedEdward.250. From a Young Lady to Her Fiancé Apologizing for Her Unfounded Jealousy.R——, September 10, 19—.My Dearest Howard:—I have been so wretched, of late, thinking you did not care for me as you used to, that the joy of receiving your letter, and learning that I still hold the first place in your heart, has been almost too much for me, and made me shed such happy tears. It is so hard to doubt one you love, and it seems that I have tormented myself quite unnecessarily all these past weeks; still you must admit there was some excuse for my making myself miserable. What was I to think from your silence, and from all that was said? Dearest Howard, believe me, I will never doubt you again, never, never, and shall always think you are the kindest, dearest, best, and truest of men, and that you are all my own.Now and always,Your lovingAnna.251. From the Mother of a Young Lady to Her Daughter's Fiancé, Concerning a Quarrel Between the Lovers.W——, April 12, 19—.My Dear Mr. Felton:—I well know how delicate a matter it is for a third person to interfere in lovers' quarrels, but as the happiness of my daughter is at stake, it is my duty as her mother to try and bring about a reconciliation between you. I will not question which of you is at fault; all I wish is to see the smiles return to my child's face, and tranquillity to her heart. She is evidently very unhappy, but tries to conceal it even from me. Dear Mr. Felton, if you really love her, as I am sure you do, you will come to Katherine on receipt of this letter, and you need have no fear of your welcome. Trusting you will not misunderstand the feeling that actuates me in thus writing to you,Believe me,Very sincerely yours,Anna Durand De Witt.CHAPTER IVBREAKING OFF ENGAGEMENTS252. From a Gentleman to His Fiancée Asking Her to put an End to Their Engagement.D——, January 19, 19—.My Dear Susan:—I have hesitated long before writing to you on a rather delicate subject, but trust you will not be hurt or offended if I say that our tastes are so opposite, that married life under such circumstances could not fail to result in unhappiness to both of us. Your heart is evidently set on the enjoyment of all the gaieties of life, while my ideas are centered in domestic quiet and repose. I have neither the means nor the inclination to enter into the former, and you would hardly content yourself with the latter. You cannot but acknowledge the truth of my statement, and I have no doubt you will see the necessity of putting an end at once to an engagement that is in every way unsuitable.Believe me, dear Miss Belden,Very truly yours,Frank B. Rice.253. From a Young Lady to Her Fiancé Putting an end to Their Engagement.A——, December 5, 19—.Dear Charles:—It is only after much serious thinking that I write you this note. Some time you will thank me for it.Is it not better, in a matter that concerns the happiness of two lives, to undo a mistake at any cost than to wait until too late? We thought once that we truly loved each other, but we have found, during the period of our engagement, that in many grave respects we are not congenial. Our tastes, our aims in life, our ideals are so diverse, that I believe our union could not be perfectly happy. When you review in your mind the occurrences of the pastmonths, I am sure you will agree with me. It is not necessary to place the blame. Perhaps there has been no fault but hastiness. Considering everything, I would suggest that our engagement cease by mutual consent, and our friendship continue as far as seems agreeable and natural. We shall have many pleasant memories and some sad ones in common. The latter, in time, will be forgotten.Yours sincerely,Florence Ludington.254. Answer to the Above.C——, December 7, 19—.Dear Florence:—I cannot but think that you regard our little differences too seriously. In fact, I look upon them rather as misunderstandings than differences. But since you suggest it, I consent that we call our engagement broken for the present. I agree to it only because you want to feel perfectly free, and I do so in good faith;you are free. Whatever the end, I shall never blame you; my faith in your sincerity and true nobility stands undiminished. In my own mind I consider our engagement as merely suspended. Doubtless time will show you what mere trifles—nothings, we might say—are dividing us. It was not lightly, my darling, that I gave you my heart.Yours as ever, with love and devotion,Charles Davidson.255. From a Lady to Her Fiancé Breaking off Their Engagement on Account of His Coldness.T——, July 22, 19—.Dear Mr. Lawrence:—You will not feel surprised at the contents of this letter; indeed, you have hardly left me any alternative than to say our engagement is at an end. Perhaps I ought to have arrived at this decision sooner, but was reluctant to give you up until quite sure it was the right thing for me to do. I could not be happy with one whom I did not esteem as well as love, and by your conduct of late you have forfeited my good opinion,and have destroyed my faith in you. Your letters are herewith returned and I beg that you will send mine back; kindly acknowledge also receipt of the presents you have made me at different times.Believe me,Yours truly,Madeline Storrs.256. From a Lady to Her Fiancé Breaking off Their Engagement on Account of a Change in Her Feelings toward Him.N——, February 10, 19—.Dear Harry:—I want you to believe that I am sincerely grieved at the pain this letter may occasion you, and trust you will not think harshly of me for what I am about to say. I did not rightly understand my own feelings when our engagement took place, and mistook esteem and friendship for love. Much as it costs me to make this confession, it is my clear duty to tell you I can never entertain the affection for you that one has a right to expect from a future wife.This knowledge has made me very unhappy, but I have now determined to ask to be released from my promise; dear Harry, forgive me; I feel convinced that some day you will be as happy as you deserve, although it is not in my power to make you so.Believe me, with unwavering friendship,Yours very sincerely,Carrie Dunmore.257. From a Gentleman to His Fiancée Offering to Release Her from Their Engagement.P——, August 7, 19—.My Dear Evelyn:—I exceedingly regret to tell you that my darkest fears have been realized; the business disaster of which I have spoken to you has come, and it is more complete than our worst expectations had led us to believe. We have fought a long, hard fight, and,as honorable men, there was nothing else for us to do but to close our doors and put our affairs in the hands of our creditors.Whether the firm will resume, or what the course of the future will be, is yet undecided. For myself I am not greatly troubled. As long as youth, health and hope remain, I am not afraid of the coming struggle. But there is one direct duty before me in relation to you that must be performed without delay. Under the most promising circumstances, it will be a very long time, perhaps years, before I could offer you the home and comfort on which my heart was set, and concerning which we have had so many and such delightful conversations; and it would not be fair to hold you to your engagement under these altered circumstances. I beg you, therefore, to consider yourself perfectly free to act in this matter as your judgment and heart may dictate. I will not trust myself to say what I feel on this subject further than this, that in offering you perfect freedom I am following the only honorable course due to you and to myself.Shall be very busy evenings at the office for two or three days, but will call upon you on Friday night and we can talk matters over.Ever, dear Evelyn,Yours truly,Martin Stanley.258. Answer to the Above.P——, August 8, 19—.My Dear Martin:—Your letter of yesterday was duly received. It made me very sad, and yet proud of you. You are proving so honorable and chivalrous! I am deeply sorry for this business failure. But cheer up. You have, as you say, youth on your side, and you are lacking neither in brains nor in courage. These are treasures that nothing and no one can wrest from you, and with them the future is bound to turn out bright and prosperous. I understand you wish me to act in relation to our engagement as my judgment and heart dictate. This is like you, Martin. Well, come around on Friday and we shall discuss the subject. In the meantime, be assured that no one sympathizes with you in this day of difficulty more thanYour affectionateEvelyn.259. From a Mother to Her Daughter's Fiancé Breaking off the Engagement.S——, June 14, 19—.Dear Mr. Martin:—It is with my daughter's consent that I write you this letter, and my painful duty is to tell you that, as there seems no prospect of your being able to make a home for her, it is cruel and unfair to hold Alva to a promise which has now lasted over two years. You have not fulfilled any of the pledges you voluntarily made, and which induced me to sanction your attentions. I understand that your family are not inclined to do anything for you, and therefore see nothing for my daughter but years of weary waiting, probably to end in ultimate disappointment.If you have any regard for her welfare, you will, I am sure, release her from her present trying position, and accept my decision for her good without endeavoring to shake her resolution. I must ask you to send me a few lines of acquiescence; and with every wish for your success in life,Believe me, dear Mr. Martin,Truly yours,Althea Ludlow.260. From a Father to His Daughter's Fiancé Breaking off the Engagement.C——, October 10, 19—.Sir:—Circumstances that have just come to my knowledge compel me, as a matter of duty, to break off the engagement between my daughter and yourself. I have desired her to hold no further communication with you, and I have been sufficiently explicit to convince her how unworthy you are of her affection and esteem. It is unnecessary for me to give you the reasons which have induced me to form this judgment, and I only add that nothing you can say will alter my determination.Felix Dusenbury.Edward Renwick, Esq.
Believe me,Respectfully yours,Edward Keane.
E——, June 5, 19—.
My Dear Mr. Keane:—
If I feel absolutely certain that my daughter's happiness is concerned in obtaining my consent to her engagement with you, I will offer no opposition to it, and shall be glad to receive you at our house as her accepted lover. I sincerely believe that you will, as you say, make her a good husband. Will endeavor to see your father in a day or two, and explain to him what I can afford to do for my daughter.
Faithfully yours,Henry Longstreet.
E——, June 5, 19—.
Edmund Keane, Esq.
Dear Sir:—
It is my firm opinion that you have been premature in speaking to my daughter as you have done, without previously learning my wishes on the subject. I am very much displeased with her for giving you any encouragement, as she fully understood that it would be contrary to my views were she to do so; however, it obliges me to tell you distinctly that I decline to give my consent to any engagement between you, and am not likely to alter this determination.
Yours obediently,Henry Longstreet.
L——, August 10, 19—.
My Dear Father:—
I am not sure that you will be fully pleased with the contents of this letter. I write to ask your consent to my marriage with Miss Ethel Blake. I anticipate all your objections, but hope your affection for me will induce you to waive them, and that my dear mother will use all her influence with you in my behalf. Need not tell you how good and amiable and charming Miss Blake is; you have seen enough of her in social circles, in C——, to appreciate her many lovable qualities. She will make the best of wives, and your and my dear mother's consent is all I want to complete my happiness.
Believe me, my dear father,Your affectionate son,Lewis.
My Dear Lewis:—
B——, August 4, 19—.
In answer to your rather startling communication, must state at once that it is quite out of the question that I should countenance your engagement with Miss Ethel Blake. Have no doubt that she is all you say, and what I have seen of her is quitein her favor, but you must be reminded that you are not in a position to maintain a wife; you have your own way to make in the world, and have no right to suppose that I can allow you sufficient income to marry upon. I should be unjust to your brothers and sisters were I to decide otherwise; and I beg you to understand that you have nothing to expect from me if you persist in your imprudence, which can only be regarded as a boyish infatuation. Your mother sends her love, and says she is sure you will not be so rash and foolish as to act contrary to my wishes.
Believe me, my dear boy,Your true friend and affectionateFather.
C——, January 17, 19—.
Dear Mr. Andrews:—
Since you called last, I have received a proposal of marriage from Mr. Phillip Thompson, with whom you are slightly acquainted. He is very much attached to me, and I have a great esteem and regard for him; so much so, that I have told him I would endeavor to obtain your consent to our engagement, and I trust you will see no reason for withholding it. Mr. Thompson says he would be very pleased to explain his position and prospects fully to you if you allow him the opportunity, and he hopes that you will find both satisfactory. I thoroughly understand the importance of the step I wish to take, but as my future happiness is so deeply concerned in this matter, my earnest wish is that you will return a favorable answer.
With all kind regards, believe me,
Dear Mr. Andrews,Very sincerely yours,Gertrude Maywood.
S——, January 10, 19—.
My Dear Miss Maywood:—
I am going to disappoint you greatly by stating that Mr. Phillip Thompson would not be a desirable husband for you. Am sorry that you should have allowed matters to go as far as they have, as I understand from your letter that you almost accepted him. However, I have your interest too much at heart to give my consent to a marriage which would not ultimately be for your happiness, and you are possessed of too much good sense to act contrary to my opinion. In my responsible position as your guardian, I must advise you to the best of my judgment in what affects your welfare; and, disagreeable as it is to me to oppose your wishes, I feel it my duty to give you my firm opinion on this serious subject.
If you desire it, I will myself communicate with Mr. Thompson.
Believe me, as ever, dear Miss Maywood,Your sincere friend and guardian,Alfred B. Andrews.
G——, April 17, 19—.
Dear Sir:—
I consider it my duty to ask you frankly what are your intentions towards my daughter. Your manner toward her has evidently awakened a deep interest in her affectionate heart. She has been too well brought up to think of bestowing her love where it was not properly and fully appreciated and returned, and I cannot allow her happiness to be trifled with; therefore hope that you will see the propriety of at once putting an end to a position embarrassing to her as it is painful to me.
Awaiting your answer, believe me,Yours very truly,Adolphus Redding.
G——, April 19, 19—.
Dear Sir:—
I was greatly surprised at the receipt of your letter, and can only hope you are mistaken in supposing your daughter to be interested in me. I flatter myself that she regards me as a friend, and as such have a sincere admiration and esteem for her; but it is my duty to say that I entertain no feeling of love towards her, and that I have only paid her such attentions as are due from a gentleman to a lady in whose society he is frequently thrown. Under these circumstances, I conclude you would wish me to discontinue my visits at your house and I shall do so with much regret. With the kindest remembrance of the hospitality I have there received and with compliments to Mrs. Redding,
Believe me,Very truly yours,Alfred S. Baker.
C——, January 10, 19—.
Dear Sir:—
Permit me to say that your attentions to my daughter have become so marked of late, that I wish them discontinued. I do not approve of you as a suitor for her hand, simply on the ground of your pecuniary position; and consider that you have not been acting fairly in endeavoring to gain her affections, not being in a position to make a comfortable home for her. I have my daughter's promise that she will neither write to you nor see you without my consent. Relying upon your honor to respect my wishes, and not to attempt any further communication with her.
I remain,Yours truly,Thomas D. Curran.
C——, January 11, 19—.
Dear Sir:—
I felt much pained surprise when reading your letter, just delivered, as from the encouragement I have received to visit at your house and from the manner in which I have been allowed to devote myself to your daughter in public, at balls and parties and in society generally, I was under the impression that Mrs. Curran and yourself tacitly approved of my attentions to her.
It would have been kinder had you thought proper to signify your disapproval six months ago, as my conduct must have been as patent to you as to every one else. However, as your daughter acquiesces in your views, I have nothing more to add beyond this, that I will respect your wishes, and beg to remain,
Yours faithfully,Arthur Hatfield.
P——, June 14, 19—.
Dear Sir:—
I am sorry to have to write to you on a somewhat delicate subject; the fact is, your son has been paying my daughter Alice considerably more attention than I think desirable, and a word from you would no doubt put a stop to the matter. He has been on such a friendly footing with my family that I did not apprehend that anything like a serious attachment was likely to spring up between your son and either of my daughters; however, from what I gather, such is the case.
I am sure you will agree with me that a marriage between my daughter Alice and your boy would be most imprudent, if not altogether impossible. I take for granted that he cannot look to you for an allowance upon which to support a wife, while I am certainly not in a position to do anything for my daughter; under these circumstances, perhaps the best thing would be for the young people to discontinue meeting for the present.
Were your son of age, I should take a different course with him; as it is, I leave it to you to bring him to reason; should he be so foolish as to persist, I shall make it a point that my daughter understands that she is not to encourage him in his attentions. Counting upon your kind and wise consideration of the matter,
I remain,Yours faithfully,Walter Hubbard.
T——, May 22, 19—.
My Dear Mrs. Winslow:—
I feel certain you will be pleased to hear that darling Mary is engaged to be married to Mr. Sanford; he is the son of a very old friend of ours, and everything we could wish as a son-in-law. It is delightful to see how happy the young people are in each other's society; he is as devoted to her as she is fond of him. Had it not been so, in spite of our liking the young man so much, I doubt if we should have given our consent, as at present his prospects are not very good, and they will have to wait till next year before thinking of being married: thus you see it is not yet a matter for congratulations, but I did not wish you to hear the news from any one but me.
Believe me, dear Mrs. Winslow, with kind regards from my husband and myself,
Very sincerely yours,Harriet Sanderson.
B——, June 1, 19—.
My Dear Mrs. Sanderson:—
We are all delighted to hear of your daughter's engagement and sincerely wish her every happiness; please tell her so with my love. It must be a great source of pleasure to you to know that she is going to make so satisfactory a marriage, one of which you and her father so highly approve. I shall hope tobecome acquainted with your future son-in-law at an early opportunity, and you must tell me when the wedding is to take place, as should I not be in town at that time, I might yet embody my good wishes in the form of a suitable souvenir.
With kind remembrances to all,
Sincerely yours,Margaret Dean Winslow.
T——, May 22, 19—.
My Dearest Girl:—
I know you'll be delighted to hear the good news I have to tell you about myself: I am engaged to be married to Mr. Edward Lloyd, whom I mentioned so often lately in my letters to you. I was not very much surprised at his proposing, as I fancied he liked me, from his constant attentions. You can imagine how happy I am; he is everything one would wish one's lover to be. I am sure you will think he is handsome. I do, of course, and every one says he is very clever. He is five years older than I am, which mamma thinks is an advantage. I hope you will be one of my bridesmaids, dear Madge; we are to be married very soon. He has taken a nice house, and you must be one of our first visitors. Papa and mamma are delighted at my prospects, and think Edward will make me the best of husbands.
With warmest love, believe me,
Your ever affectionate,Fanny Sanderson.
H——, June 3, 19—.
My Dear Fanny:—
How pleased I was to hear of your engagement. I want to be among the first to offer you the warmest congratulations. Do tell me a good deal more about your fiancé, and whether it is to be a long engagement. I need not ask if you are very happy,as I am sure you would not have accepted any one to whom you were not sincerely attached. You will doubtless have to answer a great many letters from friends and relatives, all desirous of wishing you joy, but still I hope you will find time to write me a few lines soon.
With kindest love,
Yours most affectionately,Madge Richardson.
Canadian Club,T——, May 22, 19—.
My Dear Fawcett:—
I wonder if you will be surprised to hear that I am going to be married, and that I shall want your services on the occasion as best man, but I will give you due notice when the day is fixed. In the meantime, you may, if you please, congratulate me, as I consider myself to be a very lucky fellow. She is one of the nicest girls in the world—Fanny Sanderson. Didn't you meet her at the last Country Club golf tournament? I get on very well with her people, and my future father-in-law is inclined to be very liberal about money matters. So, you see, it's an all-around delightful affair.
Yours ever,Edward Lloyd.
N——, December 20, 19—.
My Dear Marion:—
My son Phillip has suggested that I write you a few lines, and, although we had not the pleasure of meeting each other, yet from all he says I feel sure that he has chosen wisely. He has always been the best of sons to me—so affectionate, tender-hearted, and considerate; and you will understand something of the pride I feel in him, and how dearly I love him, and how anxious I am that the one who is to be his wife should value him at his true worth. It would be a great pleasure to meif your parents would allow you to pay me a little visit, as I much wish to make the acquaintance of my future daughter-in-law.
My son has shown me your photograph, so I have some idea as to what you look like. He tells me how charming you are, and that he is certain I shall not be disappointed when we meet. Dear Marion, my boy's happiness is in your keeping, and I trust and pray you may be to him all his fond mother could wish.
With kind love, I remain,
Your affectionateSusan Deering.
P——, December 22, 19—.
My Dear Mrs. Deering:—
It was most kind of you to write to me. I cannot help feeling a little shy in answering your letter, but trust we shall not long remain strangers to each other. Phillip has often talked of you, and is so anxious that we should meet; but I am sorry to say mamma cannot spare me just now, otherwise I should have been very pleased to have accepted your kind invitation. I quite appreciate all that you say in praise of your son, and think I love him almost as much as even a mother could wish, and indeed you may trust me to do all in my power to make him happy. Thanking you again for your kind letter, believe me,
Affectionately yours,Marion White.
M——, July 14, 19—.
My Dear Swift:—
I just received your kind invitation to attend your wedding on the 20th of August. I am greatly delighted, but not much surprised to receive this invitation. I have had my suspicions for some time that you were growing weary of a bachelor's lonely miserable life. One by one, you genial fellows are passing over tothe realm of the married, and very soon I alone shall be left to tell the sad story.
Well, I congratulate you with all my heart. You have had a successful career; you have earned honor and competence in the battle of life, and now you have won the "dearest girl in the world." God bless you, old fellow, and make all your coming days bright and prosperous.
You may depend on my putting in an appearance on the 20th of August. If the train fails, or the tires of my "bike" give out, the walking will no doubt be good.
Ever, dear Swift,Yours truly,James T. Lord.
A——, June 10, 19—.
My Dear Miss Rice:—
My marriage with Mr. Langdon is to take place on the 15th of next month, and I write to say it would give me much pleasure if you would be one of my bridesmaids. I thought of having eight—my two sisters of course, Mr. Langdon's sister and a cousin of his, the two Misses Whetherby, yourself if you will consent, and Miss Mordaunt.
We have not yet decided about the dresses, but I will let you know what we settle upon as soon as I have your answer. We expect Miss Langdon here to-morrow to talk the matter over with us.
With love to yourself and kind regards to Mrs. Rice, believe me,
Very sincerely yours,Sylvia Marsden.
M——, June 10, 19—.
My Dear Eva:—
I cannot tell you with what impatient anxiety I have been awaiting your answer to my letter, and though you were too good to keep me long in suspense, still the interval between writing to you and hearing from you, was passed by me in alternate fear and hope—fear that I had mistaken your feelings, and hope that perhaps you did care for me a little. At present I can hardly realize the happiness of knowing that I may soon call you mine; it is the fulfillment of my most cherished wishes.
Believe me, dearest, it will be my one thought and care to render your life a happy one, and if we both love and trust each other we may, I hope, look forward to a bright future together. I was much gratified by your father's message to me, and I shall hope to run down to R—— on Saturday next as he so kindly proposes. In the meantime, will you not send me a photo of yourself that I may show it to my mother, who is most anxious to know you, having heard from her son how sweet and lovable you are?
I remain, dearest Eva,Your devotedEdwin Drummond.
Hotel Cecil, L——,July 18, 19—.
My Dearest Maud:—
I am conceited enough to hope that you have become a trifle impatient awaiting news from me. I arrived here last night rather fatigued from a hurried journey and a rough crossing. I shall hope to find a letter from you on my arrival at the Hotel du Palais, Paris. You may be sure I shall not remain away from youa day longer than is absolutely necessary to complete the business I have on hand, and you will, I am sure, give me the welcome I deserve for having made such haste to return to you. I picture you sitting under the chestnut trees on the dear old lawn, and, I trust, thinking of me. Excuse a short note to-day, I find it difficult to collect my thoughts. I leave this by the evening mail.
Remember me to all your family; and believe me, dearest Maud,
Yours devotedly,Max Dingley.
O——, May 1, 19—.
My Dearest:—
Will you delight me by accepting the accompanying locket and wear it for my sake? I shall be much pleased to hear that you like it, and only regret that I cannot present it in person, but shall hope to see you ere long. Excuse a short letter to-day, and ever believe me,
Yours affectionately,Harold Cummings.
O——, May 2, 19—.
Dearest Harold:—
Thank you so much for the beautiful locket received this morning; I admire it immensely, and shall indeed be pleased to wear it for the sake of the dear giver. I should so like a good photo of you to put in it. Will you send me one when you next write, or, better still, bring it yourself? You can imagine how greatly I am looking forward to your promised visit; will it not be very soon? it seems so long since we saw each other. I trust, dearest Harold, you are quite well, and are not overworking yourself with too much writing as you told me you had been doing lately. How do you like your new quarters? Tell me everything about yourself. I think you know how interested I am in everything that concerns you.
All are well at home; my aunt thinks of remaining here another three weeks. Until I have the great happiness of seeing you,
Believe me, dearest,Yours lovingly,Louisa.
O——, August 10, 19—.
Dearest Fred:—
You have expressed a most complimentary desire that I should write you a long letter in answer to yours. It is a great happiness to me to do so, and to know that you care to hear of all my thoughts, hopes, and wishes. I have read your letter again and again; the assurance it contains of your affection is very precious indeed. Dear Fred, do you really love me as much as you say you do? I ought not to doubt it, but still it seems so strange and new that I should have the power of winning the heart of one so good and clever as you are. I am very proud that it did happen; my heart is full of thoughts of you, and every hour of the day I look forward to being with you again. I try, oh so earnestly, to fit myself for the position that awaits me as your wife, that you may never regret your choice.
Ever affectionately,Eva.
C——, January 10, 19—.
My Own Dearest:—
It is nine o'clock, and I am just home from the office. You see I am working hard. My only thought, all the time is not for myself, but for us. You won't forget it, darling? Do you dream sometimes of the little home we have planned? Can you not see it all? Is it not worth waiting for? Oh, dearest, do not forget that you have drawn my whole heart out of me—that it is all in your keeping, and that you are mine, mine. I live only in you, night and day, waking or sleeping. I love you so that it is pain not to have you, not to hold you.
Yesterday night our friend Max took me around to a reception or party or something of the kind at his fiancée's, Miss Lord. It was a very pretty affair, the ladies were in full dress, and the house was decorated in green and red. Miss Lord was a gracious hostess, and couldn't have done more than she did to make it pleasant for me. I had a delightful evening, and I certainly told her so; but I was thinking only of you all the time—you in your little pink gingham under the apple tree. Do you remember?It was May, and the sun was setting, and I kissed you for the first time without being scolded for it. You are not sorry that you didn't scold me? Think hard, dear, and tell me when you write. And do so, very soon. You know how I watch the mails, and how disappointed I am when the longed-for letter isn't there.
Good-night, my beloved, my precious little one.
Yours devotedly,Edward.
L——, January 13, 19—.
Dearest Edward:—
The snow is twenty inches deep, and we are almost buried. Jim brought me your letter this morning. He was quite exhausted ploughing his way up to the house. "Thought it would pay me, Polly," he said, "to see the love-light in your eyes." Dear, lonely old Jim, so faithful and unselfish! Mother brought him in and gave him a cup of coffee. I don't know why it is, Edward, but sometimes I want to share my happiness with everybody, and then again I like to feel that it is exclusively my own. It is splendid of you, Edward, to be working so hard, and I am proud, and proud that you love me. I have also been working hard since yesterday morning. You could never guess at what. Mother and I have been cataloguing and arranging the books in the school library; you cannot imagine what a task it was. And this evening Mr. Melville is coming around to consult with mother about library methods, and how to manage the circulation of the books. I am going to ask him to mail this letter for me, so must finish it as quickly as possible.
Yes, Edward, I do remember that May sunset from under the apple tree. It is very long ago. We were only children. I didn't know what love was then—how deep and strong. Beloved, I never forget you, never pause in my loving of you.
Your ownMary.
S——, December 14, 19—.
My Darling:—
All day in the store, and then the long evening in my room alone, that is my outward life. And my inward life—it is you, only you, for I think of you all the time.
The rush of business is increasing as the holiday season draws near; such hurrying, scurrying crowds of people, and only one little girl in all the wide world that I want. And my arms ache for her to-night.
Eva, dear, your last letter is worn quite to tatters from being carried in my pocket and pulled out for frequent re-reading. You would laugh if you could see it, and take pity on me and write me a new one.
Tell me, darling, what you are doing. Have you finished reading Romola? Do you like it! Are you keeping up your practicing? Did you have a good time at the sleighing party? Who was there? A regular string of questions, isn't it? You know everything you write interests me, and I like the little details most of all. Your letters are little fragments of you. I kiss them and treasure them most sacredly. O darlingest, dearest girl, I love you and long for you. Tell me, dear, can't you feel me loving you even though you are so far away? And do you love me? I like to have you say so. And how much? But, ah! you are too far away. I can't hold you until you laugh and have to tell.
Every night and every morning I thank God that I have found the dearest, truest girl that ever was, and that she has given me her promise to be mine. Dearest, I think of it every hour. Nothing can ever separate us. Am wholly, wholly yours, and you are mine to love and cherish.
With a heart full of devotion,Yours ever,Alfred Hinman.
M——, December 16, 19—.
Dear Alfred:—
My walk to the office this morning after papa's mail was well rewarded by your letter. Charlie Darwin was there postingeight dozens of his circulars. He is perfectly jubilant over his prospects, and he had to walk home with me to tell all about them. He said he was going along my way, and if I didn't mind, as it was very slippery—Of course I said I didn't, so I put your letter into my pocket and waited for a good time to read it.
It's very funny how you wear my letters out so soon. I wonder why they don't make note paper like the tough paper that is used in little Paul's Baby Goose picture book.
I had a fine time at our Church Fair last night. Mrs. Sullivan changed her mind at the last, and had me serve as Rebecca at the Well, while Maggie presided at the candy booth, just as she had wanted to. Guess how many glasses of lemonade I sold. One hundred and seventeen. Charlie Darwin drank eight. Do you think you could have swallowed as many as that, Alfred?
I am keeping up my practicing pretty well, that is, I practice an hour a day, except the days I write to you. Would you rather have me practiceeveryday? You know, I am keeping up my piano only because you are so anxious to have me, and I want you to be satisfied. People think I am getting on very nicely.
The sleigh ride was grand. All the girls went, and nearly all the boys. Phillip Small could not get permission to go. It was a perfect shame. Every one missed him. We had a fine supper at the Davidsons' old place.
Oh, Alfred, I wish you could come home for Christmas. It will be so lonely and dismal for you, away off by yourself, and it won't seem at all like Christmas here without you. How I long to see you! There is so much to tell. Do you remember last Christmas, dearest? Mamma is trying to send me to bed, so I must stop writing. But I haven't answered all your questions. Oh, Al. dear, are you never satisfied? What do you suppose Charlie said to me this morning? "Daisy, you're all heart—just one big heart." Doesn't that sound like him? And there wasn't anything to lead up to it. I was weighed last Wednesday at the butcher's. Guess how much? 122 pounds. There, mamma is calling. Good night, Al. But I was going to answer your question how much I love you. If Charlie and the scales spoke the truth I think about 122 pounds. But then, Charlie was only joking. He doesn't mean half he says. Do you think so?
Your affectionateDaisy.
N——, October 30, 19—.
My Darling Alice:—
Don't you think we have been engaged quite long enough to understand each other thoroughly, and do you see any good reason for delaying our marriage? I have not pressed you before on this point, but if you really love me as I think you do, you will consent to make me happy by naming an early day. Why should we not be married immediately after Christmas? this would give you time for any preparations you may have to make, while, as for myself, I should be quite ready to receive my dear little wife next week, if she would only come to me. Dearest Alice, will you consult your mother? I feel sure she will say I am right in asking you not to put off our marriage any longer. Cannot possibly get away from here for the next ten days or so, but do write and tell me it shall be as I wish.
God bless you, darling.
Your affectionate and devoted,Albert Thurston.
F——, November 3, 19—.
Dearest Albert:—
Your affectionate letter touched me deeply. You asked me a very momentous question, to name the day of our marriage. Dear Albert, it shall be as you wish; your arguments are so convincing I can only feel that you are right, and say yes to all you propose. My mother also thinks that the 28th of December would not be too soon, and that I can make all my preparations within that time; therefore let it be the 28th. The period of our engagement seems very brief, indeed, but I have such perfect trust in you, and we know each other so thoroughly, that I need not postpone our marriage with the idea of seeing more of you, and can look forward to our passing a very happy life together.
Good-bye, dearest Albert; fondest love
From your ownAlice.
F——, November 2, 19—.
Dearest Albert:—
I only wish I could write as you suggest, but really there are many reasons against our marriage taking place just at present. We have, as you say, been engaged some time, but three months is, after all, a very short period in which to learn the tastes, feelings, and ideas of one who is to be life's dearest companion; besides, we have seen so little of each other, and I cannot help feeling that this period of our life is perhaps the sweetest and pleasantest we may ever experience. Married life will bring cares and responsibilities with it, and I would prolong my present happiness as long as possible. You must not be angry with me for saying this, dear Albert, or for being rather reluctant to exchange happy certainty for the unknown future. My mother will not influence me either way, but allows me to judge for myself. She will be happy to see you here when you can arrange to come to us for a few days, and you and I can then talk the matter over, and perhaps your arguments may prove more convincing than mine, in which case I shall give way.
In the meantime, believe me, as ever,
Your affectionateAlice.
N——, November 30, 19—.
My Dear Albert:—
A few weeks ago, when I promised that our marriage should take place in December, I fully intended to keep my word, but on consideration, feel compelled to ask you to let it be postponed for a few months longer. I have no good reason to urge for this delay—perhaps I am over-sensitive and anxious, but still, if you would agree to it I should be very grateful. It strikes me we entered upon our engagement rather hastily, and that I was persuaded against my better judgment to fix next month for our marriage. I think it will be better for both of us that we should endeavor to learn more of each other's tastes, and what each requires of the other. Your line of life is so decided thatI wish to be certain it will suit me exactly, or that you would meet me in some degree with little concessions to my individual tastes. I have written to you out of the fullness of my heart, and trust you will not misunderstand me, or think I do not love you. My request is for a little more time, which I am sure you will not refuse me.
Believe me, dear Albert.
Your ever affectionateAlice White.
S——, February 10, 19—.
Dearest Alva:—
Do you not realize how miserable you make me by the way you have acted recently? You cannot suppose it is very pleasant for me to see you, day after day, encouraging the attentions of other men. At the party last night you appeared to prefer every man in the room to myself as partner. If you acted in this way with the idea of arousing my jealousy, let me tell you it is a very dangerous game to play at; but I imagine nothing so flattering to myself was intended, and that a love of admiration and indifference to my feelings were the motives that actuated you. If this is the case, it would be best for both of us that our engagement should be at an end; if, however, you are able to assure me that you meant nothing by your thoughtless coquetry beyond the amusement of the moment, you shall never again hear a word of reproach from me on the subject, and I will trust you as fully as before.
Believe me, dearest,
Your ever faithful and affectionatePhilip Dorrimer.
C——, January 15, 19—.
My Dear Paul:—
For some time past I have been trying to make up my mind to put my anxieties into words, but have shrunk from doing so, hoping that perhaps it was all a mistake; now I can no longer deludemyself into thinking this is the case. I feel you are very much changed, your manner to me at times almost amounting to indifference. Your letters are short and cold, and but few words of affection can be extracted from them. I am beginning to think you no longer care for me; perhaps this is what you wish me to understand. And yet it is hard to believe this of you; it must be that something or some one has estranged you from me, and that an explanation between us will put things on their former footing; anyhow, I give you now the opportunity of telling me everything, and implore you to be frank, as our future happiness depends upon our never allowing any misunderstanding to stand between us.
Believe me, dear Paul,
Your affectionateMadge.
W——, May 18, 19—.
My Dear Charles:—
May I hope that you will not think me foolishly exacting if I say that you have pained and hurt me by the attentions you so constantly offer to Mrs. Dunstable? I do not suppose you mean to vex me, and have no doubt it is more her fault than yours, but still I wish you would be a little lessempresséin your manner to her. You will think perhaps that I am jealous; it is not quite that, but yet I have a sort of feeling that you ought not to be so nice to her. You will not be angry with me for saying this, dear Charles; it is my great love for you that causes me to attach such importance to every look and word of yours, and to feel reluctant that other women should share them with me. You must not say that this argues a want of trust in you unworthy of us both; indeed, I do trust you, otherwise my self-respect would not allow me to write so frank a letter as this one is. Perhaps I have only to tell you what is in my heart for you to give me no further cause for—shall I say jealousy? although I have tried to leave this unpleasant word out of this letter.
Always, dear Charles,
Your lovingLaura.
W——, May 19, 19—.
My Dear Laura:—
I do not deserve, in any degree, the reproaches contained in your letter of yesterday, and am surprised at your permitting yourself to indulge in such feelings. Great as my attachment is, I must tell you, once for all, that I detest jealousy in a woman, and should soon cease to care for one who tormented me by repetition of such accusations. If, during our engagement, you are to feel aggrieved at my offering the slightest civility to any lady of my acquaintance, what chance of happiness is there in store for us in married life? I can see nothing but wretchedness ahead if you persist in giving way to this feeling; dismiss it from your mind, it is not worthy of you, and remember that perfect trust is what I expect and desire from the one who is to become my wife. I feel strongly on the subject, as so much alienation and misery are occasioned by unfounded jealousy.
Believe me, my dearest Laura,
Ever yours,Charles P. Worthington.
W——, January 12, 19—.
My Dearest Laura:—
How foolish of you to underrate your own attractions so far as to think I could prefer any one to yourself! Do not entertain such a thought for a moment. My heart is wholly yours, and not a thought of mine is bestowed upon any one else. I did not in the least intend to convey anything beyond mere politeness by my attentions to Mrs. Dunstable; but if you think that I have inadvertently given you the least cause for uneasiness, you may depend upon my being very much on my guard in future, so as to avoid the faintest suspicion of a preference for the society of any young lady, save yourself, be she ever so charming.
Believe me, dearest Laura,
Your deeply attachedCharley.
P——, March 10, 19—.
My Dear Ethel:—
Do you really mean to break off your engagement with me? I can only suppose it is so from the way you allow Mr. Small to devote himself to you. It seems every one is aware he is paying you more attention than, under the circumstances, you ought to receive from any man except myself. Either he is ignorant of the engagement between us, or he is dishonorable enough to act thus in spite of it. If you have not sufficient regard for my feelings and for your own position as my promised wife, to put an end at once to any further acquaintance with Mr. Small, you will understand that I resign all pretensions to your hand; but should be sorry to think that you had changed so completely in the last few weeks as to care for me no longer. My sentiments have not altered towards you, in spite of all that has passed; and it rests with you to say whether you prefer that man to myself. I shall of course abide by your decision, and remain,
Yours very truly,George Lindsay.
C——, August 10, 19—.
My Dearest Girl:—
I feel entirely satisfied, from the explanation you have given me, that my jealousy was unfounded, and I must ask for your forgiveness for having doubted you. Am afraid my accusations must have pained you very much, and I deeply regret writing as I did; but you are so good and gentle, am sure you will receive me into favor on my promising never to offend again in a like manner. You must not be very angry with me for fearing to lose what I prize so dearly, the love of my darling Helen.
Once more, dearest, forgive me, and believe me
Your devotedEdward.
R——, September 10, 19—.
My Dearest Howard:—
I have been so wretched, of late, thinking you did not care for me as you used to, that the joy of receiving your letter, and learning that I still hold the first place in your heart, has been almost too much for me, and made me shed such happy tears. It is so hard to doubt one you love, and it seems that I have tormented myself quite unnecessarily all these past weeks; still you must admit there was some excuse for my making myself miserable. What was I to think from your silence, and from all that was said? Dearest Howard, believe me, I will never doubt you again, never, never, and shall always think you are the kindest, dearest, best, and truest of men, and that you are all my own.
Now and always,
Your lovingAnna.
W——, April 12, 19—.
My Dear Mr. Felton:—
I well know how delicate a matter it is for a third person to interfere in lovers' quarrels, but as the happiness of my daughter is at stake, it is my duty as her mother to try and bring about a reconciliation between you. I will not question which of you is at fault; all I wish is to see the smiles return to my child's face, and tranquillity to her heart. She is evidently very unhappy, but tries to conceal it even from me. Dear Mr. Felton, if you really love her, as I am sure you do, you will come to Katherine on receipt of this letter, and you need have no fear of your welcome. Trusting you will not misunderstand the feeling that actuates me in thus writing to you,
Believe me,
Very sincerely yours,Anna Durand De Witt.
D——, January 19, 19—.
My Dear Susan:—
I have hesitated long before writing to you on a rather delicate subject, but trust you will not be hurt or offended if I say that our tastes are so opposite, that married life under such circumstances could not fail to result in unhappiness to both of us. Your heart is evidently set on the enjoyment of all the gaieties of life, while my ideas are centered in domestic quiet and repose. I have neither the means nor the inclination to enter into the former, and you would hardly content yourself with the latter. You cannot but acknowledge the truth of my statement, and I have no doubt you will see the necessity of putting an end at once to an engagement that is in every way unsuitable.
Believe me, dear Miss Belden,
Very truly yours,Frank B. Rice.
A——, December 5, 19—.
Dear Charles:—
It is only after much serious thinking that I write you this note. Some time you will thank me for it.
Is it not better, in a matter that concerns the happiness of two lives, to undo a mistake at any cost than to wait until too late? We thought once that we truly loved each other, but we have found, during the period of our engagement, that in many grave respects we are not congenial. Our tastes, our aims in life, our ideals are so diverse, that I believe our union could not be perfectly happy. When you review in your mind the occurrences of the pastmonths, I am sure you will agree with me. It is not necessary to place the blame. Perhaps there has been no fault but hastiness. Considering everything, I would suggest that our engagement cease by mutual consent, and our friendship continue as far as seems agreeable and natural. We shall have many pleasant memories and some sad ones in common. The latter, in time, will be forgotten.
Yours sincerely,Florence Ludington.
C——, December 7, 19—.
Dear Florence:—
I cannot but think that you regard our little differences too seriously. In fact, I look upon them rather as misunderstandings than differences. But since you suggest it, I consent that we call our engagement broken for the present. I agree to it only because you want to feel perfectly free, and I do so in good faith;you are free. Whatever the end, I shall never blame you; my faith in your sincerity and true nobility stands undiminished. In my own mind I consider our engagement as merely suspended. Doubtless time will show you what mere trifles—nothings, we might say—are dividing us. It was not lightly, my darling, that I gave you my heart.
Yours as ever, with love and devotion,
Charles Davidson.
T——, July 22, 19—.
Dear Mr. Lawrence:—
You will not feel surprised at the contents of this letter; indeed, you have hardly left me any alternative than to say our engagement is at an end. Perhaps I ought to have arrived at this decision sooner, but was reluctant to give you up until quite sure it was the right thing for me to do. I could not be happy with one whom I did not esteem as well as love, and by your conduct of late you have forfeited my good opinion,and have destroyed my faith in you. Your letters are herewith returned and I beg that you will send mine back; kindly acknowledge also receipt of the presents you have made me at different times.
Believe me,
Yours truly,Madeline Storrs.
N——, February 10, 19—.
Dear Harry:—
I want you to believe that I am sincerely grieved at the pain this letter may occasion you, and trust you will not think harshly of me for what I am about to say. I did not rightly understand my own feelings when our engagement took place, and mistook esteem and friendship for love. Much as it costs me to make this confession, it is my clear duty to tell you I can never entertain the affection for you that one has a right to expect from a future wife.
This knowledge has made me very unhappy, but I have now determined to ask to be released from my promise; dear Harry, forgive me; I feel convinced that some day you will be as happy as you deserve, although it is not in my power to make you so.
Believe me, with unwavering friendship,
Yours very sincerely,Carrie Dunmore.
P——, August 7, 19—.
My Dear Evelyn:—
I exceedingly regret to tell you that my darkest fears have been realized; the business disaster of which I have spoken to you has come, and it is more complete than our worst expectations had led us to believe. We have fought a long, hard fight, and,as honorable men, there was nothing else for us to do but to close our doors and put our affairs in the hands of our creditors.
Whether the firm will resume, or what the course of the future will be, is yet undecided. For myself I am not greatly troubled. As long as youth, health and hope remain, I am not afraid of the coming struggle. But there is one direct duty before me in relation to you that must be performed without delay. Under the most promising circumstances, it will be a very long time, perhaps years, before I could offer you the home and comfort on which my heart was set, and concerning which we have had so many and such delightful conversations; and it would not be fair to hold you to your engagement under these altered circumstances. I beg you, therefore, to consider yourself perfectly free to act in this matter as your judgment and heart may dictate. I will not trust myself to say what I feel on this subject further than this, that in offering you perfect freedom I am following the only honorable course due to you and to myself.
Shall be very busy evenings at the office for two or three days, but will call upon you on Friday night and we can talk matters over.
Ever, dear Evelyn,
Yours truly,Martin Stanley.
P——, August 8, 19—.
My Dear Martin:—
Your letter of yesterday was duly received. It made me very sad, and yet proud of you. You are proving so honorable and chivalrous! I am deeply sorry for this business failure. But cheer up. You have, as you say, youth on your side, and you are lacking neither in brains nor in courage. These are treasures that nothing and no one can wrest from you, and with them the future is bound to turn out bright and prosperous. I understand you wish me to act in relation to our engagement as my judgment and heart dictate. This is like you, Martin. Well, come around on Friday and we shall discuss the subject. In the meantime, be assured that no one sympathizes with you in this day of difficulty more than
Your affectionateEvelyn.
S——, June 14, 19—.
Dear Mr. Martin:—
It is with my daughter's consent that I write you this letter, and my painful duty is to tell you that, as there seems no prospect of your being able to make a home for her, it is cruel and unfair to hold Alva to a promise which has now lasted over two years. You have not fulfilled any of the pledges you voluntarily made, and which induced me to sanction your attentions. I understand that your family are not inclined to do anything for you, and therefore see nothing for my daughter but years of weary waiting, probably to end in ultimate disappointment.
If you have any regard for her welfare, you will, I am sure, release her from her present trying position, and accept my decision for her good without endeavoring to shake her resolution. I must ask you to send me a few lines of acquiescence; and with every wish for your success in life,
Believe me, dear Mr. Martin,
Truly yours,Althea Ludlow.
C——, October 10, 19—.
Sir:—
Circumstances that have just come to my knowledge compel me, as a matter of duty, to break off the engagement between my daughter and yourself. I have desired her to hold no further communication with you, and I have been sufficiently explicit to convince her how unworthy you are of her affection and esteem. It is unnecessary for me to give you the reasons which have induced me to form this judgment, and I only add that nothing you can say will alter my determination.
Felix Dusenbury.
Edward Renwick, Esq.