.1Mb. Sflf fPIONKfreUDK STORE* . ' CRUZ. &led free of Postage on receipt of Pri '"* f, ' f < '*t*'ttF^ ; ,s "Mercury' b Full of Original ErtffrctvinffS^ f/'OM Designs by i ILLUMINATED COVEHS. EDUCATION DEPT NIGHT-SHADE .............. 25 THE BUCKEYE RANGER ...... 25 NE LETTEB-BITEB, FOR THE USE OF LADIES: EMBODYING LETTERS ON THE SIMPLEST MATTERS OF LIFE, AND OX VARIOUS SUBJECTS, WITH APPLICATIONS FOR SITUATIONS, ETC. AND A COPIOUS APPENDIX OF FORMS OF ADDRESS, BILLS, RECEIPTS. AND OTHER USEFUL MATTER. COMPILED FHOM THH BEST PREVIOUS WOBK3 ON THE SUBJECT,- WITH CONSIDERABLE NET7 ADDITIONS, HINTS O.< STYLF ^TC., ETC. NEW YOKK : FfSEDEEIO A. BBADY, PUBLISHER, No. 22 ANN STBEET. 1867. JSDIICATION DEPT. , PREFACE. IN the present clay when education is so rapidly pro- gressing, a superior work on the subject of Letter Writing is obviously needed. The old works of the kind were obsolete in diction, exaggerated and unnatural frequently to a ludicrous excess in their thoughts, and the topics upon which they professed \o give specimens were not well chosen. To illustrate this fact by example, the epistles in the old Letter Writers smack rather of Sir Charles Grandison's days than our own, and, although often entertaining, they are too high-flown for common life, without being refined enough to suggest ideas of legitimate letter-writing to the educated person. Before, however, entering into the character of the present work, the editor feels it incumbent on him to state his impressions as to the extent to which such publications are really useful, and how far their use or abuse may affect the possibility of their readers becoming good or bad correspondents. It is impossible that, even were ten thousand letters collected together, they would furnish epistles suited to every exigency, even during a single year of an ordinary M118386 iy PREFACE. person's life. So much must depend upon the character and position of the person to whom, on the nature of the circumstances under which, and on the humor and disposition in which we write, that, were eveiy letter, from Cicero's time to Sir Thomas Moore's, to be pressed into our service, it is doubtful whether the precise one we really wanted would be forthcoming. ; Good letter-writing is one of the mainsprings of busi- ness, and one of the strongest connecting links of common life. To write a business letter, and to write a familiar one, require as different qualifications as to enter a draw- ing-room and to knock at one's own street-door. Let us try to point out what these qualifications are. Tact is equally necessary in both, but tact of a different character. In writing to a man of business, 'brevity be- comes literally " the soul of wit," and true tact will teach us three things ; first, never to waste time in more com- pliments than are demanded by the common courtesy due from one man to another ; secondly, never to say anything that has nothing to do with the subject; and thirdly, always to say all that the subject really requires, and to say that clearly. A letter of ten lines will often fulfill all these conditions, when a lengthy epistle will bring back an impatient wish to " know the meaning of your com- munication of the th." In wiiting letters, we ought to consider that we may be wasting another person's time more precious than our own in the mere operation of read- ing, to say nothing of understanding and replying to them. But let us always remember, that it is possible to be brief and to the purpose, without being bearish or uncourteous. Tact in familiar writing, and in some half-busiiiess-half- tfamiliar correspondence (which enters constantly into our PREFACE. V cvery-clay life) consists in a clear and ready interpretation of our thoughts and wishes, as well as in a prompt and graceful understanding of those of another. Here we arc less fettered by the pressing calls of time already over- employed ; we are enabled to speak on paper (which is the great and true perfection of letter-writing), and we mingle the gentler feelings of home associations with the sterner calls of duty. But tact is no less wanting under these circumstances. Who would write to a child at school, to a friend just married, or to a dignitary of the church, all in the same terms ? One may be familiar with all three. The dignitary may be the very venerable gentleman who gave the nuptial blessing to your cousin whom you are congratulating, and he *nay likewise have stood godfather "to the child to whom you are sending youi own blessing and a cake ; but surely he will very reasonably expect to be addressed with, at all events, a more subdued familiar- ity, than as if he had formerly been your schoolfellow at cricket, or had just distinguished himself by a precocious entrance into Propria qiici} incwibus ! And even on the most familiar occasions, and in ad- dressing the most familiar friends, this tact will aid us in not a few material pints. It will prevent us mistaking boisterous familiarity (and, too often, slang and vulgarity) for heartiness carelessness in grammar for freedom of style (a mistake, unhappily, not confined to letter-writers only), and will give a refinement and gracefulness whicrh enhance even the most tender passages of love and friend- sin p. Kow it is candidly to be confessed that the art of ac- quiring this tact (which is little else than the whole art of letter-writing), is one of time, trouble and difficulty. The earlier it be commenced, the better; but there are yi PREFACE. many, whose acquaintance with the world at large begins late in life perhaps never begins at all, and from such persons much cannot be expected. A regular corresponi dence with those who themselves write well is unques^ tionably the surest means of attaining this end, and, next to it, the frequent perusal of such letters as form a part - and a charming part of the writings of our best authors. To those who possess the opportunity of cultivating both or either of those resources, the examples contained in the following pages can teach little, excepting, perhaps, the art of saying plain things in plain words, and being able to say no more than is necessary upon a trifling subject a matter which a great many very clever people find more difficult than they are willing to confess. As to letters on courtship, matrimony, and such like matters, the editor candidly confesses that he should feel little sympathy with any gentleman who received sprinted circular in answ r er to an address taken from a printed letter. Had he consulted his own inclinations, he would probably have excluded any attempts to deal with such matters (where befitting writing can only spring from the deepest recesses of the human heart) ; but, in deference to custom, he has prepared some specimens, and selected a few others, which he trusts will, at all events, not lead his readers to any of the display of folly or misplaced romance, which too frequently form painfully-ludicrous episodes in the earlier acquaintance of the two sexes. A manly and honorable feeling towards the objects of our affections will, it is to be hoped, always suffice to prompt its honest expression, without running into bombast, ex- travagant adulation, or unreasonable and absurd pro- testations. But there is a class of people whose wants are likely to PREFACE. YU be greater, and whose interest has been more immediately consulted in the following pages, viz: clerks, servants, sailors, and others, whose education may be very slight, but who may at the same time wish to be able to express themselves clearly, and to prefer something like an Eng- Ksh diction to the vulgarity which a little pains and care might avoid : letters referring to obtaining a character, soliciting the recommendation to a situation letters from sailors at sea, from relations at the gold-diggings, and on such like matters, will be found in this little volume, and may, it is hoped, frequently prevent a good deal oi hesitation and wondering " what to write, and how to Write it." I will now endeavor to point out a few features pecu- liar to female correspondence, which I hope may bo thought appropos of the subject. It were to be wished that more attention were paid to the subject of letter- writing in our national and district schools. In the present day, when ignorance is deserv- edly at a discount, and when so much is expected of every one, even in a humble position of life, there is no reason why the letters from one servant to another, or the application for a situation, or answer to an advertisement, should only furnish so many examples of outrageous grammar and absurd diction. A habit of expressing oneself distinctly, though without pretension, ought to be inculcated in every such establishment, and, where the difficulties of spelling and reading have once been con- quered, there will be little difficulty in enabling the pupil to acquire such simple forms of correspondence as are necessary to the ordinary circumstances of her career. Vill PREFACE. Many such letters have been inserted in the present work, which, it is believed, will be found useful, not only to female servants and others of the lower class, but to the pupil-teachers and governesses who are chiefly con cemed in their instruction. Some experience of the sys- tem pursued in many ward, and district schools leads tliQ editor to the conclusion that the useful is too frequently sacrificed to the superficial, and that a knowledge of doubtful Egyptian chronology is of much less importance than the power of being able to apply for a situation, answer an advertisement, or deal with any other matter of common life, without doing it in a style almost con- demning the fitness of the candidate on the score of outre ignorance. In reference to the more polite correspondence, I, of course, do not suppose it can be of any great use to those whose personal gifts have been carefully improved by education, and whose daily mingling in good society gives that " true ease in writing, " which, as Pope says, " comes by art, not chance." Nor will the accomplished reader of Madame de Genii s, or Madame de Sevigny's letters, to say nothing of such correspondence as is found in the works of our female tourists, or in the writings of Madame D'Arblay or Lady Rachel Russell, seek such in- different aid as this volume can present. But to many, whose opportunities have been less brilliant, a few r sug- gestions may be found which may prevent being at a loss how to begin, or how to state a particular topic, and which, if net leading to the production of a first-rate epistle, may at all events prevent anything like positive awkwardness or inelegance. To the young, moreover, whose zeal (especially in some matters touched upon in the following letters) is apt to on 'run their discretion, it is to be hoped that this book w'll be even more useful. Care has been taken to blend scrupulous delicacy with such natural warmth of expres- sion as seemed warranted by the subject, and without which all correspondence must sink into stale and lifeless matter-of-fact. Having experienced revision at the hands of one or two ladies competent to judge, the editor feels certain that the letters here given are at least free from impropriety ; and that, if not meeting the precise and delicate shades of every circumstance connected with affairs so peculiar in their nature, they may still be used as safe examples, and as being free from the affected sen- timentalism and morbid affectation too frequently found in correspondence on such matters. The following story and remarks, from the pen of an accomplished American authoress, form a not inapt con- clusion to this preface, especially as far as its younger readers are concerned: " Mr. Robinson was very fond of children, and used to render himself very familiar with them, by adapting his conversation to their capacities, and joining heartily m their little sports ; consequently, they were much attached to him. In the midst of his playfulness, however, he never let slip an opportunity of throwing out some hint that might be useful to them in after life. Among his little favorites were two fine boys, sons of a much esteemecl member of his congregation. The elder, named John, was about ten years old, and the youngest, Robert, about eight. On one of Mr. Robinson's visits to their father, Robert, being told of his arrival, came bounding 1 into the room, and, as usual, jumped upon his knee, when they entered into the following dialogue : "Mr. #. Well, Robert, so you have taken your old X PREFACE. seat ; but Low is it my other knee is unfurnished ? Where is John ? R. O sir, John is gone to New York. '* Mr. R.- Indeed ! how long has he been gone ? u R. More than a fortnight, sir. i( Mr. R. How many letters have you written to him ? U 7?. ISTonc, sir. 11 Mr. E. How is that? u R. Because I do not know how to write a letter, sir. " Mr. R. But should you like to know how ? u .7?. O yes, sir ! very much indeed. " Mr. R. Then suppose you and I, between us, try to cook up a letter to John, shall we ? " R. O dear, yes, sir, if you please ; I should so much like to do that. " Mr. R. Well then, let us begin, " Saucy Jack ;'' will that do ? " R. O dear no, sir ; I should not like to say that at all. "Mr. R. Why not? u .R. Because that would be so rude, sir. u Mr. R. Let U3 try again : " My dear Brother ;" will that do ? u R. O yes ! nicely, sir. " Mr. R.~- Y/ell, then, now let us go on, u Last Thursday half Cam bridge was burnt down, and " R. O no, sir ! that will never, never do. " Mr. JR. Why won't it do ? " 7. Because it is not true, you know, sir ; there has not been any fire at Cambridge. " Mr. R. Then suppose we alter it to " .Last night our taWy cat had three kittens" That is true, you know, be- cause you told me it just now. PltEFACE. Xi " R. (hesitatingly). Y-e-s, sir, it is true ; but I Should not like to write that. " Mr. It. - But as it is true, why should you not like to write it ? '* R. Because I do not think it worth putting in a letter, sir. u Mr. R. O ho! then, if I properly understand you, friend Robert, you think that when we write letters to 0111 friends, we should, in the first place, never bo rude ; secondly, that we must never say what is not true; and, thirdly, that we must never tell them what is not worth knowing. Am I right ? *' R. Yes, sir ; if I were to write a letter, I should try to think of all this. 4i Mr. .R. Then, my clear boy, you must never again tell me that you don't know how to write a letter ; for I as- sure you you have a much better notion of letter-writing than many people who are five times your age." Perhaps it will be worth while to say, in addition to the above rules, or rather as an application of the second rule, not quite obvious at first sight, yet which is particu- larly applicable to the class of persons to whom these hints are addressed, " never express more than you feel." Young ladies are apt to express themselves too warmly, and their expressions on paper, of ardent and unalterable attach- ment, sometimes outlive the thing expressed, and form a standing reproach to their fickleness, coldness, or insin- cerity. It is a pity that some young people make a formidable task of writing a letter, and that others very unnecessarily and uselessly blot many sheets of paper, and incur or im- pose much needless expense in postage for the conveying of empty compliments, unmeaning professions, and trfling details. Both classes would improve themselves by put- ting letter- writing upon its natural and proper 1 footing a mode of communication with our friends or correspon- dents, not as a trial of skill, or a display of fine words and pompous expressions, but the communications of what we really think, and feel and wish. It might cor- rect both reluctance and excess to accustom ourselves to inquire, "What is the occasion of my writing a letter ?'' If it be business, there will be little danger of expressing what we wish, or of expressing more than we need. Such letters will not be written for the mere pleasure of writing ; neither will they be dreaded or postponed for want of something to say. But the occasion is, absence from a parent, a brother, a sister, or a really beloved friend ; and is there any reluctance and difficulty in wri- ting to them ? Should we pass hours of silence in their presence for want of something to say ? or do we pass the hours of absence without thinking of them ? If either were the case, it would argue a lamentable want of affec- tion for friends so near; if not, why should there be greater difficulty in writing than in speaking our thoughts ? On the other hand, to prevent filling the let- ter with trifles, and omitting things of importance, it might be well to imagine that we were to have an inter- view with the absent friend, but that it must be limited within the few minutes occupied in reading a letter ; we should then think first of the things most needful and im- portant to be said, and secure them, leaving all of inferior moment to take their chance. Now, just follow this plan in letter -wilting; say in few and simple words the things most important to be said ; then things of minor import- ance, which yet may be interesting. If time and paper allow, put them all in ; if not, leave out the most trifling. PREFACE. XI 11 If, on the other hand, all is said, make a close, and do not, for the sake of filling your sheet, drawl on when you have nothing to say. A letter written on these principles wi-1 neither disgrace the writer, nor disappoint the re- ceiver. For the convenience of all classes, forms of address to persons of high social station or professional position, have been added, together with some forms of receipts, promissory notes, and other such matters, the utility of which admits of no question. TABLE OF CONTENTS. Arranged under the respective subjects of which the Letters hereafter treat. APPLICATION for relief or contributions, Letter 31, 32. Answers, 33, 34; for the admission of a girl into a school, 3& Birthday, congratulations on, 9; answer to ditto, 60. Books, loan of, 58; answer, 39. Bridesmaid, asking for, 78, 89; answer, 79, 90. Coal and Blanket Club, application for, 81. Companion, application for, 24; answer, 25. Commission to a friend, 36. Cook or servant of all work, inquiry respecting character, 18; answer, 19, 20. Condolence, letters of, 84, 85, 83. Death, announcement of a sister's, 97. Directions, general, as to letter- writing, page 117. Education, on, 62; answer, 64. Farmer [see under MATKIMONIAL]. Governess, application for character of, 11; answer, 12; to the governess, 13; answer, 14; nursery governess in answer to an advertisement, 15; unfavorable answer respecting, 16. Housekeeper, application for situation of, 17. Invitation, 94; answer, 95, 96; 124; answer, 125; Notes of, page 115. Lady, one young, to another from school, 10; on arriving in New York to her friends in Ireland, 116; answer, 117; second letter, 118; an- swer, 119; to her fellow-voyager, 120; answer, 121; from a young, to her sister, 12 ; answer, 123. Lady'amaid, inquiry for one, 21; answer, 22; from lady's maid to hep intended mistress, 23. Lodgings, respecting taking, 37. XVI CONTENTS. Love, Letters on, page 121; to a lady, 126; ansAver, 127; second lette 123; from gentleman's mother to lady, 129; answer, 130; from the lady to the gentleman, 131; f.orathe same, 132; from a yorng gen- tleman proposing elopement, 133; answer, 131: from a youth to his sweetheart, 135; answer, 136; from a lady complaining of her lover's indifference, 137. Matrimonial, answer after meeting the previous evening, 41; favorable ditto, 42; more familiar, 43, 44; in answer to an absurd letter, 45; refusal on grounds of pre-engagement, 46; of dislike, 47; of levity of character, 48; of poverty, 49; on receiving a birth-clay congratula- tion, 50; complaining of not receiving a letter, 51; sending minia- ture, 52; on receiving ditto, 53; answer to proposals for a private meeting, 54, 55; to a mother respecting a favored suitor, 56; answer to ditto, 57; to the suitor respecting consent of mother, 58; from a widow, 69, 60; to an accepted suitor, 61; after a misunderstanding, 62, 63, 64; from a servant to her suitor, 65, 65; advising caution, 67, 68; from a lady's maid, 69; from a servant with a refusal, 70, 71, 72; to a soldier ordered on march, 73; to a sailor, 74; on his return, 75; to a young farmer, 76; about day of nuptiaJs, 77; for bridesmaid, 78, 89; answer, 79, 80; to a future husband respecting his misconduct, 80; to a clergyman proposing, 81; in reference to a religious diffi- culty, 82; from one married lady to another, 83; condoling on death of husband, 84; on being asked to name the day, 87; in answer to a proposal to break off an engagement, 88; from a lady absent to her husband, 91; to her daughter, 82; answer, 93. Milliners' apprentice, application for, 26; answer, 27. Miniature [see under MATRIMONIAL.] . Mother to her daughter, 114; answer, 115. Observations, concluding, page 133. Parish scholarship, application 1'or, 28; ditto for character to a clergyman, 29; thanks to ditto upon being successful, 30. Pecuniary Assistance, requesting, 110; answer, 111. Punctuation, page 119. Sailor, letter to, 74, 75. School, to the mistress of, respecting placing daughters,.!; answer to ditto, 2; from a young lady at school to her mother, 3; answer to ditto, 4; from a little girl wanting to coins home, 5; answer, 6; from school announcing the vacation, 7; acknowledging a present, 8; to a daughter at school on her birthday, 9 ; from one young lady to another, 10. [See also Art. PABISH]. Servant [see Art. COOK], for loan of for a party, 40. Sister, one to another, 112 ; answer, 113. Soldier, latter to, on march, 73. THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. LETTER I. From a Lady in New York to the mistress of a Boarding- school, respecting her daughters. NEW YORK, February Ctli, 18 . MADAM, Although a stranger to you personally, my esteemed friend, Mrs. , has spoken in such high terms of your establishment, and of the improvement of her own. daughters under your system of education, that I have unhesitatingly determined to give my two dear children, Emily and Maria, the benefit of your instruction, should you have a vacancy. Emily is just years of age, her sister years younger. Both are well grounded in the ordinary knowledge which should form the basis for a u finishing course,'' and I have no doubt your establish- ment would afford them every advantage. They are amiable children if their mother's fondness does not much mislead her; and although they have hitherto lived almost entirely at home, I believe they would readily adapt themselves to a new society, especial- 1G THE LADY'S (LETTER- WRITER. ly under what Mrs. ' " ' lias led me to believe, an almost motherly superintendence. Awaiting the favor of your reply, and of such particulars as may be thought necessary, I remain, Madam, Your faithful servant, To Miss or Mrs. . . LETTER II. The Answer. GLENWOOD HOUSE, February 9th, 18 . DEAR MADAM, I shall be delighted to receive your two little girls next quarter, and am highly pleased at the confidence Mrs. 's recommendation has led you to re- pose in me. I trust that my W'hole desire has ever been to promote the happiness, as well as the intellectual advance- ment of my pupils ; and I may venture to say that a hap- pier circle can hardly be found than among ourselves. The enclosed prospectuses will give you, I think, all ne- cessary information ; but as I shall spend a few days of the Easter vacation with my brother, the Rev. , I shall hope to call upon you in New York, and make the per- sonal acquaintance both of yourself and of the little ladies who are to be entrusted to my charge. Assuring you that no pains of mine will be spared to promote the religious, moral, and intellectual welfare of your children, Believe me, Dear Madam, Most faithfully yours, To Mrs. . . THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 10 LETTER III. From a young Lady at School to her mother. BELLE YUE HOUSE, April 17th, 18 . MY DEAREST MAMMA, Although. I was almost heart- broken at parting from you for the first time in my life, I felt that you would never have let me quit home but for my own good ; and I hope I am not ungrateful enough to prefer mere selfish gratification to future welfare. I find school much less disagreeable than I had expect- ed. There are, of course, many variations of disposition for a school is like a little world but, for the most part, the girls make themselves very pleasant to me. Mrs. is kindness itself, and sets an example of mutual good-will to all of us. My studies are, I think, progressing satisfactorily, al- though I am, of course, in the back-ground as yet, espe- cially in my French. The music-master is rather passion- ate, especially if we plr.y out of time, which you know, dear Mamma, used to be an unfortunate fault of your Julia's. But he takes great pains ; and I think you will have less to complain of in my playing when I return. How I long to kiss and embrace you again ! God bless you, dear mamma, and believe me, Your ever Affectionate child, To Mrs. . LETTER IY. The Answer. BROOKLYN, April 26th, 18 . MY DEAREST CHILD, I was delighted to receive your 20 THE LADY'S LETTEII-WBITER. affectionate and gratifying letter. Believe me, that for a widowed mother to be parted from her only darling is a sad- trial, especially when the elasticity of youth and health is so much diminished. I shall look forward with joy to the Midsummer vacation, when I intend to take you with me on a trip to the White Mountains. You will have an opportunity of seeing many of those wonders of nature of which you have only read in books, as well as of strengthening your health, and returning to school with greater aptitude and relish for study. Write to me from time to time, and let me know all the news of your " little world ;" for, believe me, everything that pertains to the welfare and progress of my darling child, is of consequence in the eyes of your mother. Pray present my kind respects to Mrs. , and thank her for her kindly care of you. That God may bless you, and make you all that I could wish, is the constant prayer of Your affectionate Mother, To Miss Julia . . LETTER V. From a little Girl, wanting to come Home. AMENIA SEMINARY. DEAR MAMMA, O ! I am so tired of this place ! I can- not learn so many things at once ; and I cannot bear going to bed without kissing you. You know, mamma, I have never been away from you before, and I feel as if I should die of grief if you do not let me come home again. Do, mamma, do, and I will love you for ever. Your miserable child, To Mrs. . -r* . THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 21 LETTER VI. The Answer. JERSEY CITY, Saturday, 16th. MY DEAR CHILD, I am sorry that you should pain me by so unreasonable a request. You know well that noth- ing pleases me more than to have all of you around me; but you must recollect that all your brothers and sisters have been to school before you, and they never complained at all. I know that you, being the youngest, have been pet- ted a great deal by all of us ; but, for that very reason you ought to try and give us pleasure, by growing up a good and clever girl. Believe me, my dear child, you will find school become more pleasant every day, as you get better acquainted with your schoolfellows, and as your improvement gains the ap- proval of your mistress. Youth, my dear little girl, is the proper time for exertion ; for if we once lose the precious hours of early life, we have naught to look back to but disappointment and regret. I have written to Mrs. to ask her to give you not quite so many lessons at first, and have no doubt she will do all to assist you. But you must try to be happy, and look forward to the Christmas vacation as the reward oi 1 the little self-privation you are at present undergoing. With the united kind loves of your father, brothers, and sisters,, I am, My dear child, Your affectionate mother, To Miss . . 22 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. LETTER VII. Announcing the Vacation. WOODLAWN HOUSE, June , 18 . MY DEAR PARENTS, It is with mingled feelings of re- gret and pleasure, that I announce that the termination of this half year's work is fixed for the th instant. I sin- cerely hope that I shall not only find you both in excel- lent health, but that you will be satisfied with my im- provement since I last left home. No pains have been; spared by any of my teachers to render me worthy of your good opinion ; and I must ever feel grateful both to them, and to yourselves, for the pains bestowed upon my educa- tion. Mrs. (or Miss) desires- me to present her best com- pliments; and, with my best love to my sisters and brothers, believe me to remain, My dear Parents, Your ever dutiful and affectionate daughter, Tn ___ -t \J ~ r * LETTER VIII. Acknowledging a Present* RICHMOND, April 4th, 18 . MY DEAR FATHER, How kind of you to think of me immediately after your return from Paris ! The trinkets you sent are so very beautiful, that I should have been afraid of exciting the envy of my schoolfellows, had it not been for the liberal supply of French confectionaiy (of which, I assure you, very little now remains) by which THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 23 they were accompanied. I assure you, I spare no trouble to win the good opinion of my school-mistress and teachers ; and, if I may judge from their kindness towards me, I am not altogether unsuccessful. I am enjoying excellent health and spirits; but I hope now you are in New York, you will sometimes run down and see your daughter ; for, believe me, nothing but an occasional thought of poor, widowed papa, ever intrudes upon my cheerfulness. Mrs. has frequently expressed a wish to see you, so that I shall look forward with anx- iety for that happy occasion. Again thanking you for your thoughtful and libera) kindness, Believe me to remain, My dear Father, Your ever affectionate and grateful daughter, To , Esq. . LETTER IX. To a Daughter on her Birthday. NEW ORLEANS, February 12th, 18 . MY DEAREST CHILD, Your father, brothers, and sisters, all unite with me in wishing you a thuosand good wishes on this your th anniversary. We could all have wished that circumstances would have allowed of your spending it with us ; but feeling, in these matters, must oftentimes be sacrificed to utility, and our selfish delights must not be suffered to interfere with the prospects of those dear to us. The package which accompanies this letter, contains not only some trifling tokens of affection from all of us, but the materials for a little entertainment which, I have 24 THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. no doubt, Mrs. will allow you to give to your school- fellows, as I have written to beg a half-holiday on the oc- casion, God bless you, % my dear child ! and that every succeed- ing year may see you increase in all that is desirable in body and mind, is the earnest prayer of your ever anxious parents. With best compliments to your mistress and teachers, Believe me, Your ever affectionate Mother, To Miss . LETTER X. From one Young Lady to another. PEEXSKILL, June 15th, 18. DEAR , Though it is n#ar breaking-up time, I should feel distracted at leaving this delightful place, were it not for the expectation of again beholding my dear mother, and of again meeting with so many beloved friends, none more so than yourself. I hope I have made a good progress during this last half year, as I know the anxiety of all my friends 011 the sub- ject, and am too much indebted to them not to wish to make every exertion to gain their good opinion. Mv health has been excellent ; indeed, this place is sufficient to preserve the most delicate in comparative comfort. In fact, had I not another home, I should scarcely wish ever to leave here. But about yourself. I am so glad to hear that you are engaged ; and won't I tease you when I come to town ! TIIE LADY'S LETTER- WHITER. 5 I long to see the gentleman. Is he tall or short, raven oi 1 auburn, fair or dark, c., &c. ? But, without joking on what is really a serious matter in a friend's happiness, I sincerely hope he is a good man, and one worthy the heart and hand of my dearest old schoolfellow. I well know that you possess all the charms of mind and person that can make any man happy ; and that you may never be deceived in your choice, is my most earnest wish. Believe me to remain, dear , with every prayer for your happiness, Your affectionate , To Miss . . LETTER XI. 'Requiring tlie Character of a Governess. LE ROY PLACE, August 10th, 18 . MADAM, Having inserted an advertisement in the papers requiring the services of a governess competent to instruct my three daughters, I shall esteem it a great favor, if you will inform me as to what extent Miss , who has referred me to you, is capable of instructing her pu- pils in the higher branches of female education. I am especially anxious to obtain an amiable young person, who would be treated as one of the family, and w ould be will- ing to consider herself as the guardian of the morals, as well as the superintendent of the studies of my children. I am much pleased with the appearance and manners of Miss , and should your report be favorable, I shall have no hesitation in completing an engagement with her. I am, Madam, Your very obedient servant, To Mrs. . 2G THE LADY'S LETTER- WHITER. LETTER XII. In Ansicer. ABINGTON SQUARE, August 10th, 18 . MADAM, I was absent from town when your letter ar- rived, or nhoald have replied immediately. I trust this delay, which I much regret, will in no way interfere with your arrangement with Miss , for whom I entertain the highest respect and good .feeling; During her residence of years in my family, I ever found her amiable, in- dustrious and sensible. Well grounded in English, she likewise possesses a useful knowledge of accounts, writes a free and elegant hand, and speaks and writes French with considerable fluency. With regard to the accom- plishments of music and drawing, she is fully competent to prepare pupils for their finishing masters ; and her gen- eral aptitude for teaching is increased by her patience and good-humor. I can scarcely add anything further, than to express my wish that she may obtain a situation every way suited to her deserts, and that you may have eveiy reason to be pleased with the results of your engagement. I remain, Madam, Your very faithful servant, To Mrs. . . LETTER XIII. To the Governess, from the former Lady. LE ROY PLACE, August 12th, 18. MY DEAR Miss , So favorable is the result of Mrs. THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 27 's report, that I unhesitatingly offer you a situation in my house, about which we have already been in com- munication. With every confidence in your ability and willingness to gratify my wishes for the welfare of my children, I can assure you that all that is in my power shall be done to lighten your labor, and make you feel like one of ourselves. Pray inform me when it will be convenient for you to enter upon your new duties, as I will at once make the necessary arrangements for your accommodation. Believe me, Dear Miss , Yours very truly, To Miss . . LETTER XIV. The Answer, EAST 14TH STREET, August 18th, 18 . MADAM, I am happy to hear that your good opinion of me has been confirmed oy the kind verdict of Mrs. . If convenient to yourself, I shall be happy to enter upon my duties on the th, as I believe you are anxious that no time should be lost. I remain, Madam, Your obedient and faithful servant, "To Mrs. . . LETTER XY. Prom a Nursery Governess in answer to an Advertisement. RUTHERFORD PLACE, January 3rd, 18 . MADAM, Understanding that you have a vacancy for a zb THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. nursery governess for children of your own, I beg to state that I have occupied that situation for years in the house of , and only left in consequence of the family going to reside in the country. I am well ac- quainted with the usual routine of an English education, and with sufficient of French and music to teach the first rudiments, and attend to the practising in the absence of the teacher, which, I presume, is all that you would re- quire. I enclose some testimonials, which, I venture to hope, will satisfy you as to my character and competency for the office. Should you honor me with your confi- dence, I assure you that neither kindness nor exertion shall be wanting to do justice to your children, without exercising undue severity or unkindness. Awaiting the favor of your reply, I remain, Madam, Your obedient servant, To A. B., care of, &c.* . LETTER XVI. An unfavorable Answer to an Application for the, Charac- ter of a Governess. PETERSBURG, August 5th, 18 . MADAM, In answer to your polite note in reference to the character and capabilities of Miss , who lived in my family in the capacity of governess, during the space of , I regret to say that a duty imposes itself upon me, which, although requisite, is yet most unpleasant to my * According as the advertisement directs. THE LADY'S LETTEB-WBITEK. 29 feelings; inasmuch as I feel obliged to state, that the estimate which I formed of the capabilities of that lady (or, my opinions in reference to her temper and conduct, as the case may fo), were far from being of a satisfactory na- ture. I found her very deficient in two departments, those of music and French (or, I found her manners ex- tremely repulsive, and that, in the management of chil- dren, she had little or no command over her temper). In other respects I have nothing to say to her prejudice. Regretting that I cannot give a more favorable reply to your letter, Believe me, Madam, Your very obedient servant, LETTER XVII. For a Housekeeper. HUDSON CITY, April 5th, 13 . bin (itr MADAM), Learning from an advertisement in the Herald of - (or from a friend), that you require the services of an experienced housekeeper, I beg respect- fully to offer myself as a candidate for the vacant oilice. I am unmarried ; my age is years ; and I have lived for years in the family of , to whom I can con- fidently refer you as to my character and fitness for the duties of the situation. I remain, Sir (or Madam), Your most humble servant to command, 30 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. LETTER XVIII. As to the Character of a Cook or Servant-of -all-work. BROOKLYN, E. D., June 15th, 18 . MADAM, Mary having replied to an advertisement for a cook (or housemaid, &c.,) in the Herald, refers me to you for a character. I feel particularly anxious to obtain a clean, active, and civil person, as my last occasioned me much trouble, and left under most unfavorable cir- cumstances. I shall, therefore, feel obliged by your making me acquainted with any particulars referring to her character, and remain, Madam, Your very obedient servant, To Mrs. . . LETTER XIX. In Ansicer. FORT GREEN PLACE, June 18th, 18 . MADAM, I take an early opportunity of acknowledging the receipt of your note ; and in answer to your questions relative to the character, of Mary , I beg leave to in- form you that she lived with me in the capacity referred to, for the space of , during which time I generally found her attentive to her duties, to the performance of which she was fully equal. I always had full confidence in her honesty, which she never gave me any cause to ques- tion ; and in regard to her cleanliness and civility, I had very little reason to find fault. I parted with her on ac- count of her ill-health (or a difference about wages, &c.), THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 81 and can recommend her with full confidence of her t>eing likely to give you satisfaction. I am, Madam, &c. &c., To Mrs. . . LETTER XX. Unfavorable. FORT GREEN PLACE, June 18th, 18 . MADAM, In replying to your polite note, I beg to inform you that Mary , who lived with me in the capacity of , left my service in consequence of her incompetency to the discharge of her duties (or name any other cause). In other respects I had no reason for dis- charging her. Believe me, Madam, Yours most respectfully, To Mrs, . . LETTER XXL For a Lady^s JHfaid, from one young Lady to another. NEW YORK, July 15th, 18. DEAR , We are about to start for on the th, and I am as yet unprovided with a lady *s maid. Never having performed a sea- voyage as yet, it is import-' ant that I should have some one who has crossed the ocean, and who could attend to the comforts necessary on shipboard. Do you, among your various acquaintance, 32 THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER, know any one who could introduce to me a cheerful and attentive young person. You know enough of my tem- per to be aware that I should be a kind mistress, and ab- stain from giving useless trouble ; in fact, I had rather meet with one whom I could make a companion, especial- ly if papa carries out his scheme of an excursion up the Mediterranean. I am sorry to trouble you ; but I know that you will assist me if you can. Meanwhile, believe me, Dear , Ever truly yours, To Miss . . LETTER XXII. The Answer. MADISON SQUARE, July 17th, 18 . DEAR , Fortunately I happen to know the very person you want, and as time seems pressing, I have directed her at once to call upon you. The bearer of this note is - , a young person, most respectably brought up, and well acquainted with the matters of the toilet, &c. She was with me for a few weeks during the illness of my present maid, and had I not already been perfectly well suited, I should have been glad to engage her. Having been employed in a Parisian mil- linery depot, she has frequently crossed and re-crossed, and claims to be a " good sailor," so yo will have a com- . forter in your fears. She bears the best possible character from all who have known her, as her testimonials will THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 33 prove, and her pleasant and modest manners speak for themselves. Wishing you, my clear , all possible pleasure from your forthcoming voyage, and all agreeable companion- ship from my young friend, Believe me, Ever sincerely yours, To Miss . . LETTER XXIII. From a Lady's Maid to her intended Mistress. THIRTIETH STREET, July 19th, 18 . HONORED Miss, I feel most grateful to you for select- ing me as your lady's maid, and will do all in niy power to promote your comfort, and deserve your appro- bation. Agreeably to your wishes, I will be with you punctually at on evening. I am, Honored Miss, Your humble and obedient servant to command, To Miss . . LETTER XXIV. For a Recommendation of a Companion. RIVERSIDE, June 30th, 18 . DEAR MRS. , My old friend, Miss , who has for some time past been in a decaying state of health, is anxious to meet with a lady who would be willing to re- 34 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. side with her as a companion. Being incapacitated, from much reading, she is anxious to find a lady who would lighten her heavy hours by agreeable conversation, a rub- ber at cribbage, and so on. You know Miss 's dis- position as well as I do. Though occasionally irritable, and sometun.es rather selfish, she is kind-hearted by na- ture, and I doubt not, would be a valuable friend to a lady whose reduced means might induce her to accept such a situation. Should you know of any one to whom the comforts of a liberally conducted household are of consequence, and who would be likely to conduce to the comfort of my old friend, I will bring about a personal introduction, that both may form some estimate of each others dispositions before binding themselves to any agreement to live together. I remain, Dear Mrs. , Yours ever faithfully and sincerely, To Mrs. . . LETTER XXV. In Answer. PORTLAND PLACE, August 9th, 18-^. DEAR MRS. , -I should not have delayed answer- ing your letter so long, but that I was awaiting the return of Miss , an intimate friend of mine, and who had once spoken to me in reference to the same subject. She is the orphan daughter of a clergyman, has min- gled in good society, and seen something of the world. Her age is about , her temper extremely kind and THE LADY'S LETTER- WIUTIMI. 3j forbearing, and her manners and conversation sprightly and entertaining. Although possessing a small annuity, sufficient to exclude her from absolute privation, she would gladly husband some of her small means, with the view of assisting some relations who are totally unprovi- ded for ; and, under such circumstances, she feels grateful for your proposal, and will gladly accept your introduc- tion to Mrs. - at any convenient period. Believe me, Dear Mrs. , Yours ever truly, To Mrs. . . LETTER XXVI. In Answer to an Advertisement for a Milliner's Apprentice. NEW YORK, June 5th, 18 . MAP AM, In answer to your advertisefnent in the of , for an apprentice, I beg to say that I have a daughter years of age, who is very expert with her needle, and would, I think, improve considerably in a short time. Will you, therefore, favor me with particu- lars as to premium, and other matters, to which I will give early consideration. Yours obediently, To Madame (or Mrs.) . . LETTER XXVII. In Answer. DIVISION STREET, June 7th, 18 . = presents her complimertfs to Mrs. , and 36 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. begs to inform her that the premium usually paid on en- trance is . The hours of work are from to . The board provided is of the best quality, and every op- portunity is given to those who are willing to learn. Ii 1 Mrs. will kindly call in Division Street at her earliest convenience, bringing her daughter with her, Madame will be happy to answer any further ques- tions for their satisfaction. To Mrs. . . LETTER XXVIII. Application for a Situation as Weird Schoolmistress. KEW YORK, June 30th, 18 . GENTLEMEN, Understanding that a vacancy for the situation of mistress to your Ward School has occurred, I beg to offer myself as a candidate, and to inclose my certificate, &c., from the Superintendent of the Board of Education. While I feel that these can better speak for me than I can for myself, I venture to assure you that, should you honor me by conferring upon me the vacant appointment, I shall strive to discharge my duties earn- estly and steadily, and shall ever remain, Gentlemen, Your grateful and obedient servant, To the Trustees of the Ward School. LETTER XXIX. Application for a Testimonial from a Clergyman. NEW YORK, June, 21st, 18. REVEREND SIR, Being a candidate for the situation THK LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 87 of school-mistress in the school, I venture to solicit the favor of a testimonial from you, as to my conduct while at the Normal School, and also to entreat that, should you deem me a worthy candidate, you will kindly exert your interest 011 my behalf. Sincerely thanking you for past kindness, I have the honor to subscribe myself, Reverend Sir, Your most humble and dutiful servant, To the Rev. . . LETTER XXX. Returning Thanks upon Success. NEW YORK, August 12th, 18 . REVEREND SIR, Allow one of the humblest of the many claimants on your kindness, to return her sincere thanks for the kind interest which, she feels persuaded, has so materially conduced to her success. That, rever- end sir, I may be found competent to, and active in the discharge of those duties to which I have been called, and that you may feel no reason to repent your interest in rny welfare, is the sincere prayer of, Your dutiful and grateful servant. To the Rev. . . LETTER XXXI. Par a Subscription to a Coal and Blanket Clul. SOUTH BROOKLYN, Dec. 15th, 18 . MADAM, In consequence of the severity of the season, 88 THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. and the difficulty the lower orders find in obtaining em- ployment, the Institution, of which we indosc a prospec- tus, has been set on foot by a number of influential persons in this neighborhood. Should you feel disposed k) aid in this charitable design, the honor of your name to the appended list is most respectfully solicited, by Madam, Yours most respectfully, To.Mnk . . LETTER XXXIL For a Private Case. YORKVILLE, Dec. 17th, 18 . MADAM, May I venture to solicit the aid of your inter- est and bounty on behalf of a m.ost deserving- case ? The widow of , a in the service, is left by his de'ath utterly dcstitjite, and with a family of young- children, which prevent her obtaining- any employment in her present state of bereavement and sickness. A small sum is being raised, in the hope of establishing her in a small shop, and interest has been made to place two of her children in the infant-school. Trusting you will excuse this intrusion on your notice, and that I may be honored with the addition of your name to the inclosed list of subscribers, I remain, Madam, Your most humble and obedient servant, To Mrs. . . THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 39 LETTER XXXni. In Answer* NEW YORK, Friday 4th, 18 . Mrs. is happy in being able to assist so well-recom- mended a case as the one mentioned in Mr. 's letter, and will gladly place her name on the list for the sum of . Should any further opportunity qf rendering aid occur to her, she will gladly embrace it. To the Rev. . LETTER XXXIV. Negatively. NEW YORK, Tuesday 3d, 18 . Mrs. begs to acknowledge Mr. 7 s letter ; but regrets that the claims upon her purse of late have been so frequent and so heavy, that she has nothing but good wishes to offer. To ^-. . LETTER XXXV. To procure the Admission of a Girl into a school. BEDFORD, Dec. 13th, 18. MY DEAR SIR, You are, I well know, possessed of con- siderable city kinuence, and the benevolence of your heart induces me to believe that that influence is ever willingly exerted in furthering a good purpose. Under this per- suasion, I write to solicit your interest with the governors 40 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. of Girls' School, to procure the admission of tfco daughter of a tried and faithful servant of mine, who is a most amiable and well-disposed child, and is, I am con- vinced, of the very disposition suited to the institution in question. Her age is ; her father is dead, and her mother has but little means of support, except such as are derived from my purse. If an admission into School could be obtained for , I should tak care that her future, as well as present condition justified the preference. Pray do the best in this matter, and you will truly oblige, My dear Sir, Your faithful servant, To Mr. Alderman . . LETTER XXXYI. Requesting a Friend to execute a Commission. S POUGHKEEPSIE, July IGtll, 18 . MY DEAR , Will you kindly execute the following little commissions for me, as soon as you are at liberty to reach Swan and Edgars (here state ribbons, muslins, &c. as wanted) ? Will you also call at 's, and inquire when Bulwer's new novel really will be out, as I am all anxiety to know. The weather down here is delightful; but I wish I had the pleasure of your company to render it more so. Pray write a line when you send the things, and let me know how town is getting on. Ever yours, To Miss . . THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. 41 LETTER XXXVII. About taking Lodgings. NEW LONDON, August 16th, 18 . DEAR MRS. , May I ask you a great favor, al- though I fear it may occasion you some trouble. We re- turn to New York on the th, and wish, if possible, to avoid the expense of living at an hotel, if we could meet with a couple of floors in a respectable, open situation near Union Square. Will you kindly undertake to look out for us ? I know that you are a good deal about town, and if you could procure us anything at a rate at all rea- sonable, you will greatly oblige Your sincere old friend, To Mrs . LETTER XXXVIII. g tJie Loan of some Boohs during Sickness. NEW YORK, June 4th, 18. DEAH , I am far from well ; indeed, I hav^c been confined to my sofa for some days past, and have enjoyed no amusement but such as my few books afforded me. I write to beg the loaa of some of the " Waverly" novels, of which I know you possess a complete set. They shall be taken every possible care of, and returned as regularly as read. Pray look in for an hour now and then, and speak a few words of comfort to Yours ever sincerely, To Miss . . 48 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. LETTER XXXIX. The Answer. THIRTY-FOURTH STREET, June 4th, 18 . DEAR , How grieved I am to hear of your illness ! I send you half a dozen volumes, which I hope will lighten the tediousness or your sofa-confiaement, and will como and see you to-morrow morning. I should have clone so ere now, but have been so variously engaged, that I havs scarcely had a minute to myself. Wishing sincerely to find you better, I am, Dear , Yours ever affectionately, To Miss . . LETTER XL. For tlie Loan of a Servant. TREMOJTT, Jan. 15th, 18 . DEAR MADAM, I find that my party of to-morjow night will be rather larger than was expected, and shall be at a loss for sufficient attendance, unless I can obtain the loan of one or two servants from my friends. Would you kindly permit your footman to stay and help my own servants ; and if I can oblige you in a similar way on another occasion, you will be most welcome. Believe me, Dear Madam, Ever faithfully yours, To the Hon. Mrs. . . THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 43 LETTER XLI. From (i young Lady, in Answer to the Proposal of a Gentle- man who had met lier the previous Evening. HEMPSTEAD, July 6th, 18 . Sin, Although it is the highest compliment that can be paid our sex, to receive offers calculated to ensure a lasting acquaintance, I must still complain of the precipi- tate character of your address to one who, till last night, was a total stranger to you. Without wishing to say any- thing harsh, I must confess that I do not feel any motive to entertain so hasty a proposal, and have felt bound te lay your letter before my parents, as I could not think of concealing from them any correspondence of such a de- scription. Trusting that you will see the matter in its proper light, I remain, Sir, Yours respectfully, To , Esq. . LETTER XLII. Another, more favorable. HEMPSTEAD, Sept. 18th, 18 . SiPv, Although your letter of this morning comes upon me in a strangely unexpected manner, I feel that your in- timate friendship with my kind hostess, Mrs. , per- haps excuses a precipitation which could scarcely be jus- tified on ordinary grounds. At the same time, I cannot 44 THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. think of giving a sanction to further attentions on your part, without consulting Mrs. on the subject, and I have, therefore, placed your letter in her hands. I cannot deny that I feel some pleasure in having elicited senti- ments from you, which appear to be founded in honorable good feeling, but must, for a time, beg of you to excuse me giving you any further sanction to your addresses. I remain, Sir, Your sincere well-wisher and friend, To , Esq. . LETTER XLIII. On receiving a second Letter, after frequent Meetings. HEMPSTEAD, Dec. 15th, 18 . DEAR SIR, It is impossible for me to deny that your assiduous, but delicate, attentions to me of late have con- firmed a favorable impression I had formed, but which the suddenness of your address rendered it impossible I could avow. Your whole conduct has been that of a gentleman, and Mrs. 's representations are so strongly in your favor, that I feel it would be false modesty in me to disclaim a feeling of strong regard for yourself. Let us not, however, be too hasty in our conclusions let us not mistake momentary impulse for permanent impres- sion ; let us rather seek to know more of each other, to study each other's tempers, and to establish that sincere esteem which should, which must, be the foundation of every deeper feeling. I have written to my father on the subject, and, as I THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 45 anticipated, he haft laid me under no restraint, save of cautioning me not to be hasty in giving that promise, or accepting it from another, which may involve the happi- ness of a whole life. Meanwhile, Mrs. - begs that you will accept a general invitation to her tea-table, to which arrangement, I can assure you, no objection will be made !>j Dear Sir, Yours very truly, To -- , Esq. ' . LETTER XLIV. On more intimate Acquaintance. HEMPSTEAD, May 1st, 18 . DEAII -- , We shall all be very happy to see you here for a little evening festival to the children of the village. When I say we, it of course includes some one in whose heart you now hold a place, with whose fondest thoughts and prayers your name has been associated for some months past. I believe we are to perform charades, or something of that sort, and I have been occupied half the week in cutting old window curtains and sofa-covers into absurd costumes, supposed to bo Oriental. I know you are very clever at that sort of nonsense, so I hope you will come and have a good laugh with and at Your affectionate - , To - . -- . P. S. Come early. I have something to say to you. Besides you can do everything ; and we want you to assist in arranging the scenery such as it is. 40 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITE^. LETTER XLY. To a Gentleman who had sent an (Absurdly romantia Letter. CINCINNATI, April 25th, 18 . Sin, I do not know whether your epistle was intended ifc a jest, in which case its absurdity might have been ex- cused on the grounds of its plagiarisms. But if you can really write in earnest to any woman whom you j&ofess to esteem, I must express my humble opinion that such is not tke proper course by which to excite a reciprocal feel- ing- Regretting that you should have adopted a tone of wri- ting, which neither modern usage, nor common sense at any time, could sanction, I regain, Sir, Your obedient servant,* To Mr. . ' . LETTER XL VI. A Negative, on the Grounds of a Pre-engagement. CHICAGO, Jan. 15th, 18 . SIR, While confessing myself honored by the prefer- ence avowed for me by one whom I have every reason to respect as a gentleman, I fccl that it would be dishonor- * The editor of the present work believes that an answer like the above might often put to the blush the '* gents" and ' dandies" who fancy that extravagant hyperbole is the readiest way to a woman's heart, THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 47 able in me to keep you in any suspense, where the answqr must be unfavorable. For some time past, I have been engaged to a gentle- man, from whom I have every reason to expect happiness and comfort. I must, therefore, hope that you will hence- forth regard me only in the light of a friend ; and, with the sincere wish that such a partner as you deserve may speedily fall to your lot, Believe me, Sir, Your obliged and faithful friend, "To ; , Esq. . LETTER XL VII. A Negative, on the Grounds qf Dislik*. HUDSON, April 15th, 18 . Sir, I confess that your letter much surprised me. Your conduct in a recent matter, in which my poor mother's interests were so intimately concerned, ought to have taught you that, whatever you may be in your own opinion, you will never possess any sympathy on the part of To . . LETTER XL VIII. 'Anotlier, on the Grounds of Levity. HARTFORD, Jun3 15th, 18 . SIR, It is to my sorrow that I confess that there was a time when your addresses would have both flattered and 48 THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. pleased me. That time has long since passed. Why you best know. I could never consent to unite myself to a man who has marred the happiness of more than one young person, by his total forgetfulness of the proper duties of the stronger sex to the weaker. I have heard, unhappily, too much of your last year's conduct, to feel any compunction in at once declining any more intimate acquaintance. AVishing, however, that you may be more true to four- self, and that the dangerous levity, which must eventually prove more fatal to your happiness than it has done hith- erto, may be exchanged for a more manly, because more innocent, line of conduct, Believe me, Your sincere well-wisher, LETTER XLIX. Another, to an old Acquaintance, on the Grounds of Poverty. ALBANY, October 5th, 18 . DEAR , To say that I do not feel pleased and flat- tered at your proposal, would be to tell a useless untruth. I feel deeply, almost painfully, the conviction that your kind expressions are dictated by sincerity, and am the more grieved to be compelled to discourage them. But how are we situated ? What hope is them of hap- piness with our unsettled prospects, and worse than small means ? Industry has doubtless ii3ver been, and never will be, wanting on your part ; but the want of patronage and THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 49 capital will ever hold back the efforts of the most. strenu- ous. For my own part, I can do little to make myself an incumbrance upon the efforts of one so young as yourself. No, my dear , we must wait for better times, and not entail misery beyond calculation upon others, as well as ourselves, by a too hasty step. Let us, therefore, continue, as before, friends ; and if better times come, it will theft be for us to talk about matrimony. Believe me, then, with every good and kind- ly wish, Your faithful friend, LETTER L. On receiving a Birth-day Congratulation. KINGSTON, July 5th, 18 . MY DEAR , If anything could compensate for your absence from me yesterday, it is the charming, kind letter in which you poured out your thoughts so fervently. I have read, and read, and cried over it, till I begin to be- lieve that tli ere is even a degree ef painfulness in feeling oneself beloved. We had, in all other respects, a most delightful day. My friends here make so much of me, that I am afraid I shall be spoilt by over-indulgence. We were engaged in a pic-nic the whole of the afternoon, and came home heartily tired. This, however, did not prevent a great deal of music and singing in the evening, and it was o'clock before we parted. I have little news to convey to you indeed, our letters are so frequent, that they al- 50 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITEB. most anticipate events. I trust that you are getting on well with your Oxford work, and that the next Commemo- ration* will see you a Bachelor of Arts instead of a sleeve- less under-graduate. My aunt, Mr. and Mrs. , and all here unite in their kindest regards, and, with sincere gratitude for your con- stant tenderness and affection, Believe me, Your ever loving and faithful To , Esq. LETTER LI. Complaining of not receiving a Letter. ST. Louis, May 2nd, 18 . DEAR , No letter again ! You are really growing intolerably negligent, and I shall begin to think that you are getting tired of me, and that some new attraction is in the field. Knowing how anxious I am respecting your health and welfare, I am sure you will give me the credit of not writing from idle jealousy, although I really feel grieved and anxious at your unusual neglect. I have no news just at present indeed, I am too much out of spirits to write at any great length. Pray hasten to remove all doubt from the mind of one whose thoughts, day and night, are upon you only. Your affectionate To , Esq. . * The grand annual feettval at top University. THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. 51 LETTER LIL A Lady on sending her Miniature to lier Suitor. BOSTON, July llth, 18. DEAR SIR, Accept my very best thanks for your kind inquiries regarding my health, which I am happy to say is as good as usual. My thoughts often recur to the Jiappy hours which we have passed together hours which I have thought have passed like minutes, so full were they of the pleasure which I ever feel in your company. While I feel that my personal pretensions are but humble, I be- lieve that you will be pleased with the enclosed minia- ture, the view of which, in my absence, may call to your mind a remembrance of me. While I feel that the like- ness is rather a flattering one, still, should it but serve to bring me to your remembrance, the skill of the artist will not have been exercised in vain. Pray accept it as a friendly memento from My dear Sir, Ever sincerely yours, To , Esq. . LETTER LIII. On receiving a Miniature from lier Suitor. HANOVER PLACE, June 3rd, 18. MY DEAR , I never thought that any fresh proof of your attachment was needed, nevertheless, I have this day received another, and that one of the most acceptable I could have desired, viz. the portrait of him whom, of 53 Tins LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. all others, I am most desirous to keep in recollection. In contemplating this specimen of the artist's skill, I feel that it will ever recall you forcibly to my recollection, and in so doing, will be a constant source of delight to my mind, and will afford me some kind of solace during your absence. I need scarcely add that I accept your gift with unspeakable delight, although, at present, I have nothing better to send you in return than a fresh assurance of my most constant attachment, which, I trust, may prove as welcome to you as your treasured miniature has proved to me, and in this hope I remain, My dear , Ever yours affectionately, LETTER LIV. From a young Lady in Answer to a Proposal for a private Meeting. WOODLAWN, June 5th, 18 . SIR, I am altogether surprised at the proposal in your letter of . Although our acquaintance has been of but short standing, I believe my conduct has never been such as to give you reason to suppose me capable of an act which, in my opinion, is equally incompatible with truth and female propriety. Known as you are to both my parents, I can see no object in your seeking a clandes- tine interview, and my feelings both for my own and their honor are such as would forbid my sanctioning any such conduct. What I know of you, however, is so favorable, that I THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 53 am willing to believe that your intentions ought not to be harshly interpreted. Do not peril that good reputation by a conduct so unworthy yourself. If your intentions be really honorable, I am sure you will find no obstacles on the part of my parents, but I must utterly decline any correspondence of a clandestine character. Yours very truly, To , Esq. . LETTER LY.- Another more favorable. ELIZABETIIPORT, Jan. 3id, 18 . DEAR , Although my own conscience tells me that anything like clandestine conduct should be avoided, still I feel that we are most unhappily placed, and that the un- due opposition on the part of my aunt, in seeking to force upon me a man whom I dislike, excuses to some extent what I cannot justify. Would that we could both act uprightly, and cherish an honorable attachment (such as I feel yours to be) without restraint ! A few months more, however, will see me mistress of my own fortune and lib- erty, and then there will be no farther need of concealment. I shall be walking at o'clock, when we shall perhaps gain an opportunity of a few minutes' conversa- tion. Hoping sincerely that fairer prospects may yet arise for both of us, believe me, Dear r- ? Ever affectionately yours, 54 TUB LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. LETTER LVI. Prom a young Lady ta her Mother. NEWPORT, September 3rd, 18 . MY DEAR MAMMA, From wbat you know of New- port you will not be surprised to hear that I have enjoyed an incessant round of gaiety and pleasure, m$ health too," is completely recruited, and my friends are so kind, that I almost feel at home. But I have another more serious matter to confess to you, at which I hope you will not feel angry. It seems almost ungrateful to think of loving any one but you, but, O Mamma, if you saw Henry , you would for- give me, I am sure. He is so handsome, so gentle in his manners, "and yet so sensible and accomplished ! We met at ifce - Ball, and he scarcely quitted my side the whole evening. Mrs. has so high an opinion of him, that she has repeatedly invited him to her house, until )iis visits have become of almost daily occurrence. He is most honorable and straight-forward, and only waits per- mission to write to you, in order to give you full particu- lars as to his condition and prospects. Pray, dear Mamma, forgive me when I confess that my feelings are deeply enlisted in his favor, and that I feel as if much of my future happiness depended upon our union. I wish you were here to counsel and advise with me, for never before did I so much feel my own heart master of my reason, I hope you will write directly, or come immediately to your affectionate, but anxious, child, To Mrs. . THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 5o LETTER LYII. The Answer. NEW YORK, September 7th, 18 . MY DEAREST CHILD, Make yourself perfectly easy as ta my consent to anything that can promote your happiness. If ~frfa be what you represent, my fondest wishes that you might meet with a desirable partner in fife will be realized. At tlie same time, do not be too hasty in giving an unqualified assent to his proposals, but take time to leaB-n those minute shades of disposition and character which nothing but constant acquaintance can display. I shall be at Newport on the - th, and shall not only be delighted to meet my dear child again, but to be in- troduced to the man whom she has thought so worthy of her affections. Your ever loving mother, To Miss LETTER LYIII. To the Gentleman. T, Sep. 5th, 18 . MY DEAR SIR, You will IDC delighted to hear that Mamma is every way favorable to our attachment. I say our^- for I now feel under no restraint in confessing that my partiality for you is closely akin to a deeper feel- ing. Let us, however, (as she herself advises), seek to 56 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. know each other's temper and character more thoroughly ere we take too decided steps. Let us learn each other's little humors and wishes, that we may the better "know wherein we have to make allowance for, and yield to, one another. I trust we shall see my Mamma in a few days, when I am sure her favorable opinion of you will be more and more confirmed. Believe me, Dear Sir, Very sincerely yours, To , Esq. . LETTER LIX. A Widow, in Answer to Proposals. KINGSTON, July 14th, 18. DEAR SIR, I take the first opportunity of acknowledg- ing the receipt of the flattering letter with which you have favored me. You wish to know whether I am will- ing to enter again into the marriage state, and in event of my being so, whether I should be adverse to admitting you in the quality of a suitor. I assure you, sir, I feel flat- tered by the latter question, and as to the former, I can only say, that I have no dislike to entering again into that state. But our acquaintance is at present imperfect, and we are comparatively strangers to each other's tastes and tempers. I need scarcely observe that an intimate know- ledge of such matters is absolutely requisite, before we can decide whether we are fitted for enjoying together a partnership in life. Meanwhile, I have no objection to allowing such freedom of acquaintance as shall enable us THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 57 both to arrive at this knowledge, and can therefore only say, in conclusion, that the commencement of your ad- dresses will meet with no obstacle from, Dear Sir, Yours most faithfully, To , Esq. . LETTER LX. In the Negative. KINGSTON, July 14th, 18 . DEAR Sin, I have just perused the flattering letter With which 3^011 have favored me. Of late, whilst enjoy- ing the pleasure of your company I have not failed to ob- serve that your behavior towards myself has been more than ordinarily attentive ; and that on more than one occasion you have rendered yourself of essential service to my interests. Such conduct has not failed in attaining my favor and friendship, but has not had the effect of in- spiring a deeper passion a passion which I have totally renounced, whether on account of the advance of years (as the case may ~be), or of attachment to the memory of my late husband, it is immaterial for me to state. Had I allowed myself to suppose that the attentions to which I have just alluded were prompted by any other feel- ing but that of simple friendship, I should certainly have endeavored to repress them. Hence you may infer, that, while I decline the honor of your addresses, I still remain, with best wishes for your future welfare, Dear Sir, Your sincere friend, To , Esq. . 58 THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. LETTER LXI. To an accepted Suitor. YONKERS, April 12th, 18 MY DEAR , Your kind and affectionate letter gave us much pleasure, especially as you state that it is your intention to come down next Midsummer, and that you purpose settling here. I can assure you, we shall all be on the tiptoe of expectation for your arrival ; what delights dear father and mother the most is, that you propose set- tling in the country, as in that case we shall not be de- prived of seeing each other, and they will be partakers of our pleasures, which could not b#, had you made up your mind to reside in New York. I have received your pretty present, and will repay you for your kind remembrance of me, with a token more acceptable than money, w hen I see you ; until then, my dearest -, I remain, Yours, affectionately, To -, Esq. . LETTER LXII. After a Misunderstanding. April 3d, 18. DEAR , Your kind letter satisfies me, and I now regret that, in the anxiety of my affection for you, I should have given way to anything resembling a doubt. You allow that appearances were a little against you, THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITISH. 59 and that I had some reason for complaint. Let no more be said on the subject, but hasten to the company of Your affectionate and faithful," To , Esq. . LETTER LXIII. More serious. July 23rd, 18. SIR, The attempt you make to excuse your conduct is neither straightforward nor satisfactory. It is, in fact, only exculpating yourself by admitting a fault as great as the one of which I complain (here slate particulars). Under these circumstances, whatever pain it may cause me, I must avow my determination never, under any con- sideration, to admit of your addresses, feeling persuaded that the consequences would not be favorable to the hap- piness of either. I remain, Sir, Your obedient servant, To Mr. . . LETTER LXIY. Cojifcssing a change of feeling. NEW YORK, June 4th, 18 . MY >EAR SIR, I fear my avowal may give you some pain ; but it is better to be sincere and open in matters where the happiness of another is concerned. To spoak plainly, then, I feel that my sentiments in re- GO 'A'Hii ^ADY's LETTKB-WHITEB, gard to yourself are no longer what they were. While my esteem for your character remains unshaken, I still cannot blind myself to the fact that I do not cherish that affection which a wife ought to feel for her husband, and without which the married life is one continual .scene of torment and vexation. You will not, I .am sure, give me credit for acting from mere fickleness especially as I do not at present entertain a partiality for any other ; but you must pardon me when I express my firm belief that all correspondence between us had better cease, and that such letters as have passed between us should be returned at the first convenient opportunity. Assuring you, that, as a friend I shall constantly re- member you with esteem, I remain, My dear Sir, Yours very faithfully, To , Esq. . LETTER LXV. - A female Servant to lier Suitor. "YViLLiAMSBUKG, May, 1, 18 . DEAR , I am very happy to receive your kind let- ter, and to hear that you are doing so well. My mistress is so satisfied with me that she has increased my wages, besides making me a handsome present of clothes. I am in hopes that, with care and economy, we may both of us save something, and not start into married life, as many do, without a farthing to help us. As my mistress kindly permits me to go out on Sunday THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. Gl aftenioon, I shall hope to met you as usual at , till when, I remain, Your affectionate LETTER LXVL Another. HAMMOND STREET, Saturday, l2th, 18 . DEAR , I received your kind letter of the tli, and am happy to hear that you are well iiv'liealth, and giving satisfaction to your employer. I look forward with anxiety to the day when we shall be united forever, and when I shall enjoy the protection of an honest and per- severing husband. Continue to go on as you have done, and assure your- self of the constant affection of LETTER Another, to a proposal of immediate Marriage. WlLLIAMSBURG, JuilC 5 til, 18 . DEAR , I am, I can assure you, quite as anxious for our union as you can be, but I feel that prudence is neces- sary. AYe are both young, myself especially, and it is of no use for us to rush into a state of life which* we have not the means of supporting. Should you be so fortu- 62 THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. nate as to obtain the situation of which Mr. has held out hopes, we shall be able to marry without fear, as I can always earn something (state employment), and hope to be as industrious as a wife ought to be. Do not think that it is any coldness that makes me object to our imme- diate happiness ; it is only prudence that makes me wish to spare ourselves the risk of that poverty, which too often leads to dissipation and misery on both sides. We have seen so many sad examples, that I am sure you will take in good part these words from Your faithful LETTER LXVIH. To a young Journeyman, advising caution* NEW YORK, September 13th, 18 . PEAR , I had no idea you would have been so hasty as to have made a proposal to me within a few months after being out of your apprenticeship. I cannot give you a positive denial ; but I think that prudence re- quires some little delay, to enable you to realize those means of ofomfort which you, as well as myself, I am sure, would feel the want of; and I believe they -are more likely to be obtained by either of us while single. If your love be as true as you profess, it will spur you on to the attainment of them, and you will not regret a slight, but useful delay. I think, my dear , your own good sense will make you think as I do on the subject ; and that the better provision we make, before entering upon a mocb of life, which, in all probability, may be produc- THE LADY'S LETTER- WHITER. 63 live of a variety of expenses, however frugally we may manage, will be the most likely way to ensure our lasting happiness, and the approbation of those around us. Trusting shortly to see you, I remain, my dear , Yours most truly, To . . LETTER LXIX. From a Lady^s Maid to a young Tradesman. PHILADELPHIA, August 12th, 18 . DEAR Mr. , I feel very much pleased and nattered by the compliment you pay me in wishing me to become your wife. My mistress is so kind to me, that I felt bound to confess to her that I was favorably disposed to your addresses, and she is willing not only to consent to my receiving your addresses, but promises to befriend us to the extent of her power. You are therefore at liberty to call at some- times, but we must take care not to trespass too much upon good nature. Perhaps evening may suit you, as I shall then be disengaged ; if so, write and tell me. Meanwhile, believe me, Yours very truly, To Mr. LETTEK LXX. From a Servant, refusing Addresses. BROOKLYN, April 4th, 18 . JOHN, I do not know what could have led you to be- 04 THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITEK. lieve that I had any partiality for you. Such is not the case. I wish you well, as I have no reason for Avishing you otherwise, but I havo no desire for any attentions from you of any kind. Yours, To John . . LETTER LXXI. Another. GRAND STREET, April 1st, 18 . THOMAS, I have no wish to be married at present, and therefore must decline, with thanks, the compliment you wish to pay me. With hearty good-will, however, you may believe me, Your well-wisher, LETTER LXXII. Another. May 5th, IS. MR. CHARLES, I have already told you that I do not approve of many of your habits, and that I would never marry a man on whose temper and character I could not firmly depend. Numerous instances of your conduct of late have proved to me that I am right in my opinion, and I am sorry, for your own sake, that you should again repeat your addresses. I can only say, that I shall not feel bound to reply to any further letters on the subject, and remain, Yours, To Charles . . TILE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. G5 LETTER LXXIII. To a Sweetheart who is ordered on March. RUTGERS STREET, June 12th, 18 . DEAR , I cannot express my feelings as I reflect that you are so soon to be parted from me, and that I may possibly never behold you more. It is a sad thing to love sincerely one who is in so fearful a profession as war, but we must resign ourselves to God's will, and believe that all is for the best. I should like to have once more bid you farewell, but your sudden orders render it impossible, so, wishing that God may watch over you in danger, I pray that you may once more return to Your affectionate , To . . LETTER LXXIV. To a Sailor. NEW YORK, June 12th, 18. DEAR , I cannot tell you how I have cried over your last letter. How cruel a thing is war to tear us from one another just as we were hoping to be united forever. I wish you had any other trade than so roving a business as a sailor's life, for one never feels certain. I assure you I am in constant anxiety and trouble about you, and I al- most wish we had never met rather than been forced to part with such a prospect of danger before us. God bless you, dear , and may you return safe to Your faithful To . . G6 THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. LETTER LXXV. Another, on his Return. UEW YORK, Sept. loth, 18. DEAR , How delightful is the news of your return. It has taken such a load of sorrow off my mind, and in- spired so much hope, that I feel perfectly happy. How I long to see vou ! How happy must I also be to learn, that by your tem- perance and care, you have saved money enough to enable you to quit the dangerous life you have hitherto led, and settle in a safer and quieter business. Believe me, that, when we are once united, no pains shall be wanting on my side to render your life a happy one, and to make amends for the severe toils and dangers through which you have passed. Hoping to see you soon after you re- turn from Liverpool, I remain, Your affectionate and faithful To . . LETTER LXXVI. To a younfj Farmer. YONKERS, August 5th, 18 . DEAR , I cannot say I am displeased at your pro- posal, but I want to know you better before I make up my mind. Mother says that " they who ride fast never ride long," and I think we shall both do better if we try to know more about one another than we do at present. THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. C7 Mother is willing for you to visit here, and I shall make no opposition, as I cannot say I dislike you. Yours faithfully, To . . LETTER LXXVII. To an urgent Request to name the Day of Nuptials. YONKERS, October 12th, 18 . DEAR , You are so very urgent that I suppose I must consent to the day you name, the th of next. I have settled with your two sisters to be my bridesmaids, and shall busy myself in making preparations. Mean- while, I suppose we shall see you as usual every evening after work is over. Your affectionate wife to come To . LETTER LXXYIII. To ask for a Bridesmaid. DEAR , I write to ask you whether you and your sister can get ready by the th of next , as you have kindly promised to act as my bridesmaids on the impor- tant occasion : is so very impatient, that I cannot resist him any longer. I shall call and see you to-morrow, till then, Believe me, Your sister elect, To Miss . . C8 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. LETTER LXXIX. The Answer. YONKERS, October 12th, 18 . DEAR , We are both delighted to hear that the happy day is fixed, and shall set to work directly to make ourselves as fine as possible, in our quiet humble way Plain white, and a few artificial flowers (which we shall coax father to bring from ), will be all that we shall require, and you would look pretty in anything. So no more at present from, Your affectionate sisters, To Miss . LETTER LXXX. From a Young Lady, Demonstrating witli her future Husband on his reckless Life. RICHMOKD, Oct. 18th, 18 . MY DEAR , It is with pain that I take up my pen to address words so different from those which I have hitherto been accustomed to address to you, but I feel that, between persons who are to share their whole lives in common, nothing but unqualified sincerity should exist, and I therefore venture at once to speak my whole mind on a subject of vital importance to us both. I have observed of late a sad change in your habits, language, and associates. Since we were together at , you appear to have assumed a taste for fast life, neither THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. CO natural to your own disposition, nor Calculated to qualify you for domestic life. Remember, my dear , that our outset in life will be but an humble one, and that economy and perseverance are our main resources if we hope to arrive at competency. The society of young men like *i s highly prejudicial to you ; they are possessed of more means than yourself, and though, perhaps, with- out the willful intention of so doing, are luring you into a taste for expense which will give you a disrelish for the tranquil simplicity of home. Believe me, dear. , that theoe remarks are made in no spirit af-.intfcldling censor- iousness, but that they come truly and sincerely from one whose whole hopes 4 of happiness are centered in y o well-doing. Think how bitter must be my sorrow to find that a mere life of pleasure should estrange you from me mid consider how vexed you would yourself be if /dis- played that neglige-nee of the future which must render all happiness an impossibility. Be yourself, my dear , return to the sound and manly pursuits which have hith- erto been your chief study, and abandon a class of society which can only unsettle your disposition, and distroy your whole prospects. I feel assured that your native good- ness of heart, and the affection you have so often plighted to me, will make you take this remonstrance in good part, and that you will not think ill of one who advises you, not as being older and more experienced than yourself, but as loving you with a sincerity that alone could have prompted this address. God bless you, dear , and grant that we may both be able to amend our own faults, and bear with each other's. Yours most affectionately, To) . ; 70 THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. LETTER LXXXI. From a Young Lady to a Young Clergyman who 7ias offered, Marriage. BOSTON, August 8th, 18 . MY DEAR SIR, I was, indeed, surprised and delighted by my visit to your charming little church last , and was in every way impressed by the devout behaviour of the congregation, and the evident pervading influence of the clergyman among his parishioners. I must own that the favorable impression thus formed of yourself has increased on our subsequent meetings at , and that I have ever looked upon the life of a zealous clergyman as a guarantee of happiness to those around him. My friends here (to whom I have communi- cated the report of your flattering letter) plead strongly on your behalf; and I must candidly confess that I feel both honored and pleased by your preference. I cannot say more than that you will be a welcome visitor at , and that I hope our further acquaintance will tend to strengthen, rather than diminish, our mutual good-will. Believe me, My dear Sir, Yours very faithfully, To the Rev. . . LETTER LXXXH. To a Clergyman in reference to a religious Difficulty. BROOKLYN, April 8th, 18 . REVEREND SIR, In presuming to address you as a per- THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 71 feet stranger, I trust the importance of the question I am about to ask will plead my excuse. For a long time past I have had a strong desire to receive Holy Communion, but have been as constantly deterred from so doing by a consciousness of my unworthiness, and by a fear that my state of mind is not such as to render me a fit recipient. [Here state the nature of tlie doubts entertained, the reasons for such doubts ; also mention whether you have been con- firmed or not.]* Under these circumstances, I venture to hope that you will kindly give me such advise as you may deem most suitable to my condition, and I will gladly wait upon you at any time you may be good enough to appoint. Mean- While I beg to remain, Reverend Sir, Your most obedient and respectful servant and parish' ioner, To the Rev. LETTER LXXXIH. From one married Lady in India to another in England. BUNGARAPOORA, June 13th, 18 . MY DEAR , After so many years' absence, I was, indeed, delighted to hear that yourself and your dear lit- tle ones were alive and well, and that your married life * Generally speaking, such matters are discussed in a personal call up- on the clergyman in the vestry after service, but there may be occasions in which such a course is inconvenient, or when the party may be deter- red by diffidence. The letter here given will probably suggest the style which should then be adopted. 73 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. appeared to have realized every happiness you deserved. I assure you that I plagued Colonel with questions till he was utterly incapable of saying anything more about you, and that the delightful idea of writing once more to my dear old friend and schoolfellow, is almost too much for me to be-Here it true. My life, like your own, has been a nappy and prosper- ous one. You can pardon a mother's vanity, when I as- sure you that my children are all that I could wish. , the eldest, is already established in a situation calculated to place him in an excellent position hereafter, while his conduct is such as to make him beloved both as a son and a brother. , whom you recollect as a little thing in a white frock and blue sash, is engaged to the eldest son of Colonel , who bids fair to make her an excellent husband, and who likewise possesses interest likely to in- sure him future success. As for the younger ones, I assure you that they are as amiable children as (allowing for the inevitable whims and mischief natural to all of us) I could hope for. Baby (who is just fifteen months old) is universally voted a prodigy of talent, and is petted and spoilt by everybody. My dear husband, who is never happy except with his children around him, has so firm, and yet so kindly an influence over them, that we are able to treat them as friends, and waive the stern control which is unhappily required, and sometimes injudiciously practised in many families. Now that we have once more resumed correspondence, I hope that our letters may be less like " angels' visits" than heretofore, and that I may hear all about you and yours. Should we return to dear England (as I pray we may be enabled to do ere long), we shall then be reunited THE LADY'S LETTER- WHITER. 7:J as in old days, and be able to compare notes as to all that lias befallen both of us during our too-long separation. With a prayer for every blessing on yourself, your hus- band, and dear children, believe me, Dear , Your ever aifectionate friend and companion, To Mrs. LETTER LXXXIY. A letter of Condolence on the Death of a Husband. CHICAGO, June 18th, 18 . MY DEAR , If any consolation can be afforded under so heavy an affliction as you have just experienced, it must come from a higher power than mine. Your own strong sense of religion, and of our duty of resignation to a power that is beyond our control, and a will that is ever beneficently directed towards our good, must uphold you in this most bitter trial. I well know how painful the well-meant, but often mistaken, officiousness of friends may be on such occasions-, or I should have hastened to your side, and sought to assuage the pangs of your over- worn spirit. It were a melancholy pleasure to dwell upon the virtues and accomplishments of your late beloved husband ; but the subject is too painful for me, and, in the confidence that he is in the enjoyment of an everlasting happiness, such as, my dear , even you could not have realized to him on earth, I hope that you will support your spirits both for your own and your children's sake, and look forward 74 THE LADY'S LETTER- WHITER. to that brighter and happier world in which we shall go to those who cannot return to us. God comfort you, Dear . Your affectionate and sorrowing friend, To Mrs. . . LETTER LXXXV. The same, on a Child's Death. NEW YORK, July 5th, 18. MY DEAR , If anything could have caused me es- pecial pain, it was the news of your sad bereavement. How I remember your dear child ! Affectionate, lively, and intelligent, ever displaying a thoughtfulness beyond his years, and holding forth hopes of happiness in after times which will scarcely bear reflection. It has, indeed, been a heavy blow, and I scarcely know how to talk of consolation under so bitter an affliction- But think, my dear , of One who " careth for all," who loves little children beyond others, and think of the bright and never-ending future life of that dear child, whose spirit has passed away but for a brief period, whose soul only waits in heaven to hail the mother from whom he has been parted. I can say no more ; human consolations are weak and poorly. May a higher power do that which I cannot ! Ever sincerely yours, To Mrs. . . TIIK LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 75 LETTER LXXXVI. The same, on a Reverse of Fortune. STATEN ISLAND, Jan. 3rd, 18 . DEAR , I am truly pained to hear of the melan- choly change in your circumstances. I had hoped that your husband's position and connections would have pre- vented the possibility of his embarking in any scheme where there seemed room for uncertainty. But, unhappi- ly, the speculative spirit of the age is too seductive to be easily withstood, and we are every day hearing of families being reduced to absolute poverty, more from mischance than wilful error. But you must not only cheer up, but labor to cheer your husband likewise. Let him find that he possesses a wife ] who will not display her annoyance at the deprivation of many (perhaps unnecessary) luxuries of life, and whose determination to economise will make poverty seem less poor, and whose affection will insure him that comfort which the wealthiest position, without undivided affec- tion, would wholly fail to realize. Nor must you look at matters as hopeless. Although changed in your means, you have not lost in character. Your true friends look upon you with the same eyes as formerly, and for the shallow and insincere you ought not, cannot care. Besides, a favorable change must result from your husband^s persevering and consistent efforts ; and by the exercise of economy, and the patient submission to a few privations, you may ere long fully retrieve the posi- tion you have already adduced, and which legitimately belongs to you. 76 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. That success and happiness may soon spring out of the present unfavorable condition of things, is the hearty and earnest wish of, Yours ever affectionately, To Mrs. . LETTER LXXXVII. To Tier Suitor, on ^eincj requested to name a Day for their Wedding. CHARLESTON, June 8th, 18 . MY DEAR - , The affectionate letter which I have just received, is another convincing proof of your attach- ment. Upon perusing it, I find that you have imposed upon me a somewhat delicate duty, but one to which, you may conclude I feel no aversion. You wish me to name some day, convenient to myself and relatives, for the per- formance of our nuptial ceremony. You likewise appear anxious that that day, to which we have looked forward as the most propitious of our future life, may not be pro- tracted to a distant period. As far as my own choice is concerned, you may rest assured that I shall not interpose the least delay ; but as I have relatives and friends, by whose convenience I must, as you are aware, be in some measure, restrained, I will consult them without loss of time, and at the earliest opportunity you shall hear tliQ decision to which we may come. From My dear - , Yours ever affectionately, To - , Esq. THE LADY'S LKTTER-WKITEK. 77 LETTER LXXXVIII. In Answer to a Letter in icliicli her Suitor intimates his wish to IreaTc off further Correspondence. FIKE LSI, AND BEACH, August 22nd, 18 SIK, I acknowledge the receipt of your last letter which now lies before me, and in which you convey the intimation that the position in which, for some time past, we have regarded each other must henceforth be aban- doned. Until the receipt of this letter, I had regarded you in the light of my future husband ; you were, there- fore, as you have reason to know, so completely the pos- sessor of my affections, that I looked with indifference upon every other suitor. The remembrance of you had never failed -to enhance the pleasures of daily life, and you were in my thoughts at the very moment in which I re- ceived this most unkind and unexpected letter. But decni me not so devoid of proper pride as to wish you to revoke your determination, from which I will not attempt to dis- suade you, whether it may have been made in cool delib- eration, or in precipitate haste. Sir, I shall endeavor to banish you from my affections, as readily and completely as you appear to have banished me from yours ; and all that I shall now require is, that you will return to me whatever letters you may have of mine, and which I may have written under a mistaken confidence in your attach- ment, and when you were accredited as the future hus- band of, Sir, Yours, &c., To , Esq. . 73 TEE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. LETTER LXXXIX. A Lady to Tier Friend, informing lier of her intended Marriage, and r engaging Tier as a Bridesmaid. SARATOGA, Sept. 18th, 18. MY DEAR , You have witnessed the attentions which have so long been paid to me by , and are of course aware that he has addressed them to me in the quality of a suitor. I can assure you it has not been without the closest scrutiny, both on my part and that of my dear parents, into his moral character, temper, tastes, and feabits, that I have come to the resolution of becoming his* partner for life. His disposition is cheerful, I know him to be a man of the nicest honor ; and I re- joice to say, as I have hitherto found, that we seldom fail to coincide in our opinions ; which shows, at least, that we are actuated by such a unity of tastes as is cal- culated to give one every reasonable prospect of enjoying happiness in the married state. The day of our union has, at length, been decided ; and the mention of this brings me to the chief purport of my letter, which is that of inviting you to become my bridesmaid. Allow me to promise myself this favor, which I am convinced you will not refuse after our long friendship. The th of has been fixed upon as the auspicious day, upon which, if you have no other more particular engagement, may I rely on seeing yau? An early reply, as you are aWare, will be requisite ; and trusting that it may be in compli- ance with my earnest wish, I remain, My dear , Your affectionate friend, To Miss . . THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 79 LETTER XC. The Answer, affirmatively, and wtih congratulations to her Friend on her intended Marriage. NEW YORK, Sept. 20th, 18. MY DEAR , No one, I believe, can be more de- sirous to hear of your welfare and your prosperous s'ettle- * mcnt in the marriage state, than myself. I have long been sensible of your worth, your goodness of heart, your rectitude of principle, and your warmth of friend- ship. Enviable among men will be the lot of him who is destined to become your partner for life ; and fortunate, indeed, was Mr, in that introduction which first presented you to his notice. As for Mr. , I need scarcely observe that I approve of your choice, in which you have shown a discrimination that does credit to your taste, and to that good sense which has been the guide of your past life. Your friendly letter, in ^which you announce your intended marriage, now lies hefore me, and I must say, that I feel highly favored in your prefer- ence of me to become one of your bridesmaids. You could scarcely have preferred any request with which I would more gladly comply. Expect, therefore, to see me without fail on the th, a period to which I shall look forward with some impatience, as the day on which the happiness of a dear and valued friend will, I hope, be consummated. Adieu till then, and believe me to be, My dear , Your^, most sincerely and affectionately, To Miss . . 80 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. LETTER XCT. A Lady absent on a Visit, to her Husband. BRIDGEPORT, July 22nd, 18 . MY DEAR , In imagining what your thoughts and feelings are likely to be during my absence, I have only to call to recollection what my own have been on like occasions, when you, dear , have been absent from home. How has my remembrance of you been then in- terwoven with each minute of my existence ? and how have I counted the hours, till that had arrived which brought me intelligence of your welfare ! So justly do I appreciate your attachment, that I feel "convinced this feeling must be mutual, and I picture to myself the smile of delight with which you will receive my present letter ; I know you will experience real satisfaction in hearing that I still enjoy my health, and, in fact, was never better ; and that the hospitality and kindly attentions of , so far from diminishing, seem rather to increase. They make it, indeed, their study to surround me with comforts, and are constantly devising some fresh plans which they think may conduce to my amusement. Be assured, therefore, my dear , that, with the exception of missing* your cheering company, and that of our dear children, I am as happy and lively as you, the fondest of all my well-wish- ers, could desire me to be. Having said this much of myself, let me now observe that I am most anxious to receive a letter from you ; for I long to hear how yoii and the children still continue in regard to health, and what fresh occurrences have taken place since you wrote last. At present I have no reason for supposing that my absence from home will be pro- THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 81 longed beyond the th, on which day I hope again to be with you. Give my kindest love to the children, and Believe me, My dear , Your ever affectionate wife, To , Esq. . LETTER XCII. From the same to Tier Daughter, whom she has deputed to act as Housekeeper. BRIDGEPORT, July 22nd, 18 . MY DEAR , As the duty of managing our small establishment has devolved upon you during my absence, I am anxious to have some account of your proceedings at home, and should be happy to give you any farther in- structions in case you have met with any difficulty, or find yourself at a loss how to act. You will have learnt from the letter which I have sent to your father, that I still continue to enjoy my health ; and considering that I am separated from my own family, my time passes as pleasantly as I could reasonably desire, my hospitable entertainers, Mr. and Mrs. , being constantly atten- tive to promote my comfort and amusement. "We have had several most agreeable parties, and I have been favored with many introductions, and have formed acquaintances of a desirable nature. I have been very much delighted with some excursions which we have made in the neighborhood ; amongst the rest, to (mention- ing the places}. These short trips have much benefited my health, as well as increased my knowledge of the 82 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. country. Yet, amidst all my enioyments, my thoughts continually recur towards home, and to that affectionate circle which has endeared it to me. I shall endeavor to return by the th ; and in the mean time let me repeat that I am anxious to receive a full account of your do- mestic proceedings. Write, therefore, at your earliest opportunity, with such particulars as you think likely to interest, Your absent, but Ever affectionate mother, LETTER XCIII. The Answer. NEW YORK, July 24th, 18. MY DEAR MAMMA, I was delighted to hear from you, especially as you write in such excellent spirits, and in such evident enjoyment of your excursion. Everything was left in such capital order when you went out of town, that I have had little difficulty in our domestic matters, and papa says that I am getting quite a little woman of business. At this season of the year, very few of our friends are in town, and we have not, therefore, had many visitors. Mrs. called the other evening, and made many kind inquiries after all of us, and Mr. spent the evening with papa last . We were rather anxious about Emily last week ; she was so languid and feverish, that papa went off for Dr. at once. I sat up with her the greater part of the THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 83 night, and scarcely left her room till she recovered. She was as patient and amiable as ever ; but often wondered a little about mamma. However, as there was no danger (so Dr. - assured us), we would not think of alarm- ing you, and spoiling the pleasure of your visit by news that we knew would have caused you severe anxiety. Like all of us, dear Emily sends her hearty love to you, and desires me to tell you, that she never was better or more happy than at present. Our life is passed much as usual. Miss , our gover- ness, is as kind to the younger children as you could possibly desire, and proves a most agreeable companion and helpmate to myself in the performance of our little domestic duties. Papa and I go out a great deal ; and he seems to find me a substitute, though a very poor one, for your societ}^ Sincerely hoping that, when you return, you will be pleased with all that has been done during your absence, I remain, My dear Mamma, Your ever affectionate daughter, To Mrs. . . LETTER XCIV. A Lady to Tier Friend in Town, inviting Tier to spend a Month in the Country. CEDAR GROVE, June 14th, 18 . MY DEAR FRIEND, I need scarcely tell you that I al- ways feel the greatest pleasure in your society, and am. selfish enough, on the present occasion, to covet it for a 84 THE LADY'S LETTISH-WHITER. month, or for a longer period, should it suit your con- venience. If, therefore, you are not so wedded to the attractions of a New York life, as to be loth to leave them for a short time, I think you would gather some amusement, and also, perhaps, improve your health by a sojourn in the country. Will you then do us the favor of making our rural retreat your temporary abode, as- suring yourself that your presence will enliven our family .circle, and be a real source of enjoyment to, .Your sincere friend, To Mrs. . . LETTER XCV. Answer to the same, affirmatively. NEW YORK, June 16th, 13. MY DEAR , I have just received your kind letter, inviting me to spend a short time at your pleasant house. Though I live so much in New York, I can assure you that there are few who feel more delighted with the country than myself, and I could be well contented to make it my residence during a certain part of every year, and should certainly do so, did the pursuits of Mr. allow us to live out of town. However, my domestic duties are not at present of so pressing a nature as to force me to decline your friendly invitation, and Mr. , so far from offering any obstacle to my absence from home for a short time, has urged me to send you an affirmative answer, and as he thinks that, in addition to the enjoy- ment which I cannot foil to experience in the society of yourself and family, I shall benefit my health by a change THE LADY S LETTER- WHITER. 85 of air and scene. I therefore accept your kind invitation most cheerfully, I may add, gratefully ; and am, My dear , Your ever sincere and affectionate friend, To Mrs. . . LETTER XCVL Answer to tlie same, negatively. NEW YORK, June 16th, 18 . MY DEAR , I have just received your kind letter, inviting me to spend a short time at your delightful resi- dence. Fond as I may be of a life in town, I can assure you I ain far more partial to one in the country, and no enjoyment that I can think of would yield me, at present, a greater delight than to fly from the confinement of the crowded streets to the free range of the open fields, and to exchange our smoky atmosphere for the clear and in- vigorating air of the country. But the pursuits of Mr. - are of a most busy nature, particularly at present, and impose upon me so many duties, that I cannot in- dulge in a trip from home, even for a day, without inconvenience to my whole family. From what I have said, you will therefore understand that I am very loth to refuse your invitation, but am compelled to do so ; and declining it, as I must, with the truest reluctance, allow me to return you my best thanks for your kind offer, anc] believe me to remain, My dear , Yours most sincerely, To Mrs. , . 86 THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. LETTER XCYII. Announcing to a Lady the Death, of her Sister. PHILADELPHIA, May 18th, 18 . MY DEAR MADAM, You have long been aware of the painful and serious illness under which your dear sister has been suffering; but, perhaps, you have not been fully sensible of its dangerous tendency, and of the fears always entertained by those around her, that its termina- tion would be fatal. Would that our fears had been without foundation ; but I am reluctantly compelled to tell you that our worst anticipations have been too mournfully realised, your poor sister having expired (last evening), though, it is consolatory to state, with little bodily suffering. She had borne her affliction with the for- titude of a Christian, and retained her faculties to her last moments, yielding her breath in full peace of mind, and convinced that she was leaving this earthly state for a better and a happier in another world. Your dear mother is in such a state of prostration, that she finds the task of writing to you too painful for her feelings, and has expressed her wish that I, the intimate friend of your late sister, should be the communicant of the sad intelli- gence. She desires me to say how much your presence w^ould help to console, not only herself, but also your father, and the whole of the family. They hope, there- fore, to see you by the earliest opportunity, and request me to send you their best love. Accept, dear madam, my sincerest condolence under this sad bereavement and affliction, and Believe me to remain, Ever yours, sincerely, To Mrs. . . THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. 87 LETTER XCYIII. Excusing putting off an invitation on account of a recent Bereavement. TRENTON, June 5th, 18 . MY DEAR , I grieve to tell you that a most serious and painful domestic calamity prevents the possibility of my availing myself of your kind invitation, as I had in- tended. When I tell you that my dear - is no more, you will at once sympathise with me, and feel the impos- sibility of anything like mixing in society. Believe me, amidst my own griefs, Your ever sincere friend, To . . LETTER XCIX. The same, on grounds of Indisposition. May 14th, 18-. MY DEAR , Will you kindly accept an apology for my not being present at your party last evening? Throughout the whole day I had felt unwell, but had still determined to join you, but, as evening approached, I felt so much worse, that I saw at once that nothing but quiet was suited to my condition, and that excitement and late hours would only make me worse. I trust you will, therefore, excuse me, and, if you should have an hour to spare, and come and chat quietly with me, it will be a great comfort to, Yours ever faithfully, To Mr. . . 83 THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. LETTER C. The same, for another reason. TRENTON, April 4th, 18 . DEAR , I am really ashamed at having missed your delightful party of last evening, but I trust you will excuse my absence when you learn the cause. While we were seated at dinner, who should come in but my husband's dearest and best old friend, Captain Brown, of whom you have heard us speak so often, and to whom in early life we were so much indebted. He has but just returned from India, and after three years' absence, I could not find it in my heart to leave the kind old man. He looks remarkably hale and vigorous, though age begins to show itself in his whitening hair and uncertain step, but his spirits are as hearty as ever. He would, I believe, make all the children ill with sweet- meats, if I did not put in a little maternal interference, and he has brought them toys enough to stock a whole shop. I know, my dear - , that your kindness of heart will readily admit the validity of this excuse, and, in the hope that yourself and your husband will join us in welcoming our old friend back to America, I remain, Ever sincerely yours, To . TUP: LADY S LETTER-WRITER, LETTERS ON LITERARY MATTERS.* LETTER CI. Respecting a Dedication. BOSTON, Jane 5th. Sm (or DEAR SIR or MADAM), Being about to publish a work entitled , I venture to hope that you will per- mit me to inscribe it to yourself. The interest you have manifested in the subject, and the similarity which I have reason to believe exists in our opinions thereupon, lead me to think that there is no person to whom I could more justly offer this slight tribute of friendship and respect I remain, Sir (or Dear Sir, &c.), Yours most faithfully, LETTER CIL Soliciting Advice respecting a MS. COLUMBIA STREET, May 15th. MY DEAR SIR, The frequent meetings we have had at the house of our mutual friend , lead me to hope that you will excuse my trespassing upon your time already so fully occupied and lend me a little assistance in a * These letters, being grounded on actual correspondence of the Editor's, may be t^kon as f.i'r models. CO THE LADY'S LETTER- WHITER. matter of some importance to myself. I have, as you are aware, long since been engaged in a work (state the char- acter ana subject) of some length, and have now completed the manuscript. But I am new to authorship, never hav- ing published anything beyond a few slight contributions to magazines, and I almost dread the responsibility which must necessarily attach to a larger work. Moreover, I am unacquainted with the system of publishing, and should feel most grateful if you would afford me some informa- tion as to the course most likely to lead to a fair arrange- ment as to the production of the work. Again apologising for thus intruding on your valuable time, but feeling fully assured that if the power be yours, the will is not wanting, I remain, My dear Sir, Very faithfully yours, To , Esq. . LETTER CHI. To a Publishing Firm. CAMBRIDGE, July 17th, 18 . GENTLEMEN, I have for some time been preparing a diary of my travels in , and have now put it into a form which will, I believe, be found suitable for publica- tion. The MS. has been carefully read by , , , and one or two of the letters enclosed will, 1 think, satisfy you as to my experience of the subject. I am anxious, for various reasons, that the work should appear with as little delay as possible. Having been, THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 91 however, fully convinced of the fallacy of the half-profit system (except in works bearing the impress of already great names), I should prefer making a definite arrange- ment for the sale of the copyright, leaving any question of further remuneration to your own consideration. The favor of the earliest convenient reply will greatly oblige, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, To Messrs. LETTEfe CIV. Another. BOSTON, Dec. 17th, 18. GENTLEMEN, The enclosed MS. is the result of a long study of the habits and customs of the people to whom it refers. My experience as a constant resident amongst the , gave me constant opportunities of observation, and have enabled me to suppfy many deficiencies which exist in all the works on the subject with which I am ac- quainted. From the general character of your publications, I am led to believe that the present volume would suit you. It would require illustration, and I possess some valuable sketches which would be of great use to the artist. As to terms, I think it will be preferable for you to consider the probable expense of publication, and then make an offer, but I think the sum of $ will not be immoder- 02 THE LADY'S LETTER- WRITER. ate, especially if the present popularity of the subject be taken into consideration. Awaiting the favor of your reply, I am, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, To Messrs. . . LETTER CY. Soliciting a Remew. NEW YORK, June 4th, 18 . . To the Editor of the , Mrs. presents her best compliments to tiie Editor of , and will feel obliged by his acceptance of the en- closed volume, and of a notice in the , should he deem it worthy of attention. To the Editor of . LETTER CVI. More familiar. NEW YORK, June 15th, 18 . MY DEAR SIR, I believe you possess some interest with the (name the journal or journals), and, from your many acts of kindness towards myself, I am led to think that you would not be unwilling to oblige me in a matter of some importance. My work on is just out, but, as a comparatively unknown authoress, I have little chance of achieving great success, and every kind word said in its behalf, be- THE LADY'S LETTER- WIUTEK. 03 comes of serious importance. Would you condescend to exert your valuable interest in my favor? I feel assured that a notice in would be of the utmost benefit to the sale and progress of the book, and if you should kindly aid me in obtaining such assistance, I shall ever remain, Yours most gratefully and sincerely, To , Esq. : . LETTER CVIL To a Young Lady desirous of Publishing. NEW HAVEN, Oct. 7th, 18. MY DEAR , I am the last person in the world to dream of discouraging the eiforts of young persons, espe- cially when their whole conduct displays uniform amia- bility of disposition and soundness of character. But I cannot conceal what I believe to be the real truth, viz. that you arc too young to have thought upon, or seen enough of human nature, to venture to express yourself in print. " Remember, my dear , that even a mere letter, once Written, is irrevocable. How much greater, then, the mischief of committing oneself to print ? In the one case, one person only may be offend- ed, in the other, thousands. Do not let the precociousness of some few American and English authoresses deceive you. Among the former, the instances are but rare; among the latter, there is little which an American lady should imitate. You have, it is true, received an excellent education ; and your natural aptitude has imde that education pro- 94 THE LADY'S LETTER-WHITER. fitable to you in tlie fullest extent. But do not think that your juvenile years are fit for the difficult task of novel- writing. As an old authoress, I look back with regret to many crude publications of my early days, and feel happy in their oblivion. Do not think me unkind or querulous in my views. I believe that, where there is genius, genius will find opportunities of fair development ; but you must not mistake a mere partiality for a pursuit for the talent which alone is calculated to insure success. Do not " rush into print." Deepen your present thoughts by continued experience ; mark every transaction every thought of your own life, and think cautiously and impartially upon the deeds and dealings of those around you ; such, my dear , are the only studies which can ever make you fit for the responsible and difficult duties of an authoress. Above all, beware of writing from memory. There are too many writers who discourse profusely upon things they have never seen, society they have never moved in. This is of little consequence where mere facts are concerned,, as what is once w^ell ascertained and known, is common property ; but in novel- writing it is far otherwise. The great charm of Mrs. South worth's works is their wondrous truthfulness and probability ; fiction to be successful should bear the closest impress of truth ; character should never be exaggerated, absurdity should not be Increased under the mistaken belief that wit is displayed through its means; every feature of a story should be modelled on the origi- nal in common life, and the inculcation of a principle should be consistent with what men and women think and do, not with some fairy-land notions of the authoress. My dear , I have no doubt that, if you mature your conceptions, and, meanwhile, pay attention to the minute matters of style which are so unhappily, and yet so often, THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 93 neglected, I shall one day hail you as a younger sister in authoTcraft. But it is because I wish sincerely and affec- tionately for your welfare, that I would have you begin your career, not with precocious crudities, but with well- ripened and womanly efforts, the result of reflection and patience, as well as of genius. Come to me on , and bring some of your MS. with you. You will find a sincere, but, I trust, not unkind friend, in My dear , Yours ever sincerely, To Miss . . LETTER CVIIL To , ch, x, o, or s?, e is added in ad- dition to the s, as church, churches, marsh, marshes, box, boxes, hero, heroes, witness, icitncc-ccs. Ox is an exception to this rule, en being added instead of es, as, ox, oxen. THE LADY'S LETTER-WRITER. 139 3. Words ending in/ or/j have v substituted for the/, as, wife, wives, knife, knives, etc., except when ending in f\ 4. Some words are spelt the same in both cases, as, deer, sheep, etc., in which instance, by placing a before the word, one is meant, and by using the, more than one. 5. Some words are spelt altogether differently, as, mouse, mice, goose , geese. In spoiling words, it is necessary to consider well the different sounds of each part of the word. Every separate bound in a word must have in it one of the following let- ters, a, e, i, o, or u. Take for instance, contemplate, which consists of three different sounds, con-tcm-plate ; there arc the letters o, e, and a, respectively in each sound or sylla- bic, as it is calledy and each one gives the sound to its syl- lable. In dividing such words at the end of a line, you must not let the last letter be any one of the above-men- tioned five letters, but must divide according to the syllable. Another rule to be observed in the spelling of words winch have ing added to them, when such word ends in e the e must always be left out, as, come, coming, divide, dividing. It is also found difficult when tho letters i and c come together in a word to know which is to be placed first. The following simple rule will obviate such difficulty. When I and e follow c in a word, the e is invariably plac- ed first, as, receive^ deceive* conceive, etc., in other instances the '/ comoo before the e, as, believe, relieve, etc. A few remarks respecting the use of the words a and an will guide the writer as to their proper application. Words commencing with any of the live letters, a, e, i, o, or u must have an placed before them. Other words mean- ing one have a used except words beginning with h when not sounded, as, hour, honor, herb, humble. These have an before them. Capital letters are used when you begin a sentence; also all names of persons, cities, streets, mountains, rivers, etc. ; the days of the week, the months of the year, and when a name is given to one thing of the same kind to distinguish it from another of that kind. Never use more before a word ending in er or most be- fore one ending? in st or cst. i Popular BooJcs mailed free of Postage on receipt of prices named. Brady's People's Novelettes. i 5c*. it .: 3 r J *- i i -1^ on < h-~* m ?\i m BOOKS MAY BE RECALLE onth loans may be renew* onth loans may be recharc ewals and recharges may m rn m & o; C * Cn hO i ^ ^Q. "^ r-5 CO CO CO TJ m O **i= ^ D 5 0_CQ CQ O -< n 1 i BELOW o 57 3 n 2 GO " a> THE UOLDEIS 1J I'JAJiT Send your Order to BRADY, 22 Ann St., N. Y. he The sun had kissed tho meadow-grass And sipped the sparkling dew, And daisies raised their dainty heads To catch the rays he threw. Far off were fields of waving com ; j%Tc& a The meadows lay between ; And I could hear a farm-boy's song, Though nowhere to bo seen, He sang in tones so blitho and gay I paused to catch each word ; And ev'ry note came clear and sweet As caroled by a bird : Oh ! the winds did not blow. Though the leaves murmured low, M118286 .er, 3 execu- iind the ,ved. &e, he is nib- M c j., THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY 'Seij While a tear in her bright eye sparkled ; What sho answered me, 'Neath tho hawthorn-tree, While tho brook only laughed and darkled ;.' But you never may know What she whispered so low, With tho sweet blossoms hanging over ; i You may ask the brook, Who the hill forsook, And wan kiKinE LACY ............ 50 o [ OUT i,? mE DEPTHS .......... 50 ALMOST A HEROINE .......... 50 FLORENCE D*J LACY .......... 50 H M RY BERFORD . . .......... 50 I'HJ- MARCHIONESS ........... 25 JACK HAROLD ............... 50 THE CRIMINAL ....... . ....... 25 THE OUTLAW ................ .25 THE MATCHMAKER 50 THE ROAD TO RUIN 25 DTTMAS'S NEW BOOKS, j CAREER OF THE CHAMPIONS ... 25 OLYMPIA OF CLEVES 50 j BLACK JOKES FOR BLUE DEVILS. 25 COUNT DE MAILLY 50 BOXING WITHOUT A MASTER. . . 13 ROYALISTS AND REPUBLICANS . . 50 THE AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE AND THE GUILLOTINE. . . . I'IIE PALACE OF ICE . THE ORANGE PLUME Send your Order tc? FM73* 50 KITCHEN DIRECTORY. . .paper 25 '50 How TO COOK AND H9w TO 50 CARVJB paper 1' "> RADY, 22 Ann Street, N. Y.