University of Virginia Library

LETTER XX.

From the conversation of the polite,
the sedate, the engaging and the gay; from
corresponding with the learned, the sentimental
and the refined, my heart and my pen
turn with ardor and alacrity to a tender and affectionate
parent, the faithful guardian and guide
of my youth; the unchanging friend of my
riper years. The different dispositions of various
associates, sometimes perplex the mind,
which seeks direction; but in the disinterested
affection of the maternal breast, we fear no dissonance
of passion, no jarring interests, no disunion
of love. In this seat of felicity is every
enjoyment which fancy can form, or friendship,
with affluence, bestow; but still my mind frequently
returns to the happy shades of my nativity.
I wish there to impart my pleasures, and
share the counsels of my best, my long tried

and experienced friend. At this time, my dear
mamma, I am peculiarly solicitous for your advice.
I am again inportuned to listen to the voice
of love; again called upon to accept the addresses
of a gentleman of merit and respectability.
You will know the character of the
man, when I tell you, it is Mr. Boyer. But his situation
in life! I dare not enter it. My disposition
is not calculated for that sphere. There are duties
arising from the station, which I fear I should not
be able to fulfil; cares and restraints to which
I could not submit. This man is not disagreeable
to me; but if I must enter the connubial
state, are there not others, who may be equally
pleasing in their persons, and whose profession
may be more conformable to my taste? You,
madam, have passed through this scene of trial,
with honor and applause. But alas! can your
volatile daughter ever acquire your wisdom;
ever possess your resolution, dignity and prudence?

I hope soon to converse with you personally
upon the subject, and to profit by your precepts
and example. I anticipate the hour of my return
to your bosom, with impatience. My daily
thoughts and nightly dreams restore me to the
society of my beloved mamma; and, till I enjoy
it in reality, I subscribe myself your dutiful
daughter,