University of Virginia Library

LETTER XXII.

Can time, can distance, can absence
allay, or extinguish the sentiments of refined affection,
the ardor of true love? No, my dear
Eliza. If I may judge by my own heart, I shall
say they cannot. Amidst the parade which
has attended me, the interesting scenes in which
I have been engaged, and the weighty cares,
which have occupied my attention, your idea
has been the solace of my retired moments;
the soother of every anxious thought. I recal,
with pleasure, the conversation which we have

shared. I dwell with rapture on the marks of
favor which I have received from you. My
first wish is the continuance and increase of these
favors; my highest ambition, to deserve them.
I look forward and anticipate with impatience,
the future enjoyment of your society; and hope
we shall one day experience the reality of those
beautiful lines of Thompson:

Mr. Selby, my particular friend, will have the
honor of delivering this letter. He will be able
to give you any information, relative to our public
transactions, which you may wish. May I
solicit the favor of a line, through him, in return?
It will relieve, in some measure, the tediousness
of this separation. I intend to pay my
respects to you personally, in about a fortnight;
till when, I subscribe myself your sincere and affectionate
friend,