University of Virginia Library

LETTER XXIV.

I resume my pen, having just returned
from Gen. Richman's; not with an expectation,
however, of your reading this, till
you have perused, and reperused the inclosed.
I can bear such neglect, in this case, as I have
been alike interested myself.

I went to Gen. Richman's at twelve o'clock.
About a mile from thence, upon turning a corner,
I observed a gentleman and lady on obſerved">observed a gentleman and lady on horseſe-back,
some way before me, riding a very moderate
pace, and seemingly in close conversation.

I kept at the same distance from them, till I saw
them stop at the General's gate. I then put on,
and coming up with them, just as they alighted,
and was surprised to find them no other than
Major Sanford and Miss Wharton. They were
both a little disconcerted at my salutation; I
know not why. Miss Wharton invited him in;
but he declined, being engaged to dine. Gen.
Richman received us at the door. As I handed
Miss Wharton in, he observed jocosely, that
she had changed company. Yes sir, she replied,
more than once, since I went out, as
you doubtless observed. I was not aware,
said Mrs. Richman, that Major Sanford was to
be of your party to day. It was quite accidental,
madam, said Miss Wharton. Miss Laurence
and I had agreed last evening, to take a
little airing, this forenoon. A young gentleman,
a relation of her's, who is making them a
visit, was to attend us. We had not rode
more than two miles, when we were overtaken
by Major Sanford, who very politely asked leave
to join our party. Miss Laurence very readily
consented; and we had a very sociable ride.
The fineness of the day induced me to protract
the enjoyment of it abroad; but Miss Laurence
declined riding so far as I proposed, as she had
engaged company to dine. We therefore parted
till evening, when we are to meet again.
What, another engagement! said Mrs. Richman.
Only to the assembly, madam. May I inquire
after your gallant, my dear? But I have no
right, perhaps, to be inquisitive, said Mrs. Richman.
Miss Wharton made no reply; and the
conversation took a general turn. Miss Wharton
sustained her part with great propriety. Indeed,
she discovers a fund of useful knowledge,
and extensive reading, which render her peculiarly
entertaining; while the brilliancy of her
wit, the fluency of her language, the vivacity
and case of her manners, are inexpressibly engaging.
I am going myself to the assembly this
evening, though I did not mention it to General
Richman; I therefore took my leave soon after
dinner.

I have heard so much in praise of Miss Wharton's
penmanship, in addition to her other endowments,
that I am almost tempted to break
the seal of her letter to you; but I forbear.
Wishing you much happiness in the perusal of
it, and more in the possession of its writer, I subscribe
myself, yours, &c.