University of Virginia Library

I HAVE this week engaged in the celebration
of the nuptials of my friend, Amanda South.
A splendid wedding, a gay company, an elegant
supper, and a magnificent ball, were the sum of
our entertainment.

I imagine such exhilarating scenes designed to
dispel the anxiety and thoughtfulness, which every
reflecting person must feel on this solemn
occasion. This untried state presents to the apprehensive
mind such a variety of new cares and
duties, that cheerfulness, festivity, and hilarity
seem necessary to banish the thought of them,
so far as to render a delicate and sensible female
sufficiently composed to conduct with propriety.
But I must confess, that, were I called to the
trial, I should choose to retire from the observation
of those indifferent and unfeeling spectators,
to whom the blushing modesty of a bride is often
a pastime.

Indeed, Cleora, when we look around the
world and observe the great number of unhappy
marriages, which were contracted with the brightest
prospects, yet, from some unsoreseen cause,
have involved the parties in wretchedness for life,
we may well indulge a diffidence of our own

abilities to discharge the duties of the station, and
be solicitous that our future companion should
in all respects be qualified to assist in bearing the
burdens of the conjugal state.

Experience only can determine how far we
are right in the judgment we form of ourselves,
and of the person of our choice. So many are
the deceptions which love and courtship impose
upon their votaries, that I believe it very difficult
for the parties concerned to judge impartially, or
to discern faults, where they look only for virtues.
Hence they are so frequently misled in their opinions,
and find, too late, the errors into which they
have been betrayed.

When do you come to Boston, Cleora? I am
impatient for your society; because your friendship
is void of flattery, and your sincerity and
cheerfulness are always agreeable and advantageous.
Adieu.