LETTER XXXVIII.
TO MRS. M. WHARTON.
Boston.
You commanded me, my dear mamma,
to write you. That command, I cheerfully
obey, in testimony of my ready submission and
respect. No other avocation could arrest my
time, which is now completely occupied in scenes
of amusement.
Mrs. Sumner is agreeably settled and situated.
She appears to be possessed of every blessing
which can render life desirable. Almost every
day, since our arrival, has been engrossed by visitants.
Our evenings, we have devoted to company
abroad; and that more generally than we
should otherwise have done, as my stay is limited
to so short a period. The museum, the theatres,
the circus and the assemblies have been frequented.
Mrs. Sumner has made me several presents,
notwithstanding which, the articles requisite to
a fashionable appearance, have involved me in
considerable expense. I fear that you will think
me extravagant when you are told how much.
Mr. Boyer tarried in town about a week, having
business. He appeared a little concerned at
my taste for dissipation, as he once termed it.
He even took the liberty to converse seriously on
the subject.
I was displeased with his freedom; and reminded
him that I had the disposal of my own
time, as yet; and that while I escaped the censure
of my own heart, I hoped that no one else
would presume to arraign it. He apologised,
and gave up his argument.
I was much surprised, the first time I went to
the play, to see Major Sanford in the very next
box. He immediately joined our party; and
wherever I have been since, I have been almost
sure to meet him.
Mr. Boyer has taken his departure; and I do
not expect to see him again, till I return home.
O mamma! I am embarrassed about this man.
His worth I acknowledge; nay, I esteem him
very highly. But can there be happiness with
such a disparity of dispositions?
I shall soon return to the bosom of domestic
tranquillity, to the arms of maternal tenderness,
where I can deliberate and advise at leisure, about
this important matter. Till when,
I am, &c.
