University of Virginia Library

LETTER LVI.

I begin to hope we shall come to
rights here, by and by. Major Sanford has
returned; has made us a visit; and a treaty
of peace, and amity (but not of commerce,)
is ratified.

Eliza appears to be rapidly returning to her
former cheerfulness, if not gaity. I hope she
will not diverge too far from her present sedateness
and solidity; yet I am not without apprehensions
of danger, on that score. One
extreme commonly succeeds another. She
tells me, that she assiduously cultivates her natural
vivacity; that she finds her taste for company
and amusements increasing; that she
dreads being alone, because past scenes arise to
view which vex and discompose her.

These are indications of a mind not perfectly
right. I flatter myself, however, that the
time is not far distant, when her passions will
vibrate with regularity.

I need not repeat to you any thing relative
to Major Sanford's conciliatory visit. Eliza
has given you a particular, and I believe, a
faithful detail. I was called down to see this
wonderful man; and disliked him exceedingly.
I am astonished that Eliza's penetrating
eye, has not long since read his vices in his very
countenance. I am told by a friend, who
has visited them, that he has an agreeable
wife; and I wish she may find him a husband
of the same description; but I very much
doubt the accomplishment of my wish. For I
have no charity for these reformed rakes.

We were walking abroad the other afternoon,
and met Major Sanford and lady.
Eliza did not see them till they were very near
us. She started, turned pale, and then colored
like crimson. I cannot but think, a little
envy rankled in her heart. Major Sanford
very politely accosted us; and congratulated
Mrs. Sanford on this opportunity of introducing
her to a particular friend; presenting
Eliza. She received her with an easy dignity,
and bid her welcome to this part of the country.
Mrs. Sanford answered her modestly;
hoped for the pleasure of a further acquaintance;
and urged us, as we were not far from
their house, to return with them to tea. We
declined; and, wishing each other a good evening,
parted. Major Sanford's eyes were rivetted
on Eliza, the whole time we were together;

and he seemed loath to remove them, when
we separated. I suspect there is some truth
in his tale of love. I shall therefore discourage
Eliza from associating with him under any
pretext whatever. She appeared more pensive
and thoughtful than common, as we returned
home; and said little the rest of the
evening; but next morning was as chatty as
ever.

She is warm in the praises of Mrs. Sanford,
thinks her an accomplished woman, and wonders
that the major could suggest an idea of
marrying her for her money. She intends,
she says, to visit her soon; and wishes me
to accompany her. This, for her own sake,
I shall defer, as long as possible.

I am, &c.