University of Virginia Library

LETTER LIX.

I intended, this week, to have
journeyed to Boston with Julia Granby; but
my resolution fails me. I find it painful even
to think of mixing again with the gay multitude.
I believe the melancholy reflections,
by which I am oppressed, will be more effectually,
if not more easily surraounted, by tarrying
where they are rendered familiar, than
by going from them awhile, and then returning.

Julia will therefore go without me. I envy
her no enjoyment there, except your company.

The substitution of friendship in the place
of love for Major Sanford, I find productive
of agreeable sensations. With him, he assures
me, it is a far more calm, and rational pleasure.
He treats me with the affection and tenderness
of a brother; and his wife, who exceeds
him in prosessions of regard, with all the
consoling softness, and attention of a sister.
Indeed, their politeness has greatly contributed

to revive the cheerfulness of my natural disposition.

I believe the major's former partiality to
me, as a lover, is intirely obliterated; and for
my part, I feel as little restraint in his company,
and his lady's, as in that of any other in
the neighborhood.

I very much regret the departure of Julia;
and hope you will permit her to return to me
again, as soon as possible. She is a valuable
friend. Her mind is well cultivated; and
she has treasured up a fund of knowledge
and information, which renders her company
both agreeable and useful in every situation of
life. We lately spent the afternoon and evening
at Mr. Smith's. They had a considerable
number of visitants; and among the rest,
Major Sanford. His wife was expected, but
did not come, being indisposed.

I believe, my friend, you must excuse me if
my letters are shorter than formerly. Writing
is not so agreeable to me as it used to be.
I love my friends as well as ever; but I
think they must be weary of the gloom and
dulness which pervades my present correspondence.
When my pen shall have regained
its original fluency and alertness, I will resume
and prolong the pleasing task.

I am, my dear Lucy, your's most affectionately,