December 10.—
I am more and more
reconciled to my lot, my dear Cecilia,
every day that I live. Mr. Arnold's assiduity
and tenderness towards me deserve
the gratefullest return my heart can make
him; and I am convinced it is not necessary
to be passionately in love with the man
we marry, to make us happy. Constancy,
good sense, and a sweet temper, must
form a basis for a durable felicity. The
two latter I am sure Mr. Arnold possesses;
Oh, may I never experience his want of
the former; I hope my own conduct will
for ever ensure to me his love. That
can only secure the tranquillity of my future
days.
