University of Virginia Library

March 26, 1704.—

I am told the widow Arnold computes the time of her lying-in about the latter end of the next month; if it should happen, she saves her distance, as her husband died in July, a little before we went to Grimston-hall. Mr. Arnold treats the affair very lightly, and is only concerned at seeing my mother so much affected by it. For my part, I form my behaviour upon Mr. Arnold's conduct; and a long as he appears easy, I shall certainly be so too.

My brother throws out some unkind

reflections: he says, he wonders the old sybil at Grimston-hall did not foresee this; and congratulates me on my good fortune, in having my jointure settled on that part of the estate which is not disputed. I really think he shews a sort of ill-natured triumph even in his condolements; for he generally concludes them with thanking his stars that he had no hand in the match. I trust in God we shall none of us have any cause to repent it. I am sure I never shall; for if Mr. Arnold were reduced to the lowest ebb of fortune, I should find my consolation in his kindness and affection.