University of Virginia Library

LETTER XI.

Well, Charles, I have been man
œuvring to day, a little revengefully. That,
you will say, is out of character. So baleful a
passion does not easily find admission among
those softer ones, which you well know I cherish.
However, I am a mere Proteus, and can
assume any shape that will best answer my purpose.

I called this forenooon, as I told you I intended,
at Gen. Richman's. I waited some time in
the parlor alone, before Eliza appeared; and
when she did appear, the distant reserve of her
manners, and the pensiveness of her countenance
convinced me that she had been vexed, and
I doubted not but Peter Sanford was the occasion.
Her wife cousin, I could have sworn, had
been giving her a detail of the vices of her
gallant; and warning her against the danger
of associating with him in future. Notwithstanding,
I took no notice of any alteration in
her behavior; but entered with the utmost facetiousness
into a conversation which I thought

most to her taste. By degrees, she assumed her
usual vivacity; cheerfulness and good humor
again animated her countenance. I tarried as
long as decency would admit. She having intimated
that they were to dine at my friend
Lawrence's, I caught at this information; and
determined to follow them, and teaze the jealous
Mrs. Richman, by playing off all the gallantry
I was master of in her presence.

I went, and succeeded to the utmost of my
wishes, as I read in the vexation, visible in the
one; and the ease and attention displayed by
the other. I believe too, that I have charmed
the eye at least, of the amiable Eliza. Indeed,
Charles, she is a fine girl. I think it would hurt,
my conscience to wound her mind or reputation.
Were I disposed to marry, I am persuaded
she would make an excellent wife; but that
you know is no part of my plan, so long as I
can keep out of the noose. Whenever I do submit
to be shackled, it must be from a necessity
of mending my fortune. This girl would be
far from doing that. However, I am pleased
with her acquaintance, and mean not to abuse
her credulity and good nature, if I can help it.