LETTER XXVII.
TO THE REV. MR. BOYER.
New-Haven.
I am quite a convert to Pope's assertion,
that “Every woman is, at heart, a
rake.” How else can we account for the pleasure
which they evidently receive from the society,
the flattery; the caresses of men of that
character? Even the most virtuous of them
seem naturally prone to gaiety, to pleasure, and,
I had almost said, to dissipation! How else shall
we account for the existence of this disposition,
in your favorite fair? It cannot be the result of
her education. Such a one as she has received,
is calculated to give her a very different turn of
mind. You must forgive me, my friend, for
I am a little vexed, and alarmed on your account.
I went last evening to the assembly, as
I told you in my last that I intended. I was
purposely without a partner, that I might have
the liberty to exercise my gallantry, as circumstances
should invite. Indeed, I must own,
that my particular design was, to observe
Miss Wharton's movements, being rather inclined
to jealousy in your behalf. She was
handed into the assembly room by Major
Sanford. The brilliance of their appearance,
the levity of their manners, and the contrast
of their characters I found to be a general
subject of speculation. I endeavored to associate
with Miss Wharton, but found it impossible
to detach her a moment from the coxcomb
who attended her. If she has any idea of a
connection with you, why does she continue to
associate with another, especially with one of
so opposite a description? I am seriously afraid,
that there is more intimacy between them, than
there ought to be, considering the encouragement
she has given you.
I hope you will not be offended by my freedom
in this matter. It originates in a concern
for your honor and future happiness. I am
anxious, left you should be made the dupe of a
coquette, and your peace of mind fall a sacrifice
to an artful debauchee. Yet I must believe,
that Miss Wharton has, in reality, all that virtue
and good sense of which she enjoys the reputation;
but her present conduct is mysterious.
I have said enough (more than I ought, perhaps)
to awaken your attention to circumstances,
which may lead to important events. If they appear
of little, or no consequence to you, you
will at least ascribe the mention of them to
motives of sincere regard; in your friend and
humble servant,
