University of Virginia Library

JOHN TO SARAH.

(Bearing nearly the same date, with one from her to him.
The letters had passed each other on the road.)

Sarah, my poor brother is an altered man, indeed. I
thought that he had more fortitude—more strength; or,
rather, I did not believe that, with such a soul as he has,
he could ever become so utterly prostrate, as I found him.
He was pale; and there was something, in that paleness,
that frightened me. So few weeks had passed, since we
saw him, so gay and hearty;—and now, his lips were
parched; his eyes sunken and fiery; his form so emaciated.

I sat down by him. I took his hand; nay—why need
I conceal it—I fell upon his bosom, and wept. There
was an unnatural gaiety in his voice, too, that went to
my heart. I asked him if he had received my letter in
season, (with a little money, which I had enclosed to
him.) He grasped my hand. His voice trembled. I inquired
into his intentions. They were to go to New Orleans.
I was constantly with him, for the first week; and
there came a letter for him, directed to my care, from
Molton. What could it be? I thought that his heart would
burst, when he read it. “Accursed slanderer!” he cried,
tearing it, and trampling on it, like a madman. I asked
him the cause of his wrath—he tried to tell me, but he
could not—he was choking;—and all that I could understand,
was, that he, Molton, had slandered Juliet. If
that be true—that—it will be enough. I shall soon see

him, and I shan't leave him, till I know the truth.—
Frank's baggage is, already, on board the vessel; or, I
really believe, that he would return to see Molton;—but,
from the look of his eyes, I don't think that there will be
much danger of his wrath cooling in this voyage; and
his honour, I find, is engaged to undertake it. I am glad
of it. I had rather meet Molton, than let Frank meet
him;—and, unless he play me some trick, which I am
half inclined to suspect, from certain mysterious movements
this morning, I shall see Molton long before he
will. But, I must stay here awhile. I must see him fairly
on board; and then, I will return. In the mean time,
let your letters be directed as usual. There is a fellow
at Jane's, who will take care of them, for me.

Poor Frank!—there he is!—leaning upon the table,
with his hands pressed hard against his temples. I must
finish. It will not do to leave him, alone, for an instant.