I am glad Sir George does not come
down? I am sure is he did, his behaviour
would be such, as would render him
no very acceptable guest at Grimston-hall.
A week, but a short week, to come,
before my fate is irrevocably fixed; or
revocable only by the hand of death! This
reflection, solemn as it is, does not alarm
me; because, after again calling my heart
to the strictest account, I think I can
pronounce it intirely free. Mr. Arnold
will soon have an indisputable right to it;
and it is my firm purpose to use my utmost
endeavours to give him intire possession
of it. He every day gains upon
my esteem. If his talents are not so glittering
as I have seen some others possessed
of, he is nevertheless master of an exceedingly
good understanding, which a sort of
diffidence in his manner does not suffer
him to shew at once to the best advantage.
His temper is extremely sweet, and
he seems to have an openness of heart
(when he throws off a little shyness which
he has contracted) that is exceedingly engaging.
His love for me appears as fervent
as I believe it sincere; and I should
be ungrateful not to do my utmost to return
it.
