conversation she demonstrated so much prudent knowledge in every thing
that relates to that part of the domestic management which falls under
the care of a mistress of a family, that I believe she has no equal of
her years in the world.

But, indeed, I know not the subject on which she does not talk with
admirable distinction; insomuch that could I but get over my prejudices
against matrimony, and resolve to walk in the dull beaten path of my
ancestors, I should be the happiest of men--and if I cannot, I may be ten
times more to be pitied than she.

My heart, my heart, Belford, is not to be trusted--I break off, to
re-peruse some of Miss Howe's virulence.


***


Cursed letters, these of Miss Howe, Jack!--Do thou turn back to those of
mine, where I take notice of them--I proceed--

Upon the whole, my charmer was all gentleness, all ease, all serenity,
throughout this sweet excursion. Nor had she reason to be otherwise: for
it being the first time that I had the honour of her company alone, I was
resolved to encourage her, by my respectfulness, to repeat the favour.

On our return, I found the counsellor's clerk waiting for me, with a
draught of the marriage-settlements.

They are drawn, with only the necessary variations, from those made for