And now for a little mine which I am getting ready to spring. The first
that I have sprung, and at the rate I go on (now a resolution, and now a
remorse) perhaps the last that I shall attempt to spring.

A little mine, I call it. But it may be attended with great effects. I
shall not, however, absolutely depend upon the success of it, having much
more effectual ones in reserve. And yet great engines are often moved by
small springs. A little spark falling by accident into a powder-magazine,
hath done more execution in a siege, than an hundred cannon.

Come the worst, the hymeneal torch, and a white sheet, must be my amende
honorable, as the French have it.



LETTER XIII

MR. BELFORD, TO ROBERT LOVELACE, ESQ.
TUESDAY, JUNE 6.

Unsuccessful as hitherto my application to you has been, I cannot for the
heart of me forbear writing once more in behalf of this admirable woman:
and yet am unable to account for the zeal which impels me to take her
part with an earnestness so sincere.

But all her merit thou acknowledgest; all thy own vileness thou
confessest, and even gloriest in it: What hope then of moving so hardened
a man?--Yet, as it is not too late, and thou art nevertheless upon the
crisis, I am resolved to try what another letter will do. It is but my
writing in vain, if it do no good; and if thou wilt let me prevail, I