I had besought her, in the conclusion of my re-urged arguments, to write
to Miss Howe before Miss Howe's answer could come, in order to lay before
her the present state of things; and if she would pay a deference to her
judgment, to let her have an opportunity to give it, on the full knowledge
of the case--

So I would, Mr. Lovelace, was the answer, if I were in doubt myself,
which I would prefer--marriage, or the scheme I have mentioned. You
cannot think, Sir, but the latter must be my choice. I wish to part with
you with temper--don't put me upon repeating--

Part with me, Madam! interrupted I--I cannot bear those words!--But let
me beseech you, however, to write to Miss Howe. I hope, if Miss Howe is
not my enemy--

She is not the enemy of your person, Sir;--as you would be convinced, if
you saw her last letter* to me. But were she not an enemy to your
actions, she would not be my friend, nor the friend of virtue. Why will
you provoke from me, Mr. Lovelace, the harshness of expression, which,
however, which, however deserved by you, I am unwilling just now to use,
having suffered enough in the two past days from my own vehemence?


* The lady innocently means Mr. Lovelace's forged one. See Vol. V.
Letter XXX.


I bit my lip for vexation. And was silent.

Miss Howe, proceeded she, knows the full state of matters already, Sir.