read them frequently over; and committed them to the flames, much
against my inclination. There was one I rejoiced not to have read at
the time. It was, where you consented to dine and sing with * * * *.
Thank God, it was not so! I could not have borne it; and, now, less
than ever. But, I now know, he never can dine with you; for, you would
go out of the house sooner than suffer it: and, as to letting him hear
you sing, I only hope he will be struck deaf, and you dumb, sooner
than such a thing should happen! But, I know, it never now can.

You cannot think how my feelings are alive towards you; probably,
more than ever: and they never can be diminished. My hearty endeavours
shall not be wanting, to improve and to give US NEW ties of regard and
affection.

I have seen, and talked much with, Mrs. Thomson's friend. The fellow
seems to eat all my words, when I talk of her and his child! He says,
he never can forget your goodness and kind affection to her and his
dear, dear child. I have had, you know, the felicity of seeing it, and
a finer child never was produced by any two persons. It was, in truth,
a love-begotten child! I am determined to keep him on board; for, I
know, if they got together, they would soon have another. But, after
our two months trip, I hope, they will never be separated; and, then,
let them do as they please.

We are all bustle and activity. I shall sail, on Monday, after your
letter arrives. Troubridge will send it, as an Admiralty letter. On
Tuesday I shall be in the Downs, if we have any wind; and Troubridge
will send, under cover to Admiral Lutwidge.

It is not my intention to set my foot out of the ship, except to make