If, then, you love us, if you wish for God's blessing, and your own
future happiness, we both charge you to stand upon your guard: and, if
you find the least attempt made upon your virtue, be sure you leave every
thing behind you, and come away to us; for we had rather see you all
covered with rags, and even follow you to the churchyard, than have it
said, a child of ours preferred any worldly conveniences to her virtue.

We accept kindly your dutiful present; but, till we are out of pain,
cannot make use of it, for fear we should partake of the price of our
poor daughter's shame: so have laid it up in a rag among the thatch, over
the window, for a while, lest we should be robbed. With our blessings,
and our hearty prayers for you, we remain,
Your careful, but loving Father and Mother,
JOHN AND ELIZABETH ANDREWS.



LETTER III


DEAR FATHER,

I must needs say, your letter has filled me with trouble, for it has made
my heart, which was overflowing with gratitude for my master's goodness,
suspicious and fearful: and yet I hope I shall never find him to act
unworthy of his character; for what could he get by ruining such a poor
young creature as me? But that which gives me most trouble is, that you
seem to mistrust the honesty of your child. No, my dear father and
mother, be assured, that, by God's grace, I never will do any thing that
shall bring your grey hairs with sorrow to the grave. I will die a