thousand deaths, rather than be dishonest any way. Of that be assured,
and set your hearts at rest; for although I have lived above myself for
some time past, yet I can be content with rags and poverty, and bread and
water, and will embrace them, rather than forfeit my good name, let who
will be the tempter. And of this pray rest satisfied, and think better
of Your dutiful DAUGHTER till death.

My master continues to be very affable to me. As yet I see no cause to
fear any thing. Mrs. Jervis, the housekeeper, too, is very civil to me,
and I have the love of every body. Sure they can't all have designs
against me, because they are civil! I hope I shall always behave so as
to be respected by every one; and that nobody would do me more hurt than
I am sure I would do them. Our John so often goes your way, that I will
always get him to call, that you may hear from me, either by writing,
(for it brings my hand in,) or by word of mouth.



LETTER IV


DEAR MOTHER,

For the last was to my father, in answer to his letter; and so I will now
write to you; though I have nothing to say, but what will make me look
more like a vain hussy, than any thing else: However, I hope I shan't be
so proud as to forget myself. Yet there is a secret pleasure one has to
hear one's self praised. You must know, then, that my Lady Davers, who,
I need not tell you, is my master's sister, has been a month at our
house, and has taken great notice of me, and given me good advice to keep