concerning human nature, and their stock of observation enriched, by
reading your "Cecilia." They certainly will, let their experience in
life and manners be what it may. The arrogance of age must submit to
be taught by youth. You have crowded into a few small volumes an
incredible variety of characters; most of them well planned, well
supported, and well contrasted with each other. If there be any
fault in this respect, it is one in which you are in no great danger
of being imitated. Justly as your characters are drawn, perhaps they
are too numerous. But I beg pardon; I fear it is quite in vain to
preach economy to those who are come young to excessive and sudden
opulence.

I might trespass on your delicacy if I should fill my letter to you
with what I fill my conversation to others. I should be troublesome
to you alone if I should tell you all I feel and think on the
natural vein of humour, the tender pathetic, the comprehensive and
noble moral, and the sagacious observation, that appear quite
throughout that extraordinary performance.

In an age distinguished by producing extraordinary women, I hardly
dare to tell you where my opinion would place you amongst them. I
respect your modesty, that will not endure the commendations which
your merit forces from everybody.

I have the honour to be, with great gratitude, respect, and esteem,
madam, your most obedient and most humble servant,

EDM. BURKE

WHITEHALL, _July 19, 1782_.