My brother found out the way. My sister (as I have said) went hand in
hand with him. Between them, the family union was broke, and every
one was made uneasy. Mr. Lovelace was received more and more coldly
by all: but not being to be put out of his course by slights only,
personal affronts succeeded; defiances next; then the rencounter: that,
as you have heard, did the business. And now, if I do not oblige them, my grandfather's estate is to be litigated with me; and I, who never designed
to take advantage of the independency bequeathed me, am to be as dependent
upon my father's will, as a daughter ought to be who knows not what is
good for herself. This is the language of the family now.

But if I will suffer myself to be prevailed upon, how happy (as they
lay it out) shall we all be!--Such presents am I to have, such jewels,
and I cannot tell what, from every one in the family! Then Mr.
Solmes's fortunes are so great, and his proposals so very
advantageous, (no relation whom he values,) that there will be
abundant room to raise mine upon them, were the high-intended favours
of my own relations to be quite out of the question. Moreover, it is
now, with this view, found out, that I have qualifications which of
themselves will be a full equivalent to Mr. Solmes for the settlements
he is to make; and still leave him under an obligation to me for my
compliance. He himself thinks so, I am told--so very poor a creature
is he, even in his own eyes, as well as in theirs.

These desirable views answered, how rich, how splendid shall we all
three be! And I--what obligations shall I lay upon them all!--And
that only by doing an act of duty so suitable to my character, and
manner of thinking; if, indeed, I am the generous as well as dutiful
creature I have hitherto made them believe I am.

This is the bright side that is turned to my father and uncles, to