for what can any young creature in the like circumstances say, when
she is not sure but a too-ready consent may subject her to the slights
of a sex that generally values a blessing either more or less as it is
obtained with difficulty or ease? Miss Biddulph's answer to a copy of
verse from a gentleman, reproaching our sex as acting in disguise, is
not a bad one, although you may perhaps think it too acknowledging for
the female character.

Ungen'rous Sex!--To scorn us if we're kind;
And yet upbraid us if we seem severe!
Do you, t' encourage us to tell our mind,
Yourselves put off disguise, and be sincere.
You talk of coquetry!--Your own false hearts
Compel our sex to act dissembling parts.

Here I am obliged to lay down my pen. I will soon resume it.



LETTER III

MISS CLARISSA HARLOWE, TO MISS HOWE
JAN. 13, 14.


And thus, as Mr. Lovelace thought fit to take it, had he his answer
from my sister. It was with very great regret, as he pretended, [I
doubt the man is an hypocrite, my dear] that he acquiesced in it. 'So
much determinedness; such a noble firmness in my sister, that there
was no hope of prevailing upon her to alter sentiments she had adopted