of your friends suppose, to another person. What need you give one to
imagine, my dear, that the last month or two has been a period
extremely favourable to that other person, whom it has made an obliger
of the niece for his patience with the uncles.

But, to pass that by--so much engaged!--How much, my dear?--Shall I
infer? Some of your friends suppose a great deal. You seem to own a
little.

Don't be angry. It is all fair: because you have not acknowledged to
me that little. People I have heard you say, who affect secrets,
always excite curiosity.

But you proceed with a kind of drawback upon your averment, as if
recollection had given you a doubt--you know not yourself, if they be
[so much engaged]. Was it necessary to say this to me?--and to say it
upon your word too?--But you know best.--Yet you don't neither, I
believe. For a beginning love is acted by a subtle spirit; and
oftentimes discovers itself to a by-stander, when the person possessed
(why should I not call it possessed?) knows not it has such a demon.

But further you say, what preferable favour you may have for him to
any other person, is owing more to the usage he has received, and for
your sake borne, than to any personal consideration.

This is generously said. It is in character. But, O my friend,
depend upon it, you are in danger. Depend upon it, whether you know
it or not, you are a little in for't. Your native generosity and
greatness of mind endanger you: all your friends, by fighting against
him with impolitic violence, fight for him. And Lovelace, my life for