Pagina 220 van 817

But the fact is, that being, as I am, to inherit this estate

after the death of your honoured father (who, however, may live

many years longer), I could not satisfy myself without resolving

to choose a wife from among his daughters, that the loss to them

might be as little as possible when the melancholy event takes

place--which, however, as I have already said, may not be for

several years. This has been my motive, my fair cousin, and I

flatter myself it will not sink me in your esteem. And now

nothing remains for me but to assure you in the most animated

language of the violence of my affection. To fortune I am

perfectly indifferent, and shall make no demand of that nature on

your father, since I am well aware that it could not be complied

with; and that one thousand pounds in the 4 per cents., which

will not be yours till after your mother's decease, is all that

you may ever be entitled to.