Syrena in the meantime soon began to feel the want of his purse, and as her power of treating and presenting declined, found also her favourite's inclinations declined in proportion: he talked of nothing now in her company but the want of money, and on her reproaching him with the change she found in him, he told her that love was the child of plenty, and that for his part he could think nothing charming that was indigent. This so enraged her that she gave him a blow on the face, which he, who neither loved nor regarded her, but for self-interest, returned with interest, and there was a perfect battle between them; as she found her strength inferior to such sort of combats, and liking him too well for his ingratitude to extinguish, she fell into abject submissions, begged his pardon for doing what indeed he deserved from her, since vile as she was to others, she had been generous to him even to excess; and did everything in the power of woman to engage a continuation of their acquaintance, which however lasted not long, debts came upon him; and she not having it in her power to discharge them, he was obliged to quit the kingdom to avoid a prison.

            She was now destitute of either friend or lover, and having expended and made away with all had been given her by the mercer, fell into extreme poverty, and had nothing for her support but the credit, which having laid out a great deal of money in the neighbourhood; had given her, on this she lived some little time, but the shop-keepers beginning to send in their bills, she was thinking to remove privately to some other lodging, to prevent one being provided for her, she could by no means approve, when chance threw an offer in her way, which her industry had for a good while in vain sought after. Happening to be looking at some lodgings at a tradesman's house in the strand, she perceived as she was going home a fellow in a very rich livery followed her till she came home, and as soon as he had seen her enter, go to an opposite neighbour's; she could not guess the meaning, but was informed by that person soon after, that a footman had enquired there her name. And the next day received a letter to this effect.

            Madam,
            I saw you yesterday at one of my tradesmen's houses where I called to pay a bill, and at the same time lost my heart; if you will permit a visit from me this afternoon, I shall endeavour to convince you that I think you deserve a better situation than his house can afford. Favour me with your answer by the bearer, and believe me,
            Your sincere admirer,
            M––

            This was indeed wrote with the freedom of a man of quality, to one he thought honoured with his addresses; but she was not at present in a condition to stand upon forms, and therefore answered him in these terms, after being informed by his servant by what title she should address him.

            My Lord,
            I am extremely obliged to the honour of your lordship's notice, and know too well what is owing to your rank and character, not to receive the favour you are pleased to offer with all submission; but must take the liberty to acquaint your lordship, that though under misfortunes, I am a gentlewoman, and have hitherto preserved my reputation; so flatter myself, your lordship has no other view in this visit than commiseration for the ill fate that perhaps may have reached your ears of the
            Unhappy
            Syrena Tricksy.

            Having dispatched this epistle, the remainder of the day was taken up in setting herself forth to the best advantage, and consulting in what manner she should behave; as she thought it might give him an ill opinion of her sincerity afterwards, if she pretended to put herself upon him for a virgin, she resolved to tell him the same story she had done the mercer, only with this addition that her husband died abroad, and by that means she was cut off from any hope of future support from that quarter.

            About six in the evening came the expected guest, who, struck with her beauty and seeming innocence by seeing her only en passant, was now quite ravished with her charms; as he knew well enough however that she could not be ignorant of the intention of the visit, he made no great ceremony, but came directly to the point; and she seeing his humour was not to be dallied with, practised none of those artifices to keep him in hand, which she had made use of to others: all she insisted upon was a settlement for life, but he stopped her mouth, by telling her he was under an oath to the contrary, having been deceived by some, who after that engagement had ill-treated him; and, said he, you, madam, have much less occasion than any of your sex to desire it, since you may be certain your charms will secure me constant while you continue to be so. Finding that nothing was to be done that way, she gave over all speech of it, and told him she would then depend entirely on his love and honour. So a bargain as it might truly be called, was struck up between them the same night. He made her a present of 50 broad pieces, and the promise of 10 guineas per week to defray common expenses.

            Now was Syrena in high spirits again, and her Lord was so fond of her, that she might have brought him almost to anything, if the warmth of her inclinations could have permitted her to content herself with his embraces alone; but public affairs, or pleasures of a different nature took up so much of his time, that she wanted a companion in his absence; and by keeping a great deal of company, and those not of the best sort, she soon entered into intrigues in which her usual cunning had not the least share: in fine, she became so free of her favours, that she at length got the disease common in such cases, and without knowing it, made a present of it to his lordship: as persons of his quality cannot feel the least disorder without having immediate recourse to their physicians, he was soon informed from what source his ailment proceeded; and as he had no gallantries with any woman since the commencement of his amour with Syrena, had no room to doubt if it were she who had done him this unwelcome favour: he accused her with it in terms, which made her know he was convinced of her inconstancy, and though she here made use of every stratagem to persuade him she was innocent, all her vows, her tears, her imprecations were of no force, he quitted her, and told her, if it were not more for demeaning himself than any remains of regard for her, he should resent the injury she had done him in a severer manner.

            One would imagine she should, in so terrible an exigence, have looked back with shame and confusion on her past conduct, but she appeared rather hardened than abashed, when her mother, who soon discovered the truth, remonstrated to her the folly and madness of her late behaviour. 'Tis possible the old woman now began to repent the having trained up a child in that manner; but if she did, it was of no service, since the other was too opinionated and too obstinate to take any advice, but such as was agreeable to her own inclinations. 'Tis certain, that though she at first taught her to ensnare, to deceive, and to betray, her aim was to enable her by those arts to secure to herself some one man, by whom she might make her fortune; and never imagined she would have run such lengths, merely for a precarious dependence, or to gratify desires, which when once indulged, bring on inevitable destruction; but it was too late to reflect on what was past, and she forbore saying much to her, seeing the violence of her temper, and unwilling to come to a downright quarrel, hoping she might still make some conquest, that might be of greater service than those she had lost; and her condition now requiring medicine rather than reproof, she bent all her cares for her cure in the most private manner; for which reason she made her leave the lodging she was in, and come to hers; where, by the assistance of a skilful surgeon and good nurse, she was perfectly recovered in a short time.

            But her circumstances were not so easily repaired as her health had been; the expenses of her illness had so reduced her, that she had scarce a change of garments to appear in; in such as she had however, she took little rambles about the town, in hope of captivating some admiring fool; but nothing offering answerable to her expectations, she grew very much mortified, and began to fear she had lost the power of pleasing, though not yet seventeen. No necessities could almost be greater than what mother and daughter were now in, yet would neither of them think of betaking themselves to any honest way of getting a livelihood. Those relations who had formerly been kind to them, having heard something confusedly of Syrena's conduct, had for a long time withdrawn their bounties, so they were entirely destitute of all assistance.

            In this melancholy posture of affairs Syrena went one day into the park, not with the view of meeting any adventure to her advantage, for she was now quite hopeless, but merely to indulge her vexation. She sat down on one of the most remote and unfrequented benches, and nobody being in sight, vented her spleen in real tears, mingled with sighs, and ever and anon an exclamation. "What shall I do? What will become of me?" did she frequently cry, without being sensible she did so. Such was the agony she now was in, she neither saw, nor heard the tread of any person approaching, till all at once she turned her head, and found a grave old gentleman, sitting by her on the same bench. "If it would not be an impertinent question, pretty lady," said he, "I should desire to know what occasions such excessive grief in one so young and beautiful?" Overwhelmed with sorrow, as Syrena had been, she felt her heart spring with joy, at being accosted by a person, who looked as if he had it in his power to redress her grievances; so drying her eyes, and assuming all possible sweetness in her countenance, "Alas, sir," answered she, "my misfortunes are too great to be concealed; and as they are not fallen upon me through any fault I have been guilty of, I need make no scruple of declaring the real cause, especially to a gentleman, who though a stranger, seems to have a heart relenting to distress." She then told him, that she had been married very young to a gentleman, whose friends having been disobliged on the account of her having no fortune, had sent him to Venice; whence, out of what they allowed him, he had always sent her something; but that being now dead, all her support was lost; she having no friends but a mother, wholly unable to help her; adding, that she was a gentlewoman, and had never been bred to any business.

            He seemed very much affected with her story, but persuaded her not to give way to despair; telling her, that the ways of providence were mysterious, and that frequently when things had the worst appearance, good fortune was nearest at hand. He talked to her in this fashion for a considerable time, and asked her many questions, to all which she answered with so much sweetness and seeming sincerity, that he grew very much taken with her; and among other particulars, having enquired of her where she lived, and her name, told her, he would make her a visit, if she would give him leave; "For," added he, "it may be that I may think of something that will be to your advantage." "You seem, sir," replied she, "too much the gentleman and the man of honour for me to apprehend you have any motives for this offer, but merely pity for the calamities you see me involved in; therefore shall think myself honoured in your acquaintance." "I assure you," returned he, "I shall never give you any reason to repent this confidence; and when I see you next, and acquaint you who I am, I flatter myself the character I bear in the world, will entirely rid you of all scruples on my account. In the meantime," continued he, "you shall promise me to be cheerful, and attend with patience a lot which may be happier than you at present see any cause to expect." She replied, that she would do her endeavour to follow the advice of so worthy a person. He then took his leave, and she went home a good deal more at ease than she went out. Her mother was rejoiced at hearing what had befallen her, and cried out in a sort of transport, "Syrena, this is the man will make you happy! Not one woman in an hundred makes her fortune by a young fellow. A young fellow thinks himself upon a par with any of us, be we never so handsome; but when once an old fellow takes it into his head to fall in love, he will do everything, give everything to render himself agreeable. There is indeed a kind of boyish love, which begins about sixteen or seventeen, and lasts till twenty or something longer, but then it wears off, and they commonly despise the object afterwards, and wonder at themselves for having found anything in her to admire–from twenty to thirty they ramble from one to another, liking every new face, and fixing on none. After thirty, they grow more settled and wary; and if they love at all, it is commonly lasting; but a passion commenced between forty and fifty, is hardly to be worn off. 'Tis certainly strange, but true of that sex, that amorous desires grow stronger, as the power of gratifying them grows weaker, and an old lover is the most doting fond fool on earth, especially if his mistress be very young; for it is remarkable, that when a woman is advanced in years, I mean about forty, she shall look more lovely in the eyes of a young man, than in those of one of her own age, who at that time begin to grow fond of girls, in so much, that I have known some forsake very agreeable women, and take up with, nay, have been ready to ravish creatures that have been blear-eyed, hump-backed, had pimpled faces, and all for the sake of dear eighteen. So that while you are young, my girl, choose a lover old enough to be your father, and as you grow older, one who might be your son."

            With these learned maxims did the old Jezebel entertain her daughter, who stirred not out all that day nor the next, in hope of the old gentleman's coming; but he deferred his visit till the third day, either thinking it unbecoming to his character to appear too hasty, or perhaps not altogether determined within himself how he should act when he did come.

            At last he came however, and Syrena seeing him from the window, ran to tell her mother, on which they both took up a work-basket: Syrena seemed darning a cambric apron, and her mother altering an old velvet mantelet. These marks of good housewifery and frugality were very engaging to the old gentleman; to find them thus employed gave him an advantageous idea of their modesty and virtue, and he did not fail to give them those praises he thought they merited.

            After some few compliments and preparatory discourses; "I have been thinking," said he to Mrs Tricksy, "on the account your daughter gave me of her misfortunes, and have been ever since very much affected with them. I should be glad, methinks, to have it in my power to alleviate them; but the way I have to propose may not, perhaps, be agreeable to either of you." "O! sir," replied she, "I dare believe you are too worthy a person, to offer anything we should not approve of with joy." "You might think it an under-valuing of your family, which I hear is very good, rejoined he; for your daughter to undertake the charge of a house, I do not mean the servile offices of it; but to overlook the servants, and see that they did their duty. She seems," added he, "to have a prudence above her years, and I imagine would be very fit for such a trust in every respect." "I am sure she would endeavour to be so," cried her mother, "if you, sir, would do her the honour to recommend her." "She needs no other recommendation than her own," answered he, "since it is myself, who would put the care of my family into her hands." He then told them, that he was called Mr W––; that he was formerly a merchant, but having acquired sufficient for his contentment, he had retired from business, and took a house in an airy part of the town; that he was a widower, had but two sons, one of whom was married, and settled in the city, and the other a student at Oxford. "So that," continued he, "I live alone, and should be glad of a gentlewoman to eat with me, play a game at picquet in an evening, and, in fine, be a companion as well as housekeeper."

            Both the mother and daughter seemed very much pleased with his proposal, and left it to himself, what consideration she should have for the trouble she was to take; telling him that he should reward her as he found she merited. This he thought was acting like real gentlewomen, and the confidence they placed in him highly obliged him. It was agreed that she should come into his house, in the station he mentioned, the ensuing week, and he then made a present of a twenty pound bank note to Mrs Tricksy, for hers and her daughter's use till that time.

            After he was gone, Syrena communicated to her mother some fears she had, that he intended her for no other than a real housekeeper; but Mrs Tricksy told her there was not the least reason for such apprehension. "Thou silly girl," said she, "would any man take a stranger like you into his family without having a more than ordinary liking to her person; and will not that liking produce offers of a different kind, when he becomes more acquainted? Perhaps, he has a mind to try how you will behave before he will discover his inclinations; therefore it behoves you, indeed, to be very cautious, to keep a strict guard upon every word and look, and above all things to strengthen the opinion, he now has of your innocence and virtue." "But," said Syrena, "if I should seem too rigidly honest, it might deter him from any attempt upon me, and in time extinguish all amorous inclinations, if he now has any for me." "Not at all." replied her mother; "Men, especially rich men, are apt enough to think their wealth will conquer the most stubborn virtue. Besides, have not I instructed you how to play at fast and loose, as I call it, with the men; sometimes kind, sometimes reserved; coy when they're free, and tender when they seem more cold; and all as if by accident, and as if design had not the least share in your conduct?"

            Between lessons for her behaviour, and preparing things necessary for her departure, the time was taken up till the appointed day; on which he came in his chariot, and conducted her himself to his house; where they no sooner arrived, then he had all his servants called into the parlour, and told them he had brought a gentlewoman to be in the place of their mistress, and they must follow her directions in everything. The keys of all the plate and linen were then delivered to her, and she took possession of all, as though she had been wife, or daughter of the owner of the house. As it was not thought proper her mother should come often to visit her any more, than when she was at Sir Thomas L––'s; they agreed Syrena should write whenever anything material occurred; and that her mother whenever it required any answer should send it by old Sarah, who still lived with her, and not trust to the penny-post. In three or four days she wrote as follows.

Letter I.

Thursday.

            From G–– Square.
            Dear Mother,
            I cannot yet tell what to make of the old gentleman's designs: he uses me with more respect than I could look for as a house-keeper, and with all the freedom of a relation; but speaks not the least word of love. He approves of everything I do, and has never found the least fault; though god knows I am ignorant enough how to order the affairs of a family. I do my best, however, to please him; and every morning as soon as I get up, write a bill of fare, and show it him when he comes down to breakfast; and I assure you he has told me more than once, that I have an elegant taste; whether he is earnest or not, I don't know; and I am sometimes afraid he should think me too delicate, but I bring myself off: for yesterday having set down green peas, "Are there any yet?" said he, pretty hastily, as I thought. "Yes, sir," I replied, "I saw some yesterday, but they are dear; I set them down only to show you, that I know they are to be had, if you should have a fancy to any; for you see the second course is full without them, and they may be omitted." "You are very obliging," answered he, "and I think may spare yourself the trouble of making any bills of fare hereafter, since you are so good a judge yourself, of what would become my table." I told him that I could not be easy, unless he saw how his money was to be laid out. "Well," said he, "if it must be so; but, I believe, you'll seldom find me either add or diminish to what you shall contrive for me." I played at cards with him last night, till twelve o'clock, and he had a bowl of rack punch made, and set by us on a dumb waiter; but though he pressed me very much to drink glass for glass with him; yet I begged to be excused, telling him I had a weak head, and had never been accustomed to drink anything strong. Indeed, I could have drank the whole quantity, myself; and you know how well I love that liquor; but I tell you this, to show you what a command I have over myself, if he intends to make me either a wife or a mistress, I find 'tis necessary to give him a very high opinion of me; for he is devilish wary and observing; so I must lead the life of a vestal, though cruelly against my inclinations, till I have got the upper hand of him; and then–but I won't build castles in the air.

            As soon as I know anything farther, I will write again, and am,
            Dear mother,
            your dutiful daughter,
            Syrena Tricksy.

            P.S. Just as I had finished the above, he sent for me to tell me to-morrow is his birthday, and he shall have his son in the city, and his wife, and several other relations to dine with him; so bid me order a dinner accordingly. I wonder whether I shall sit at table or not, or what he will say of me to them. Pray heaven none of them know me.

Letter II.

Saturday.

            From G–– Square
            Dear Mother,
            Yesterday was, as I expected it would be, a very hurrying day, we had a vast deal of company indeed, and a very noble entertainment I provided for them. A little before they came, the old gentleman sent for me into the parlour, and said, "Mrs Tricksy as I shall have so many people here today, and your youth and beauty may possibly occasion some raillery, or if not some conjectures at least that I dare say your modesty would not willingly excite; I hope you will not take it ill, if I desire you to dine alone, I say alone, for I will not have you dine with the servants by any means; I am sorry I did not think of bidding you invite your mother to keep you company, but it is too late now. When any other such occasion falls out I shall be more considerate." I told him nothing could be more agreeable to my inclinations than to avoid being seen by so many persons to whom I was an utter stranger, and not at present in a rank of life to entitle me to such conversation. "As to that," replied he, "you are company for anybody; and when you have been here a little longer, it may be, I may introduce you; in the meantime you must be content." I made him a low curtsy in token of being perfectly satisfied with his goodness, and was going out of the room, but he called me back and said, "I had like to have forgot to tell you that I insist upon it, that you order a part of whatever you like best to be carried into your own chamber, and not let anything come to your table after it has been on mine. I have my reasons," continued he, "for this injunction, and shall not be pleased if you do not observe it." I made him all the acknowledgements so great a mark of his respect deserved from me, but would have declined accepting it till I found he was resolved upon it.

            At night after they were all gone, which was not till almost 12 o'clock, I went in to him to ask if things had been ordered to his satisfaction. "Nothing could be more so, my pretty manager," said he, with a look that I thought had something very amorous in it, but I perceived he had been drinking pretty freely; so I asked a great many questions on purpose to give him an opportunity of opening his mind, and I imagined he was going to say something two or three times, but whatever it was he restrained himself, only as I was taking my leave he gave me a gentle pull by the gown, and said, I must not omit making you a small acknowledgement for the care you have taken today, and put 5 guineas into my hand, and at the same time kissed me with a good deal of eagerness three or four times, then pushed me from him as it were, and cried "Go your ways, you little temptation you!" I neither seemed frighted, nor yielding all the time, but affected a little confusion, and once more wished him a good repose: he did not call me back again, as I was in hopes he would; and this morning at breakfast he behaved to me no otherwise than usual; so whether he has forgot, or repented of the freedom he took with me last night, I know not, but it vexes me that he comes on no faster. I hate suspense of all things, and begin to grow weary of this dull insipid life, yet I am resolved to endure it a little longer. I long to see you and have some talk about this matter. I have never stirred out since I have been here, and I find it pleases him wonderfully to think that I love home so well. I am sure it would not be improper for you to come to see me some day next week, so if you don't hear from me before I shall expect you, who am,
            Your dutiful daughter,
            Syrena Tricksy.

            Her mother came as she desired the Wednesday following, but Syrena having nothing of consequence to inform her their conversation is of no moment to the reader. But on the Monday following she wrote a third letter to this effect.

Letter III.

Monday.

            From G–– Square.
            Dear Mother,
            I have now the satisfaction of acquainting you, part of the secret which we so much wished to know is at last revealed. I will tell you how it came out. Last Saturday night I was sitting in the parlour reading the play called the Conscious Lovers, when the old gentleman came home. I laid down the book as soon as I saw him enter, which he perceiving, cried, "Don't let me disturb you; pray what is the subject of your entertainment," and then looking into it �Equot;O! The Conscious Lovers," continued he; "this is accounted a very good play; pray what's your opinion?" I told him I was no judge, but it pleased me. "So it does most people," said he, "and indeed is a good performance, but yet, methinks, there is somewhat in the characters of Bevil and Indiana not quite agreeable to nature." "The gentleman is very generous, sir," cried I; "Ay," replied he, "and less self-interested than we men are capable of being to the object we love." I could not help looking a little surprised at these words, and cried, "I thought, sir, that love had inspired generosity." "Yes," answered he, "it does inspire what is commonly called generosity, we are ready enough to give everything, and do everything for the person we love; but then that passion that makes us so liberal, makes us also desire something in return. We cannot content ourselves with rendering happy the object of our affections, but languish for something more than gratitude. Indeed, pretty Mrs Tricksy," continued he, taking my hand and pressing it, "these are all romantic notions; and as charming as you are, you will never find a man who loves you for your own sake alone." "I cannot expect it sir," said I, "without I had as much merit as Indiana." "You have as much, and perhaps more," replied he, "at least in my eyes, than ever woman had; yet, sweet creature, my heart is far from feeling any platonic sentiments for you."

            Here I pretended to be in a vast confusion, and hung down my head as ashamed to hear him talk so. "Don't blush," said he, "whatever liberty I may take in thought, my actions shall never be such as shall give you cause to fear me. I am an old man now, and cannot hope to make myself any way equal with your youth and beauty;" then perceiving I made no reply, but seemed more and more ashamed, "Is not what I said too sad a truth for me," pursued he?" "I know not what you mean sir," answered I, "but I am sure the goodness you have been pleased to show me, deserves all the regard I can pay you." "Well, well," resumed he, "that's all I expect at present, but it may be that in time I shall grow more covetous and over-rate my services in hope of greater reward–but come let us go to cards, for I find you are more at a loss in conversation of this kind than any other." I made him no answer, but rung the bell for a servant to set a table, and we went to play. I won every game, for I found he lost to me on purpose, and was a gainer above 50 shillings. When we left off, "You know how to conquer me every way," said he, "but I must have a small revenge," and kissed me with an infinity of warmth. "I cannot help loving you," he cried, two or three times over, "but you must not be angry," then went up to his chamber without staying to hear what I would say. I went soon after to bed, but could not sleep all night for thinking of his odd behaviour. Yesterday morning at breakfast he looked more than usually earnest upon me, and after being silent some time, asked how long it was since I heard of my husband's death; the question a little startled me lest he should happened to have been told something of me that had made him suspect the truth of what I had said; but I disguised my confusion well enough, and answered about eighteen months. "I wonder," said he, "you have not been tempted to make a second venture:" on which I replied with a smile, that it must be something very extraordinary indeed, that could tempt me to enter again into a state which had cost me so much disquiet. "Indeed," pursued he, "there are so many things requisite to make a happy marriage, that if passion did not get the better of reason much fewer would engage in it than do." These words were uttered with a sort of coldness, which I knew not to what cause to attribute: nor has he since spoke to me but on ordinary things. I very plainly see he loves me, but for what end I know not, and fancy that he has also a kind of struggle within himself what he shall do concerning me. I wish therefore that there could be something contrived to put him in fear of losing me. I would have him think I had some offer of marriage much to my advantage, if such a thing could be artfully brought about. I wish you would consider of it, and help me out. It would certainly make him declare what he would be at sooner than he seems willing to do at present; and my patience is almost worn out I assure you. For though I live well, want for nothing, and am treated with the greatest respect; yet you must be sensible, my youth and inclinations are not to be satisfied with such a sort of life; besides I should be glad to be at some certainty. I shall not fail to acquaint you with everything that happens, but in the meantime think of my request, and believe me,
            your dutiful daughter,
            Syrena Tricksy.

Letter IV.

Thursday.

            From G–– Square
            Dear mother,
            My old spark comes on a little, though not so fast as I would have him. He both dined and supped abroad yesterday, and did not come home till very late. I would not go to bed, thinking he would take it as a mark of my respect; and so, indeed, he did, and seemed mightily pleased with it, though he said he was sorry to have been the cause of breaking my rest. He was in a very gay humour, and I found had been drinking pretty hard, though he was not what one may call fuddled neither: he told me, they had been very merry with him upon my account, "And will need have it," said he, "that I should not have made choice of so young a house-keeper, if I had not liked her for the management of other affairs besides those of the family; so, continued he, I am at a loss what reparation to make you for the scandal the living with me is like to bring upon you." "O, sir," answered I, putting on a very troubled countenance, "I fear these are people who envy me the happiness of your favour, and invent this ridicule on purpose to make you part with me." "No, no, no such matter," said he, "they rather envy me. But let their designs be what they will, if you ever leave me, it shall not be my fault. I am only afraid you will grow tired of an old man's company, and I shall lose you by your own inclination." I then assured him, with an earnestness that came pretty near to tenderness, that I thought my lot extremely blessed in being with him; that I looked upon him as my good angel; that nothing could be more perfectly satisfied than I was with my condition; and would not quit his service, for any consideration whatever. He was so much transported with what I said, that he catched me in his arms, and held me there for some minutes, then kissed me, and cried, "My dear creature, you shall never quit me–I could not live without you. Good God! What a neck, what breasts are here!" added he, putting my handkerchief back with one hand, and laying the other upon my breast. I drew a little back, but he pulled me to him, and forced me to sit by him on a couch, where he took me about the waist, and kissed me till my breath was almost gone; I struggled, and begged him to desist; but he pursuing what I found gave him an infinity of pleasure; I fell a weeping, and cried, "O, sir, do not compel me to call back the words, I just now said, and make me fearful of the lot I so lately blessed. I am unhappy, it is true; but I am virtuous, and will be always so." He seemed very much affected with the counterfeit terror I was in, and wiping away my tears with his handkerchief, "Forgive me," said he, "I told you there were times when we men could not command our passions, but I will never do anything to your real prejudice. I love you too well for that, indeed I do–love you much more than you imagine, and �E" Here he stopped, and after having paused a while�E"but I won't keep you any longer from your repose, good night, my dear creature, permit me one more kiss, in token of forgiveness," with these words he gave me another tender embrace, though less vehement than the former, and so retired.

            Now, my dear mother, I think this looks as if he had kind of inclination to make me his wife, only the fear of the world's censure, and the dissatisfaction it would be to his children, hinders him from coming to any resolution about it. I am almost sure, if he could be made to believe I refused some good offer for the sake of living with him, jealousy and gratitude would spur him up to a determination in my favour: 'tis worth trying for, at least, so I beg you'll think on't. I know you have a good working brain, and can do anything when you set about it. Consider that if I get him for a husband, we are both of us made forever; but I won't urge you any farther, I dare say, you will not neglect what shall be as much your own interest, as that of,
            Your dutiful daughter,
            Syrena Tricksy.

            To this her mother returned the following answer by old Sarah.

Friday.

            Dear Syrena,
            I have been considering of what you wrote, of hastening the old gentleman to come to a resolution, ever since your first letter. There are several stratagems; but that which seems most likely to prevent suspicion, is my writing to you, concerning some person that has been in love with you a long time, and has a good fortune; if you can any way contrive that my letter might fall into his hands–but this is a nice point, and must be managed very delicately, or it would ruin all. Old men are naturally wary, and apt to think everything has a design in it; and if he should once imagine you went about to deceive or trick him, he would never endure you more; so without you can order it so, that he may see what I write, without your knowing he does so, I would not advise you to attempt it. I cannot but say, if it could be done cleverly, it would bind him very much to you, and also oblige him to declare himself sooner than, perhaps, he otherwise will. Therefore weigh the matter well, and when you have resolved, let me hear from you again, and you may be sure of all the assistance in the power of,
            Your affectionate mother,
            Ann Tricksy.

Letter V.

Monday.

            From G–– Square.
            Dear mother,
            I have been racking my brains ever since I received yours, for some expedient to assist my project; but can think of nothing, but what may give room for suspicion, and I am of your mind so far, that the least doubt of my sincerity would ruin all: however, I would have you write in the manner you speak of, and send it to me. Some opportunity may happen, that I do not yet foresee. In the meantime I must acquaint you, that he now makes no scruple of telling me he loves me, whenever we are alone; but he has never yet put the question to me, and all his words are so ambiguous, that I cannot, for soul of me, discover what he would be at; nor dare I ask him for fear of offending him. If he means honourable, it would be making myself cheap to seem to imagine he could have any other designs upon me; and if he intends me for a mistress, to give any hints that I thought myself deserving of being his wife, would look too presuming, and perhaps at the same time, hinder him from making any proposals at all; so that I am in a strange dilemma. However, since my last to you, I have met with something that a little sweetens the tasteless insipid hours I used to pass here. I mean, the thoughts of one of the most agreeable pretty young fellows I was ever acquainted with. Don't be alarmed; for I have taken such care, that the old gentleman can never come to the knowledge of the matter. I met with him by accident the other day, when I went to buy some things for our cook, who had begged that favour of me. It happened to rain while I was abroad, and believing it would be but a small shower, I stood for shelter under a porch, my spark came there also, we fell into a chat, and a mutual liking of each other carried us into a tavern. We passed two or three hours as agreeably as any two young people equally gay, could do; in fine, this one interview made us know we were fitted by nature for each other, and, I hope, we shall always continue to think as we now do. I told him I was a young widow, had a small fortune, and an unblemished reputation. Swore he was the first man, with whom I had ever made a false step, and that I lived with my mother. So 'tis to your lodgings I have appointed him to direct a letter; which pray let me have the moment you receive it, and only say to the messenger that brings it, that I am abroad; but you will deliver it to me as soon I come home, and for the rest leave it me; I know how to order it, so that if he sends never so often, he will never find out, that I do not live with you. Now, methinks, I see you all in a tremble, for fear this intrigue should undo me with the old gentleman; but I beg you will make yourself easy, for I will engage it shall never be discovered, and as for anything else you ought not to blame me; consider I have lived like a nun for three months, including the time I was sick. So dear mother don't think of chiding my pleasures; but do your best to help forward my interest: let me have the letter I mentioned, and wrote with as much artifice as you can; if I can find no plausible occasion to make use of it, it will be only a little labour lost, which I flatter myself, you will not grudge to
            Your obedient daughter,
            Syrena Tricksy.

            P.S. If any letter comes from my dear new gallant, I beg you'll send it me the same moment, for I am half mad with impatience to see him again.

            This epistle was answered as soon as received by Mrs Tricksy, with another enclosed, which on first opening, Syrena flattered herself had been from her young spark; but her conjecture this time deceived her: they were both from her mother, the one for her private perusal, and the other for the old gentleman's, if it could be brought about. That which contained her real sentiments was to this purpose.

            Dear child,
            You see I have not been idle in complying with your desires: I had wrote a letter, such as I think proper to excite the old gentlemen to be more hasty in his resolution, before your last came to my hand; and will add nothing to the cautions I before gave you on that score; because I think you do not seem to stand in need of it. I wish there were no greater danger of your inadvertency on another score; and that the inclination you have for the young lover, may not be fatal to our designs on the old one. However, if any letter or message comes from him, Sarah shall bring it directly. I neither blame, nor wonder at your liking a pretty fellow; I would only have you keep it ever in your thoughts, that you never were in so fair a way of making your fortune as at present, and not do anything that might even give a possibility of reversing it. Remember the mercer who was so good a friend to you; and Mr D––, who I don't know but might have married you, if the discovery of your amour with Capt. H––, had not ruined you with him. 'Tis true that was an affair of my own promoting; but, however, it should be a warning to you. Nothing has contributed more to establish you in the good opinion of Mr W–– than your staying so much at home; and if your passion for this new gallant, should take you too frequently abroad, who knows what jealousies, such a change in your behaviour might occasion. He might send to watch where you went, and with what company; or if he should not go such lengths, may you not chance to be seen by some person or other who may inform him of it. A thousand accidents may happen, which is not in the power of prudence to prevent. But I am very sensible, who reasons with a person in love, talks to the wind. So I shall say no more than to remind you, how much it behoves you to be upon your guard. I am far from being an enemy to your pleasures; but would have you a true friend to your interest; and that you may be so, is the sole aim of,
            Your indulgent mother,
            Ann Tricksy.

            The enclosed contained these lines.

            Dear Syrena,
            I have for these three weeks been strangely persecuted with the importunities of Mr Smith; I would not have you vain; and you know very well, have always cautioned you against putting too great a faith in mankind; but I think that I may venture to say, he loves you with a passion rarely to be found in one of his sex, especially in these days. He behaved like a madman, when he first heard you had left me; but when I refused letting him know where he might see you, or direct a letter, his desperation increased to such a degree, that I trembled for the consequence. He would not believe but you were married, and on my protesting you were not, seemed more outrageous than before; whether it was that he was under some apprehensions you had disposed of yourself a worse way, or that he thought I deceived him, I cannot tell: he is still extremely melancholy, and I could not forbear letting you know the proofs he gives of his sincerity; though I don't expect you will ever be persuaded to reward it. Yet after all, Syrena, 'tis strange you should be so blind to your own interest. If ever you design to marry again, 'tis not to be expected you should have a better offer as to fortune; and as to character, 'tis unexceptionable. His person is agreeable enough, I think for any woman to love; and you know very well, he might have had wives long ago, who are accounted pretty women, and handsome portions. But if you would not resolve to have him, when you were under such distresses as you have been; I can neither flatter him, nor myself, that you will do so now, when you want for nothing, and have such a good master. However, child, service is no inheritance, a thousand accidents may happen to throw you out, and our friends who you found were weary enough of assisting us before, will do nothing at all if you persist in this obstinate denying the good that providence seems to point out for you. I dare answer even Mr W–– himself, would very much blame you if he knew the story; and as he has pitied you, and been so kind to take you into his house, would rejoice to see you have one of your own; which though mean in comparison with his, is yet what no gentlewoman need be ashamed to call herself the mistress of; therefore, Syrena, I would have you consider seriously of it.'Tis very childish and silly in you, to cry you can't love him; such an honourable and constant affection as his for you, would bring you to love him in time, especially, if it be true as you say, that your heart is not prejudiced in favour of any other man: but I have so often pressed you on this score, and with such small success, that I think 'tis lessening my character, as your mother to say anything farther; nor had I done it now, but the poor gentleman extorted a promise from me to write. I wish you never may have cause to repent the ingratitude, you are guilty of to him, or the injustice you do yourself; which, with my blessing, is all at present from,
            Your affectionate mother,
            Ann Tricksy.

            P.S. Your aunt longs very much to see you, I believe, to talk to you concerning Mr Smith; so if you continue resolved to refuse his offers, it will be best for you not to go.

            Syrena had scarce time to consider on these letters, before old Sarah returned with another, which had been left for her by a porter, at Mrs Tricksy's lodgings, while she was abroad. This was the dear expected billet, she had entreated her mother to be so careful of, and contained these lines.

            Dear creature,
            You must be too sensible of the pleasure your conversation affords, not to believe whoever has once enjoyed it, must languish for a second interview. You told me other engagements would detain you for some days, so have deferred writing as long as my impatience would permit; but, now I hope my charming Syrena will no longer hold herself from me. I shall be at my cousin's to-morrow about four; and earnestly entreat nothing may disappoint me of a pleasure, I till then shall live in the most eager expectation of, who am,
            Lovely widow,
            Your sincerely devoted
            Friend and admirer,
            HARRIOT MANLY.

            The reader will doubtless be at a loss for the meaning of this epistle; but never had Syrena given a greater proof of her cunning, than in the management of this intrigue; to prevent his making any enquiry after her at Mr W––'s; she had told him, that being left a very young widow, without any children, she lived with her mother, and to give him a good opinion of her mother's virtue, and care of her, as well as to hinder him from knowing she had deceived him in the place of her abode, she told him he must never visit her; and when he wrote, as she desired he would often do, to appoint a meeting, it must be in a woman's name, whom she said she would pretend to have commenced an acquaintance with, at the house of some female friend. She made him believe also, that whenever he desired to see her, he must send the day before at least, for that Mrs Tricksy was so fearful of her entering into any correspondence with a man, that she made her be denied to all that came, unless relations, or such as she had an intimacy with herself, nor ever gave her any letter till she had first opened it, and examined the contents; so that, said she, you must not be surprised, if the messenger you send with your billets, never finds me at home; but when she reads them, and supposes them wrote by a woman, which I shall take care to mention before, as a mighty agreeable young lady, who has taken a fancy to me, she will make no scruple of permitting me to come out.

            Thus having settled everything, as she thought, beyond a possibility of discovery, she flew to the rendezvous, his cousin's as he termed it, which indeed was no other than a common bagnio, with a pleasure which attends the gratification of any passion whatever; but more especially that which more or less is inherent to all animated beings, and for that reason called the most natural.

            To keep Mr W––'s servants from suspecting anything by old Sarah's coming twice in one day; she pretended her mother had been taken suddenly ill, after she sent the first message; and that the second was to desire to see her immediately; she backed this excuse with so much seeming grief, that nobody had the least doubt of the truth of what she said; and the old gentleman coming home before her, and being told the story, was very much concerned at the supposed indisposition of so good a woman.

            After passing four or five hours in a manner perfectly agreeable to her inclinations, she came home in a hackney-coach about eleven o'clock, with a countenance, conformable to the melancholy visit she pretended to have made. Mr W–– not being gone to bed, enquired concerning her mother's condition, in a most tender and obliging manner; and the hypocrite dropping some well dissembled tears, answered, that she had found her so ill, that she had ventured to intrude on his goodness so far, as to promise to go again the next day; "By all means," cried the worthy gentleman, "and I will send a physician with you." "I most humbly thank you, sir," replied she, "but my mother has one, who has always attended our family, and is acquainted with her constitution." "Well then," resumed he, "I desire she may want nothing else proper for her; you shall go to her as early as you please in the morning; and pray," continued he, "give her this, with my best wishes for her recovery." With these words he put five guineas into her hand. Syrena affected to receive this favour with an equal share of gratitude for his goodness, and grief for the danger of a much esteemed and loved parent. Their conversation, till he retired to his chamber, was that night wholly taken up with Mrs Tricksy; Mr W–– imagining any gayer subjects would be little pleasing to a person, under the affliction Syrena seemed to be.

            She went early in the morning in reality to her mother's, and gave her the five guineas, with a full recital of the occasion of that present; Mrs Tricksy was very well pleased with her management of his intrigue, and they both laughed heartily at the ease with which a woman beloved, could impose on a man of the best understanding. They breakfasted together, and then Syrena took her leave, and went to the bagnio, having promised her young lover to dine with him there, in confidence, that the story she had to tell Mr W–– would render it no difficulty for her to come out.

            In fine, she carried on the deception of her mother's illness, for above a fortnight; so that in all that time, she never missed seeing her gallant one day; nay, stayed with him two whole nights, under the pretence that her mother being expected to expire every moment, she waited to pay the last duties of a child. Mr W–– was always extremely indulgent, sent her ten guineas more, and some phials of rich cordials, which they drank together with a good deal of mirth and ridicule on the donor.

            But now Mrs Tricksy began to think it was high time for her to be on the mending hand, lest a too long counterfeiting, might at length raise some suspicion; and also, because that while she was supposed to continue in this dangerous way, Syrena's affair with Mr W–– seemed to stand still, that gentleman having forborne his amorous chat, out of decency to her grief; but the young wanton would scarce have been prevailed upon by her mother's remonstrances, to have given any intermission to a conversation so pleasing to her, had she not been compelled to it by the young gentleman, who told her a business of the most urgent nature called him into the country. Her grief at parting with him was really sincere, and she omitted nothing that she thought might detain him, but though he had an extreme compassion for the agonies she threw herself into, yet there was a necessity he should quit her at least for a time; she made him swear to write to her, and urged to know the exact place to which he was going; but it being highly inconvenient for him to comply with either of these requests, he yielded not to the one without a mental reservation, and wholly deceiving her as to the other; and told her a county as distant as north from south, from that he went to, which, together with his having passed with her by a feigned name, rendered it altogether impossible for her to hear anything of him, though on finding he did not write to her, she afterwards strenuously endeavoured.

            Well, Mrs Tricksy recovered, and Syrena at home as before this adventure; the old gentleman began to renew a conversation, which with a good deal of pain to himself, he had so long stifled in his breast, what he said to her on the first opportunity, will be seen in the following letter, wrote by her to her mother.

Letter VI.

            From G–– Square
            Dear mother,
            My old gentleman, though I allow him to be the most compassionate and best natured creature in the world, had certainly a great share of self-interest in the concern he expressed for your imagined sickness; in the first place it deprived him of my company for the most part, and when I was with him, the sorrow that it was necessary for me to assume, obliged him to restrain the dictates of his heart; but now he thinks you out of danger, he seems to give a loose to his gayer inclinations. I never go out, nor come into the room, without being saluted by him in the most tender manner, which I suffer as a person who has no aversion to such a behaviour, but what proceeds from my modesty; and also, as one who thinks herself too much obliged to his bounties, not to refuse any freedoms that are consistent with virtue; so that by behaving to him in a tender affectionate manner, I give him room to think I am far from having any dislike to his person; and by a seeming struggle within myself, and half sentences thrown in a propos, whenever he takes any extraordinary liberties, to think my gratitude alone hinders my resentment. I can see he is more and more charmed with me, and I flatter myself will soon break his mind to me; that is, let me know what it is I am to expect from him. Yesterday at breakfast, as I was going to fill the tea-pot, the man being out of the room on some occasion, he snatched the kettle from my hand, "No, my dear," said he, "though I am an old man, I know better the regard that ought to be paid persons of your sex, especially such a one as you, to suffer that." "O! Sir," cried I, "you are too good, and forget I am but your servant." "I never have treated you as such, replied he; and should be sorry you should ever think of me as master; methinks it is more natural," pursued he, smiling, "for you to look upon yourself as my mistress, than my servant." "God forbid sir!" cried I, "I do not mean naughtily," rejoined he, "but as the mistress of my affections; and indeed if you imagine I can place them on any other woman you do me wrong." He had perhaps added something more which might have explained what he meant by the word mistress, but the officious fool of a footman came unluckily in and prevented any farther discourse on that head. I saw him no more till night, for he dined abroad, and then at supper, as I was helping him to a bit of raspberry tart, "I think," said he, "these same pies are a kind of an emblem of the passion of love, where the sweet and sour seem to strive with each other, and both together are so grateful to the palate that one cannot wish to be without them; what do you think, pretty Mrs Tricksy, is not the comparison just?" "Indeed sir," answered I, "the little experience I am mistress of, does not qualify me to form any sort of judgment on that passion; and as for tarts I seldom eat any." "Yet you have loaded my plate," cried he, "and may I not also infer from thence that you would wish to see me taste all the sweets and sours alone, while you are unmoved at either?" I carried on the raillery, and affected not to conceive he had any other meaning in what he said than merely literal. But he soon obliged me to be more serious, by telling me, that he would have me henceforward look upon him as a man whose very soul was devoted to me. These words so uncommon with men of his grave and sober deportment, and uttered with the greatest vehemence, made me regard him with some astonishment, and indeed rendered me incapable of replying for some moments. During my silence he took hold of my two hands, and pressing them between his, said with a deep sigh, "O! That there were less disparity between us! I then perhaps might have been happy!" "I know not" sir, answered I, "anything that can be wanting to your happiness; but this I know, that I should be very miserable if any way the cause of giving you one moment's pain. You are, sir, my patron, my friend, my benefactor, my guardian angel, and when I cease to acknowledge your generous goodness, may my ingratitude be punished with some dreadful mark." "Hold, dearest creature," interrupted he, "I know thy sweet, thy tender, grateful soul–but�Equot; "But what," cried I, "for heaven's sake, sir, inform me in what I am wanting. "In nothing," said he, "that's in your power–yet I could wish there were a possibility of–don't ask me what–it is irremediable, and becomes me not to mention–I cannot do it; yet at least–good night�Equot; With these words he rose from the table, called his man, and went immediately to bed.

            Now mother, to what can this inconsistency of behaviour be imputed, but to an excess of love and to some obstacle within himself that makes him fearful of indulging it? 'Tis strange he conceals it in this manner, but there is no getting it out of him, till he pleases himself–something sure extraordinary will be the event, but what I know not; when I do, you shall not be a moment in ignorance. I am
            Your dutiful daughter,
            Syrena Tricksy.

Letter VII.

            From G–– Square
            Congratulate me, my dear mother, congratulate your happy daughter. All my fears and my suspense are over. Mr W–– has at last brought himself to confess an honourable passion for me. He will soon come to acquaint you with it, and then make me his wife. O! How I shall roll in riches and plenty! How I shall indulge every wish, enjoy every pleasure, and despise all restraint. The very thought of what I shall be is ecstasy and transport. O! That the joyful time were come! I'll make him settle a jointure upon me, get possession of his plate and jewels, turn them all into ready money, that the heirs may not come upon me, and then break the old fool's heart, and shine out the belle of the town! But I must tell you what brought this fortunate catastrophe about, and of what infinite service your letter concerning the imaginary Mr Smith was to me. You know 'tis more than a week since I wrote to you, nor indeed had I anything pleasing to acquaint you with. Mr W–– after the conversation I repeated in my last grew more than ordinarily thoughtful, spoke but seldom, and when he did, it was either on family affairs, or other subjects altogether foreign to love. I was very uneasy in my mind, but appeared before him as usual, though indeed I began to imagine I had small hopes, not that he either gave me any words or looks that testified he had conceived the least disgust against me; but his whole carriage seemed to tell me, he had conquered himself so far as not to make me any offers of being in a better situation with him than he had placed me in at first. But when I thought my good fortune farthest removed from me, it happened to be nearest, as you shall hear. He came home last night about an hour before the time of lighting candles, and asking for me; one of the servants said he believed I was in my own room, and was coming to call me; but Mr W–– told him it was no matter, he was going up, and would speak to me above. He found me in a musing posture, leaning my head upon my arm, and indeed discontented enough at his late behaviour: "What, melancholy, pretty Mrs Tricksy!" said he, as soon as he came into the chamber. I was a little surprised at seeing him there, though very well pleased, especially as he seemed more cheerful than he had done for several days. "Not at all, sir," answered I, "but there are times when one cannot help being more than ordinarily serious." "There are so," resumed he, "nor am I sorry to see you so now, because I am come to talk with you on a very serious matter." With these words he made me take my seat again, which I had quitted on his coming in, and placing himself in another chair as close to me as he could, "I have been reflecting for some days past," said he, "on the pleasure your agreeable company has afforded me ever since you came into my house, and how forlorn I shall be whenever you leave it." "I hope, sir," said I, "that I have been guilty of nothing that should lay you under a necessity of obliging me to leave it?" "No, no," cried he, "far from any such thing, I have already told you, and I now repeat it, that it will be yourself alone can ever take you from me; but, my dear creature, I should be unreasonable to desire a young person like you, to live always in the manner you now do. There is no doubt but you will have offers of bettering your fortune, and you will marry" Here he ceased; and I took the opportunity of telling him that I preferred the honour of living with him as I now did, to being the wife of any man in the world: and on his seeming to question my sincerity in that point, as he well might, I endeavoured to convince him by all the asseverations befitting a modest woman to make; but he stopped my mouth with a kiss, and told me, that though what I said was vastly obliging, yet he could not think I could be so much an enemy to myself. I then thought I had a fine pretence for showing him your letter, and running to the bureau brought it in my hand, and presenting it to him, "Sir," said I, "though I should die with blushing to make you the confidant of such an affair, yet I cannot help doing it, to clear myself from all deceit; so beg, sir, you will give yourself the trouble to read this." He made no reply, but did as I desired, and I could see while thus employed a good deal of impatience in his eyes. As soon as he had finished the perusal, he gave me the letter again, and asked me several questions concerning Mr Smith; to all which I gave him such ready and natural answers, that he had no room to imagine I was amusing him with a fictitious story. After he had nothing farther to inform himself of, he told me he should be extremely happy if he could be sure that I refused Mr Smith, merely because I chose to live with him, to which I replied to give him still a greater opinion of my sincerity, that I could not say I had refused Mr Smith altogether on his account, because I had resolved not to marry him before I ever had the happiness of living with so excellent a master, but that since I had enjoyed so great a blessing, and had the experience of his goodness; not only Mr Smith, but all mankind beside were perfectly my aversion. He seemed overjoyed to hear me speak in this manner, kissed me, and embraced me a hundred times I believe, before he was able to make me any answer. At last, "well but, my dear love," cried he, "there yet remains one proof of your preferring my society above all others of my sex, and if you deny to give me that, you must give me leave to disbelieve all others. In fine, you must consent to put it out of either of our powers to part; you must be my wife." Judge, my dear mother, how much I was transported at these words, but I concealed it under a modest surprise, and hanging down my head, said, "You are pleased to sport, sir, with your unworthy servant." "No, my dear," replied he, "the offer I make you is not only serious, but well weighed, the result of a long consideration. The first moment I saw you, I entertained a thought of it, but was willing to wait till some proofs of my friendship had in part compensated for a disparity of years. What say you then? Is it possible for you to yield that youth and beauty to the embraces of an old man, without reluctance? Can you love me as a husband? Answer me," continued he, "with your usual sincerity; if you can love me as a husband (I again repeat it) I shall be happy; if you cannot, I will endeavour to make you so, either with any other more agreeable to your years; or if you choose a single life, by settling an annuity upon you;" on this I replied, that his excessive generosity had entirely overcome all my timidity and natural bashfulness; and that since he was so good to make me three offers, the first, and infinitely the best, must be my choice. It would be endless to repeat what he said on this occasion; had I been a queen, and he my subject, raised by me to a throne, he could not have expressed greater joy. I did not fail, however, to represent to him, the fears I had, that his sons and his other relations, would not be satisfied with our marriage; but he seemed to slight all I urged on that head, and told me, he had not lived so long in the word, to place his felicity in other people's opinions; and as for his children, they were too well acquainted with their duty to repine at anything he thought fit to approve.

            Thus is everything agreed between us, and we shall come this afternoon or to-morrow to acquaint you with the affair, and ask your consent for our marriage, which he intends to solemnize as soon as a new coach and liveries can be got ready; for he resolves it shall be in as much splendour, as if I brought him a fortune equal to his own. Well, after all, he is very good to me, but 'tis all to please himself; and I shall follow his example, in doing everything to please myself. O! I shall live a rare life–but I must conclude, for I expect him to dinner every moment. Dear mother rejoice for the good fortune of
            Your happy daughter,
            Syrena Tricksy.

            P.S. I send this by a porter, for fear the penny-post should not have come time enough to apprise you of our coming, for you to get everything in order–once more, farewell.

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