( 16 )
From a Lover to the Object of his Affection.
Madam,
The ardent paſſion I entertain for you, being founded on the baſis of ſincerity, will, I hope, be ample apology for this ſeeming preſumption. As my views are both honourable and juſt, they cannot, I truſt, give any offence to that delicacy which I ſo much admire. I have beheld you, unobſerved, with the profoundeſt attention, till at laſt, I was led to behold you with admiration; and diſcovering ſuch amiability in your countenance, was induced by the ſenſibility which it indicated, to flatter myſelf your mind is ſuſceptible of impreſſion, and would not deny encouragement, where truth, honour, and ſincerity are advocates. I am thereby encouraged to avow an honeſt paſſion, and indulge at leaſt a diſtant hope of ſucceſs. Permit me, then, on any day that may be convenient, and in the preſence of whatever friend may be deemed moſt proper, perſonally to aſſure you how much I am, with all due reſpect,
The young Lady's Anſwer.,
Sir,
AS your unexpected favour required much conſideration, it was totally out of my power to give it an immediate reply. I was induced to think ſome part of it flattery, than which there is nothing gives me greater offence. At times I was apprehenſive that the whole pro-
