The Coquette eBook

This eBook from the Gutenberg Project consists of approximately 214 pages of information about The Coquette.

The Coquette eBook

This eBook from the Gutenberg Project consists of approximately 214 pages of information about The Coquette.

Miss Lawrence called on me yesterday, as she was taking the air, and asked me whether Major Sanford took leave of me when he left town.  “He was here last week,” said I, “but I did not know that he was gone away.”  “O, yes,” she replied, “he is gone to take possession of his seat which he has lately purchased of Captain Pribble.  I am told it is superb; and it ought to be, if it has the honor of his residence.”  “Then you have a great opinion of Major Sanford,” said I.  “Certainly; and has not every body else?” said she.  “I am sure he is a very fine gentleman.”  Mrs. Richman smiled rather contemptuously, and I changed the subject.  I believe that the innocent heart of this simple girl is a little taken in.

I have just received a letter from Mr. Boyer in the usual style.  He expects the superlative happiness of kissing my hand next week.  O, dear!  I believe I must begin to fix my phiz.  Let me run to the glass, and try if I can make up one that will look madamish.  Yes, I succeeded very well.

I congratulate you on your new neighbor; but I advise friend George to have the Gordian knot tied immediately, lest you should be insnared by this bewitching squire.

I have been trying to seduce General Richman to accompany me to the assembly this evening, but cannot prevail.  Were Mrs. Richman able to go with us, he would be very happy to wait on us together; but, to tell the truth, he had rather enjoy her company at home than any which is to be found abroad.  I rallied him on his old-fashioned taste, but my heart approved and applauded his attachment.  I despise the married man or woman who harbors an inclination to partake of separate pleasures.

I am told that a servant man inquires for me below—­the messenger of some enamoured swain, I suppose.  I will step down and learn what message he brings.

Nothing extraordinary; it is only a card of compliments from a Mr. Emmons, a respectable merchant of this city, requesting the honor to wait on me to the assembly this evening—­a welcome request, which I made no hesitation to grant.  If I must resign these favorite amusements, let me enjoy as large a share as possible till the time arrives.  I must repair to the toilet, and adorn for a new conquest the person of

ELIZA WHARTON.

LETTER XXXI.

TO MISS ELIZA WHARTON.

HARTFORD.

I am very happy to find you are in so good spirits, Eliza, after parting with your favorite swain; for I perceive that he is really the favorite of your fancy, though your heart cannot esteem him; and, independent of that, no sensations can be durable.

I can tell you some news of this strange man.  He has arrived, and taken possession of his seat.  Having given general invitations, he has been called upon and welcomed by most of the neighboring gentry.  Yesterday he made an elegant entertainment.  Friend George (as you call him) and I were of the number who had cards.  Twenty-one couple went, I am told.  We did not go.  I consider my time too valuable to be spent in cultivating acquaintance with a person from whom neither pleasure nor improvement is to be expected.  His profuseness may bribe the unthinking multitude to show him respect; but he must know that, though

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The Coquette from Project Gutenberg. Public domain.