We were walking abroad the other afternoon, and met Major Sanford and lady.  Eliza did not see them till they were very near us.  She started, turned pale, and then colored like crimson.  I cannot but think a little envy rankled in her heart.  Major Sanford very politely accosted us, and congratulated Mrs. Sanford on this opportunity of introducing her to a particular friend, presenting Eliza.  She received her with an easy dignity, and bade her welcome to this part of the country.  Mrs. Sanford answered her modestly, hoped for the pleasure of a further acquaintance, and urged us, as we were not far from their house, to return with them to tea.  We declined, and wishing each other good evening, parted.  Major Sanford’s eyes were riveted on Eliza the whole time we were together, and he seemed loath to remove them when we separated.  I suspect there is some truth in his tale of love.  I shall therefore discourage Eliza from associating with him under any pretext whatever.  She appeared more pensive and thoughtful than common as we returned home, and said little the rest of the evening, but next morning was as chatty as ever.

She is warm in the praises of Mrs. Sanford, thinks her an accomplished woman, and wonders that the major could suggest an idea of marrying her for her money.  She intends, she says, to visit her soon, and wishes me to accompany her.  This, for her own sake, I shall defer as long as possible.  I am, &c.,

JULIA GRANBY.

LETTER LVII.

TO MRS. LUCY SUMNER.

HARTFORD.

By Julia’s advice we have neglected the repeated invitations of Major Sanford to visit and commence neighborhood with them till yesterday, when we received a polite billet requesting the honor of our company to dine.  My mamma declined going, but said she had no objection to our compliance with the message if we thought proper.  Julia and I accordingly went.  We found a large company assembled in a spacious hall, splendidly furnished and decorated.  They were all very polite and attentive to me, but none more so than Major Sanford and his lady, who jointly strove to dissipate the pensiveness of my mind, which I found it impossible to conceal.  When we were summoned to dinner, the major, being near me, offered his hand, and, leading me into the dining room, seated me at a table furnished with all the variety which could please the eye or regale the taste of the most luxurious epicure.  The conversation turned on various subjects—­literary, political, and miscellaneous.  In the evening we had a ball.  Major Sanford gave the hand of his wife to a Mr. Grey, alleging that he was a stranger, and therefore entitled to particular attention, and then solicited mine himself.  I was on the point of refusing him, but recollecting that it might have the appearance of continued resentment, contrary to my declaration of forgiving what was past, I complied.  He was all kindness and assiduity;