necessity of replying to your letter of yesterday's date, as I am really quite unable to render you the assistance you require. Had it been in my power, I should have instantly complied, as I should be happy at all times to evince my friendship by obliging you. I trust therefore I shall not suffer in your esteem by this answer to your application. I am, dear madam,

Yours sincerely,

GEORGE DAle.

MISCELLANEOUS.

A young man commencing business in London, to his intended in the country.

My dear Anne,

August 9th, 18

I am now settled in business in this city, where, if I may judge from appearances, I shall do well, my worthy uncle having presented me with a considerable stock, and comfortably furnished my house.

Thus circumstanced, I soon found how necessary it would be for me to provide a mistress for my house, and consequently ventured to inform my dear uncle of my love for you. Judge of my happiness when this good man approved of my wishes, by desiring that I would write and request your immediate consent. Say then, dear girl, will you accept my hand? By so doing, you will make me the most happy of men, and by refusing, you will render me miserable. I have sent you herewith a few articles, of which I entreat your acceptance.

My uncle and other friends unite in best

You are too well acquainted with the state of my heart to doubt that I love you, and you know that the only objection I ever made originated in the conviction of my own humble circumstances. The concurrence of your kind friends to our marriage, obviates the whole strength of this argument, but I still am too sensible of the difference between our relative situations, to wish you to throw yourself away upon me. Indeed, dear Joseph I love you too well to desire it. You are a gentleman by birth, and by the goodness of your uncle, placed in a most respectable situation, in which wealth and honour may crown your exertions. On the contrary, I am the daughter of poor, though respectable parents, who were only able to give me a plain useful education; this is all they could, or ever can do; think then how disproportionate our union would be.

I shall leave the result to you, and abide by your decision. Permit me to assure you, how sensible I am of the honour you have done me, in thinking me worthy to be your wife, and that I shall be ever grateful for it. I am, dear Joseph,

Your faithful friend,

ANNE TATUM.

The young man proposes marriage.

My sweet girl,

September 2nd, 18

My love for you has ever been unbounded, and your last letter has greatly increased it, nor can I consent to resign so much worth, sense, and beauty.

If, therefore, you love me, make no more objections; but, by becoming my wife, ensure my happiness. To what superior purpose can wealth and connections be applied, than that of making those participate in their enjoyments who merit every thing by their talent and virtues? No, my dearest Anne, you would add aditional lustre to the most splendid station, and happy indeed do I consider myself in the possession of your love.

My uncle perused your letter, and, like his nephew, is more than ever delighted

with you. He truly says, that in possessing such a wife, I shall be happier than I deserve.

Every thing being therefore determined, I shall come for you on the third day from hence, and on the fourth shall seal our eternal union. Yes, my sweet love, then will our mutual happiness be confirmed. then, adieu.

Ever

Most devotedly yours,

Till

JOSEPH HOPE.

The young woman's answer.

Dear Joseph,

September 3rd, 18

Your affectionate letter demands an immediate answer: I can only say, that your wishes shall be mine.

I have shown your letter to my kind parents, who have only their prayers and blessings to present us with. They are delighted with the warmth of your love: yet, like myself, they are fearful that you overlook the disparity between us. The whole I can do is to re-double my exertions in the promotion of your interest, and in that way endeavour to make up to you for my want of fortune.

I have only to add, my dear Joseph, that I shall be happy to receive you at the time you have thought proper to mention.