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 12 The Letter-Writer. I will meet you at the Shepherd and Shepherdeſs on Sunday after dinner, and then we will talk more of the matter.

I am, dear Jack, Your moſt humble ſervant. From a reſpectful Lover to his Miſtreſſ.

Dear Madam, I HAVE king ſtruggled with the moſt honourable and reſpectful paſſion that ever filled the bene of man: I have often tried to reveal it perſonally, as often in this way, but never, til now, could pre- vail upon my fears and doubts. But I cannot long- er ſtruggle with a ſecret that has given me to much torture to keep, and yer, hitherto, more than I have endeavoured to reveal it. I never en- tertain the hope to ſee you, without rapture : 'but, when I have that pleaſure, inſtead of being animat- ed as I ought, I am utterly confounded. What can this be owing to, but a diſſidence in myſelf, and an exalted opinion of your worthineſs? And is not this one ſtrong token of ardet love? Yes if it b<, how various is the tormenting paſſion of its operations ? Since ſome it inſpires with courage, while others is deprives of all neceſſary confidence. I can only aſſare you, madam, that the heart of never cui ceived a ſtronger, or ſinerer, paſſion than mine for you. If ny reverence for you is the crime, I am ſure it has been ny luficient puniſh- mcnt. I need not ſay my defigns and motives are honourable who dare approach fo much virtuous excellence, with a fuppetition that ſuch an aſſur- ance is neceſſary? Hoe feature files any. Condeſcead, madam, to en.bol- den my refpectful paſſion, with one favourable line;