Page:Works of Thomas Carlyle - Volume 07.djvu/31

Rh Miss Dorothy received them with her blushes, with her smiles; the elder Mayors with ‘many civilities’: and the Marriage-treaty, as Mr. Stapylton reports, promises well.

1em

''Sir,—I received yours by Mr. Stapylton; together with an account of the kind reception and the many civilities afforded “to” them, —especially to my Son, in the liberty given him to wait upon your worthy Daughter. The report of whose virtue and godliness has so great a place in my heart, that I think fit not to neglect anything, on my part, which may consummate a close of the business, if God please to dispose the young ones’ hearts thereunto, and other suitable ordering “of” affairs towards mutual satisfaction appear in the dispensation of Providence.''

''For which purpose, and to the end matters may be brought to as near an issue as they are capable of;—not being at liberty, by reason of public occasions, to wait upon you, nor your health, as I understand, permitting it,—I thought fit to send this Gentleman, Mr. Stapylton, instructed with my mind, to see how near we may come to an understanding one of another therein. And although I could have wished the consideration of things had been between us two, it being of so near concernment,—yet Providence for the present not allowing, I desire you to give ham credence on my behalf.''

''Sir, all things which yourself and I had in conference, at Farnham, do not occur to my memory, through multiplicity of business intervening. I hope I shall with a very free heart testify my readiness to that which may be expected from me.''

I have no more at present: but desiring the Lord to order this affair to His glory and the comfort of His servants, I rest, Sir, your humble servant,

OLIVER CROMWELL.