I opened the letter to Monsieur Colbrand; which was in these words:--
'MONSIEUR,
'I am sure you'll excuse the trouble I give you. I have, for good
reasons, changed my mind; and I have besought it, as a favour, that Mrs.
Andrews will return to me the moment Tom reaches you. I hope, for the
reasons I have given her, she will have the goodness to oblige me. But,
if not, you are to order Robin to pursue his directions, and set her down
at her father's door. If she will oblige me in her return, perhaps
she'll give you a letter to her father, for some papers to be delivered
to you for her; which you'll be so good, in that case, to bring to her
here: But if she will not give you such a letter, you'll return with her
to me, if she please to favour me so far; and that with all expedition,
that her health and safety will permit; for I am pretty much indisposed;
but hope it will be but slight, and soon go off. I am 'Yours, etc.'
'On second thoughts, let Tom go forward with Mrs. Andrews's letter, if
she pleases to give one; and you return with her, for her safety.'
Now this is a dear generous manner of treating me. O how I love to be
generously used!--Now, my dear parents, I wish I could consult you for
your opinions, how I should act.
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