I have often observed, in married folks, that, in a little while, the
lady grows careless in her dress; which, to me, looks as if she would
take no pains to secure the affection she had gained; and shews a slight
to her husband, that she had not to her lover. Now, you must know, this
has always given me great offence; and I should not forgive it, even in
my Pamela: though she would have this excuse for herself, that thousands
could not make, That she looks lovely in every thing. So, my dear, I
shall expect of you always to be dressed by dinner-time, except something
extraordinary happens; and this, whether you are to go abroad, or stay at
home. For this, my love, will continue to you that sweet ease in your
dress and behaviour, which you are so happy a mistress of; and whomsoever
I bring home with me to my table, you'll be in readiness to receive them;
and will not want to make those foolish apologies to unexpected visitors,
that carry with them a reflection on the conduct of those who make them;
and, besides, will convince me, that you think yourself obliged to appear
as graceful to your husband, as you would to persons less familiar to
your sight.
This, dear sir, said I, is a most obliging injunction; and I most
heartily thank you for it, and will always take care to obey it.
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