But
when I can find, by your writings, that your virtue is but suitably
rewarded, it will be not only a good excuse for me, but for him, and make
me love you. There is nothing that I would not do, said I, to oblige
your ladyship; but my poor father and mother (who would rather have seen
me buried quick in the earth, than to be seduced by the greatest of
princes) have them in their hands at present; and your dear brother has
bespoken them, when they have done reading them: but, if he gives me
leave, I will shew them to your ladyship, with all my heart; not doubting
your generous allowances, as I have had his; though I have treated him
very freely all the way, while he had naughty views; and that your
ladyship would consider them as the naked sentiments of my heart, from
time to time delivered to those, whose indulgence I was sure of; and for
whose sight only they were written.
Give me a kiss now, said her ladyship, for your cheerful compliance: for
I make no doubt my brother will consent I shall see them, because they
must needs make for your honour; and I see he loves you better than any
one in the world.
I have heard, continued her ladyship, a mighty good character of your
parents, as industrious, honest, sensible, good folks, who know the
world; and, as I doubt not my brother's generosity, I am glad they will
make no ill figure in the world's eye.
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