H——, March 1, 19—.
My Dear Mr. Black:—
I answer your kind and welcome letter at once. You have not mistaken my feelings: I have a great respect and esteem for you joined to a sincere affection, and from what I know of you, I feel sure you would make me a good and kind husband, and therefore have no hesitation in accepting your offer. Am very much flattered by your good opinion of me, and, as your wife, I will do everything in my power to continue to deserve it.
I hardly know what to say about being married at once, as I am very comfortable in my present situation, and putting by a little money every year; but, as you think of taking a boarding-house at once, I had better hear what you have to say before making up my mind either way.
Hoping to see you very soon,
I am, dear Tom, with kind love,
Your truly affectionate
Mary Baker.