Very sincerely yours,
Lucy Starr.
181. Answer to No. 179 (Unfavorable).
B——, May 3, 19—.
Dear Mr. Peabody:—
Your letter has occasioned me much pain, because I have but one answer to make to it. I wish for your sake it were otherwise, but you must only think of me as a friend.
Great as is the honor you have done me in asking me to become your wife, I must hold out no hope of such a possibility. Kindly accept this answer as final, and do not press me for a reason. I shall always value your friendship very highly, and trust that after a little time we may meet again as friends, and that you will forgive me for the disappointment of to-day, which I cause so unwillingly.
With best wishes for your happiness,
Believe me,
Very sincerely,
Lucy Starr.