With my sister's kind regards and mine, believe me, dear Mr. Lewis,
Very sincerely yours,
Margaret Sutter.
189. Answer to No. 187 (Unfavorable).
B——, January 17, 19—.
Dear Mr. Lewis:—
While sincerely grateful for the high compliment you pay me in asking me to be your wife, I cannot, to my regret, entertain your proposal. I like you very much indeed as a friend, but am quite sure I should not be happy with one so much older than myself. You would probably think me foolish if not frivolous, and I should very likely fear you more than love you. In a word, I should not be a suitable wife. Please do not think of me in that light, as it would not be for the happiness of either of us.
My sister thinks otherwise, and wished me to return a very different answer; but you are too good and kind for any one to marry you save from motives of affection.
With all good wishes, believe me,
Very sincerely yours,
Margaret Sutter.