H——, November 14, 19—.
Dear Mr. Ormsby:—
I have certainly no reason to suspect that your professions of affection for myself are dictated from mercenary motives, and while declining your proposal I render full justice to your high principles; but I have no other feeling for you than that of mere friendship, and if anything in my manner has led you to think otherwise, I can only express my sincere regrets, and assure you that it was quite unintentional on my part.
I remain, dear Mr. Ormsby,
Truly yours,
Frances Stone Taylor.
195. Marriage Proposal from a Widower to a Young Lady.
I——, September 12, 19—.
My Dear Miss Cummings:—
Will you allow me to ask you a very serious question which nearly concerns my happiness, trusting you will be able to grant me a favorable answer? From what I have seen of your amiable disposition and gentleness, I feel sure that you would make me a sweet and loving wife and companion. Will you consent to this, and be the mother of my darling children? They are so young that at present they have hardly realized their loss. They have already learned to love you, and it is in your power to fill up the void that now exists both in my heart and home.
It is now two years since I suffered a loss which was then thought irreparable, but since we became acquainted, I have felt that there was yet happiness in store for me, if you would accept my love, none the less sincere because I have loved before, and mourned so deeply. Do not hesitate to tell me frankly whether the interest I have awakened in your heart is a feeling of regard for myself or merely one of compassion for my lonely condition. One word as regards my circumstances. Have a fairly good income, but this is a matter for your father's consideration, and I can satisfy him on this point. Shall I call and receive your answer to-morrow from yourself, or will you write to me? Perhaps the latter would be best.