N——, November 30, 19—.
My Dear Albert:—
A few weeks ago, when I promised that our marriage should take place in December, I fully intended to keep my word, but on consideration, feel compelled to ask you to let it be postponed for a few months longer. I have no good reason to urge for this delay—perhaps I am over-sensitive and anxious, but still, if you would agree to it I should be very grateful. It strikes me we entered upon our engagement rather hastily, and that I was persuaded against my better judgment to fix next month for our marriage. I think it will be better for both of us that we should endeavor to learn more of each other's tastes, and what each requires of the other. Your line of life is so decided that I wish to be certain it will suit me exactly, or that you would meet me in some degree with little concessions to my individual tastes. I have written to you out of the fullness of my heart, and trust you will not misunderstand me, or think I do not love you. My request is for a little more time, which I am sure you will not refuse me.
Believe me, dear Albert.
Your ever affectionate
Alice White.
243. From a Gentleman to his Fiancée, Complaining of Her Coldness.
S——, February 10, 19—.
Dearest Alva:—
Do you not realize how miserable you make me by the way you have acted recently? You cannot suppose it is very pleasant for me to see you, day after day, encouraging the attentions of other men. At the party last night you appeared to prefer every man in the room to myself as partner. If you acted in this way with the idea of arousing my jealousy, let me tell you it is a very dangerous game to play at; but I imagine nothing so flattering to myself was intended, and that a love of admiration and indifference to my feelings were the motives that actuated you. If this is the case, it would be best for both of us that our engagement should be at an end; if, however, you are able to assure me that you meant nothing by your thoughtless coquetry beyond the amusement of the moment, you shall never again hear a word of reproach from me on the subject, and I will trust you as fully as before.