As we are beings formed for, and not capable of being happy without, society, it is the duty of every one to endeavor to make it as easy and agreable as they can; which is only to be done by such an attention to others as is consistent with what we owe to ourselves; all we give them in civility will be re-paid us in respect: insolence and ill-breeding are detestable to all mankind.
I long to see you, my dear Bell; the delight I have had in your society has spoiled my relish for that of meer acquaintance, however agreable.
’Tis dangerous to indulge in the pleasures of friendship; they weaken one’s taste too much for common conversation.
Yet what other pleasures are worth the name? what others have spirit and delicacy too?
I am preparing for the masquerade, which is to be the 18th; I am extremely disappointed you will not be with us.
My dress is simple and unornamented, but I think becoming and prettily fancied; it is that of a French paisanne: Lucy is to be a sultana, blazing with diamonds: my mother a Roman matron.
I chuse this dress because I have heard my dear Rivers admire it; to be one moment more pleasing in his eyes, is an object worthy all my attention.
Adieu!
Your faithful
Emily Rivers.
LETTER CCX.214.
To Mrs. Rivers, Bellfield, Rutland.