’Tis absolutely another thing, my dear; and the first system of ethics I write, I will have a hundred pages on the subject.
Observe, my dear, I have not the least objection to your having a friendship for Fitzgerald. I am the best-natured creature in the world, and the fondest of increasing the circle of my husband’s innocent amusements.
A propos to innocent amusements, I think your fair sister-in-law an exquisite politician; calling the pleasures to Temple at home, is the best method in the world to prevent his going abroad in pursuit of them.
I am mortified I cannot be at your masquerade; it is my passion, and I have the prettiest dress in the world by me. I am half inclined to elope for a day or two.
Adieu! Your faithful
A. Fitzgerald.
LETTER CCXI.215.
To Captain Fitzgerald.
Bellfield, Nov. 12.
Please to inform the little Bell, I won’t allow her to spoil my Emily.
I enter a caveat against male friendships, which are only fit for ladies of the salamandrine order.