Have I not lost my amiable friend and associate! Will not her change of situation tend to lessen our intercourse, and alienate our affections?
When I contemplate the social circle, so firmly cemented in the bands of friendship, at the boarding school, where the most perfect harmony, ease and satisfaction presided, I recoil at the idea of becoming less dear, less interesting, and less necessary to each other. It is with the utmost reluctance that I admit the idea of rivals to that affection and benevolence which we have, so long, and so sincerely interchanged.
The charm however is broken. Harriot is already married; and my friends are extremely solicitous that I should follow her example. But in a connexion which requires so many precautions, before it is formed, and such uninterrupted circumspection and prudence afterwards; the great uncertainty of the event inspires me with timidity and apprehension.
Harriot put into my hands, and I read with pleasure, the book which you recommended to her on the subject. But still we wished for your instruction and advice. The sentiments of a person so dear and interesting to us, are particularly calculated to engage our attention, and influence our conduct. Relying, too, on your judgment and experience, your forming pen may render us more worthy objects of attachment.
We, however, unite in assuring you of our gratitude for all past favours; and in presenting our sincere regards to the young ladies.
I am, with great respect, your affectionate and grateful
LAURA GUILFORD.
To Miss LAURA GUILFORD.
Harmony-grove.
DEAR LAURA,