[-... back to main menu-]

[-91-]

THE GENTLEMAN'S MODEL LETTER-WRITER.

Invitation to Dinner (Bachelor's).

The Albany, June 10th.

DEAR BROWNE,
    Will you dine with me at eight o'clock to. morrow? Some of our fellows are coming, and we mean to have a quiet game of whist in the course of the evening. Come if possible.
        Yours truly,
            ––   

Accepting.

Gower Street, June 18th.

DEAR ––,
    I will come without fail, and win your money if I can.
        Yours truly,
            ––

Invitation to Family Dinner.

Camden Town, March 4th

DEAR SMITH,
    Will you dine with us to-morrow? It is the old lady's birthday, and I can offer her no greater pleasure, I am sure, than your pleasant company. Do come if you can, there's a good fellow.
        Yours ever,
                ––

[-92-]

Accepting.

Russell Square, March 4th.

DEAR ––,
    I shall be delighted to accept your kind invitation for to-morrow, and offer my good wishes to your charming wife on her birthday.
        Yours ever,
            ––

Invitation to Family Dinner.

Medway Villas, June 8th.

DEAR CAPTAIN MAURICE,
    Will you favour Mrs. Trevor and myself with your company at dinner on Monday next at 6 o'clock? We expect General Hill and his wife, and think you may like to make their acquaintance.
    With our united regards,
        Believe me,
            Yours truly,
                ––

Invitation to a Croquet Party.

Havant, May 17th.

DEAR HOWARD,
    The girls talk of having a croquet party on Thursday next. Will you join it? We shall be delighted to see you if you can come. Little Totty desires me to add, that you must play on her side, because then she will be sure to be one of the winners.
        Ever yours most truly,
            ––

[-93-]

Accepting.

Havant, May 18th.

DEAR ––,
    I shall be delighted to join your croquet party. Pray offer my best respects to Miss Totty, and tell her I will do all I can to prove myself her obedient servant.
        Believe me, ever yours truly,
            HOWARD.

Declining.

Havant, May 18th.

DEAR ––,
    I regret extremely that I cannot accept your invitation, and put myself at Miss Totty's disposal for a game of croquet; but, unluckily, I am obliged to go to town to-morrow, and shall not return till Monday week.
        Yours ever,
            ––

From a Gentleman, accepting an Invitation, though suffering from illness (temporary).

Hampstead, May 4th.

DEAR MRS. THURGOOD,
    I have been laid up with neuralgia for some days, and have not yet recovered from it. I will, however, accept your kind invitation for Saturday text, and hope to be able to come.
    With kind regards to yourself and sister, 
        I remain,
           Yours very truly,
                WALTER BOSSORA.

[-94-]

A Gentleman regretting he cannot accept an Invitation.

The Albany, February 1st, 187–– 

MY DEAR MADAM,
    Thank you very much for thinking of me on Saturday. I should have liked to have joined your party immensely, but I go to Ventnor that afternoon, and am therefore unable to have the pleasure of accepting your very kind invitation.
    My mother and sisters have gone to Beaumaris; they left on Wednesday, and on the same day out friends the Boscawens returned to Ventnor. I hope to reach that truly lovely place on Saturday. Although a month has elapsed since the last year left us, I must send you and your sister all good old-fashioned New Year's wishes, hearty and sincere; Will you both accept them? And with many thanks, repeated, for your kind note,
        Believe, me,
            Dear Mrs. B––,
                Your sincere friend,
                    HENRY ROSS.

Invitation to a Gentleman to Row in a Boat. 

Chester, June 18th, 187––

DEAR GEORGE,
    Will you join three friends and myself on Saturday next for a row up the river? You are a capital stroke, and we wish to get into the way of pulling a longer stroke than we have at present: little Jerry will steer us. Do not say No. We will finish the evening at the ––, where I have ordered supper.
        Yours sincerely,
            BEDFORD PRICE.

[-95-]

Accepting.

Rock Terry, June 19th, 187–– 

DEAR BEDFORD,
    I fancy you have formed too good an idea of my performance as a stroke oar; however, if you think I can be of any use to your crew, I will readily do my best. I shall sleep in Chester, so we need not hurry in returning from our practice.
        Yours sincerely,
            GEORGE SHEEPSHANKS.

Invitation to a Bachelor Party.

Kidderminster, February, 187–– 

DEAR FELLOWS,
    Yesterday I met Donovan and our four other old friends, who are here for a few days; they are coming to dine with me to-morrow at seven. I know it is some years since you met them; I hope you will make one of our party.
        Believe me
            Yours sincerely,
                F. CUNNINGHAM.

Accepting the same.

Hill House, Kidderminster, Feb. 187–– 

DEAR CUNNINGHAM,
    It will afford me the very greatest pleasure to dine with you to-morrow at seven. It is many years since I met those you mention, but I have a vivid recollection of passing many pleasant hours in their society and companionship.
        Believe me,
            Yours sincerely,
                HARRY FELLOWS.

[-96-]

Invitation to a Gentleman to a Friendly Dinner.

Dunland Place, Oct. 1st, 187–– 

DEAR HINDMARSH,
    I heard by the merest accident, yesterday evening, that you were in town. Will you come and dine with us to-morrow? You know our time, but I may as well remind you that it is seven o'clock. I met J. F––, and our intimate friend from the north, yesterday. They will be here, and we shall have little music in the evening, when I hope your tenor voice will be in its usual power and sweetness. All join in best regards,
        Yours very sincerely,
            –– 

Postponing a Visit

Greenfield, October 10th.

MY DEAR GEORGE, 
    I regret extremely that we are obliged to ask you to postpone your visit till next month.
    We cannot get the house at Brighton for which we were in treaty, till that time, and our present abode is so small that we are unable to offer a bedroom to a friend.
    I trust this delay will not inconvenience you. It is a great disappointment to us, as we longed equally for the sea and your company.
    My wife unites with me in kind remembrances.
        I am ever.
            Yours very truly,
                –– 

[-97-]

Same.

The Beeches, Sydenham, November 6th.

MY DEAR TOM,
    I am sure you will be truly grieved to hear that the sudden and dangerous illness of my mother will oblige me to postpone our dinner party fixed for the 17th.
    I hope to give you better news shortly, and renew my invitation.
        Truly yours,
            –– 

Invitation to be "Best Man" at a Wedding.

Reading, May 6th.

DEAR TOM,
    I intend to be "turned off" next Tuesday week! Will you attend on the mournful occasion as "best man?"
    Seriously, I am to be married to my charming little Ada on the ––, and I look for your presence at our bridal as the completion of my happiness, for then the man and woman I love best will unite in confirming my happiness.
        Always yours,
            –– 

Same.

Liphook, May 6th.

DEAR JOHN,
    Julia has consented to our marriage on the 15th inst., and I scribble a line to remind you of your promise to be "best man" on the occasion. Marriage is [-98-] supposed sometimes to separate bachelor friendships, but such will not be the case in my instance, my dear fellow. Julia has a great regard for you, and is too sensible and good to interfere between us with petty jealousies.
    I am awfully happy, Jack! Wish me joy, and
        Believe me
            Ever your true friend,
                –– 

Accepting.

The Albany, May 7th.

DEAR ––,
    I shall be delighted to assist at the important event fixed for the ––, and beg to offer my best congratulations to Miss –– and yourself on your approaching happiness.
    I intend to offer as my wedding gift a drawing-room clock. My object in naming this intention to you is that, if you are likely to receive a similar gilt from any other friend, you will tell me so, and I will exchange it for something else, as duplicate gifts are a great bore.
        Ever, dear Hal,
            Your true old friend,
                   JOHN

Invitation to join a Party to the Derby.

Knightsbridge, May 22.

DEAR NORRIS,

Three of our fellows have agreed to go to the Derby together in a drag, and we shall be very glad if you will make a fourth. Jervis drives.
    Don't refuse, old fellow; we shall have a jolly day, and I shall enjoy it doubly if you go with us.
        Yours truly,
             ––

Same.

Green Bank, May 23rd.

DEAR REID,
    Will you accompany a party of us to-morrow to the Derby?
    Let me have an answer by bearer, and take care that it is in the affirmative.
        Yours ever,
            ––

Accepting.

London, May 23rd.

DEAR GEORGE,
    I shall have much pleasure in accompanying you to the Derby. Let me know, please, the hour at which you start.
    I am, ever,
        Yours truly,
            J. REID.

Refusing.

London, May 23rd.

DEAR BOB,
    it is awfully unlucky, but I am obliged to go to Chester on the Derby day, and can't do as I desire. I wish you a pleasant trip.
        I am ever, yours truly,
            ––

[-100-]

Love-letter from a Gentleman to a Lady.

The Temple, June 4th.

DEAREST,
    Days have passed by now since we have had the pleasure of a few moments' conversation even; how these hours have dragged their slow pace along you and I alone can tell. It is only when we are left to the peaceful enjoyment of our own society that time flies. It may be that to-morrow at Mrs. E.'s we shall have a little time alone. We all dine there; she told me she should have a dance also, and that your mamma had promised her your sister and yourself should be of the party. May I ask for the first waltz? I send a few flowers, but I imagine you will only wear one, the rose in your hair; your sister is always pleased with a bouquet, so I shall not be very angry if you let her have them, only wear my rose.
        Your own
            EDWARD.

A Sailor to his Sweetheart.

H.M.S. Centaur, June 14th, 187–– 

MY DEAR FANNY,
    You are never out of my mind. If you only think of me half as much, I shall be satisfied. Sleeping or waking it is all the same, Fanny, you are my only thought. What have you done with your piece of the half-sovereign we cut in halves? I have bored a hole in mine, and wear it round my neck on a bit of blue ribbon, to show that your William is true blue. Do you wear yours the same, my dearest Fanny? When I come home we will splice the halves, and Fanny and her William will be one––will we not, darling girl? [-101-] Our cruise will now soon be over; I only hope, Fanny, you have been as true to mc as I have been to you, never have I ceased thinking of you. Bear in mind your faithful William, who loves you as fondly as ever.
        Your devoted lover,
            WILLIAM.

Gentleman's reply to the Lady, imagining he was indifferent to her.

Gillingham, April 16th, 187–– 

DEAREST LOVE,
    Such I must and will, with your permission, always call you. Your letter really caused me much uneasiness. But, Dr. B., who came in just as it arrived, strictly forbade me to excite myself in anyway, and would not allow me to reply to it immediately, as ho feared an immediate return of my old heart complaint. Who can have been so mischievous, so ungenerous, so deter. mined to make two hearts miserable, as to invent this wicked story of my flirtation with Miss G.? You name Mrs. G. On inquiring of her this morning I find she heard it somewhere spoken of, she says, but cannot recall to her mind the person who mentioned it. Let me at once and for ever disabuse you of such a suspicion. My affection for you is unchanged and unchangeable; often and often I have by letter and verbally too, pledged myself that you alone, Katie dearest, were my only thought, my only joy. Banish all vain suspicions from your mind. Trust in me; I will never deceive you; say love is inviolably yours; for you I breathe, for you I live, without you I should die. Believe me, dearest, night and day you are [-102-] uppermost in my thoughts, and a sad, sad day it would be for me if for one moment you withdrew that confidence in me that I have so long happily possessed. Believe no aspersions against one who loves you madly. The time, I trust, will soon arrive when I can call you mine alone, and no breath of suspicion shall ever fall upon my fidelity. Love me then, my dearest, as your own heart dictates; have no cares in future as to any attention even in the least degree being shown by me to any one, further than due civility, or what is required from the usages of society, exacts. To-morrow I will do myself the pleasure of calling, and trust then to succeed (if not successful now) in fully explaining away any doubts or fears you may entertain.
        Believe me,
            Dearest Katie,
                Your ever affectionate,
                      –– 

From a Gentleman to a Lady with whom he is in love.

Braintree, Essex.

DEAR MISS ––,
    As no opportunity has presented itself at speaking to you lately alone, I venture to address you by letter, and I assure you my happiness greatly depends on the reply with which you may deign to favour me.
    I love you, dear Miss ––, very sincerely, and if you can return my affection and become my wife, I shall consider myself the most fortunate of men.
    The income which I can place at your disposal is not large, but in my family you will find the most tender and affectionate connexions. My mother (to [-103-] whom alone I have confided my secret) is rejoiced at the hope of having you for a daughter. Do not, best beloved Miss John stone, disappoint her and myself! Should you not reject me––if I am ever so happy as to call you my wife––the tenderest and most affectionate devotion shall be yours, and the principal and only study of my future days shall be to render your life as happy as you deservedly merit it should be. Your reply is most impatiently awaited by one whose life is wrapped up in yours. My aunt has just called, and it appears that some years since she was very intimately acquainted with your father, to whom I have written, enclosing this note for you, and stating to him the purport of its contents.
        I remain,
            Dear Miss Johnstone,
                Yours very truly,
                    HARRY CLINTON.

From a Soldier ordered Abroad, to his affianced Bride.

Portsmouth, April 15th, 187–– 

DEAREST JULIA,

I can scarcely compose myself to write, for this very morning, at mid-day parade, a telegram was received by our commanding officer directing the regiment to hold itself under orders for immediate foreign service; so that of course I shall be prevented seeing you before our departure, as all leave is stopped for officers as well as for the non-commissioned officers and men. Where our future destination may be no one can at present conjecture, but we think it may be Canada. How blighted now are our hopes I where all [-104-] seemed bright and joyous, nothing is left but separation and blank despair. Julia, you love me; you are mine, are you not, dear Julia? Although separated for a time, we shall love each other faithfully ; no doubts must arise, no feelings of suspicion or fear between us; but firm in the knowledge that we are devotedly attached to each other, and that nothing can change the ardent feelings we entertain, we must wait and hope. I trust in a few short years, my darling Julia, to call you mine. Your Ronald will be true to his promise and his love, and in faith that his Julia will bear up bravely, as a soldier's destined wife should do, he obeys his country's call in anguish but not in despair. Accept the little present I send you (forwarded by registered letter by this evening's post), and with most affectionate and enduring love, 
        Believe me,
            My dearest Julia,
                Your ever devoted,
                    RONALD DUGAN.

From a Gentleman to a Young Lady.

Snow Hill, January 1st, 187–– 

DEAR ROSY,
    On returning from skating yesterday afternoon, and reflecting alone on the pleasant morning we had passed, I was more than ever impressed with my wretched solitary existence. Will you break for inc this monotonous routine of life by saying, "It need not be, Charlie."
    I have loved you fondly and long; your parents and mine are intimate friends; they know my private cha-[-105-]racter. Will you accept me as your husband, dearest Rosy?
        Believe me,
            Your ever fondly attached,
                CHARLIE BYERS.

From a Husband to his Wife, on sailing from England.

H.M.S. Psyche, June 8th.

MY DEAREST WIFE,
    I take the opportunity of the pilot's return to send you a hurried and last farewell. Oh, my dearest, what but duty could reconcile me to leaving you? What but the certainty that we are both protected by our Heavenly Father could support me through the weary days and nights which I am destined to spend far from you? Ah! the waves that are now washing the sides of our vessel will soon cease to beat upon that shore where my wife, where my friends are all thinking of me.
    Farewell my dearest wife; be assured I am in good health and tolerable spirits.
    Comfort yourself, my dearest! we shall all meet soon and happily again. I have not time to write to my mother, but pray tell her she is always in my thoughts. God bless you, dearest !––my heart is full of you.
        Ever your devoted husband,
            H.P.

From a Husband absent on Business to his Wife. 

The Fens, Lincolnshire, June 1st, 187–– 

DEAREST ISABELLA,
    This is the first time, my darling, we have aver experienced the bitterness and misery of separa-[-106-]tion, and the few days I have already been absent from you appear like years. What my state of mind will be at the expiration of another two or three weeks I will let your little affectionate heart conjecture. But I must not be selfish, my dearest Isa. You share my trial, but do not be down-hearted, the time will soon pass away. You must go out and visit the nice friends near you. Your dear kind mother also is within an easy walk, I am glad to think.
    Roger Hughes is going to stay with his family for some little while; I do not care much about him (you remember we met him at ––). He is certain to call upon you, but it will be just as well not to be at home to him always. Hoping to return in a fortnight, I remain, with very best love to your mother and yourself,
        Your ever affectionate husband,
            JOSIAH WEBB.

From a Father to his Son beginning the World.

Hampstead, May 6th, 187––

MY DEAREST SON, 
    Separated as you will shortly be from your childhood's home––for many years, perhaps––and not having your poor old father to consult and obtain advice from, when any difficulties may arise, you will naturally be inclined to appeal to those among your acquaintances whom you may consider from intimate association as entitled to the name of friends.
    Now this is a matter in which you must observe the very greatest caution and discrimination; a mistake made in selecting a friend and acting up to his advice, is a fatal one, and no one can for a moment form an [-107-] idea of the consequences which may arise from it. In the first place, do not seek the friendship of the "fast young man" whose sole thought is to gratify himself in the enjoyment of this world's pleasures, without any regard to the misery or disgrace his conduct may be entailing on a happy, innocent family. Make friends of those who, by their actions, have raised themselves in the estimation of their superiors, and are regarded with eyes of jealous admiration by their equals. Remember the old proverb, "Tell who are your friends, and I will tell you what you are."
    I hope, dear boy, your own good sense will lead you to avoid bad companions. Should you ever (which I trust may never be the case) be tempted to do anything contrary to the laws of honour or of duty, question yourself thus: " Should I do this in my father's house? should I act thus in my mother's presence ?" The answer will be the best talisman to keep you from falling in your combat with the world.
    We have great hopes in you, my dear son. Never omit to write to your dear mother and myself, when you possibly can; and with our best and fondest love,
        Believe me,
            Ever your affectionate father,
                –– 

From a Son who has misconducted himself towards his Employer, to his Father.

Eastcheap, November 18th, 187––

DEAR FATHER, 
    I am in such distress I scarcely know how to commence my letter. Without the least reason, without the least provocation, I left my master at the most [-108-] busy season, just for a temporary, trifling amusement. He –– the best of masters –– for the moment was forgotten by me: self predominated. I ran away from my service, and here I find myself disgraced and miserable, and grieve to think how indescribably shocked you will be when Mr. Evans communicates with you relative to my absence. However, dear father, there is one consolation: I cannot be accused of dishonesty; so I hope my character is not irretrievably ruined. Will you see my master, and tell him how deeply I regret my fault, and entreat him to forgive me? It shall hereafter be my constant study to perform my duty in the most upright manner, and with the most assiduous attention. Let me hear also, dear father, in sending me Mr. Evans's reply, that you also forgive
        Your erring, but heartbroken son,
            H.H.H.

The Father's Answer.

Bedhampton, November 21st, 187–– 

MY DEAR SON,
    Words cannot express my grief at the receipt of your letter. How can you so soon have forgotten all the home lessons of duty you have learned? What society can you have mingled in to have caused you to be guilty of such folly? I have seen your master, and read him your letter; and he agrees with myself that from the manner you have acted in immediately informing me of your position, it is probable you may, in an untoward moment, have been induced to commit an act which you will never cease to regret. It is your first offence, and he bids me say he rejoices that [-109-] you are sensible of your grievous error, and he will allow you to return, and never mention what has occurred to you. Never, dear son, forget yourself again, be grateful to your master, who is charity itself; and 
        Believe me,
            Your affectionate father,
                –– 

A Father applying to a Principal of a School to ascertain Terms, &c.

Hopwood House, June 16th, 187––

SIR,
    Being desirous of sending my son, aged thirteen, to school, my friends have strongly recommended me to apply to you on the subject.
    I should be glad to learn your terms, and to be informed as to your plan of tuition.
    Will you favour me with a prospectus of your School, and also inform me whether you have a vacancy?
        I remain,
            Yours faithfully,
                –– 

To a Child who has being guilty of telling a Falsehood.

Brecon, May 14th, 187–– 

MY DEAR SAMUEL,
    I was much grieved to find after you had left us in the early part of the week, that the replies you gave me relative to your acquaintance with the L––s were utterly at variance with the truth. Little did I think you would ever deceive us, when such confidence [-110-]  has been always placed in you. Why did you try to deceive me by a falsehood?
    Let me entreat of you never again to deviate from the truth; should you do so you will soon obtain a character as an untrustworthy person, and no one will believe you, even when you speak the truth. Every one will shun you, as they will always suspect that you are trying to deceive them; even when you are acting rightly they will look upon you with suspicion.
    Have you forgotten that Truth is the point of honour in a gentleman, and that no one can tell a falsehood and retain the character of one?
    I cannot tell you the shame I felt when I discovered your untruth; I felt degraded by it.
    Strive to retrieve your character in the future, by perfect truthfulness and a high sense of what honour requires from you.
    Till I believe that you feel the enormity ot your fault I cannot sign myself other than
        Your afflicted father,
               –– 

Urging a Son to relinquish the Naval Profession.

Upton, June 12th, 187–– 

DEAR FREDERICK,
    Your letter of the 1st, informing me that you had determined to remain in your present profession, caused me great distress. If you wish to add some little portion of comfort to the last years of a father's life, which your headstrong passions have already greatly embittered, you will immediately relinquish it. Remember you are the only representative our family. [-111-] Why then persist in remaining in a profession wherein you are exposed to constant and imminent danger?
    I wish you to marry, and hope to see you settle down and discharge the duties of your position in society as a country gentleman; you have ample means at your disposal now, as the whole of your late uncle's property is yours. Concede a little to your father, whose only desire is to see his name honourably upheld, his family perpetuated, in the county in which we are now so much respected. Age is creeping on me, Frederick, I am widowed and alone. I trust this appeal will not be made in vain. You know my deep and lasting affection for you; do not wound it by a refusal. Awaiting with great anxiety your determination,
        Believe me,
            Your affectionate father,
                –– 

Reply.

H.M.S. Psyche, June 19th.

MY DEAR FATHER,
    Dearly as I love my noble profession, I am unable to resist your last earnest appeal, and agree therefore to give up my commission, and return to a life on land. The pang this resolution costs me is softened by the remembrance that I may thus hope to ensure the happiness of so good a father.
    I shall shortly return to you, and will endeavour in all things to prove
        Your most dutiful and affectionate son,
            –– 

[-112-]

A Letter from a Father to a Son at School, on the necessity of attention to his Studies.

Mudiford, January 28th, 187–– 

MY DEAR BOY,
    Now you have returned to school it is my duty to point out to you how absolutely necessary it is for your future success that you should persevere in your studies, more especially if you wish to leave college (for which you are destined) with honour. Do not be carried away with the natural love of ease and pleasure, but accustom yourself at once to really hard work. If you cannot reconcile yourself to do so in your youth you will be unable to do so as you grow older, and you will become incapable of achieving anything great. Application may be difficult at first, but when once you have accustomed yourself to it you will find study pleasant, easy, and agreeable, and in years to come you will be well repaid for the toil and trouble you now undergo. What can be pleasanter than to find yourself at the head of your school, leaving all competitors behind? what more gratifying than to give pleasure to your father and mother, and to obtain the admiration and approval of your teachers? That, dear boy, will be your reward if you study constantly and patiently; but if you neglect the opportunities offered to you now, your future life will be nothing but disquietude, and you will grow up ignorant, and be despised. Pay attention to my advice, and work in the morning of your days. With your mother's best love and mine,
        Believe me,
            Your ever affectionate father,
                 R. R

[-113-]

Reply to a Letter from a young Man informing his Uncle he had contracted Debts.

Soltney, March 4th, 187–– 

MY DEAR NEPHEW,
    I was indeed deeply grieved on the receipt of your letter to find you had forgotten, or at least not acted up to the advice I gave you––to pay for everything you purchased at once, and not to go into debt on any account. I must put things before you now in a plain unvarnished manner, and give you my opinion, formed after many years' experience. The man who contracts debts which he is unable to pay, more especially for articles of useless luxury, is much more culpable than the poor creature who, distracted by all the miseries of his starving family at home, rushes into the first shop he sees and steals something to relieve their necessities.
    When men find themselves encumbered with debts which they are unable to pay, mean subterfuges are resorted to; applications for delay of payment are made––and granted, without any good result; the final crash comes at last: the patience and temper of the tradesmen become exhausted, they have recourse to their legal remedy, and wretchedness and beggary are the result.
    It may be that you have been endeavouring to keep pace with some young man of greater fortune than your own. Be not led away by such absurd vanity. The largest income will be and has been squandered, unknown as it were to its possessor, solely from the crime (and a great one too it is) of running into debt. I regret that I cannot assist you at present with the loan you request, and remain
        Your affectionate uncle,
                T. H. P

[-114-]

Acknowledging a Letter of Congratulation on the Birth of a Child.

Duke Street, St. James's, Dec. 24th, 187–– 

DEAR –– ,
    Thanks for your kind letter and good wishes. I am happy to say that my wife and the baby are going on well. I have told Mrs. Compton about Mr. Denvile; she is glad to hear so good an account of him. Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy New Year,
        Believe me,
            Yours sincerely.
                D. W.

From a Child, acknowledging the receipt of the Present of a Book.

Ramsden Hall, January 18th, 187–– 

MY DEAR MRS.
    Thank you very much for the beautiful book you have sent me. It is very pretty and nice, and I like it very much. I long to see you again. I have been out driving this morning in the pony carriage. There is a hard frost. With best love to Dr. G. and yourself, 
                I remain,
    Your most affectionate little friend,
            R.D.A.

From a Father to a Son, relative to his Expenditure.

Hackney, March 6th, 187––

MY DEAR SON,
    Your last letter gave us pleasure not unmixed with pain: pleasure to learn that you were [-115-] well, and held in esteem by your superiors, and on friendly terms with those of your own standing; and pain from the request which it contained. Your mother, like myself, feels grieved that you should ask for an additional allowance. You should consider that you have brothers and sisters for whom I have also to make a provision, and that if the allowance I now give you (which is considered large) be increased, it must deprive us all of some of our necessary comforts. You must reflect on this, dear boy, and then I am well assured that you will not urge your request. I will, however (for this once alone, understand me), make you a present of Thirty Pounds. Your own good sense, I am certain, will show you the necessity of retrenchment, so I shall not allude to the matter further. The presents you sent us each by last mail are much appreciated and treasured by us.
    We are going to move from this neighbourhood, as we find it too expensive; when next you write, therefore, address to Durnford Street.
    Your brother Fred is going to be married, but will live near us. His future wife is a daughter of Mr. Passmore, and at his death she will have about 2000l.; at present he will make her an allowance of 80l. per annum.
    All your pets are well, and we guard them jealously for your sake. Trusting you will remain some time at Shopoo, as it agrees with you so well, and that we may constantly hear from you,
        Believe me, with our united kindest love, 
            Your affectionate father,
                H. V. ROSSITER.

[-116-]

From one Brother to another on having unexpectedly amassed a Fortune.

Natal, S. Africa, February 1st, 187–– 

DEAR WILLIAM,
    You are well aware that when I sailed from England a few years ago, after paying my passage out I had but a very few pounds left; but I soon got good employment, and saved out of my wages all that I possibly could. I never was very fond of company, and have no expensive habits; so at the end of two years I found myself with 30l. to my credit in the bank. When the report came here of diamonds being found up the country, I started off, bag and baggage, and on my arrival got an allotment, and went to work with a hearty good will. For many a weary day I toiled, giving myself little time for rest. At last I was rewarded: among the washings I found a diamond, a small one, yet what a treasure I thought it! On and on I toiled––some weeks with success, and others with none; however, my labours have been successful I have been fortunate enough to find diamonds, which, when valued, have realized the handsome sum of £––
    Tell my dearest mother that now she will never want. I am coming home, and shall invest for her sole use during her lifetime £––. 
    Will you, dear William, look out for a good school for my little sister? She must be nine years of age now. Ask the clergyman's wife to recommend you one. I wish her to be educated as a lady, and she shall have the £–– at my mother's death. How I wish our poor father had lived to derive some comfort from my fortune! You shall have 100l. paid to your credit to [-117-] provide the things Jane will require on going to school, and to pay for the first half-year's expenses there. I hope to be borne in six months, when I will take a suitable house for our dear mother. If you will accept it from me, I make you a present of £––; with the remainder of my earnings I shall purchase a nice property, so that I may be certain my money will be secure, for were I to speculate I might lose all.
    With best love, and hoping shortly to see you happy and well,
        Believe me,
            Your affectionate brother,
                ANGUS McDONALD.

From a Gentleman in India to a Relation in England.

Camp, Booltan, Feb. 1st, 187–– 

MY DEAR ––,
    Many thanks for your last letter, which arrived some three weeks ago. We never received the letter to which you allude, containing the photographs; and I am very sorry it went astray, for we should have liked so much to have them. I hope, if you have other copies, that you will kindly send them to us when you next write.
    We both desire to thank you for your kind and cordial reception of dear Richard. He wrote and told us how warmly you received him, and how pleased and gratified he was to see you. I trust he will come to see you again on his return from Devon, where he was when we last heard from him. We miss him terribly, and look forward anxiously to meeting him out here again next year, if, please God, we are all spared. James, his wife, and children are living down [-118-] at Cheltenham. 1 wonder if there is any chance of your meeting? Sarah Maria is in Cornwall, but they took a house for a term of years near Watford, and will be back there, certainly before Christmas; she had no idea you were in London, and I must tell her of it when I next write to her. We are now in camp, marching about the district; of course I do my office as usual in tents every day––a happy, gipsy kind of life––and dearest Sophie and the little ones always enjoy it. Give my kindest love to Emma and Blanche. I have been intending to write to Emma, and I will really write soon; but in the hot weather one feels terribly indisposed for letter-writing, and I have quite quill-work enough to do every day. Our kindest love to yourself and Horace, and to Jane and Sophia; and many kisses from our little darling.
    Always your very affectionate cousin,
        HAROLD SOTHERN.

A Father, who has lately lost his Wife, to his Daughter at School.

Woburn, July 20th.

MY DARLING CHILD,
    I was very pleased and comforted by your last affectionate letter. Bitterly indeed do I miss you! Had I given way to my own selfish wishes, I think I should not have allowed you to return to school. Your dear aunt, however, who is now looking carefully after my domestic affairs, showed me so plainly that by keeping you at home I should be depriving you of the advantages of education, that I sacrificed my feelings for your sake. On reflection, also, I hoped that you would find some little consolation and comfort from [-119-] association with young ladies of your own age, for here all is cheerless and dreary. The void caused by your dear mother's death can never be refilled; my home is truly desolate. It would have been wrong to keep you at home to share my grief, and thus uselessly add bitterness to your younger years. Do not grieve too tong and bitterly, my child, for your dearly loved mother; imitate her in every action of her life; and when Time has slightly moderated your poor father's sorrow, and you are in charge of his home and your own, things may be brighter and more cheerful again.
    Pray write to me soon, and
        Believe me,
            Your ever affectionate father,
                ––

A Parent to his Daughter at Service.

Farndon, March 1st, 187–– 

MY DEAR DAUGHTER,
    When you left home for service, you were so young and inexperienced that we were most anxious as to your welfare. We are truly thankful to find from your letter, received a few days ago, that you are in a place that is likely to prove comfortable. I need not give you much advice as to obedience, for you have always been, both to your mother and myself, a most obedient and dutiful child. Your mistress is very kind in showing you how to perform your duties. Be attentive, and grateful to her for such kindness.
    Do not make acquaintances too hurriedly; never stay out later than the hour appointed for you to be at home; and on no account whatever admit any one into the house, without first obtaining leave from your [-120-] mistress. Never miss an opportunity of attending Divine worship. Write to us as often as you can; and with the love of your mother and myself, 
        Believe me, your affectionate father,
            JOSEPH HODGES.

From a Father to his Son, who has been complaining of the severity of his Master.

Putney, March, 187–– 

MY DEAR FREDERICK,
    I was very sorry indeed to find from your last that you were not satisfied with your place, and that your master was always finding fault with you. You must not imagine that in doing so he is at all cruel or severe; but, having a great interest in your future welfare, he wishes, whilst there is yet time, to correct the faults he sees you commit. It is not with you that he is angry; it is with the faults and errors he sees you fall into. It is for your good, believe me, my dear Fred, that he speaks; and in after years you will look with gratitude and respect on Mr. C––, who now appears to you to be harsh and unkind. With out fondest love, hoping you are well, and that you will become more contented soon,
        Believe me,
            Your ever affectionate father,
                ––

A Letter of Condolence.

Hampton Road, April 4th, 187––

MY DEAR J––N,
    I sincerely commiserate you in this your fearful and awful visitation. Sad indeed it is to lose [-121-] your wife and your expected child in one short moment! Your dear wife, we are well aware (as far as human beings can form a judgment of the lives of their fellow creatures) was in every act, deed, and word a true Christian. Your account of her death is deeply touching; but how grateful you must have felt to have seen her so resigned and happy in the thought that, although her loss would cast a shadow on your life on earth, you would meet her hereafter in that better world, where no trouble or sorrow is to be found. She was good in every acceptation of the term: her charities (so unostentatiously dispensed), her cheerful willingness to relieve any real distress, her talents and charms, endeared her to all. Naturally you must deeply grieve for the loss of one so dear and excellent. You have again another source of grief in the loss of your child, dear J––, and at present all consolation must seem to you impossible; but God has ordained that Time shall bring comfort and soothing for all earthly sorrows, and to its healing influence we must leave you. As soon as you feel equal to the journey, come to us, and stay as long as you feel inclined. We will walk and ride together. There is great healing in Nature, and open––air exercise––I speak from experience––does as much as reason and philosophy in soothing a great grief.
    My wife unites with me in best regards and truest sympathy.
        I am ever
            Dear J––––,
                Yours most truly,
                    ––

To a Gentleman whose Brother is dangerously Ill, offering him Consolation and Comfort.

MY DEAR ––,
    Every morning we listen for the post with the greatest anxiety, trusting that it will bring us better news of your dear brother. The accounts yesterday gave us a very lively idea of your situation, while you are expecting so critical and dangerous an hour as that which you have in view. We deeply feel for you, yet we know you are and will be supported. We pray for you and your brother, and we know and believe that He on whom we call is rich in mercy and mighty to save. We see many around us who have been restored from the very gates of the grave when every human effort has proved ineffectual. This gives us hopes that our supplications may terminate in praises for your dear brother's restoration to health.
    Yours most truly,
        ––

Giving Information about Trains.

Chatham, June 3rd.

MY DEAR ––,
    We were all very glad to find on Martha's return yesterday that you would come on Saturday, and we trust we may induce you to stay until Monday.
    I enclose you a list of the departure and arrival of the trains. The launch takes place at three o'clock, but (if you can manage it) you had better come early, that you may have a rest after your journey. Let us know at what time you propose leaving London, and we will meet you at the station. It appears to me [-123-] the one leaving at 10.30, and arriving at 11.30, is the best, as you will only be an hour on the road. However, let us know.
    We unite in kindest love to all, and best regards to A––
        Your affectionate brother,
            ––    

Leave Victoria.      Arrive at Chatham
9.15                            11.2
10.30                          11.30
11.35                           1.15
12.30                           1.36

From a Gentleman applying for Sittings or a Pew in a Parish Church, in the Country.

Wales, October 18th, 187–– 

DEAR SIR,
    I should feel much obliged if you would use your influence with the churchwardens to procure me a pew or sittings for myself and family in the Parish Church. I need not point out to you the inconvenience arising from not having one allotted to me. I purposed making a formal application to the churchwardens, but being a stranger to them all, I believe a word from you would procure them for me. For some weeks I have been confined to the house from indisposition, or I would have done myself the pleasure of making my request in person.
        I remain,
            Dear Sir,
                Very truly yours,
The Rev. ––

[-124-]

A Gentleman applying to an Agent at a Watering- place for Lodgings.

Thickset Lodge, Howbury, May 1st, 187–– 

SIR,
    Wishing to leave my house in the country for some months in the summer, I should feel obliged if you would inform me whether there would be much difficulty in obtaining furnished apartments at ––. I am well aware that at some of the towns on the South Coast (especially at this time, when a demonstration of our naval forces is to be made) it may be difficult to find them. You know the place well, and also about the terms I generally give.
    If you have received my rent from Dr. , please forward it at your convenience, and let me know if any repairs are required at the house.
        Yours faithfully,
            ––

Reply.

Marchsea, May 4th, 187–– 

SIR,
    In reply to your letter, I beg to inform you that all the best lodgings here are occupied, and I fear that I cannot find any which would suit you.
    I enclose a cheque for your rent, and am happy to inform you that no repairs are required at present at Bellevue.
        I remain,
            Sir,
                Your obedient servant,
                    ––

[-125-] 

An Application for a Donation to a Charitable Institution in the Country, such as Coal and Blanket Club and Soup Kitchen.

Hampton, December 1st, 187–– 

SIR,
    Having taken great interest in forming a club for providing coals and blankets, and also in establishing a soup kitchen for the poor in this town, I venture to request your charitable co-operation. I enclose you a prospectus, which will enable you at one glance to see to what extent any donation you may send will entitle you to recommend families who by misfortune or sickness are unfortunately compelled to solicit relief.
        I remain,
            Yours obediently,
                    ––

Letter in reply, enclosing a Donation. 

Hampton, December 4th, 187––

SIR,
    I am much pleased to find the interest you take in the suffering poor at this inclement season is so great. Your prospectus is very satisfactory; but as I am well assured that all cases of a really deserving nature must be fully known to you, I must request you to distribute as you please the number of tickets to which I am entitled for the cheque for 10l. which I enclose.
        I remain,
            Sir,
                Yours obediently,
                    ––

[-126-]

Reply, unfavourable, to an application for a Donation.

Belfield, January 1st, 187–– 

DEAR SIR,
    In acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 22nd, soliciting a subscription to assist you in your charitable efforts for relieving the many distressed poor in your neighbourhood, I regret extremely to have to reply that it is out of my power to help you. Prior to the receipt of your application I had made arrangements to supply some poor families with soup three days in each week for the next six weeks. I cannot afford to devote more money to this object.
        I remain,
            Dear Sir,
                Yours faithfully,
                    JOHN ELLIS.

A Gentleman to a Friend, speaking of kindness received in another friend's house.

Stalybridge, May 1st, 187–– 

DEAR GEORGE,
    You will, I am certain, be very sorry to hear that for the last six weeks I have been confined to the house with a severe attack of rheumatic gout. You, who so well know my active habits, can thoroughly enter into my feelings at being a prisoner for so long a time. The agony I have suffered has been excruciating; I was unable to move without assistance, and was as feeble as an infant, being unable to do the most trifling thing for myself. But you will be glad to hear that I received the greatest kindness and attention from our friends. I was unable to hold a book or [-127-] a newspaper, but every morning one or the other of this kind family with whom I am staying tried to relieve the monotony of my life by reading to me; in the afternoon some of them would come and tell me the news; and in the evening, whilst I sat propped up on a sofa, the charming daughters would sing and play. I feel grieved to remember the inconvenience and annoyance I must have been to them all, and shall be happy indeed when I can be moved; as, although they are so extremely kind, I feel what a tremendous amount of additional labour I must cause to all the household. Never can I forget the attention and kindness shown me. I shall be very glad to see you when you come home. Have you had much civility shown you at P––? It used to be a very nice place when I lived there.
        Believe me,
            Yours very sincerely,
                JAMES TURNER.

Gentleman in reply.

Preston, May 6th, 187–– 

DEAR JAMES,
    I am sorry to hear you have had such a severe attack. Nothing is so trying to a man of active habits, like yourself, as confinement to the house. It was fortunate for you that you were not laid up during the best part of the hunting season, as I am afraid your patient spirit would have utterly rebelled against your privation from one of the only things you really enjoy. We are very snug indeed here, and are made a great deal of. We need never be at home unless we choose. Your friends the [-128-] Ducrows have a very nice house near, and they have introduced me to some very pleasant people. One of their daughters is a very charming girl. We sing duets together; and as we have to practise for some musical parties, I see a great deal of her. You would like her, I think. I hope we may remain hero some time longer, as it is not often one meets with such real friendship as the people here have shown us. I send you a few papers which may amuse you. I hope to hear soon that you are better. When you are able to travel I shall be glad to see you here; I can put you up very comfortably.
        Believe me,
            Yours very sincerely,
                GEORGE MILNER.

From a Gentleman to another, explaining the cause of not replying to a Letter from a Gentleman Abroad.

Poonah House, December 14th, 187–– 

MY DEAR JOHN,
    You must not measure the real pleasure and gratification it afforded me to receive your letter by the time I have taken to answer it. I have meant many times to sit down and write to you, but one thing or the other has prevented me. The chief cause of my silence, I grieve to say, has been the fresh sorrows we have lately had, in the loss of our dear little pet, a boy of nearly one year old, during teething, and then the break-up of our little comfortable home in consequence of this––for my dear wife was quite broken by it, in health and spirits; and requiring change of air, I sent her and our eldest girl to Dawlish, where they are now comfortably established with my brother's family, and [-129-] I sincerely hope the change will prove beneficial to them both. There are many of our old Durham friends residing there, which will be pleasant for her. I shall be so completely tied by business here for some weeks, or it may be longer, that I can scarcely fix the time I shall join them. I shall be dull enough alone, you may well imagine. Forgive my apparent neglect, and if you should be passing near be good enough to give me a call. We are a party of about seven in this boarding-house. The terms are very moderate, and if you know any friend requiring accommodation in one, I can vouch for their being comfortable here. Best regards to your wife and daughters.
        Yours very sincerely,
            H. D.

From a Gentleman in Town to another in the Country, enclosing a Wedding Gift.

United Hotel, Waterloo Place,
January 18th, 187–– 

MY DEAR JONES,
    I am sorry I have not been able to run over to see you lately, but some friends of ours from the country have been in Town, and I have had to go about with them constantly. I am just off for a fortnight into Warwickshire, but shall call as soon as I return. I hope you are now free from bronchitis, and I trust that Mrs. J––s and the young ladies are well. I had a very quiet Christmas with my dear old mother. I suppose you are busy in preparations for the wedding. I enclose a small present; it may be more useful than any ornament I can at present. think of, and your daughter can purchase with it whatever she may consider best. I wish her every happiness. Are any of you going to [-130-] see the opening of Parliament? If so I can secure you a very advantageous seat. With kind regards and good wishes,
        I remain, yours sincerely,
            H. W. B.

A Letter to a Gentleman who has been making inquiries about a Lady's Horse.

Hithrun, March 26th, 187––,

DEAR MARDEN, 
    Mr. Somes, of B–– has requested me to tell you that he will sell his mare for thirty-five guineas. She is aged about eight or nine; has been as you know regularly hunted for the last two or more seasons, and is a safe and beautiful hack, and goes well in harness. I need not say more than to observe that he is perfectly indifferent about selling her, though much obliged to you for recommending her. I think she is well worth fifty pounds.
        Yours very truly,
             J. L––T.

Regretting being unable to give an Appointment to a Situation.

Oakham, December 1st, 187––

DEAR MR. ––
    I am exceedingly sorry at having to return your enclosures without being able to offer you the appointment in question.
    Regretting the trouble you have had, and with my best wishes,
        Believe me,
            Yours very truly,
                H.H.V.

[-131-]

From one Gentleman to another, relative to a Dog.

Rochester, March 6th, 187––

DEAR FELLOWES,
    As you are well up in everything relating to diseases in dogs, I wish for your advice about my puppy. Some people tell me that by vaccinating him I shall ward off the distemper. Do you think it would prove efficacious? I should be sorry to lose him. Perhaps you will drop me a line when you have time. You are generally so occupied that it is scarcely fair to trouble you, but I think you will in this case excuse your old friend. Have you seen anything of Doxman lately? He was here last week.
        Believe me,
            Yours very sincerely,
                H. M. E.

Reply to Letter relative to a Dog.

Tipnor, 10th March, 187––.

DEAR PURCHASE,
    I have always leisure to give a friend a hint if I think it possible to be useful, so I lose no time in replying to you about your pup and the distemper. I have tried vaccination and found it a perfect fallacy and many of my friends, real judges of dogs, and one of whom is frequently appealed to on matters of dispute with regard to their treatment, decidedly says he has no faith in it, and that the effects are nothing. One of my friends had some dogs which all escaped distemper, but that was attributed to his never giving them any animal food. I rarely have a case (among my dogs) of distemper, and if I do it is generally very mild, and I account for it from [-132-] my mode of feeding them. Until they reach the age of twelve months I keep them entirely, or nearly so, on bread and milk, potatoes, cabbage, meal, and milk, with the very slightest quantity imaginable of flesh food. Do not keep your dog too closely confined; feed him as I advise, and he may escape distemper altogether. Should he not, it will not be so severe as if you had fed him entirely on meat. I shall be coming into your neighbourhood shortly, and will pay you a visit.
        Believe me,
            Yours sincerely,
                H. M. Fox.

In reply to a Gentleman inquiring for a Solicitor who may be moderate in his charges.

Sheffield, December 29th, 187–– 

MY DEAR SIR,
    When I retired from business I relinquished my connexion in favour of my former partner, Mr. ––, and I have much pleasure in giving you his name and address:––4, Boland Street, close to the newly erected Sessions Hall. He will, I am sure, be glad to attend to your friend's business, and make only fair charges.
    I am much obliged for your kind inquiries, and am happy to say my wife and children are all well, and unite with me in kind remembrances. When you write to your sister-in-law, will you be so good as to present our kind regards to her? If you find time and opportunity to come so far north as this, we shall be extremely glad to see you.
    Thank you very much for your kind offer of a welcome, and believe me to be,
            Yours truly,
                H.F.