The great love I have hitherto expressed for you
_is false, and I find that my indifference, toward you_
increases daily; the more I see of you, the more
_you appear in my eyes an object of contempt._--
I feel myself every way disposed and determined to
_hate you. Believe me, I never had an intention to_
offer you my hand. Our last conversation has
_left a tedious insipidity, which has by no means_
given me the most exalted idea of your character;
_your temper would make me extremely unhappy,_
and if we are united, I shall experience nothing but
_the hatred of my parents, added to their everlasting dis-_
pleasure in living with you. I have, indeed, a heart
_to bestow, but I do not wish you to imagine it is_
at your service; I could not give it to any one more
_inconsistent and capricious than yourself, and less_
capable to do honor to my choice and to my family.--
_Yes, Madam, I trust you will be persuaded that_
I speak sincerely; and you will do me a favor
_to avoid me. I shall excuse your taking the trouble_
to answer this. Your letters are always full of
_impertinence, and you have not the least shadow of_
wit or good sense. Adieu! Adieu! believe me, I am
_so averse to you that it is impossible for me ever to be_
your affectionate friend and ardent lover.
[Illustration]
Transcriber's note:
Text version
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