LIVRI, Saturday, July 3, 1677.
Alas, how grieved I am at the death of your poor child![147] it is
impossible not be affected at it. Not that I was ever of opinion he
could live; the description you gave convinced me that his case was
desperate. But, it is a great loss to you, who had lost two boys
before: God preserve to you the only one that remains! He discovers an
admirable disposition; I am much better pleased with sound sense and
just reasoning, at his age, than with the vivacity of those who turn
out fools at twenty. Be satisfied with him, therefore; lead him like a
horse that has a tender mouth, and remember what I told you respecting
his bashfulness; this advice comes from persons much wiser than myself;
and I am sure it is good. With regard to Paulina, I have one word to
say to you; from your description of her she may, perhaps, in time,
become as handsome as yourself; when a child, you were exactly like
her. God grant she may not resemble me in having a heart so susceptible
of tenderness! I see plainly that you love her, that she is amiable,
and that she amuses you. I wish I could embrace her, and recognize that
face again _which I have seen somewhere_.
[147] The child that was born in February 1676.