Octavia.
Scarborough, Sept. 14, 1800.
Tired, stupid, and sleepy, I feel that I can write nothing instructive
or amusing. Oh these _summer balls_ are not the thing, but it was much
more comfortable than I expected. My ears were continually assailed with
lamentations that you were not present. Mr. Kinsman would certainly have
gone out for you (so he said) had he ever been at our house. He really
asked one or two gentlemen to go. He is a frothy fellow. He rattles
without a spark of fancy and stuns you with his volubility, as anything
hollow or empty always makes the most noise. I told him I received a
letter from you yesterday. He gave a pious ejaculation to heaven, turned
gracefully on his heel and entreated in the most humble manner that I
would grant him a sight of one line! I refused as I thought him too
insignificant an animal to be so much honored. Col. Boyd arrived last
night, I found him in the parlor when I went down to breakfast, he
enquired for you. Mr. Derby and Mr. Coffin will leave town to-day or
to-morrow for Boston, they undoubtedly will call and see you. ’Twill be
a good opportunity to send me the money if Mamma pleases. Harriet will
sail to-morrow or next day, she sends an abundance of love.