40 THE AMERICAN POLITE LETTER WRITER, and behold you as it were, in my presence. I cannot feel easy in my mind, until I have the pleasure of your company, as it seems to me to be lost when away from you. I hope that you have the same love for me as I feel for you, as nothing1 in the world gives me more pleasure tl.an to be in your company. I hope to be home in a few weeks, and expect to see rny dear Jewel, who, indeed, is more dear to me than life. Don't let any person see this letter besides yourself, as secrecy between lovers is absolutely necessary; not that I would be afraid of any person trying to injure my character with you, but for fear that there /night be some of your friends mocking you fer having a sweetheart, for perhaps they might say that you are too young, or something else, to hurt your feelings, but don’t mind what they might say in that respect, as you are sensible enough to put off such jekes with a smile, and consider that old Virgi as, or what we call old Maids, are, now a days easy to be found. So, I conjure you, by the ties of love wherewith I am bound to you, to remain steadfast in your good opinion of my pure intentions, as I entertain the highest regard for your modesty and good behaviour. 1 coidd say a great deal more in your praise, but you know my heart, and that will suffice.
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