Letter LXXXVII

Summary

The Gentleman's submissive Reply.

Dear Madam,

I beg ten thousand Pardons for my rash Letter to you. I wish’d, too late, I could have recall’d it. And when I had the Favour of yours, I was under double Concern. But indeed, Madam, you treated me, I thought, too lightly; and Contempt is intolerable where a Mind is so sincerely devoted. I never saw a Lady I could love before I saw you. I never shall see another I wish to be mine; and as I must love you whether I will or no, I hope you’ll forgive my foolish Petulance. I am sure it was inspired by Motives, that, however culpable in their Effects, are intitled to your Forgiveness, as to the Cause. I cannot meanly sue, tho’ to you. Don't let me undergo too heavy a Penance for my Rashness. You can mould me to any Form you please. But, dear Lady, let not my honest Heart suffer the more Torture, because it is so devotedly at your Service. Once again, I ask a thousand Pardons.—What can I say more?—I own I am hasty; but ‘tis most when I think myself slighted, or used contemptuously, by those I love. Such Tempers, Madam, are not the worst, let me tell you. And tho’ I may be too ready to offend, yet am I always as ready to repent. And, dear, good Madam, let me be receiv’d to Favour this once, and I will be more cautious for the future. For I am, and ever must be, whether you’ll allow it or not,

Your most devoted Admirer, and humble Servant.