LETTER XXVI
MRS. NORTON, TO MISS HOWESATURDAY, MAY 13.
DEAR MADAM,
My heart is almost broken, to be obliged to let you know, that such isthe situation of things in the family of my ever-dear Miss Harlowe, thatthere can be at present no success expected from any application in herfavour. Her poor mother is to be pitied. I have a most affecting letterfrom her; but must not communicate it to you; and she forbids me to letit be known that she writes upon the subject; although she is compelled,as it were, to do it, for the ease of her own heart. I mention ittherefore in confidence.
I hope in God that my beloved young lady has preserved her honourinviolate. I hope there is not a man breathing who could attempt asacrilege so detestable. I have no apprehension of a failure in a virtueso established. God for ever keep so pure a heart out of the reach ofsurprises and violence! Ease, dear Madam, I beseech you, my over-anxiousheart, by one line, by the bearer, although but one line, to acquaint me(as surely you can) that her honour is unsullied.--If it be not, adieu toall the comforts this life can give: since none will it be able to afford
To the poorJUDITH NORTON.
Clarissa Harlowe; or the history of a young lady — Volume 4 Page 28
