Deterville to Mademoiselle St. Clare

How shall I express my thanks to my kind friend for the part she takes in my affairs! Had it not been for your friendly interposition, I had never known to what degree I was happy; Zilia had for ever buried the secret in her bosom, and sacrificed her peace to her refinement. Ah, amiable girl! what pity you, who delight in making others happy, should be fated to so hard a lot yourself! But we must submit to the inexorable hand of Destiny.

I propose leaving England immediately, and setting out for the court of Rome, to solicit, in person, a dispensation from vows which I can now never perform. Perhaps there is no precedent of such a thing granted, because it may have never been asked; but I have no doubt of success: my ever faithful Dubois has promised to be my companion in this undertaking, and to assist me with all his powers.

I part with Lord Bruton with great regret; but he flatters me with a visit from himself and his amiable sister, and that he will make one of our little circle at Zilia's enchanted castle. Oh, Maria! why will not you continue among us? I am impatient to set out; Rome is a place I have never yet seen, and I promise myself much pleasure in visiting the ancient seat of the Muses, and being made acquainted with Italian music and Italian painting. These amusements will serve to make the necessary time of waiting less irksome to me. I shall inclose a letter to your fair friend, which you will take a favourable moment to deliver to her. I own I am at a loss in what manner to express myself, so as to paint my feelings, and yet not offend her delicacy; but I must write, and trust to her tenderness to excuse the faults of love.

I am, my dear Maria, with all the sentiments which gratitude and the tenderest friendship can inspire, yours, Deterville.