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<h2> To Mrs JERMYN at her house in Gloucester. </h2>
<h3> DEAR MADAM, </h3>
<p>Having no mother of my own, I hope you will give me leave to disburden my
poor heart to you, who have always acted the part of a kind parent to me,
ever since I was put under your care. Indeed, and indeed, my worthy
governess may believe me, when I assure her, that I never harboured a
thought that was otherwise than virtuous; and, if God will give me grace,
I shall never behave so as to cast a reflection on the care you have taken
in my education. I confess I have given just cause of offence by my want
of prudence and experience. I ought not to have listened to what the young
man said; and it was my duty to have told you all that passed, but I was
ashamed to mention it; and then he behaved so modest and respectful, and
seemed to be so melancholy and timorous, that I could not find in my heart
to do any thing that should make him miserable and desperate. As for
familiarities, I do declare, I never once allowed him the favour of a:
salute; and as to the few letters that passed between us, they are all in
my uncle's hands, and I hope they contain nothing contrary to innocence
and honour.—I am still persuaded that he is not what he appears to
be: but time will discover—mean while I will endeavour to forget a
connexion, which is so displeasing to my family. I have cried without
ceasing, and have not tasted any thing but tea, since I was hurried away
from you; nor did I once close my eyes for three nights running.—My
aunt continues to chide me severely when we are by ourselves; but I hope
to soften her in time, by humility and submission.—My uncle, who was
so dreadfully passionate in the beginning, has been moved by my tears and
distress; and is now all tenderness and compassion; and my brother is
reconciled to me on my promise to break off all correspondence with that
unfortunate youth; but, notwithstanding all their indulgence, I shall have
no peace of mind till I know my dear and ever honoured governess has
forgiven her poor, disconsolate, forlorn,</p>
<p>Affectionate humble servant, till death, LYDIA MELFORD CLIFTON, April 6.</p>
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