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<h2> LETTER XXVI </h2>
<p>MRS. NORTON, TO MISS HOWE SATURDAY, MAY 13.</p>
<p>DEAR MADAM,</p>
<p>My heart is almost broken, to be obliged to let you know, that such is the
situation of things in the family of my ever-dear Miss Harlowe, that there
can be at present no success expected from any application in her favour.
Her poor mother is to be pitied. I have a most affecting letter from her;
but must not communicate it to you; and she forbids me to let it 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 it therefore in
confidence.</p>
<p>I hope in God that my beloved young lady has preserved her honour
inviolate. I hope there is not a man breathing who could attempt a
sacrilege so detestable. I have no apprehension of a failure in a virtue
so established. God for ever keep so pure a heart out of the reach of
surprises and violence! Ease, dear Madam, I beseech you, my over-anxious
heart, 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 to all the comforts this life can give: since none will it be able
to afford</p>
<p>To the poor JUDITH NORTON.</p>
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