Bridget Hawkins (Roper-Curzon) to Martha Jefferson (Randolph)

My Dear Jefferson

I am really quite ashamed to think that I have received your letter above ten days & [. . .] have not as yet made you the least answer, but I rely on your goodness for pardon, I assure you my silence did not proceed from neglect; but from want of time & paresse. I cannot be so charitable as you, I must inform you of my sentiments in regard of Dashwood’s conduct, I think she has a very light character, but as she is so young if she continues seperated from her infamous cousin, (I can not help making use of that harsh expression, one I fear by her too much well merited), I hope she will get better principles & get a little more virtue & loose a little of her boldness, the story you told me to day of her & the Eaton boys really shocked me—You made me especially happy my dear girl, when you promised to correspond with me. I hope when I leave Panthemont to have the pleasure of hearing from you often. Adieu my Dear Girl, rest assured of my friendship, tho’ my pen ceases to write trace my sentiments, my heart does not cease to feel. I was going to say something very fine, but could not get through it. believe me to remain unattestably My Dear Jefferson

Your sincere friend
Hawkins

P. S.

I hope you will favor me with an answer soon—

excuse my wretched scrawl—

Tr (ViU: ER); undated; in an unidentified hand; with possible transcription errors.
Date Range
Date
January 1, 1788 to December 31, 1788
Collection
Repository