It was a bald letter, and somewhat cowardly withal.
DEAR AMELIA [the letter ran], I have received both of yours; and did not answer the first because I felt that there was a difficulty in expressing what I wish to say; and now it will be better that you should allow the subject to stand over till I am back in town.

I shall be there in ten days from this.

I have been quite well, and am so; but of course am much obliged by your inquiries.

I know you will think this very cold; but when I tell you everything, you will agree with me that it is best.

If I were to marry, I know that we should be unhappy, because we should have nothing to live on.