When I was to give my final answer to----, I told him that I preferred a single life to any other; and, if he pleased to permit me, I would take that resolution.

He replied, he could not hinder my resolutions, but I should not pretend after that to please him; since pleasing him was only to be done by obedience; that if I would disobey, I knew the consequences; he would not fail to confine me, where I might repent at leisure; that he had also consulted my relations, and found them all agreeing in his sentiments.

He spoke this in a manner hindered my answering.

I retired to my chamber, where I writ a letter to let him know my aversion to the man proposed was too great to be overcome, that I should be miserable beyond all things could be imagined, but I was in his hands, and he might dispose of me as he thought fit.

He was perfectly satisfied with this answer, and proceeded as if I had given a willing consent .-- I forgot to tell you, he named you, and said, if I thought that way, I was very much mistaken; that if he had no other engagements, yet he would never have agreed to your proposals, having no inclination to see his grandchildren beggars.
"I do not speak this to endeavour to alter your opinion, but to shew the improbability of his agreeing to it.