It is evident, however, that they were definitely written for his perusal, and it is equally clear that Anne's replies were inspired, and sometimes, if not always, drafted by him.

This practice continued until the death of Anne Wortley in March, 1710.

Yet there seems to have been no reason for this camouflage.

In 1709 Lady Mary was twenty years of age, and Montagu was a very eligible _parti_.
The respectful, highfalutin gallantry that is the key-note of the correspondence recalls the correspondence that presently was exchanged between Henrietta Howard, Countess of Suffolk, and the octogenarian Earl of Peterborough.
Some typical passages from the letters to "My dear Mrs.Wortley" may be given--it should be mentioned that it was the social custom of the day to address as "Mrs." maiden ladies as well as married women.
"Thoresby, August 8, 1709.
"I know no pretence I have to your good opinion but my hearty desiring it; I wish I had that imagination you talk of, to render me a fitter correspondent for you, who can write so well on every thing.

I am now so much alone, I have leisure to pass whole days in reading, but am not at all proper for so delicate an employment as choosing you books.