One, who will exercise a wholesomely repressive influence over father, has been more than any thing the theme of my longings; on the unlikely hypothesis of my marrying at all.

For, O friends, it has seemed to me _most_ unlikely; I dare say that I might not have been over-difficult--might have thankfully and heartily loved some one not quite a Bayard, but one cannot love _any thing_--any odd and end--and, say what you will, the choice of a country girl, with a little dowry and a plain face, is but small.

For--do not dislike me for it if you can help--I _am_ plain.

I know it by the joint and honest testimony of all my brethren.

I have had no trouble in gathering the truth from them.