You have once said I never deceived you; father, trust me now, this is no jest; my sister's happiness is too dear to me.

Break off all connection with Lord Alphingham.

I give no credit to the rumours I have heard, for your letters this season bade me hope Lord St.Eval would have been my sister's choice.

His departure from England has dispelled these visions; but yet Caroline's affections cannot have been given to Lord Alphingham without your or my mother's knowledge.

Again I implore you, associate no more with him, he is not worthy of my father's friendship." Mysterious as this was, yet both Mr.and Mrs.Hamilton knew Percy too well to imagine he would write thus without strong cause.