LETTER IV.
Mrs. D—— to WILLIAM.
I wish you happy, my son, and rejoice that you have chosen such a friend as Charles. Yet, while you admire your friend, do not hate Edward; remark his faults only to avoid them. He is really an object that should excite your compassion, while you thank God for having placed you in a different situation. You had the advantage of receiving early instruction, and was not allowed to contract any bad habits. Sir Charles paid the same diligent attention to cultivate your new friend’s mind, and Dr. Bartlett assisted: but poor Edward was suffered to run almost wild.
You have seen in the little garden I have, that weeds grow quickly; and would soon choke the vegetables and flowers, if a careful hand did not pluck them up by the roots.
Lady Grandison praises you; do your best to deserve her approbation, and you shall ever be the beloved of my heart.