greatest pleasure or pain. It is the next best thing, to being with
you.

I only desire, my dearest Emma, that you will always believe, that
Nelson's your own; Nelson's _Alpha_ and _Omega_ is _Emma_! I cannot
alter; my affection and love is beyond even this world! Nothing can
shake it, but yourself; and that, I will not allow myself to think,
for a moment, is possible.

I feel, that you are the real friend of my bosom, and dearer to me
than life; and, that I am the same to you. But, I will neither have
P.'s nor Q.'s come near you! No; not the slice of Single Gloster! But,
if I was to go on, it would argue that want of confidence which would
be injurious to your honour.

I rejoice that you have had so pleasant a trip into Norfolk; and I
hope, one day, to carry you there by a nearer _tie_ in law, but not in
love and affection, than at present.

I wish, you would never mention that person's name! It works up your
anger, for no useful purpose. Her good or bad character, of me or
thee, no one cares about.

This letter will find you at dear Merton; where we shall one day meet,
and be truly happy.

I do not think it can be a long war; and, I believe, it will be much
shorter than people expect: and I shall hope to find the new
room built; the grounds laid out, neatly but not expensively; new
Piccadilly gates; kitchen garden; &c. Only let us have a plan, and