to my property; and, though your conduct has forfeited these claims, I now
tell you (and you know that my word is sacred) that all I have shall be
yours, on condition that Colden is dismissed.

More than this I will do. Every assurance possible I will give, that
all shall be yours at my death, and all I have I will share with you
_equally_ while I live. Only give me your word that, _as soon_
as the transfer is made, Colden shall be thought of and conversed with,
either personally or by letter, no more. I want only your promise; on that
I will absolutely rely.

Mere lucre ought not, perhaps, to influence you in such a case; and if
you comply through regard to my peace or your own reputation, I shall
certainly esteem you more highly than if you are determined by the present
offer; yet such is my aversion to this alliance, that the hour in which I
hear of your consent to the conditions which I now propose to you will be
esteemed one of the happiest of my life.

Think of it, my dear Jane, my friend, my child; think of it. Take time
to reflect, and let me have a deliberate answer, such as will remove the
fears that at present afflict, beyond my power of expression, your

H. FIELDER.




Letter XI