Augusta Jan 29, 64

 

Laura,

            Your kind letter came to hand which I read with regret, that I have wronged one, whom I so dearly loved in early life. my affections you still possess more warmly than heretofore. I am ever grateful to you, for telling me that you still love me

 

            My life has been one of sorrow and restlessness since I was prompted to treat you so unkindly, but I ask forgiveness and God forbid that I ever may wrong one who has always loved and cared for me

 

            You blame me for treating you coldly, true I did, you prompted me to do so. I thought you had lost your devotion to me. you seemed distant. therefore perhaps to your / to your recollection I sank in despair resting upon your bosom asking forgiveness, which you refused I wept bitterly kissing you sweetly, supposing it to be the last time I ever should be permitted to embrace you.

 

            From that eventful knight until I read this letter I thought you had suffered all former devotion to be lost, and the prospect of my future days looked gloomy

 

            I frankly tell you that you are the only one that I really loved. you may think me strange to make this confession, but my heart prompts me to tell you, no doubt my actions have appeared to you as though I have trifled with your affections but could you but believe me, I would tell you different

 

            But suffice to say there is still time for redress and I hope I may meet you as before / please tell me the feeling of your parents toward me. I feel sorry for my past conduct toward them hoping they will forgive me.

 

            My little brother Elias is lying dangerously ill with fever, and I fear if no change takes place he cannot recover. I will now close hoping that God may watch over you.

 

please answer,

believe me to be your friend

WHThurston

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