comfort me, that I have done nothing to deserve the loss of that friendship you once thought me worthy of; and I find myself as much concerned for the late loss you have had in Mrs. Draper's fine boy, as any friend you have. I know your tender good-nature on these occasions, and indeed I think 'tis only oneself that teaches one in these losses, for we are so comfortably sure that the poor innocent babies are taken out of a naughty world to be very happy, that I have often wondered at the excessive sorrow I have sometimes seen on these occasions, but that we always prefer our own satisfaction, be it never so transitory, to the most solid good for others.
"Notwithstanding all I have said, I assure you I am as sorry as I ought to be for any affliction that befalls my friend, and though I do not pretend to be free from many faults, want of tenderness in my friends' concerns I am no way guilty of.
"Your kind letter received to-day, with the assurance of your concern and prayers for me, was very pleasing and comfortable to your old lone friend. I am very glad to give you the satisfaction
