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How to Write Love Letters : LETTER XCIV. Proposal of Marriage by a Middle-Aged Gentleman.

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LETTER XCIV. Proposal of Marriage by a Middle-Aged Gentleman.

Hollywell, March 18, 1914.
Dear Madam:

The long friendship which you have allowed to subsist between us, and which is a source of the most sincere pleasure to me, leads me to hope that I may address you upon a subject which I have very much at heart. I have always admired you, dear madam, with the real and settled admiration which one of my age is best capable of feeling. It has grown steadily in depth and strength, until I have realized to myself the truth that a warmer sentiment inspires me which I cannot overcome, and that all my hopes have become centered upon yourself. In saying this, believe me, I use no empty compliments, such as younger men might employ. There are many who would say much better what I would express, but they could not speak more directly from the heart than I do, when I declare that I esteem, admire and love you.

If I thought that this letter would cause you any painful surprise it would not, I assure you, have ever been written. On the contrary, I am not without hope that you may receive it without disfavor. We are both able to judge of what circumstances are most likely to conduce to our happiness, and the worldly position and antecedents of each are well known to both of us. You may rest assured that your welfare and comfort will be the constant study of all my life, if you will consent to reward my devotion by giving me your hand.

I shall await your reply with great anxiety, that it may not be unfavorable to my dearest hopes, and, meanwhile, with every wish that true respect and affection could dictate,

I remain, dear madam,

Respectfully yours,

Oliver Oldcastle.

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