Between the Lines

May 12 2010, 1:20am

From a 19th-century British broadside: Madam, The love and tenderness I have hitherto expressed to you is false, and I now feel that my indifference towards you increases every day, and the more I see you the more you appear ridiculous in my eyes, and contemptible– I feel inclined and in every respect disposed and determined to hate you. Believe me I never had any inclination to offer you my hand. Our last conversation I assure you left a tedious and wretched insipidity which has not possessed me with an exalted opinion of your character, your inconstant temper would make me miserable, and if ever we are united, I shall experience nothing but the hatred of my parents, added to everlasting dis- pleasure in living with you. I have a true heart to bestow, but however I do not wish you for a moment to think it is in your service, as I could not give it to one more inconstant and capricious than yourself, and one less capable to do honour to my choice, and my family. You, Madam, I beg and desire will be persuaded that I think seriously, and you will do me a great favour to avoid me. I shall excuse you taking the trouble to give me an answer to this, as your letters are full of nonsense and impertinence, and have not a shadow of wit and good sense. Adieu, and believe me truly, I am so averse to you, that it is impossible I should ever be, Madam, your Affectionate Servant and Lover, R.G. “By reading every other line of the above letter the true meaning will be found out.”