Dear
Nell, I looked for something of the gentleman--something I mean of
the _natural_ gentleman; you know I can dispense with acquired
polish, and for looks, I know myself too well to think that I have
any right to be exacting on that point. I could not find one gleam,
I could not see one passing glimpse of true good-breeding. It is
hard to say, but it is true. In mind too, though clever, he is
second-rate--thoroughly second-rate. One does not like to say these
things, but one had better be honest. Were I to marry him my heart
would bleed in pain and humiliation; I could not, _could not_ look up
to him. No; if Mr. Taylor be the only husband fate offers to me,
single I must always remain. But yet, at times I grieve for him, and
perhaps it is superfluous, for I cannot think he will suffer much: a
hard nature, occupation, and change of scene will befriend him.
'With kind regards to all,--I am, dear Nell, your middle-aged friend,
'C. BRONTE.
'Write soon.'
TO MISS ELLEN NUSSEY
'_May_ 5_th_, 1851.
'MY DEAR ELLEN,--I have had a long kind letter from Miss Martineau
lately. She says she is well and happy.
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