O cruel one who has deigned to put his sweet
poison in my heart to-day, while to-morrow you will pass me with
indifference. Cold, proud as ever, serious and disdainful - you
understand? However that may be, I send you the unrepenting cry of my
rebellious heart: I love you!
"It is late at night, and I am still awake, and at this hour my soul is
sadder than ever in its great isolation (insolamende); I look on my
past love and your dear image. Too much I love you and (illegible)
without your affection.
"How sadly I remember your sweet words whispered on a pathetic evening
when everything around was fair and rosy. How happy I then was when life
seemed radiant with felicity and brightened by your love. And now
nothing more remains of it; everything is finished. How sad even to say
it. My heart is shipwrecked far, far away from that happiness which I
sought."
(Three further pages of this.)
2. - From a boy of 14 who takes the initiative; such letters are rare.
Note the business-like brevity.
"DEAR MISS ANNE,
"I write you these few lines to say that I have understood your character
(carattolo). Therefore, if I may have the honour of being your
sweetheart, you will let me know the answer at your pleasure.
