William’s cheerful diligence excited my admiration; and I could not help mentioning it to him yesterday in terms of praise. How, my friend, said he, is it not my duty to communicate to her the knowledge that my mother has procured for me at a great expence? I am happy that I can by my zeal in this respect, prove that I am grateful for her constant kindness; besides, is not the dear girl my sister, and is not her welfare and happiness of the greatest consequence to mine? I find myself richly rewarded for my trouble, when I see her gradually improve; and I think all elder brothers and sisters ought to do the same when their parents are not in affluence. What do you think I have done, sister? I have given up my regular correspondence with you to William, not that I shall forget to write sometimes, but as I have many letters to write, which I must not neglect, and wish to finish some drawings I have sketched of this place, I cannot write to you in such a circumstantial manner as I wish to do, without depriving myself of the company of my friends. William, you know, has the knack of writing particulars, and he can write to you while I write to my father, Dr. Bartlett, &c. You must answer his letters, and not refuse to write to my best friend, if you love me. CHARLES. LETTER XXIV. WILLIAM _to_ EMILIA. May I presume to write to you, dear Miss Emilia; your brother desires me not to fear your displeasure. I have not been much accustomed to write to young ladies; you must not, then, laugh at my blunders, and I am sure my subject will interest you, for I shall tell you what your brother does and says, as I used to tell my mother. The appearance of our country pleases him, and I endeavour to let him see as much of it as I can. Yesterday we went to Leyden, one of the most beautiful cities in Holland. We visited the university, and saw whatever else was worthy of observation. It would certainly be a matter of regret to my friend to leave Holland without seeing the public buildings and other curiosities. We had very fine weather: Robert accompanied us. Your brother chose to go in one of the Trekschuits rather than in a carriage. I cannot refrain from relating to you the following adventure, which does your brother so much honour.