The Gentleman's Model Letter-writer Part 3

Yours very truly,

_Same._

The Beeches, Sydenham, November 6th.

MY DEAR TOM,

I am sure you will be truly grieved to hear that the sudden and dangerous illness of my mother will oblige me to postpone our dinner party fixed for the 17th.

I hope to give you better news shortly, and renew my invitation.

Truly yours,

_Invitation to be "Best Man" at a Wedding._

Reading, May 6th.

DEAR TOM,

I intend to be "turned off" next Tuesday week! Will you attend on the mournful occasion as "best man?"

_Seriously_, I am to be married to my charming little Ada on the ----, and I look for your presence at our bridal as the completion of my happiness, for then the man and woman I love best will unite in confirming my happiness.

Always yours,

_Same._

Liphook, May 6th.

DEAR JOHN,

Julia has consented to our marriage on the 15th inst., and I scribble a line to remind you of your promise to be "best man" on the occasion. Marriage is supposed sometimes to separate bachelor friends.h.i.+ps, but such will not be the case in my instance, my dear fellow. Julia has a great regard for you, and is too sensible and good to interfere between us with petty jealousies.

I am awfully happy, Jack! Wish me joy, and

Believe me

Ever your true friend,

_Accepting._

The Albany, May 7th.

DEAR ----,

I shall be delighted to a.s.sist at the important event fixed for the ----, and beg to offer my best congratulations to Miss ---- and yourself on your approaching happiness.

I intend to offer as my wedding gift a drawing-room clock. My object in naming this intention to you is that, if you are likely to receive a similar gift from any other friend, you will tell me so, and I will exchange it for something else, as duplicate gifts are a great bore.

Ever, dear Hal,

Your true old friend,

JOHN.

_Invitation to join a Party to the Derby_.

Knightsbridge, May 22.

DEAR NORRIS,

Three of our fellows have agreed to go to the Derby together in a drag, and we shall be very glad if you will make a fourth. Jervis drives.

Don't refuse, old fellow; we shall have a jolly day, and I shall enjoy it doubly if you go with us.

Yours truly,