and make Derry shine bright in fair virtue's sweet light.
It surprised me to hear, that her walls still appear, complete as they were in that notable year, their breadth though so great, so much strength might create, as might cause them to last to so distant a date. O my dear, to look down on the river and town in so sacred a spot, must not every thought be with past recollections of chivalry fraught? No wonder your mind caught a tone more refined, and the scene which you drew bore so vivid a hue!
But, as my vagrant Muse no such prospect now views, she must beg you her errors and faults to excuse. And, wishing you every joy and delight, and hoping (when leisure permits) you will write,
My dear Mary Ann,
Pray believe me to be,
Sincerely affectionate,
Yours,—F. E. B.
