Sad ceremony, from taking my mournful part in which
I am excluded by years, distance, and broken health. It will, I trust, at
this season of desolation, be not unwelcome to remember that a substitute,
imperfect--unworthy--but most affectionately zealous, for the honoured
parent whom you have just lost, has been appointed, in me, your uncle, by
his will. I am aware that you were present during the reading of it, but
I think it will be for our mutual satisfaction that our new and more
affectionate relations should be forthwith entered upon. My conscience and
your safety, and I trust convenience, will thereby be consulted. You will,
my dear niece, remain at Knowl, until a few simple arrangements shall have
been completed for your reception at this place. I will then settle
the details of your little journey to us, which shall be performed as
comfortably and easily as possible. I humbly pray that this affliction may
be sanctified to us all, and that in our new duties we may be supported,
comforted, and directed. I need not remind you that I now stand to you _in
loco parentis_, which means in the relation of father, and you will not
forget that you are to remain at Knowl until you hear further from me.
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