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 friendships, 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,