Mr. Thaxter came and dined with us, to day, the first time he has been to see us, since
Mr. Shaw went away. In the evening Miss Nancy had Company to Visit her. Mr. W. Osgood, who
is said to be her very humble Servant, and something like a Mr. Hickman, to a Miss Howe.1 Mr. Caleb Blodget, who bears
the same title, but if fame be true, with still less Success. I am afraid she either treats
her admirers too well or too ill. Miss B. Duncan, Mr. Thaxter's reputed flame, she is in my
opinion the greatest 336beauty in Haverhill: at least of the
Ladies I have seen. Her hair alone is sufficient to justify the admiration of the ancients
for golden locks. Her face is very pretty, and her eye sparkles with Vivacity, and good
nature, without that wildness which indicates want of thought. She is as Fielding says, too
tall for a pretty woman, and too short for a fine Woman: that is no one can wish her an inch
taller or an inch lower. Her shape, is inferior to none I ever saw, and her taste in dress
is elegant, with the utmost simplicity. If her mind is equal to her Person, I hope she is
destined, to complete the happiness of a Person for whom I have the greatest Esteem and
Affection. Her Sister Peggy was here too this evening, and Miss Debby Perkins, of whom I
shall speak all in good time.