Advice to All — Bachelors, Maids, Widowers, and Widows
There are certain Rules which must be observed in Courtship: And first, to maids who have not possessed their first blushes, your first addresses must be with gentleness and modesty, lest you fright them with an opinion that you are rude and uncivil of behaviour, and rather aim at debauching them than at marriage: And you must be brisk with them, or they will take you for a drone without a sting.
Widows, especially the young ones, are gamesome and buxom, for having once smelt to the spit, they always love a good joint; those you must entertain with some merry discourse, and lay aside whining or solemn protestations; kiss them till their ears crack; and when you find a convenient time and place, warm them with caresses, squeezing their hand, gently treading on their toes; and when you kiss, bear close to them, and you will soon perceive, by their eager looks, blushing, and their often changing of colour, that now is the time to ask a favour, to which you will have a faint denial, if any at all, and then make use of your time, and press forward without delays, for they are dangerous; and many a fair opportunity has slipt, that could not be recovered, though earnestly pursued.
As for maids or widows, if you like a brisk man, and are bashful, you may use dumb signs, which is called love’s silent language, gaze on his face; then, when he perceives it, suddenly take off your eyes, and turn your head aside, blush naturally, forcingly hold in your breathing, and start a little when first you see him at any time, as if you were surprized; if he takes you by the hand, grasp him with a little trembling, and then seem to withdraw your hand again, as if uneasy. If he kisses you, stay your lips on his awhile, with great affection; and he must be very dull that will not take these for the signs of tender love.
Above all things, either man or woman ought to conduct themselves with perfect modesty and decorum, in the presence of those they esteem, as it is the most certain method of gaining their esteem and love.
More might be said on this subject, but nature and practice are the best instructors.