Set a brave
spirit, then, against your fortune, and do not
doubt your success in life.''
His words seemed to sink into the gloomy mind
of Middlemas. He stood silent for a moment, and
then answered with a reluctant and insinuating
voice,---
``My dear Hartley, we have long been companions---
you can have neither pleasure nor interest
in ruining my hopes---you may find some in forwarding
them. Mon
ada's fortune will enable me
to allow five thousand pounds to the friend who
should aid me in my difficulties.''
``Good morning to you, Mr Middlemas,'' said
Hartley, endeavouring to withdraw.
``One moment---one moment,'' said Middlemas,
holding his friend by the button at the same time,
``I meant to say ten thousand---and---and---marry
whomsoever you like---I will not be your hinderance.''
``You are a villain!'' said Hartley, breaking
from him, ``and I always thought you so.''
``And you,'' answered Middlemas, ``are a fool,
and I never thought you better. Off he goes---
Let him---the game has been played and lost---I
must hedge my bets: India must be my back-play.''
All was in readiness for his departure. A small
vessel and a favouring gale conveyed him and several
other military gentlemen to the Downs, where
the Indiaman which was to transport them from
Europe, lay ready for their reception.
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