I replied in the affirmative.
“To the house of need, then will we go,” said he.
When we reached the cottage, I saw the mind was frantic with despair.
G. Yea; and thou seest the cause.
T. Truly, but who shall believe our report?
G. Thou wilt not say, but do as thou canst to aid.
This cottage stood near the Thames, and about six miles from London. The mind of the almost distracted man, was writhing in the agony of death. The family of children were weeping beside the mother, who was sitting at a little distance from the couch, on which the invalid rested. I saw no other company present. They were not affluent, but depended upon their industry for subsistence. Near by, lived a lord of the heritage, who rode in livery, and fared sumptuously. He was apprised of the dangerous illness of his servant, and knew the wants of the dependent family. He came not near, but his wife sent a few necessaries by another servant, whom we saw leaving the cottage as we entered.
“There is wretchedness here,” said my companion.
T. Truly; but what can we do to mitigate the evil?
W. We can do what we can, and what we can not do, will not be our fault. Thou mayest go to the landlord, and impress his mind to come here speedily.