Chapter XXIX
I borrow money upon my estate, and upon very favourable terms.
When I came down to breakfast the next morning, the Major said, "My dear Newland, I have taken the liberty of requesting a very old friend of mine to come and meet you this morning. I will not disguise from you that it is Emmanuel, the money-lender. Money you must have until my affairs are decided, one way or the other; and, in this instance, I will most faithfully repay the sum borrowed, as soon as I receive the amount of my bets, or am certain of succeeding to the title, which is one and the same thing."
I bit my lips, for I was not a little annoyed; but what could be done? I must have either confessed my real situation to the Major, or have appeared to raise scruples, which, as the supposed heir to a large fortune, would have appeared to him to be very frivolous. I thought it better to let the affair take its chance. "Well," replied I, "if it must be, it must be: but it shall be on my own terms."
"Nay," observed the Major, "there is no fear but that he will consent, and without any trouble."
After a moment's reflection I went up stairs and rang for Timothy. "Tim," said I, "hear me; I now make you a solemn promise, on my honour as a gentleman, that I will never borrow money upon interest, and until you release me from it, I shall adhere to my word."
"Very well, sir," replied Timothy; "I guess your reason for so doing, and I expect you will keep your word. Is that all?"
"Yes; now you may take up the urn."
We had finished our breakfast, when Timothy announced Mr Emmanuel, who followed him into the room.