Jarius. Thief! Say it, Will, young feller. Git the bile all out of yer system. Look at yerself as ye are; feel as mean as ye look. You are—
Will. A thief! Yes, Jarius, it’s the truth. O, why did I come here? Why add this horror to a life already made wretched by my folly? I never dreamed of this. It was a sudden impulse. I never gave a thought to it. It came upon me unawares. But now I see its wickedness. O, Jarius, why can’t I die? (Sinks on floor, covers face with hands.) Why can’t I die? I haven’t a friend in the world to care for me now.
Jarius. Yes, you have. Look up, Will. I never went back on a feller-critter, good or bad, when in distress, and I ain’t a goin’ to do it now. Look up, young feller. I’ll help you out;
Will. Help me? You! Then show me how to help myself. Show me some way to wipe out this disgrace, and I will bless you.
Jarius. Listen to me. A year ago, of your own accord, you set out to seek your fortune with Hen Douglas—
Will. Yesterday we parted, for his service was too mean for me to perform.
Jarius. Jes’ so. You’ve had a year of his tuition; will you now take a year of mine?
Will. Yours, Jarius?
Jarius. Yes, mine. I wanted you then, but, Douglas eucred me. I want you now. Will you serve me?
Will. Willingly, and bless you for the chance.