I do not imagine, sir, they will ever exactly resemble each other; but
I think myself sure they will continually approach.
Indeed!
Yes, sir.
May be so; but I own I doubt it. Mr. Clifton is a gentleman, both by birth and education.
That I own, sir, may be a great disadvantage; but—
Disadvantage, child!
Our conversation was here interrupted, Louisa, by a letter brought me from my brother. Read it, and judge of what I felt.
Dear Sister,
I am a ruined man, unless I could command a sum of money which it is impossible for me to raise. I last night lost three thousand pounds, upon honour, which I am totally unable to pay. And, what is worse, I did not lose it to a gentleman, but to a sharper; who, the very last throw he made, let a third die fall upon the table. But this is of no avail; he is an unprincipled, daring fellow; denies any foul play with imprecations and threats, and insists on being paid. I know you cannot help me to such a sum; and I suppose my father will not. For my part, I can neither pay it nor think of living, under the disgrace and infamy which must follow.