"And cannot he pay a small account?"
"Why, my dear, he has had to settle several lately, which has taken from him all his ready money."
"How much is this small account?"
"O, only about £200."
"And do you consider this a trifling sum to owe one tradesman?"
"Certainly, my dear, for a gentleman of his profession."
"Well," said Emma, "I will have some conversation with Charles on the subject when he returns; and we will decide on the adoption of some plan."
"Why, my dear, I am sorry to inform you, that he is at present detained by the formalities of the law."
"Detained by the formalities of the law! I do not understand you."
"Perhaps not; but he cannot return home till the money is paid or some security is given that it shall be paid."