'I cannot do it; give me time.'
'Too much has been already wasted. Take back your money. You doubtless can obtain more in the same manner you did this. It looks very suspicious, I must say.'
'And this is called a Christian land!' said the poor fellow, holding his wasted hands up to heaven. 'O God, that these things should be! The earth is covered with food for sustaining life, and hundreds, aye, thousands, like myself, are perishing at home. Oh, where is Christian charity?'
'Charity begins at home,' said the seaman, 'and seldom casts anchor in any other port. If you'll take my advice, you will stow your cargo and make sail, and hark ye—' He whispered a word in the man's ear; the other clasped his hands together, and with a tear in his eye, left the apartment.
'Woe! woe! doomed!' cried the mysterious voice.
Lambert shook like a leaf—the seaman seemed to enjoy his terror.
'How much does Mr. Johnson owe?' said he,
'£5 rent, and £14 costs and taxes.'
'Write a receipt.'
The mariner paid the sum, and asked how he came so low.