“There are living instances of men, who, though born to independence and enjoying most ample fortune, can intermix with the very lowest class of the multitude, and even court this company from motives prompted surely by the principles only of rapacity and avarice; and, without shame or remorse, use the most unjustifiable and dishonest practices to fleece them of their little pittance—pittances so much below their envy, that a relation of them would not bear the appearance of truth; and what must these men appear to be in the mind of every good person; yet still there are such who demean themselves to these practices, and, rather than associate with their equals, will descend to keep company with ostlers, pedlars, and stable-boys.”
APPENDIX XI.
An Account of Mr. Brodie’s being Seized at Amsterdam.
John Daly, an Irishman, residing at Ostend, had seen Brodie, who passed there under the name of John Dixon, at the house of one Bacon, a vintner, with whom he lodged.
Brodie was recommended to Bacon at Ostend by the following letter from Captain Dent, in whose vessel he went to the Continent:—
To Mr John Bacon, Vintner, Ostend.
Dear Friend,
The bearer, Mr John Dixon, was going passenger with me to New York, but, being taken sick, had a desire to be landed at Ostend. Therefore, I recommend him to your care, being a countryman and a stranger; on my account, I hope you’ll render him every service in your power.
In so doing, you will oblige
Your most humble servant,
John Dent.