Page:Adventures of Roderick Random.pdf/14

 philosophy: logic I made no account of but above all things I valued myself on my taste in the Belle Lettres, and a talent for poetry. These qualifications, added to a good face and shape, acquired the esteem and acquaintance of the most considerable people in town. Thus I remained in good reputation for some time; when one day, on going home to dinner, I was informed there was a letter from my uncle, which said that he had killed his captain in a duel for which he was obliged to leave the ship and go over to France; but that he hoped to be restored in a little time. It however affected the apothecary in such a manner, that he gave me to understand that I might provide myself with another lodging. The indignation which this inspired, gave me spirits to support my reverse of fortune, and to tell him I despised his mean selfish disposition so much, that I would rather starve than be beholden to him for one single meal. Upon which, out of my pocket-money, I paid him to the last farthing, and assured him I would not sleep another night under his roof. This said, I sallied out in a transport of rage and sorrow, having not one friend in the world capable of relieving me, and only three shilling in my purse. After giving way, for a few minutes to the dictates of my rage, I went and hired a small bed-room, at the rate of one shilling and sixpence per week, which I was obliged to pay per advance, before the land-