Page:Honest debtor, or, The virtuous man struggling with, rising superior to, and overcoming misfortune (2).pdf/9

 ' Her delicacy, though it gave her new charms, did not alter my conduct: and I answered, that it was on my own account that I complied with custom; that what appeared as luxury to her, was nothing but a little more elegance than ordinary, that good taste was never expensive, and that whatever I might do, I should never transgress the bounds of propriety. I deceived her. I deceived myself; or, rather, I banished all reflection. I was sensible that I was living beyond my present income; but in a short time the emoluments of my profession would make good the deficiency; and in the mean while, every one approved of my affectionate care to make my wife happy. Could I do less for her? Could I even do enough? This was the public voice. At least it was the language of our friends. My father-in-law looking with concern upon these anticipated expences, upon this emulation of luxury, which ruins, said he, the greatest fortunes. He expressed his disapprobation of it with some degree of severity. I calmly answered, that this emlation should never lead me into any in- discretion, and he might safely depend upon my prudence. I have since learnt what an impression this manner of respectfully evading his advice, made upon his mind, and what bitter resentment it produced.

' The moment of my becoming a father drew nigh; but this moment, which