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human nature, and dearly do I sympathize with you.

Sea. You are very kind, my friend; but you have travelled far; you must want refreshment; let me order something. (going to the door and calling a Servant, to whom he gives orders.)

''Bea. (aside.)'' Well, there is something here I don't understand. But I am wrong, perhaps: Some people can't bear to have the subject of their sorrow touched upon: I'll talk to him of other things.—(Aloud to Sea. as he returns from the door.) Your old acquaintance, Asby of Gloucestershire, called upon me a day or two before I left home, and enquired kindly after you. He is a very rich man now; he has purchased the great estate of Carriswood, near his native place, and is high sheriff of the county.

''Sea. (becoming suddenly animated.)'' What, Asby? my old school-fellow Asby? that is a great rise, by my soul! The estate of Carriswood, and high sheriff of the county! What interest has pushed him? what connexions has he made? has he speculated with his money? how has he advanced himself?

Bea. I can't very well tell you: he has gone on, like many others, turning, and scraping and begging, and managing great people's matters for them, till he has become one of the most considerable men in that part of the country.

Sea. He must be a clever fellow. We used to think him stupid at school, but we have been dev'lishly deceived.