Page:Sketch of the life and transactions of Peter Brown.pdf/5

5 mean attire, melted the old people into so much compassion, that they, immediately consented to give him shelter from the cold season under their humble roof. By degrees, his stories, his travels, adventures, and sufferings, he told with much passion to the old people, made him their guest so long by the kitchen fire, that the husband bade them good night, and went to bed; and soon after, his true stories working compassion in the weaker vessel she wept and so did he.

Peter being greatly moved at seeing his mother in tears, comforted her with a piece of gold, which gave her an assurance that he deserved the lodging which she afforded him. Shortly after he retired to bed, but before he lay down he imprudently shewed her the treasure which was girded about his body, still concealing who he was, and this indiscreet act wrought his own utter destruction. But is there a more open guileless character in the world than an honest British Tar off duty? and who could extend their prudence so far as to entertain