Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 1).djvu/191

 wine, and grapes, which, whilst Ferdinand gladly devoured, he was observed, with the most scrutinizing attention, by his entertainer; nor were the other's eyes unemployed.—When he put the flask of wine to his mouth, for no cup had been thought necessary, he drank to the other's health, which was returned with a bow of the head; but no persuasions could induce him to return the compliment. "I drink no wine," said he, in a mournful voice.

"Indeed, my good friend, I think you need it," said Ferdinand, "weak and feeble as you are, wine seems absolutely necessary for you."

"I have sworn to the contrary," replied the other, with an increased dejection.

"It appears to me," returned Ferdinand, "to have been a very cruel injunction, if forced upon you, and a very unwise one, if voluntarily made, for the good things of this life were given to us by a bounteous Creator to be our support and comfort; the abuse of them is only improper, and when advanced