Page:Tragical history of George Barnwell (1).pdf/13

 I not know it?—Have I not felt it?—Oh!"—The gesture that accompanied this apostraphe, was that of the extremest anguish. George was affected, and Mental perceived the emotions he had caused. "Nay. nay," said he, "I meant not to sinuate that I am peculiarly wretched; it is the common lot, the destiny of man.— If the detail would not be thought tiresome, there are particulars in my own experience, that might perhaps, afford you a lessen. I have not for years talked of myself to others; but if you would like to listen to my tale, nor hold your time ill spent—"

"I should ill deserve so great a favour,' interrupted Barnwell, "if I could estimate its worth no better."

"You have," said Mental, "a heart of sensibility, and a mind superior to your years. Hold! think not I compliment, for in my opinion the possessing them is a matter that calls for condolence more than congratulation. But to my story.

'My father was a tradesman, who was unfortunate in the concerns he undertook, for some years before his death; and, at last, broken hearted with disappointments, sunk poor to the grave. My mother had gone there long before; and at the demise of my father, I was their only living descendant. Ere I was eight years old I left my native roof, and became a member of the public school at Eton.—Success favoured my endeavours, and before I was thirteen years old, I was qualified for