Page:Tragical history of George Barnwell (2).pdf/13

 I not know it? Have I not felt it? —— Oh!" —— The geſture that accompanied this apoſtrophe, was that of the extremeſt anguiſh. George was affected and Mental perceived the emotions he had caused "Nay, nay," ſaid he, "I mean not to inſinuate 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 leſſon. 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 favor," 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 at eight years old I left my native roof, and became a member of the public ſchool at Eton —— Succeſs favored my endeavours, and before I was thirteen years old, I was qualified for