ster, as a person devoid of
gratitude and candour, protesting, that if ever an opportunity should
offer itself, he would spend the whole remains of his fortune in
opposing his measures. The nobleman having given him time to exhaust
the impetuosity of his passion, rebuked him very calmly for his
disrespectful expressions, which were equally injurious and indiscreet;
assured him that this project of revenge, if ever put in execution,
would redound to his own prejudice and confusion; and advised him to
cultivate and improve, with patience and assiduity, the footing he had
already obtained in the minister's good graces.

Our hero, convinced of the truth, though not satisfied with the occasion
of his admonitions, took his leave in a fit of sullen discontent, and
began to ruminate upon the shattered posture of his affairs. All that
now remained of the ample fortune he had inherited was the sum he had
deposited in his lordship's hands, together with fifteen hundred pounds
he had ventured on bottomry, and the garrison, which he had left for the
use and accommodation of the lieutenant; and, on the per contra side
of his account, he was debtor for the supply he had received from the
receiver-general, and the money for which he was bound in behalf of his
friend; so that he found himself, for the first time of his life, very
much embarrassed in his circumstances. For, of the first half-year's
interest of his ten thousand, which was punctually paid, he had but
fourscore pounds in bank, without any prospect of a farther supply
till the other term, which was at the distance of four long months. He
seriously reflected upon the uncertainty of human affairs: the ship with
his fifteen hundred pounds might be lost; the gentleman for whom he was
security might miscarry in this, as well as in his former projects, and
the minister might one day, through policy or displeasure, expose him to
the mercy of his dependant, who was in possession of his notes.

These suggestions did not at all contribute to the ease of our
adventurer's mind, already ruffled by his disappointment. He cursed
his own folly and extravagance, by which he was reduced to such an
uncomfortable situation. He compared his own conduct with that of some
young gentlemen of his acquaintance, who, while he was squandering
away the best part of his inheritance, had improved their fortunes,
strengthened their interest, and increased their reputation. He was
abandoned by his gaiety a