wondering at this observation, took the paper, and, casting
his eyes greedily upon the contents, congratulated him upon the receipt
of it, with extravagant demonstrations of joy. "Not on account of the
sum," said he, "which, upon my honour, I would with pleasure pay three
times over for your convenience and satisfaction; but because it seems
to have reconciled you to life, and disposed your mind for enjoying the
comforts of society."

The instantaneous effect which this unexpected smile of fortune produced
in the appearance of our adventurer is altogether inconceivable; it
plumped up his cheeks in a moment, unbended and enlightened every
feature of his face; elevated his head, which had begun to sink as
it were, between his shoulders; and from a squeaking dispirited tone,
swelled up his voice to a clear manly accent. Godfrey, taking advantage
of this favourable change, began to regale him with prospects of future
success. He reminded him of his youth and qualifications, which were
certainly designed for better days than those he had as yet seen;
he pointed out various paths by which he might arrive at wealth and
reputation; he importuned him to accept of a sum for his immediate
occasions; and earnestly begged that he would allow him to discharge
the debt for which he was confined, observing, that Sophy's fortune
had enabled him to exhibit that proof of his gratitude, without any
detriment to his affairs; and protesting that he should not believe
himself in possession of Mr. Pickle's esteem, unless he was permitted to
make some such return of good-will to the man, who had not only raised
him from indigence and scorn, to competence and reputable rank, but also
empowered him to obtain the possession of an excellent woman, who had
filled up the measure of his felicity.

Peregrine declared himself already overpaid for all his good offices,
by the pleasure he enjoyed in employing them, and the happy effects they
had produced in the mutual satisfaction of two persons so dear to his
affection; and assured his friend, that one time or other he would set
his conscience at ease, and remove the scruples of his honour, by having
recourse to his assistance; but at present he could not make use of his
friendship, without giving just cause of offence to honest Hatchway,
who was prior to him in point of solicitation, and had manifested his
attachment with surprising obstinacy and perseverance.

CHAPTER CII.

Peregrine reconc