seen that there were plenty
of the same set to attest upon oath that I saw my brother every day
during this period; that I persecuted him, with my presence day and
night, while all the time I never saw his face save in a delusive
dream. I cannot comprehend what manoeuvres my illustrious friend was
playing off with them about this time; for he, having the art of
personating whom he chose, had peradventure deceived them, else many of
them had never all attested the same thing. I never saw any man so
steady in his friendships and attentions as he; but as he made a rule
of never calling at private houses, for fear of some discovery being
made of his person, so I never saw him while my malady lasted; but, as
soon as I grew better, I knew I had nothing ado but to attend at some
of our places of meeting to see him again. He was punctual, as usual,
and I had not to wait.

My reception was precisely as I apprehended. There was no flaring, no
flummery, nor bombastical pretensions, but a dignified return to my
obeisance, and an immediate recurrence, in converse, to the important
duties incumbent on us, in our stations, as reformers and purifiers of
the Church.

"I have marked out a number of most dangerous characters in this city,"
said he, "all of whom must be cut off from cumbering the true vineyard
before we leave this land. And, if you bestir not yourself in the work
to which you are called, I must raise up others who shall have the
honour of it!"

"I am, most illustrious prince, wholly at your service," said I. "Show
but what ought to be done, and here is the heart to dare and the hand
to execute. You pointed out my relations, according to the flesh, as
brands fitted to be thrown into the burning. I approve peremptorily of
the award; nay, I thirst to accomplish it; for I myself have suffered
severely from their diabolical arts. When once that trial of my
devotion to the faith is accomplished, then be your future operations
disclosed."

"You are free of your words and promises," said he.

"So will I be of my deeds in the service of my master, and that shalt
thou see," said I. "I lack not the spirit, nor the will, but I lack
experience woefully; and, because of that shortcoming, must bow to your
suggestions!"

"Meet me here to-morrow betimes," said he, "and perhaps you may hear of
some opportunity of displaying your zeal in the cause of righteousness."

I met him as he desired me; and he addressed me with a hurried and