you need
not have done that; I did nothing to offend you; and however amusing you
may think it to insult poor people, I assure you it is very wicked, and
what no good person in the world would be guilty of." He then set up
a great rude laugh, and I walked on and said no more. But if all
gentlefolk were to behave like that family, I had rather be poor as I
am, than have all their riches, if that would make me act like them.'
'Very true, Abraham,' replied his wife, 'that is what I say, and what I
told Master George this morning; for to be poor, if people do not become
so through their own extravagance, is no disgrace to any body: but to be
haughty, cruel, cross, and mischievous, is a disgrace to all who are so,
let their rank be as exalted as it may.'

Here the conversation was interrupted by the entrance of a man, who
begged Mr. Flood to assist him in unloading his cart of flour, as his
man was gone out, and he could not do it by himself. 'Well, I will come
and help you, with all my heart,' said Flood; 'and so shall Tom too:
will you, my lad? I cannot live without help myself; and if I do not
assist others, I am sure I shall not deserve any when I want it.' So
saying, he left his house; and his wife, after cleaning and putting in
their proper places those things which had been used at dinner, again
sat down to her sewing.

Soon after the clock had struck six, the man and his son returned; and,
sitting round the fire, they passed the evening in social conversation,
till they went to bed, which was a little after eight; and they
convinced me, by their talk and behaviour, that happiness in this world
depends far more upon the temper and disposition of the heart, than upon
any external possessions; and that virtue, and a desire to be useful
to others, afford far greater satisfaction and peace of mind than
any riches and grandeur can possibly supply without such necessary
qualifications. After they were all fallen asleep, we crept out; and,
leaving the candle unmolested, which was again placed on the tinder-box
by the bed-side, we hastened into the closet, where we regaled heartily,
and devoured that part of the plum-cake which Tom had very generously
left for his sister Polly, who we found was expected home the next day.

We then retired to our safe retreat, and thought we might venture to
stay for one more night's provisions without running any danger from our
too frequent return to the same place. But in the morning we f