in these things.

_Augusta._ Yes, Sir! you have power to soften your father's heart.

_Counsellor._ I am grieved indeed--truly sorry to refuse you any
thing--I have so much esteem for you!

_Augusta._ Be generous, Sir, I intreat you.

_Counsellor._ You are such a lovely petitioner, that I could almost
forgive adversity, as it unfolds so many charms in you: but indeed your
father has offended all his friends--it is impossible.

_Augusta._ In the name of humanity, be generous.

_Counsellor._ Charming good lady! I cannot assist you--not now,
afterwards perhaps----

_Augusta_ [in tears]. Unfeeling man!

_Counsellor._ Dear young lady! be comforted--things may turn out better
than you expect.--Indeed I am deeply afflicted: if I could assist you,
you might depend upon me--forgive me, my dear Augusta! I must leave you
now. I humbly thank you for your flattering attention. [Exit.

_Mrs. D._ [entering hastily]. Merciful heaven! must it come to that?

_Augusta._ Speak, mother; what is the matter?

[Mr. D. enters, followed by Philip Brook]. Such an infamous fellow! I
could bear no longer.

_Mrs. D._ To strike a magistrate! Oh, what will be the consequence?

_Philip._ Do not alarm yourself on this account, Madam. I am witness he
exceeded his power. Be composed. We have no time to lose. In the first
place, we must prevent this affair from proceeding farther; you will
therefore consider my property as your own.

_Mr. D._ No!

_Philip._ Why not? I cannot lose by it.

_Mr. D._ You do not know that. A merchant is above all people liable to
accidents.

_Philip._ But, my dear Sir!

_Mr. D._ My refusal does not proceed from pride. Heaven sent me this
trial. Supported by the consciousness of having done my duty, I can
bear misfortune; but dare not throw it upon you. If you will assist me,
my good friend, help me to arrange my papers. Do you, my wife and
Augusta, behave with fortitude; your courage will console me.----Look
at me, Brook. Do I appear dejected? Do not I seem rather to be upheld
by an unknown, sacred power? I cannot account for it, but this change
does not affect me so sensibly.--Come, my friend! why so serious?

_Philip._ Then you deny my wishes?

_Mr. D._ I dare not consent.

_Philip._ You are the father of a family.

_Mr. D._ And God above, the father of innocent sufferers.

(Enter a Servant hastily).

_Serv._ For God's sake, Sir, what has happened? there are two men come