Nothing appeared to be deficient. Of this, however,
we were scarcely qualified to judge. Those that were the property of
Williams might not be entire, and what would be the consequence of
presenting them to him, if any had been embezzled by Welbeck?

This difficulty was obviated by Mervyn, who observed that the
advertisement describing these bills would afford us ample information
on this head. "Having found out where the Maurices and Mrs. Watson live,
nothing remains but to visit them, and put an end, as far as lies in my
power, to their inquietudes."

"What! Would you go to Baltimore?"

"Certainly. Can any other expedient be proper? How shall I otherwise
insure the safe conveyance of these papers?"

"You may send them by post."

"But why not go myself?"

"I can hardly tell, unless your appearance on such an errand may be
suspected likely to involve you in embarrassments."

"What embarrassments? If they receive their own, ought they not to be
satisfied?"

"The inquiry will naturally be made as to the manner of gaining
possession of these papers. They were lately in the hands of Watson, but
Watson has disappeared. Suspicions are awake respecting the cause of his
disappearance. These suspicions are connected with Welbeck, and
Welbeck's connection with you is not unknown."

"These are evils, but I see not how an ingenious and open conduct is
adapted to increase these evils. If they come, I must endure them."

"I believe your decision is right. No one is so skilful an advocate in a
cause, as he whose cause it is. I rely upon your skill and address, and
shall leave you to pursue your own way. I must leave you for a time, but
shall expect to be punctually informed of all that passes." With this
agreement we parted, and I hastened to perform my intended journey.

CHAPTER XXXIX.

I am glad, my friend, thy nimble pen has got so far upon its journey.
What remains of my story may be despatched in a trice. I have just now
some vacant hours, which might possibly be more usefully employed, but
not in an easier manner or more pleasant. So, let me carry on thy
thread.

First, let me mention the resolutions I had formed at the time I parted
with my friend. I had several objects in view. One was a conference with
Mrs. Wentworth; another was an interview with her whom I met with at
Villars's. My heart melted when I thought upon the desolate condition of
Clemenza, and determined me to direct my first efforts for h