n. His curiosity was gratified
with the recital, and his heart expanded in the same proportion that his
knowledge improved. He reflected, with shame and contempt, upon the
ridiculous prejudices he had once entertained; he learned to consider
all men as his brethren and equals; and the foolish distinctions which
pride had formerly suggested were gradually obliterated from his mind.
Such a change in his sentiments rendered him more mild, more obliging,
more engaging than ever; he became the delight of all the family; and
Harry, although he had always loved him, now knew no limits to his
affection.

One day Tommy was surprised by an unexpected visit from his father, who
met him with open arms, and told him that he was now come to take him
back to his own house. "I have heard," said he, "such an account of your
present behaviour, that the past is entirely forgotten; and I begin to
glory in owning you for a son." He then embraced him with the transports
of an affectionate father, who indulges the strongest sentiments of his
heart, but sentiments he had long been forced to restrain.

Tommy returned his father's caresses with genuine warmth, but with a
degree of respect and humility he had once been little accustomed to
use. "I will accompany you home, sir," said he, "with the greatest
readiness; for I wish to see my mother, and hope to give her some
satisfaction by my future behaviour. You have both had too much to
complain of in the past, and I am unworthy of such affectionate
parents." He then turned his face aside and shed a tear of real virtue
and gratitude, which he instantly wiped away, as unworthy the composure
and fortitude of his new character.

"But, sir," added he, "I hope you will not object to my detaining you a
little longer, while I return my acknowledgments to all the family, and
take my leave of Harry." "Surely," said Mr Merton, "you can entertain no
doubt on that subject; and to give you every opportunity of discharging
all your duties to a family to which you owe so much, I intend to take a
dinner with Mr Sandford, whom I now see coming home, and then to return
with you in the evening."

At this instant, farmer Sandford approached, and very respectfully
saluting Mr Merton, invited him to walk in. But Mr Merton, after
returning his civility, drew him aside, as if he had some private
business to communicate. When they were alone, he made him every
acknowledgment that gratitude could suggest, "but words,"