Page:The Wanderer (1814 Volume 2).pdf/275

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man," he said, "is rich and good natured, you are poor and helpless: he ought to give; it's only being just: you ought to accept, or you are only very foolish."

"Do not be hasty to blame me, my good Mr. Giles. There are certain points in which every one must judge for himself. With regard to me, I must resist all pecuniary obligations."

"Except to poor trades-people!" cried he, nodding a little reproachfully; "and those you will let work and toil for you gratis!"

Ellis, shocked, and struck to the quick, looked deeply distressed.

"Perhaps," she said, "I may be wrong! Justice, certainly, should take place of whatever is personal, however dear or near its interest!—"

She paused, ruminated, irresolute, and dissatisfied; and then said, "Were I to consult only myself, my own feelings, whatever they may be, should surely and even instantly, give way, to what is due