Page:Passions 2.pdf/114

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
102
THE ELECTION:

volved, paid her a yearly sum for the support and education of her son, which laid the foundation of his future wealth and prosperity.

Balt. (stepping forward with emotion.) Did my mother do this?

True. Yes, Baltimore, she did: till Mrs. Freeman, inform'd of the state of your father's affairs, with an industry that defied all pain and weariness, toil'd night and day to support the aspiring views of her son, independent of a bounty which she would no longer receive, tho' it was often and warmly press'd upon her.

Free. (with emotion.) And did my mother do that?

True. She did, indeed.

Free. Then God bless her! I do not blush to call myself her son.

True. (stretching out his hands to Balt. and Free.) Now, don't think that I am going to whine to you about natural affection, and fraternal love, and such weaknesses. I know that you have lived in the constant practice of all manner of opposition and provocation towards one another for some time past: you have exercised your tempers thereby, and have acquired habits that are now, perhaps, necessary for you. Far be it from me to break in upon habits and gratifications! Only, as you are both the sons of one father, who now lies quietly in his grave, and of the good women, for I call them both good, who bore no enmity to one another, tho' placed in a situation very favourable for its growth,