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than this: I shall be a happy girl and a proud girl too, if you will put confidence in me.

Sea. (taking her hand tenderly.) My sweet child! this would be a dull and sombre life for a young girl like you: you ought how to be dressed and fashioned like other young people, and have the advantage of being introduced to the world by those who——

Soph. O no! I don't care whether my gown be made of silk or of linen: and as for being dull, never trouble your head about that; we shall find a way to get the better of it. Do you know, papa,——but I am almost ashamed to tell it you.—

Sea. What is it, my dear.

Soph. I have been learning to play at backgammon: for you know mama and you used to play at it of a winter evening; and I'll play with you, if you will allow me.

Sea. O God! O God! this is too much! (turns from them in great agitation, and running to the opposite side of the room, stands leaning his back against the wall, whilst Sophia and the children gather round him.)

Soph. My dear father! what is the matter?

Eldest Boy. Are you not well, papa?

Sea. I am well enough! I am well enough! but I have something to tell you, and I cannot tell it.

Soph. For God's sake let me know what it is!

Sea. You must know it: it is necessary that you should. I am——(pauses.)

Soph. A bankrupt.