Page:Village curate (2).pdf/19

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ale, talked over the feats of former days, and in thought grew young again.

Every transaction that had occurred since Lord Belfont's arrival in the village, he had transmitted to his friend Bremere: and, on confirmation of the oppression which his steward had exercised, enclosed the discharge of that unfeeling wretch; with an order to deliver his accounts to Mr Benley, whom he appointed his successor. A letter, announcing to this gentleman his appointment, also accompanied the packet; which Bremere duly forwarded from London, in the manner his friend had directed. By this time Bremere had refuted the opinion which had been entertained of the derangement of his lordship’s finances. The whole was declared to be a feint.

The sensations of Sandford, on reading his lordship's letter, were such as are familiar only to the guilty. The perturbation of his mind brought on a violent fever, which soon terminated his miserable existence.

Far different were the feelings of Mr Benley.—"How variegated is the life of man! His morn of infancy rises immersed in clouds, and the lowering tempest carries ruin in its aspect. Anon, the friendly breeze of fortune disperses the threatening storm; prosperity's golden sun sheds forth its cheering rays, enervates the chill blasts of his black adversity, and decks the evening of his days in smiles of joy." And oft the ministers of fate reverse the pleaing scene!" said Trueman. "You are come very opportunely to share the pleasure which our newly acquired fortune gives," returned the curate. And, after having informed