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THE
YIGAR OP WAKEFIELD.
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BY OLIVER GOLDSMITH, M.B.
ARRAKGED AS
A GUIDE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF FRENCH SENTENCES, COMPLETING THE SYSTEM OF THE PRACTICAL INTEL- LECTUAL METHOD FOR LEARNING FRMCH.
"Utile dulci." "An pr6cepte il faut joindre I'exemple."
BY
JEAN B. SUE, A.M.
FOEMEB PUPIL OF THE EOTAL SCHOOL Or SOUiZI,
PHILADELPHIA:
J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO.
1864.
Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1863, by
JEAN B. SUE,
in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of tlie United States for the Eastern District of Pennpylvania.
"2.
LE
VICAIEE DE WAKEFIELD.
C 0 N T B.
PAR
OLIVIER GOLDSMITH,
TRADUIT ET ARRANGjS
POUR SERVIR DE GUIDE DAKS LA CONSTRUCTION DES PHRASES FRANgAISES.
Rl&UNISSANT LA PRATIQUE ET LA SYNTHESE=DU FRANgAIS, CETTE
TRADUCTION ET LA NOUVELLE M/.THODE TORMENT UN COURS
COMPLET POUR APPRENDRE A LIRE, A £CRIRE, A
PARLER, ET A COMPOSER EN CETTE LANGUE.
" Au prScepte il faut joindre I'exemplev" -^JJ^sAr
Par jean B. SUE, A.M.
PROFESSEUR DE LITliRATURE FRAN9AISE, ANCIEN ^LliVE DE L'ECOLE ROTALE DE SOR^ZE.
PHILADELPHIE :
J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO. 1864.
.1^
PREFACE OF THE TRANSLATOR.
For the special use of learners who have gone through the elementary course indicated in our method and begun the study of the syntax, we offer the present vo- lume as a reader and guide in the construction of French sentences.
The variety of topics and the different styles of compo- sition displayed in the well-written pages of the text make it a happy selection for use in schools; and the most fastidious cannot but acknowledge the soundness of its moral principles.
Answering our double purpose much better than could have been done by the revered master-pieces of French literature, — generally so far above the intelligence of stu- dents at this stage of tuition, — the translation of this little novel will teach learners the ordinary practice [of the French tongue. Therefore, whatever be its merits or demerits, this book, with its Uvely fireside scenes and spirited dialogues, used in connection with our English exercises on the practical application of the French syn- tax, must not be looked upon by critics as an injudi- cious attempt to set aside the models of French literature. On the contrary, our present substitution must be consi- dered as a preparatory step to ascend safely those lite- rary summits; and at the proper time relish the highly
G PREFACE.
appreciated French classics. Scholars and the lovers of progress in studies will recognize, in the comhinations blending this guide with the new method^ a serious and timely attempt to raise from their low ebb the modes of teaching French generally adopted in our schools, — to this day known only by their negative results.
Considered as a French reader^ this translation opens to teachers a wide field for practice on pronunciation and elocution : both essentially practical parts of living lan- guages, pronunciation and elocution can only be well taught from the mouth of the teacher to the ears of the pupil. Moreover, this book will help to familiarize learners with many idiomatic expressions of the French tongue, indicated in a tabular form in the third part of our method.
Assisted by references to the French syntax, inserted in the English text ; enabled to make a literal translation from that text, and to justify that translation in quoting the rules they have followed in the new method ; learners will find indicated, in this volume, a practical way for making French constructions. When compared, the con- trast between their literal translation and our free one will show them how to conform English thoughts to the wants of the French tongue. Kot reducible to rules, depending only upon the contrast between the text and translation' which sets forth the peculiarities of each language, this special study, not to be learned in methods, is here taught
by practical demonstration.
J. B. S.
NOTICE.
Cettb traduction du Vicaire de Wakefield, avec le teste en regard et de nombreux renvois aux regies de la m^tliode pratique intellectuelle, est destinde a I'usage de ceux qui apprennent le fran9ais, et qui d'eux- memes veulent faire plus tard une 6tude sp^ciale de la construction des phrases en cette langue.
Pendant le cours de notre travail nous avons tacli^ d'etre correct, et, tout en rendant fidMement I'id^e originale de I'auteur, par une expres- Bion frangaise equivalente, nous nous sommes constamment attach^ ^ conserver la fraicheur et la naivete de son style. En un mot, nous reproduisons ici le conte de Goldsmith tel que nous croyons qu'il I'e^t lui-meme cont^ en fran9ais. Par le rapprochement du texte avec la traduction fran5aise les idiomes des deux langues sont mis en relief: indiquant la marche que doit suivre I'esprit en traduisant, leur contraste sera un guide certain pour les' commentateurs et pour lea ^tudians.
La nouvclle route que nous indiquons pour cette ^tude est instructive et attrayante ; car, si jamais nous avons gott6 ce qu'il y a de vrai dans cea mots du po^te de Tibur: Utile dulci, c'est en traduisant le charmant opuscule d' Olivier Goldsmith.
Passant rapidement du style nature! et familier aux accents les plus sublimes; enjou^, 6nergique, son langage est toujours convenable et moral, soit qu'il traite politique, devoirs de famille, soit qu'il enseigne. Aussi, dans la vari^te des topiques heureusement amends dans cette attrayante production, trouverons-nous en abondance et agr^ablement reproduits, les 61^ments de la conversation fran9aise avec ses nombreux idiomes.
J. B. S.
ADVERTISEMENT. (555 bis.)
There are (59^ 665, 545) a hundred faults in this thing, and a hundred things might be said to prove (59) them beauties. But it is needless (854). A book (318, 1185) may be amusing (766) with numerous errors, or it may be very dull (890) without a single absurdity. The hero (306, 313, 963) of this piece unites in himself the three greatest (548, 1183) characters upon earth. He is a priest (554), a husbandman, and a father of a (555 bis) family. He is drawn (1217, 938) as ready to teach and ready (918, 1177) to obey,— as (808) simple in affluence, and majestic in adversity. In (824) this age of opulence and (833) refinement, whom (384) can such a character (372, 59) please? Such as are (727) fond of high life (1185, 59) will turn with disdain from the simplicity of his country fireside (530) ; such as mistake (52, 242) ribaldry (310) for (550) humor will find (59, 162 bis) no (890, 367) wit in his (368, 556) harmless conversation, and such as have been taught (56, 665) to deride religion (535, 1177) will laugh (59, 162 bis, 1156) at one whose chief stores of comfort are (679) drawn from futurity.
OLIVER GOLDSMITH.
AYEETISSEMENT.
On trourera bien des fautes dans cette bagatelle, et bien des cboses nSan- moins prouveront que ces fautes sont autant de beaut^s. Inutile d'insister sur cela. Un livre peut etre amusant avec de nombreux d^fauts, ou tres- ennuyeux quoique exempt d'absurdit^s. Les trois rSles les plus grands du monde sont concentres dans le heros de ce conte : pr^tre, agriculteur, et pere- de-%mille en mSme temps. On Vj represente pret a enseigner et a obeir, aussi simple dans I'affluence que digne dans I'adversit^. Dans nos temps de luxe et d'etiquette ^ qui plaira ce personnage? Les partisans du grand monde quitteront d^daigneusement son coin-du-feu rustiquej ceux qui prennent la licence pour de I'esprit trouveront ennuyant son innocent ver- biage ; tandis que ceux qu'on a appris ^ tourner la religion en ridicule, so riront d'un homme dont le principal tr^sor de consolations repose entierement dans I'avenir.
OLIVIER GOLDSMITH.
* In the first chapter we have marked mth hyphens (-) the intervals between words which must be observed in reading. In the remaining part of the work we xise the common way of pmictuation. (See 983 and following of the Method.)
THE
YIOAR OF WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTER I. (360, 1187 bis.)
THE DESCRIPTION (555 bis) OP THE FAMILY OP (518) WAKEPIELD, IN WHICH (383) A KINDRED LIKENESS (374, 52) PREYAILS, AS (824) WELL OP MINDS
AS OP PERSONS (289, 293).
I WAS (56, 728) ever of opinion that tlie honest man, who married (773) and brought up (52, 726) a large family, did (52) more service than he who continued single, and only talked (619) of population. From this motive, I had (54) scarce taken orders (1054) a year, before I began (55) to think seriously (55, 405, 315) of matrimony, and chose (767) my wife as she did her wedding-gown (530, 1026, 367), not for a fine glossy surface, but for such qualities as would wear well. To do her (633) justice, she was (648, 54) a good-natured, notable (333) woman; and as for breeding (845), there were few country ladies (556) who could show more. She could read (54, 1176) any English book without much spelling (1230) ; but for (930) pickling, preservings and cookery, none (727) could excel her (623, 1176). She prided herself (93, 54) also upon being an excellent contriver in housekeeping; though I could never (52, 776) find that we grew richer (407) with all her (56, 777) contrivances.
However, we loved (54) each other tenderly, and our fondness increased (727) as we grew old. There was (54, 727), in fact, (943) nothing that could (55, 1176) make us angry (925, 1176) 10
LE
VIOAIRE DE WAKEFIELD.
CHAP.ITRE I.
DESCRIPTION -DES-WAKEFIELDS, OTT-SE-REMARQUE-irNE-RESSEMBLANCE-DE- FAMILLE-DANS-LES-TRAITS-M0RAtTX-ET-PHYSIQTJE3.
Tou JOURS-ai-j e-ete-d'avis-que-l'lionn^te-liomme-marie — qui -eleve-une-famille-nombreuse, rend-un-plus-grand-service-a— la-societe- que-le -vieux-celibataire-qui-se-borne-k— parler-de- population. Imbu-de-ce-principe, il-y-avait-a-peine-un-au— que— j 'avals -pris -les-ordres — quand-je-soqgeai-serieusement- au-mariage j choisissant— ma-femme — ainsi-qu'elle-fit-clioix- de-sa-robe— de-noces, non-pour-un-aspect-brillant- mais-pour— des-qualit^s-solides. Soyons-juste-k-son-egard. C'etait-une- personne-remarquable-et-d'un— excellent-naturel. Quant-k-son -education— peu-de-dames-campagnardes — auraient- pu- lui-en- moD trer. Elle-lisait-couramment— sans-trop-epeler— toute-esp^ce -de-livres-anglais. Mais, si-nous-touchons-k-la-maniere-de- confire, soit-au-vinaigre, soit-au-sucre, ou-k-1' art-de-la-cuisine, nuUe-d'entre-elles-k-coup-siir-n'aurait-pu-la-surpasser. Elle- se-vantait— surtout— d'etre-bonne-menag^re ; cependant— je-ne- me-suis-jamais-apergu-que-sa-direction-du-menage-nous-ait- enrichis.
Nous-eprouvions-run-pour-l'autre-une-tendresse-reciproque, et— cet-attacbement-croissait-avec-rage. II— n'y— avait-rien, en— effet, qui-put-nous- aigrir -envers-le-monde - ni - nous - facber-
11
12 THE VIOAR OP WAKEFIELD.
"with the world, or each other. We had (54, 579) an elegant house, situated in a fine country and a good neighborhood. The year was spent (1104, 54) in moral or (351) rural amusements, in (54,727) visiting our rich neighbors, and relieving (727) such as were poor. We' had no revolutions (547) to fear, nor (839) fatigues to undergo; all our adventures were (54, 727) by the fireside, and all our migrations from (823, 854) the blue bed to the brown.
As we lived near the road (54, 1134), we often had (727) the traveller or the stranger visit us, to taste our gooseberry-wine, for which we had (54) great reputation (306); and I profess (52) with the veracity of an historian (304, 555 bis), that I never knew (56) one of them find (938, 777) fault with it. Our cousins, too, even (608) to the (316, 362) fortieth remove (921, 54), all remembered their affinity without (925) any help from the her- ald's office (555 bis), and came (727) very frequently to see us (623, 1176). Some (537) of them did us (54) no great honor by these claims of kindred, as we had (727) the blind, the (535) maimed, and the halt (550) among the number. However, my wife always insisted (54) that, as they were (727) the same Jlesh and blood (550,833), they should sit (1178) with us at the same table; so that, if we had not very rich, we generally had very happy friends about us; for this (103, 105) remark will hold good through life, that the poorer the guest (839, 409), the better pleased (52) he ever is with being treated; and as some men (514, 52) gaze with admiration at the colors of a tulip, or the wing of a (833) butterfly, so (621) I was (54) by nature an ad- mirer of happy human faces. However, when any one (826 bis, 844) of our relations (869, 358) was found to be (93, 54) a per- son of a very bad character, a troublesome (1168) guest, or one we desired (54, 1176) to get rid of, upon his leaving (679) my (592) house, I ever took care (54, 1178) to lend him a riding- coat, or a pair (1185) of boots, or sometimes a horse of small value, and I always had (56) the satisfaction to find (1178) he never came back to return them (623, 49). By tjis the house was (54, 776) cleared of (316) such as we did not like (163, 54);
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 13
contre-nous-memes. Nous - poss^dions - une - superbe-maison- situee— dans - une-campagne-riante - qu'entourait-un-bon-voisi- nage. L'an nee-se- passait-en- amusements- champetres-et-mo- raux. Nous -visitions - nos -voisins - ais^s— et-secourions-ceux- d'entre-eux-qui-etaient-pauvres. Sans- crainte-de-revolutions -ni-fatigues-a-surmonter, nos- aventures-se- passaient-paisible- ment-au-coin-du-feu ; et-nos— seuls-changements-se-reduisaient -aux - migrations-de-la-chambre-bleue - a - la - chambre-couleur- feuille-morte.
Comme - notre - maison — donnait - sur - la-route, souvent-rece- vions-n ous- la-visite-du -voyageur - ou - de - retranger-allecbes- par-notre -vin-de-groseilles, dont-la- reputation -6tait -immense ; et-j'avoue, avec-la-veracit^d'un-historien, que-jamais-aucun- d'eux— n'y— a-trouve— faute. Nos-cousins-meme-au— quarantieme -degre-de- generation, sans-recourir-aux-archives-heraldiques- se-rappelaient-parfaitement-notre- parente ; aussi - leurs -visites chez-nous-etaient-elles-tr^s-frequentes. A-vrai-dire, parmi-ces- pretentions-de-consanguinite- quelques-unes- n'etaient-pas-tres- flatteuses-pour-nous ; dans-leur-nonibre-figuraieni>-raveugle, le -manchot-et-le— boiteux. Neanmoins, comme-nous-etions-tous d'une — m^me - chair - et - d'un — meme-sang, ma— femme-obstine- ment - reclamait— pour- cbacun-d' eux - le-droit-de-se-mettre-a- table— avec-nous ; de-telle-sorte-que-notre-entourage-sans-etre -trop-ricbe-n'en-etait^-pas-moins-lieureux. En-efFet, il-est-a- remarquer— en— cette-vie-que— plus— notre- bote— est-pauvre, plus— sensible-il-se-trouve-au-traitement-qu'on-lui-accorde ; et-de- meme - que - certaines - gens - s'extasient-en-examinant^les-cou- leurs- d'une -tulipe, ou-les-ailes-veloutees-d'un-papillon, de- meme - par - nature - etais-j e - admirateur -de - physionomies - re- jouies. Cependant, quand-parmi-ces-parents-se-rencontrait- un-individu-de-reputation-equivoque, un-mauvais-coucheur, ou -une-personne— dont-on-d^sirait-se-debarrasser ; j'avais-toujours - pour - principe - en-le- cong^diant, de-lui-preter-soit-un-sur- tout, soit-une-paire— de-bottes, quelquefois-m^me— un-cheval-de -peu-de-valeur. ' En-pareil-cas, j'ai-toujours-eu-la-satisfaction -de-ne-pas-les-voir-revenir-pour-nous-rendre-cea-objets. Do
2
14 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
but never was the family of Wakefield (519, 56, 665) known to turn (737) the traveller or the poor dependant out of doors.
Thus we lived (55, 1104) several years in a state of much happiness : not (821 bis) but that we sometimes (737, 751)had those- little rubs which Providence (535, 52) sends to enhance the value of its (596, 597) favors. My orchard was often (57) robbed by school-boys, and my wife's (304) custards plundered (854) by the cats or (833) the children. The squire would sometimes fall (162 bis) asleep (93, 54, 1153) in the (548) most pathetic parts of my sermon, or his lady return (54) my wife's civilities (304) at church with a mutilated courtesy (331). But we soon got over (57, 897, 1154) the uneasiness caused by such acci- dents, and usually in three or four days began (623, 54) to won- der how they vexed us (776).
My children (801), the offspring of temperance, as they weye (773) educated without softness, so they were at once well formed and healthy; my sons (592,54, 679) hardy and active, my daughters (592, 54) beautiful and blooming. When (844) I stood (54) in the midst of the little circle which promised (657, 54) to be the supports of my declining age, I could (54) not avoid (1176, 1178) repeating (1228) the famous history of (302) Count Abensberg, who, in Henry II.'s progress through (825, 824) Germany, while other courtiers came (54) with their trea- sures, brought his thirty-two (448) children, and presented them (55, 679) to his sovereign as the most (548) valuable offering (751, 740, 1176) he had to bestow. In this manner, though I had (743, 751) but six (815), I considered them (54, 623) as a very valuable present made to my country, and (847) consequently looked (54) upon it as my debtor.
Our eldest son was named (54, 592) G-eorge, after (366, 773) his uncle who left us ten thousand (55, 588) pounds. Our second (511, 927) child, a girl, I intended (988, 54) to call (1178) after her aunt Grissel; but my wife, who, during her (368) pregnancy, had been reading (1231, 769) romances, insisted upon (1062, 55) her being (751) called Olivia. In less than (407) another year we had another daughter (55, 732) ; and now I was determined
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 15
-cette-maniere-la-maison- etait- dechargee - des ■^ botes - incom- modes ; mais- jamais-on-n'a-vu-que-la-famille-des-Wakefields— fermai>-sa-porte-a"iix— voyageurs-necessiteux.
Ainsi— se-passerent, dans— le-bonlieur, plusieurs-annees-de— notre— vie. Ce-n'est-pas-que-nous-n'eussions-quelquefois-de— petites— tracasserieS; telles -qu'envoie- la- Providence -pour-re- hausser-le-prix-de-ses-faveurs. Mon-verger-fut-souvent-pill6 — par— les— ^coliers — maraudeurs , et — les-cr ^mes-de— ma-f emme- maintesfois-entam^es-par-les-cliats-ou-par-les - petits - enfants. Le- seigneur -du -village, de-temps-a-autre, s'endormait>-aux- morgeaux-les-plus-touchants-de-mon-sermon, on, se-saluant-a — Feglise, sa-femme-repondait-a-la-mienne-par— une-rev^rence— manieree. Grr ace-^-Dieu — nous-fumes-bientot-faits-k-de-pa- reils- accidents; car, au-bout-de-trois-jours, nous-nous-eton- nions-d*y-avoir-ete-sensibles .
Rejetons-de-la-temperance-et-eleves-sans-mollesse, jouissant — tous-d'une-bonne-sant^, la— constitution— de-mes-enfants-etait- excellente. Les— gar§ons-4taient-robustes-et-actifs, les— fiUes— belles-ei^vermeilles. Quand— j e-tronais-au-milieu-de-ce— peti1>- cercle, qui — promettait-d'etre— un- jour— le-soutien-de-ma— vieil- lesse, je- ne - pouvais — m'emp^cber - de -repeter-la-fameuse-bis- toire - du - Comte - d' Abensberg. Pendant-un-voyage-q.ue-fit- Henri - second — en- Allemagne, tandis-que-les— courtisans-lui— rendaient-bommage-en-etalant — leurs - ricbesses-k-ses — y eux, le comte-offrit-ses-trente-deux-enfants-comme-le-plus-precieux- tresor-qu'il-put— presenter— a-ce— prince. Quoique-je — n'en- eusse-que-six — j e— les-croyais— d'un-tres-grand-prix-pour— mon— pays, que-j e-consid6rais-sous-ce-rapport>-mon-debiteur .
Le-nom-de-notre-aine-etait-Gleorges ; ainsi-nomm^-d'apres- un-oncle-qui-nous-laissa-dix-mille-livres. J^avais-Fintention— d'appeler-G-riselle-le-second-enfant, d'apr^s-une-de-ses-tantes ; mais, ayant — lu- des- romans-pendant-sa-grossesse, ma-femme— insista-pour-qu'on-rappelat-Olivie. En - moins - d'un - an -il- nous-naquit-une-autre-fiUe, que-j e-resolus-cette-fois-d'appeler
16 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(55, S6) that Grissel should be her name (1178, 757); but a rich relation (331, 732) taking a fancy to stand god-mother, the girl was (57) by her directions (776) called Sophia; so that we (726) had two romantic names in the (824, 825) family; but I solemnly protest (52) I had (727) no hand in it. Moses (274) was our next (55, 1077), and, after an interval of twelve (1185)* years, we had two sons more (55, 1077).
It would be (54, 621) fruitless to deny (1178) my (368, 592) exultation when I saw (54, 706) my little ones about me, but the vanity and the satisfaction of my wife (679, 54) were even greater than (410, 381) mine. When our visitors would say (54, 679, 162 bis), "Well (849, 486), upon my word, Mrs. Primrose, you have (52) the finest (407) children in the whole country :" — "Ay (422), neighbor," she would answer (54, 443), " they are (52, 679) as Heaven (427, 297) made them (623)— handsome enough (319, 337), if they be good enough ; for handsome is that handsome does (52, 855)." And then she would (54) bid the girls hold up (1060 bis, 592) their heads, who (657, 662, 1177), to conceal nothing, were (54,1175) certainly very hand- some. Mere outside (535) is so very trifling a circumstance with me, that I should (54, 160) scarce have remembered to mention it (374, 799), had it not been (57) a general topic of conversation in the (823) country. Olivia, now about eighteen (918), had that luxuriance of beauty with which painters generally draw Hebe; open (773), sprightly, and commanding (331). Sophia's features (304) were not (54, 164) so striking at first, but often did more certain execution (1191); for they were soft (556), modest, and alluring. The one (674, 812) vanquished by a single blow; the other (674) by efforts successively repeated (773).
The temper of a woman is (52, 776) generally formed from the turn of her (366, 74) features; at least it was (54) so with my daughters. Olivia wished (54, 69) for many lovers; Sophia
* To familiarize students with French words and expressions, or to facili- tate practice, our references purposely relate to series of many words. They point directly to rules of Syntax.
LE VIOAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 17
G-riselle ; cependant- comme — une - riclie-parente-s^offritHpour— marraine, par-son-ordre-la-petite-fut-nommee-Sopliie. Ainsi— avons-nous-dans-la-famille-deux-noms-romanesques ; mais-je- proteste — solennellement - que - ma— volonte - n'y- est- pour— rien. Moise— vint-ensuite ; et, apres-un— intervalle-de-douze-ans, il- nous-survint-deux-petits-garyons."
Pouvais-j e - reprimer - V orgueil-qui- m'agitait - quand-j e-me— voyais-entoure-de-ma-jeune-famille? Neanmoins, la— vanite— ou-le-plaisir-qu'eprouvait-ma-femme - surpassait - de-beaucoup -le-mien. ^' Parole-d'honneur ! madame-Primrose," s'ecriaient -par-fois-nos-visifceurs ; ^'vous-avez, sans-contredit, les-plus- beaux-enfants-du-pays !" " Mon-Dieu, voisin V repondait-elle; " ils-sont-tels-que -Dieu-les-a-faits, assez -beaux - s'ils - sont — assez— sages; car, vraie-beaute—c'est—la—bonte." Puis-elle— ordonnait-k-ses-filles-de-relever-la-t§te, lesquelles, k-ne-rien- cacber - etaient-veritablement- belles. Le - simple - exterieur — pour-moi-est-d'une-si- mince— importance, que-s'il— n'eut-et^ le-topique-de-tout-le-pays - j e-n'en-aurais-j amais-parle. Pr^s -de-sa-dix-buiti^me— annee, Olivie- possedait - une — beaute -ver- meille - telle- que - les - peintres - la - personnifient — dans - Hebe ; pleine-d' expression, vive, et-imposante. De-prime-abord-les- traits-de — Sopbie - ^taient — moins — seduisants, mais-leur-impres- sion-en-etait— plus- durable ; car— ils-etaient-doux, cbastes-et— engageants. L'une-arrivait-au-coeur— tout-d'un-coup;. I'autre, surement, par-des-efforts-graduellement-soutenus.
Le— caractere-des-femmes— est-generalement-modele-sur— leur —visage ; il-en-etait-du-moins-ainsi— de— celui-de-mes-filles. Olivie - soupirait - pour-une - longue-suite-d'amoureux ; Sopb ie-
2*
18 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(377, 799) to secure (127) one. Olivia was often affected (776), from too great a desire to please; Sophia even repressed^ xcel- lence (861), from her fears to offend. The one entertained me with her (368) vivacity when I was gay; the other with her sense when I was serious. But these (365 bis) qualities were (57) never (404, 776) carried to excess in either; and I have often seen them (73, 623) exchange (49, 1144) characters for a whole (1201) day together. A suit of mourning has transformed my coquette into (318) a prude; and a new set of ribands has (56) given her younger sister more than (411) natural vivacity. My eldest son, Greorge, was bred at Oxford (58, 776), as I intended him (988) for one of the learned professions. My (592) second boy, Moses, whom (657) I designed for business, received (58,777) a sort of miscellaneous education at home (306). But it is needless to attempt describing (1176) the particular characters of young people that (657) had (54, 769) seen but very little of the world (1185, 316). In short, a family likeness (303, 555 bis) prevailed through all; and, properly speaking, they had but (815, 1196) one character — that of being all equally generous, credulous, simple, and inoffensive (557).
CHAPTER 11.
FAMILY MISFORTUNES (llSYbis) — THE LOSS OF FORTUNE ONLY SERVES (62) TO INCREASE THE PRIDE (306, 1177) OF THE WORTHY.
The temporal concerns of our (592) family were (679) chiefly committed to my wife's management; as to the spiritual (845), I took them entirely under my (367) own direction. The profits of my living, which (767, 826) amounted to about thirty-five pounds a (555 bis, 505 bis) year, I made over to the orphans and (550) widows of the clergy of our (592) diocese; for, having'a sufficient fortune of my own, 1 was careless of temporalities (1061, 771), and felt a secret pleasure (579) in doing (1230) my duty
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 19
n'en-d^sirait-qu'un . Olivie - etait - tourment^e - par - un - trop- grand-desir-de-plaire ; de-crainte-d^offenser-Sopliie-cacliait-sa -superior! te. Quand-j'etais— gai— I'une— me-distrayait— par-son- enjouement ; Fautre— par— son-bon-sens-quand-j'etais-melanco- lique. Chez-elles, neanmoins, ces— qualites—ne— furent- jamais— poussees-a-Fexces ; car-je-les-ai-vues-^clianger-de-caractere- pendant-toui^un-j our. Des-liabits-de-deuil-ont-metamorphos6- ma-coquette-en—une- prude ; et-un— nouvel— assortiment— de- rubans-a-produit-chez-la-cadette-une-surabondance— de— gaiete. Me-proposant-d'en-faire— un-savant, Georges, mon-fils-aine- avait-ete—eleve-k— Oxford. Le-second, Moise, que— je-destinais — aux-affaires, avait - re§u-k-la- maison - une-sorte-d' education- mixte. Mais-k-quoi-bon-decrire-le-caractere-de-ces - jeunes- gens-qui-connaissaient-a-peine-le— monde ? En-un-mot-ils portaient-tous - un - air -de — famille ; et, k- proprement - parler, avaient - tous - le - ineme - caract^re, tous-^tant-^galement- gen6- reux, credules, simples, et-sans-malice.
CHAPITRE 11.
DESASTRE DE FAMILLE — LA PERTE DE LA FORTUNE NB SEBT QI7*A BELEYER > LA DIGNITE DE L'hOMME VERTUEUX.
Le -temporel de la famille etait en partie h la charge de ma femme; >quant au spirituel il etait tout-k-fait sous mon com- mandement. S' ^levant environ h, trente-cinq livres par an, le mon tan t de mon salaire fut destine au soulagement des veuves
f""t des orphelins du clersre du diocese. Poss^dant une fortune ttffisante ne tenant pas au temporel, j'^prouvais un secret plaisir H- r<^iplir mon devoir sans recompense. Je pris done la r^solu-
20 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
without (925) reward. I also set a resolution of keeping no (1160 bis, 1152) curate, and of being (1230) acquainted with every man (606) in the parish, exhorting (769) the married men to temperance (535), and the bachelors to matrimony (550); so that in a few years (537) it was (54, 665) a common saying, that there were (54) three strange wants (991) at Wakefield — a parson (541, 413) wanting pride, young men wanting wives, and ale- houses wanting customers (833).
Matrimony (306, 58) was always one of my favorite topics, and I wrote (58, 727) several sermons to prove its happiness : but there was a peculiar tenet which I made (54) a point of support- ing (1230) ; for I maintained (55, 130) with Whiston, that (648, 54) it was unlawful for a priest of the Church of England, after the death of his first (362) wife, to take a second (927) : or, to express it in one word, I valued (54) myself upon being (1230) a strict monogamist.
I was (55) early initiated (776) into this important dispute, on which so many laborious volumes (524) have been written (56, 776). I published some (55, 537) tracts upon the subject myself, which (657), as they never sold (52, 782, 73), I havo (52) the consolation of thinking (1230) were (52,776) read only by the happy few. Some (605 bis, 537) of my friends called (54) this my weak side; but, alas (486) ! they had not, like me, made it (1132 bis) a subject of long contemplation. The more I reflected (839 bis) upon it (938), the more important it appeared. I even (603, 55) went a step beyond Whiston in displaying (767) my principles ; as he had (792) engraven upon his wife's tomb (304) that she (197) was the only wife of William Whiston; so I wrote (55, 952) a similar epitaph for my wife, though still living (511 bis, 367), in which (767) I extolled (769) her prudence, economy (367, 368), and obedience (609, 828), till death; and having got it copied fair, with (824) an elegant frame, it was placed (57, 776) over the chimney-piece, where (432) it answered (54) se- veral very useful purposes. It (374) admonished (54) my wife of her (367) duty to me, and (833) my fidelity to her; it (628)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 21
*
tion de me passer de cure et de connattre tons mes parois- siens; exhortant les hommes maries k la temperance, et les vieux gargons au mariage. A tel point, qn'au bout de qnel- ques annees, on disait proverbialement de Wakefield, que Fen- droit manquait de trois choses etranges — c'etait d'un pasteur bouffi d'orgueil, de jeunes-hommes sans femmes, et de pratiques dans les cabarets.
Pour moi le mariage avait toujours 6t6 un topique favori; aussi avais-je ^crit plusieurs sermons sur le bonheur de cet etat. Une croyance particuliere que je m'efforgais de maintenir, et que je soutins avec Wbiston, c'etait I'illegalite pour un pr^tre de I'eglise anglicane d'epouser une seconde femme apres la mort d'une premiere. En un mot, pour exprimer plus clairement ma pensee, je m'applaudissais d'etre un rigoureux monogamiste.
De bonne heure fus-je initie k cette question importante, sur laquelle tant d'in-folio ont ^te peniblement ecrits. Je publiai, moi-meme, quelques pamphlets k ce sujet ; et, comme lis ne se sont jamais vendus, j'ai la douce consolation de croire qu'ils ne sont lus que par un ^etit nomhre d'heureux. Certains de mes amis appelaient cela mon faihle. Helas ! comme moi, ils n'a- vaient pas longuement rumin^ sur cette question. Oui, plus j'y songc, plus elle me parait importante. Dans mon exposition de principes je laissai Wbiston un pas en-arri^re, lui qui avait fait graver sur la tombe de sa femme : Ci git Vunique femme de Guillaume Wbiston. De meme aussi, de son vivant, ecrivis-je I'epitaphe de la mienne ] sans mesure louant sa prudence, son economic, et son obeissance jusqu'^ la mort. Apr^s avoir fait faire une belle copie de cette pi^ce, placee dans un cadre elegant elle fut suspendue au manteau de la cheminee ; d'oii elle repan- dait une influence multiple et salutaire dans le menage. Elle rappelait ma femme a ses devoirs envers moi, ainsi que de ma fid^lit6 pour elle. Elle lui inspirait de la passion pour les
22 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
inspired (727) her with a passion for fame, and constantly put her in (921, 54) mind of her (376) end.
It was (55, 640) thus, perhaps, from hearing (772) marriage so often recommended (1176), that my eldest son, just upon leaving college, fixed (54, 898) his affections upon the daughter of a neighboring clergyman, who (657, 854) was a (1189, 54) dignitary in (356) the church, and in (1019). circumstances to give her a large fortune; but fortune (535) was' her (367) smallest (412 bis) accomplishment. Miss Arabella Wilmot (1186) was allowed by all (606) — except my two daughters (774) — to be completely pretty (534). Her youth, health (366), and (609) innocence were (679, 54) still heightened by a complexion so (806) trans- parent, and such a happy sensibility of look, as even (603) age could (54, 727) not gaze on with indifference. As Mr. Wilmot knew (54, 727) that I could make (727) a very handsome settle- ment on my son, he was (54) not averse to the match : so both families lived (679) together in all that harmony which (657) generally precedes an expected (773) alliance. Being convinced (771, 70) by experience that the days of courtship are (52) the most happy of our lives, I was willing (58, 251) enough to lengthen the period; and the various amusements which (662) the young couple (510) every day shared (54) in each other's company (304), seemed to increase their (1176, 179 bis) passion. We were generally awaked (54, 776) in the morning by (535) music, and on fine days (1108) rode (54) a hunting. The hours between breakfast (535) and dinner the ladies (1187) devoted (54, 679) to dress and study; they usually read (54, 318) a page, and then (727,679) gazed at themselvesin the glass, which even (603) philosophers might (57) own often presented the page of greatest (548) beauty. At dinner, my wife took (54) the lead; for, as she always insisted (54, 727) upon carving (1104, 1177) every thing herself, it being her mother's way, she gave (54, 623) us, upon these occasions, the history of every dish. When we had dined, to prevent the ladies leaving us, I generally (405) ordered the table to be removed (1084), and sometimes, with the music- master's assistance (304), the girls would give (54, 679, 623) us a
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 23
grandes choses, et, constamment, la faisait ressouvenir de sa fin derniere.
Ce fut peut-etre h cause de cela, qu'entendant si souvent parler du mariage, d^s sa sortie du college mon fils porta son attention sur la fille d'un ecclesiastique du voisinage, dignitaire de Feglise, a meme de donner une belle dot h son enfant; mais la dot etait la moindre de ses perfections. Au dire de tons (excepte pourtant de mes deux filles), mademoiselle Arabelle Wilmot etait une perfection de beaute. Sa jeunesse, sa sante, et son inno- cence ^talent rebaussees par un teint si vermeil, par un regard si doux et si intelligent, que F§,ge meme ne pouvait la voir avec indifference. M. Wilmot, non plus, n^ignorait pas que je pouvais parfaitement bien etablir mon fils; aussi n'^tait-il pas indifferent a ce mariage. De la sorte les deux families vivaient dans cette bonne intelligence, qui, d'ordinaire, precede une alliance projetee. Sacbant, par experience, que les moments les plus beu- reux de la vie sont ceux passes pr^s d'une pretendue, j'etais assez dispose h prolonger la duree de ces moments. Au reste, la diversite d' amusements auxquels participait ensemble et jour- nellement le jeune couple semblait accroitre leur passion. D'ordinaire, des le matin nous etions ^veilles par la musique, et nous cbassions h cbeval pendant les beaux jours. Les dames consacraient h leur toilette, et h I'etude, I'intervalle du dejeuner au diner. Habituellement elles lisaient une page, et s'admi- raient ensuite dans le miroir ; ou, souvent un pbilosopbe meme eut trouve reproduite une page de grande beaute. Au diner ma femme prenait le commandement, et comme elle s'obstinait toujours k decouper (tenant cette manie de sa m^re), de temps k autre elle nous faisait I'histoire detaillee de tous les plats. Afin de retenir les dames aupr^s de nous, le diner fini je faisais enle- ver la table apr^s ce repas, et quand Toccasion s'en presentait aidees de leur maitre de musique, mes filles nous traitaient d'un
24 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
very agreeable concert. Walking out (1165), drinking tea (1047 ), country-danceSj and (550) forfeits, shortened (54, 679) the rest of the day without the assistance of (535) cards, as I hated (54) all manner of gaming, except (774) backgammon, at which (662) my old friend and I sometimes (883) took a two-penny hit (1030). Nor can I (52, 212) here pass over an ominous circumstance that happened (55) the last time we played (1104) together; I only (54, 623) wanted to fling a quatre, and yet I threw (727) deuce- ace five times running.
Some (537) months were (730, 1104) elapsed in this (883) manner, till (826) at last it was thought (727) convenient to fix (898) a day for the nuptials (288) of the young couple (510), who seemed (54) earnestly to desire it. During (846) the pre- parations for the wedding (855), I need not describe the busy importance of my wife, nor the sly (331) looks of my daughters. In (825) fact, my attention (368) was fixed on another object — the completing (54) a tract (657), which I intended (727, 1076) shortly to publish, in (709) defence of my favorite principle. As I looked (767) upon this as a masterpiece (531) both for argu- ment and style, I could (55) not, in the pride of my heart, avoid showing it (1230) to my old friend, Mr. Wilmot, as I made no doubt of receiving (1230) his approbation : but not till too late, I discovered (730) that he was most (813) violently attached (776) to the contrary opinion, and with good (579) reason ; for he was (54) at that time actually courting a fourth wife (362, _1031). This, as may be expected, produced (730) a dispute, at- tended (773) with some acrimony, which threatened (727) to in- terrupt (1178) our intended alliance; but on the day before that appointed (1233) for the ceremony, we agreed (55, 727, 1178, 1139) to discuss the subject at large.
It was managed (57,776) with proper spirit on both sides: he asserted (730) that I was (54) heterodox; I retorted (730) the charge. He replied (732), and I rejoined (727). In the mean time, while the controversy was hottest (407, 548), I was (55) called out by one of my relations (1200), who, with a face of concern, advised (727) me to give up the dispute, at least till
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD 25
concert fort agreable. Abhorrant les jeux de toute sorte k la seule exception du tric-trac, auquel le vieux M. Wilmot et moi faisions une partie d'un sou de loin en loin, sans aveir recours aux cartes, la promenade, le the, les contredanses et les gages, absorbaient gaiement le restant de la journee. Ici, je ne peux m'empeclier de mentionner une chance malheureuse qui m'ar- riva a notre derniere partie. II me manquait de tourner quatre —eh. bien ! le croiriez-vous ? Je tournai as cinq fois de suite.
Quelques mois se passerent ainsi. Enfin crumes-nous conve- nable de fixer un jour pour la noce de ces jeunes gens, qui, du reste, semblaient grandement le desirer. Pendant les preparatifs il vous eut fallu voir Fimportance affairee de ma femme, et les regards sournois de mes filles. Mais, il faut I'avouer, mon atten- tion en ce moment etait portee sur un autre objet; je donnais le dernier coup a un pamphlet en defense de mon principe favori, que j'allais prochainement publier. Considerant cet opus- cule comme un chef-d'oeuvre de composition logique et litteraire ; pouss^ par un secret orgueil je ne pus faire moins que de le montrer a mon vieil ami M. Wilmot, sur de recevoir son appro- bation; mais, trop tard, decouvris-je qu'il penchait vers Topi- nion contraire, et par un bon motif aussi; vu qu'il faisait, en ce moment, une cour assidue a sa quatrieme future. Comme on doit s'y attendre, il en resulta une dispute assaisonnee d'acrimonie qui mena§a de rompre I'alliance projetee; nous convinmes pourtant de vider la question la veille de la cere- monie du mariage.
De part et d' autre elle fut chaudement de battue. II affirma que j'etais heterodoxe; mais je retorquai cette accusation. II repliqua, je repliquai aussi. Au moment le plus chaud de la controverse un de mes parents me fit appeler dans la rue, et d'un air consterne me conseilla d'abandonner la discussion, du
26 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
my son^s wedding was over. " How !" cried I (54, 952), '^ relin- quish the cause of (306) truth, and let him be (1225) a husband, al- ready driven (250) to the very verge of absurdity? You might (39) as well advise (49, 623) me to give up (62) my fortune as my argument." — '' Your fortune," returned (730, 727) my friend, *'l am now sorry to inform you, is almost nothing (798, 925). The merchant in town, in whose hands your money was lodged (773), has gone off (55, 1046 bis) to avoid a statute of bankruptcy (1034), and is thought not to have left a shilling in the pound. I was (54) unwilling to shock you or the family with the account, till after the wedding (288) : but now it may serve (1225) to moderate your warmth in the argument; for I (52) suppose your own prudence will (162 bis) enforce the necessity of dissembling, at least, till your son has the lady's fortune (304) secure,"-— "Well," returned I (730), "if what you tell (736, 229) me be true, and if I am to be (79) a beggar, it shall never make me (162 bis) a rascal, or induce me to disavow (1177) my principles. rU go this moment and (1176) inform the company of my cir- cumstances ; and as for (845) the argument, I even here retract (52) my former concessions in (825) the old gentleman's favor (30S), nor will I allow him now to be a husband in any sense of the expression."
It would be endless (854, 855) to describe (1178) the different sensations of both families when I divulged (772) the news of our misfortune; but what others felt (55) was (57) slight to what the lovers appeared (55, 527) to endure. Mr. Wilmot, who seemed (54) before sufficiently inclined to break off (773, 1177) the match, was (55) by this blow soon determined : one virtue he had (54) in perfection, which (643) was prudence (310) — too often the only one that (383) is left (623) us at seventy-two.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 2T
moins jusqu'^ ce que mon fils fut mari^. " Comment V m'4- criai-je; "me faudra-t-il deserter la cause de la verite? ou lui permettre de se remarier au moment meme ou je le convaincs d'absurdite ! mieux vaudrait me conseiller d'abandonner ma fortune que mes arguments V — '' Votre fortune/' repliqua mon ami; " il me peine de vous dire qu'elle se reduit h peu de chose. Pour eviter des poursuites de banqueroute, le nego- ciant en ville chez qui vous aviez vos fonds places a pris la fuite. A peine laisse-t-il un scbelling par livre. Je ne vou- lais choquer, par cette nouvelle, ni vous ni aucun de votre famille qu'apres les noces de votre fils. Elle calmera a pre- sent I'ardeur de votre controverse ; car la prudence exige que vous dissimuliez, du moins jusqu'k ce que la fortune de la de- moiselle soit engagee."
^' Tr^s-bien/' repliquai-je ; " si ce que vous me dites-lk est vrai; si, reellement, je suis reduit a Tindigence, pour cela je ne serai jamais fripon ni homme k deserter mes principes. De ce pas vais-je informer la compagnie de ce revirement de for- tune. Quant a la discussion, h Finstant je retracte toutes les concessions deja faites au vieux M. Wilmot, sans en aucune maniere le laisser libre de se remarier."
Inutile de decrire les sensations diverses qui agit^rent les deux families en leur annongant ce desastre; ce qu'eprou- verent les autres fut peu de chose h cote de ce que ressen- tirent nos deux amants. M. Wilmot, auparavant assez dispose h rompre le mariage, apres ce coup n'hesita plus une minute. II etait doue d'une vertu— c'etait la prudence — trop souvent la seuie qui reste au septuagenaire.
28 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD,
CHAPTER III.
A (318) MIGRATION. — THE (306) FORTUNATE CIRCUMSTANCES OP OUR (592) LIVES ARE GENERALLY POUND AT LAST TO BE OP OUR OWN PROCURING.
The only hope of our family now (405, 55) was, that the re- port of our misfortune might be (39) malicious or premature; but (419) a letter from (414) my agent in (825) town soon came (55, 154), with a confirmation of every particular. The loss of fortune to myself (74) alone would have been (57, 155) trifling: the only uneasiness I felt (54, 679) was for my family, who (385, 657) were to be humbled, without an (318) education to render (52) them callous to (623, 938) contempt.
Near a fortnight had (55, 1176) passed before I attempted (1178) to restrain their (315, 592) affliction; for prematui;^ con- solation is but (815) the remembrancer of sorrow. During (846) this interval my thoughts were (679, 730) employed on some fu- ture means of supporting them (757, 1178) ; and at last (826) a small cure of fifteen pounds a (1185) year was offered (55, 666) me in a distant (556) neighborhood, where (432) I could still enjoy (54, 1176) my principles without (925) molestation. With this proposal I joyfully (55) closed, having determined (155, 1231) to increase (1178) my salary by managing a little farm (861).
Having taken this (379, 269) resolution, my next care (362, 366) was (57) to get (1178) together the wrecks of my fortune, and, all (606) debts collected (773) and paid, out of fourteen thousand (586) pounds (1185) we had (55) but four hundred (583) remaining. My chief attention, therefore, was (55, 732) now to bring down (49) the pride of my family to their cir- cumstances; for I well knew that aspiring beggary is wretch- edness itself (861). "You cannot be (52, 164) ignorant, my
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 29
GHAPITRE JII.
UN CHANGEMENT — LES EPOQUES HEUREUSES DE LA VIE d'oRDINAIBE PRO- VIEKNENT DE NOUS-mIiMES.
Notre seul espoir fut alors de nous persuader que Tannonce de ce d^sastre serait I'effet de la malice ou d'un bruit prema- ture; mais bientot une lettre de mon bomme-d'affaires, en ville, vint m'en confirmer la nouvelle. La perte de fortune, quant a moi, eut ete bien peu de cbose. Mon seul regret etait pour ma famille, qui, tombant dans Thumiliation, manquait de cette education qui nous y rend insensibles.
Sacbant que les condoleances deplac^es ne servent qu'k raviver le cbagrin, je laissai quinze jours s'ecouler avant de recourir aux consolations. Pendant cet intervalle je cbercbai dans ma tete les moyens de subvenir k notre future existence. Enfin, Fon m'ofFrit une petite cure ecartee, d'un revenu annuel de quinze livres, ou je pouvais encore jouir en paix de mes principes : ayant en outre decide d'augmenter mon modeste salaire par la culture d'une petite ferme, j'acceptai joyeusement cette offre.
Ce plan arrete mon premier soin fut de recueillir les debris de ma fortune. Encaissement fait de mon avoir et toutes dettes payees, de quatorze mille livres il ne m'en resta plus que quatre cents. N'ignorant pas que la pauvrete ambitieuse engendre le malheur, accommoder I'amour-propre de ma famille a notre position presente fut alors ma grande affaire. ^' Yous savez, mes enfants," m'^criai-je, " qu'aucune prudence bumaine
3*
80 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.'
children," cried I (55), "that no prudence of ours could have prevented (1074, 1176) our late misfortune; but (307) prudence may do much in disappointing (415) its effects. We are (52) now poor, my fondlings, and wisdom bids us (623) to conform to our humble situation. Let us then (40, 41) without repining give up (1176) those splendors with which numbers are wretched, and seek (727), in humbler circumstances, that peace with which (385, 655) all may be happy. The poor (306) live (679) plea- santly without our help : why then should we not learn (40, 444) to live (1176, 1160 bis) without theirs? No, my children,* let us (40, 727) from this moment give up (40, 606) all pretensions to gentility. We have (52) still enough left for happiness, if we are (727) wise, and let us draw (40^ 434) upon content for the deficiencies of fortune" (535).
As my eldest son was bred (679, 69) a scholar, I determined (55, 855) to send (705) him to (864) town, where his abilities (366, 367) might contribute (54, 1176) to our support and his own. The separation (303) of friends and (833) families is (52, 679), perhaps, one of the most (400) distressful circumstances attendant on penury. The day soon arrived (55, 405) on which (657) we were (103) to disperse (1176) for the first time. My son, after taking leave (270, 780) of his mother and the rest (833), who mingled their tears (71, 288) with their kisses, came (55, 727) to ask a blessing from me. This (375) I gave him (55) from my heart, and which, added (769) to five (971) guineas, was (54, 116) all (606) the patrimony I had now (49) to bestow. "You are going (26, 52, 187), my boy," cried I (55), "to Lon- don on foot (1165), in the manner (483, 484, 485) Hooker, your great ancestor (299), travelled there before you. Take (40, 242) from me the same horse (601) that was given him (55, 623) by the good Bishop Jewel (706), this staff (358); and take this book too (40, 727, 1185), it (364, 162 bis) will be (655) your comfort on the way. These (365 bis) two lines in it (799) are
* Yes, oui, in French, gives more strength to the following words than would the negation non (764).
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 31
n'aurait su prevenir notre perte recente; de beaucoup nean- nioins la prudence pent en moderer les effets. Maintenant mes clieris nous sommes pauvres; mais la sagesse commande de nous accommoder a notre modeste position. Sans regret sachons quitter des jouissances trop souvent compagnes du malheur, et, dans une position plus simple, cherclions cette paix qui suffit h tons. Heureux par eux-memes les pauvres aisement se passent de nous ; profitons de leur legon et sachons nous passer d'eux. Oui, mes enfans, des ce moment quittons toute pretention k Telegance, et, si nous sommes sages, il nous reste encore assez de bonheur : a defaut de fortune faisons fond sur le contentement.^'
Poss^dant une bonne education, j'envoyai mon fils aine h. Londres, ou sa capacite pouvait contribuer a son maintien cbmme au notre. Les separations forgees, d'amis ou de families, sont peut-etre ce que le besoin a de plus dechirant. Le jour arriva bien vite ou il fallut se separer pour la premiere fois. Apres avoir pris conge de sa mere et de la famille, et mele leurs baisers h leurs larmes, mon fils vint me demander ma benedic- tion. Je la lui donnai, volontiers, y ajoutant cinq guinees seul patrimoine dont je pouvais alors disposer. "■ Tu pars, mon fils,'' m'ecriai-je. '^ Comme autrefois Hooker ton bisaieul tu vas h Londres h pied. Regois ce baton ; c'est le meme clieval que lui donna le bon prelat Jewel ; prends aussi ce livre qui te con- solera sur le chemin. Ces deux lignes qui en font partie k elles
32 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
worth a million : ' I have been (56, 620) young, and now am old (676); yet never saw /(56, 166) the righteous man forsaJcen (773), nor his seed hegging (769) their hread.* Let this be your consolation (385, 740) as you travel on. Go (40, 119 bis, 137), my boy, whatever be thy fortune (604), let me see (41, 1176) thee once a year (318, 505 bis); still keep a good heart, and fare- well." As he was possessed of integrity and (833) honor, I was (54, 164) under no apprehensions from throwing (1178) him (562) naked into (824) the amphitheatre of life; for I knew (605 bis, 854) he would act (39, 162 bis) a good part, whether vanquished (930) or victorious (773).
His (366) departure only (55) prepared the way for our (382) own, which arrived a few (537) days afterward. The leaving (769, 761) a neighborhood in which (662) we had enjoyed so many (806) hours of tranquillity, was not without a tear (288, 657), which scarce fortitude itself (601, 39) could suppress (861). Besides, a journey of seventy miles (361, 448, 589), to a family that (514, 657) had hitherto never been (58, 166) above ten from home, filled us (54, 623) with apprehension; and the cries of the poor, who followed us for some (537) miles, contributed (55, 1177) to increase it. The first day's (303) journey brought us (55, 727) in safety within (586, 864) thirty miles of our future retreat; and we put up (55) for the night at an obscure inn, in a village by (413, 802) the way. When we were shown (844, 665, 57) a room, I desired (55) the landlord, in my usual way, to let us have (1060 bis, 757) his company, with which he com- plied (55, 732), as what he drank would (39, 679) increase the bill next morning. He knew (54, 179 bis), however, the whole (606, 935) neighborhood to which I was (54) removing, particu- larly Squire Thornhill, who was to be (657, 662) my landlord, and who lived within (864) a few miles (537) of the place. This gentleman (477, 478) he described (55) as one who desired to know (303, 225) little more of the world than (331, 958 bis) its pleasures, being particularly remarkable for his attachment to the fair sex. He observed (55, 732, 910), that no virtue was able (54, 166) to resist his arts and assiduity (592,316), and that there
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 33
seules valent beaucoup plus d'un jnillion : ^ J^ai ete jeune et TYiaintenant je suis dans Vdge ; neanmoins je n^ai Jamais vu Vhonnete ho7nme ahandonne, ni sa posterite mendiant son pain.^ Que cela soit ta consolation pendant le voyage. Ya, mon fils, quel que puisse etre ton destin viens nous voir une fois par an ; bon courage. Adieu \" Plein d'integrite et d'honneur, denue de tout, je ne craignais pas de le lancer dang Famphi- theatre du monde; certain qu'il y jouerait un beau role, soit qu'il fut vainqueur ou vaincu.
Son depart preceda le ndtre de quelques jours. Des larmes que le courage aurait eu peine a contenir, coulerent en quittant un voisinage ou s'etaient passees tant d'heures de tranquillite. Outre cela, un voyage de soixante-dix milles pour des gens qui n'avaient jamais quitte leur logis nous faisait apprehender de Tentreprendre ; et les lamentations des pauvres qui nous accompagnerent pendant quelques milles, ne contribuerent que plus a augmenter nos apprehensions. Des notre premiere jour- nee du voyage nous arrivames sans encombre a trente milles de notre future residence, et passames la nuit dans la miserable auberge d'un village sur la route. Quand on nous eut montre une chambre, selon ma coutume je priai I'liSte de nous tenir compagnie; ce qu'il me conceda, volontiers, pensant que ses potations grossiraient le compte qu'il aurait ^ me presenter le lendemain. II connaissait parfaitement tout notre nouveau voi- sinage ; le seigneur Thornhill surtout notre futur proprietaire, qu'il nous representa comme un homme de plaisir et grand adorateur du beau-sexe. II nous assura qu'aucune vertu ne resistait aux assiduites pressantes de ce gentilhomme ; ajoutant,
84 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
was (815, 103) scarce a farmer's daughter within ten miles round but what had found him (57, 375) successful and faithless. Though (667 bis) this account gave (55, 166) me some pain (1019), it had a very different effect (55, 727) upon my daughters, whose (384, 663) features seemed (54, 679) to brighten (1176) with the expectation of an approaching triumph (950); nor was my wife less (837, 821 bis) pleased (265 bis, 773) and confident of their allurements and virtue (824, 71 *). While our thoughts were thus employed (1183, 776), the hostess entered (55, 732) the room (824, 306) to inform her husband (367) that the strange gentleman (1187 bis, 368) who had been (58, 1104, 361) two days in the house, wanted (991, 54) money, and could not satisfy them (1176,367) for his reckoning. ^'Want money!" replied the host (1183) : "that must be impossible (52, 648); for it was no later than (12) yesterday he paid (55, 110) three guineas to our (592) beadle, to spare (49) an old broken soldier (551) that was to be (86) whipped through the town for dog-stealing." The hostess, however, still persisting (54) in her (367) first assertion, he was preparing (55, 1177) to leave (67, 69) the room, swearing (771) that he would be (39, 679) satisfied (776, 269) one way or another (883), when I begged (380, 55) the landlord would introduce me (1178, 1041) to a stranger of so much charity (806, 807) as he described. With this he complied (55, 623), showing in (727) a gentleman who seemed to be (988, 54) about thirty (1019), dressed in clothes that once were laced (265 bis). His person was well formed (367, 1015), and his face marked (773) with lines of thinking. He had (54) something short and dry in his address, and seemed (727, 54) not to understand (1176, 62) ceremony, or to despise it. Upon the landlord's leaving (57, 1088) the room, I could not (623, 1176) avoid (1178) expressing my concern for the stranger (70, 364 bis), at seeing (54, 1020) a gentleman in such circumstances, and offered him (55, 623) my purse (1185) to satisfy the present demand. "I take it (52, 623) with all my heart, sir,'' replied he, "and I
* Leur vertu, standing for " la vertu d'elles" (74).
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 85
qu'a dix lieues a la ronde, il n'y avait pas de filles de fermiers qui ne Feussent connu heureux et infidele. Quoique ce recit ne fat guere de mon gout, il produisit un effet contraire sur mes filles, dont les traits semblaient s'animer par rapproclie d'un triomphe. Ma femme n'^tait ni moins satisfaite, ni moins con- fiante dans leurs attraits que dans leur vertu. Pendant que notre esprit etait ainsi occupe, I'liotesse entra dans la chambre pour dire a son marl que le monsieur etranger, depuis deux jours dans la maison, ne pouvait payer son compte, faute d'argent. " Faute d'argent !" s'ecria Fhote. " C'est impossible. Pas plus tard que hier il paya trois guinees au sergent-de-ville, pour eviter le fouet h un vieux soldat ecloppe convaincu du vol d'un chien." Neanmoins, comme Fbotesse maintenait son dire, il se disposa k quitter la chambre, jurant par ses grands-dieux qu'il serait pay^ de maniere ou d'autre. Ce fut alors que je priai Faubergiste de me faire faire connaissance d'un liomme d'une aussi grande cbarite. En -cela il me satisfit. II me pre- senta a un monsieur qui paraissait avoir trente ans, dont F]ia,bit jadis galone portait encore les vestiges de cet ornement d'opu- lence. Bien pris dans sa personne, ses traits decelaient une ame ardente et refl^cliie. Sa parole etait ronde et br^ve. II paraissait ne pas comprendre le ceremonial, ou du moins le m^prisait. D^s que Fhote eut quitt^ la chambre, je ne pus m'empecher de temoigner k cet etranger combien j'etais peine de sa position, et aussitot lui offris-je ma bourse pour satisfaire k ce besoin momentane. "Monsieur/^ repliqua-t-il, '^ je Faccepte de
36 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
am (52, 727) glad that a late oversiglit, in giving (769) what money I had (657, 74) about me, has shown me (623, 56) that there are (103, 1223) still some men like you. I must, however, previously entreat being informed (52, 229) of the name and (550, 833) residence of my benefactor, in order (421, 1178) to repay him (70) as soon as possible.'^ In this I satisfied him (55) fully, not only mentioning my name and (609) late misfortune, but the place to which (366, 381) I was going (337, 331) to remove. ^'This,'' cried he (55), "happens (648, 52) still more lucky than I hoped (817, 54) for, as I am going (620, 52) the same way myself (856), having been (1231) detained (776) here two days by the floods, which I hope (52, 893) by to-morrow will be (59, 162 bis) found (776) passable." I testified (55, 623, 74) the plea- sure I should have (1178) in his company; and my (609) wife and daughters joining (771, 71) in entreaty, he was prevailed upon (55, 623) to stay (1177) supper. The stranger's conver- sation (535, 304), which was (855) at once pleasing and instruct- ive, induced (55) me to wish (1176) for a (1178, 623) contin- uance of it; but it was (54, 103) now high time to retire (1178, 93, 1168) and take (1178) refreshment against the fatigues of the following day.
The next morning we (354) all set (55, 1157) forward together, my family on horseback (54, 1165), while Mr. Burchell, our new companion, walked along the footpath by the road-side,„observing (910), with a smile, that, as we were ill mounted, he would be (39, 132) too generous to attempt leaving us (1178, 623) behind. As the floods had (677) not yet subsided, we were (55, 434, 895) obliged (251, 776) to hire (1118,1178) a guide, who trotted (55, 732) on before, Mr. Burchell and myself bringing up (54, 680) the rear. We lightened (55, 127) the fatigues of the road with philosophical disputes, which he seemed (54, 1176) to under- stand perfectly. But what surprised (642, 55) me most was (52, 644), that, though (667 bis) he was (854) a money-borrower, he defended (54) his opinions with as much (806) obstinacy as if he had been (57) my patron. He now and then also informed me (767, 623) to whom (384) the different seats belonged (54,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 37
bien bon coeur. Je suis fort aise qu'un oubli recent, absorbant I'argent que j'avais snr moi, m'ait procure roccasion de remar- quer qu'il reste encore quelques honnetes-gens dans ce monde. Neanmoins, dites-moi a I'avance le nom et la demeure de mon bienfaiteur, afin de me racquiter avec lui des que je le pourrai," Je me rendis k son desir, lui donnant non seulement mon nom et lui racontant mon dernier desastre, mais, de plus, ajoutant le nom de notre nouvelle residence. ^' Pour le coup/' s'^cria-t-il, '' c'estplus beureux que je ne m'y attendais; je vais moi-meme de ce cote, ayant ete retenu ici par I'inondation, qui, je Fespere, d'aujourd'hui a demain se sera probablement ecoulee." Je lui temoignai le desir de nous procurer sa compagnie. Alors ma femme et mes filles joignant leurs instances aux miennes, nous le decidames a partager notre souper. Agreable et instructive, tout ensemble, la conversation de Fetranger me fit soubaiter de la cultiver. Mais il etait temps de se retirer et de se preparer, par le repos, aux fatigues qui nous attendaient le lendemain.
Le jour suivant, d^s le matin, nous nous mimes tous en marcbe. Ma famille allait a cbeval, tandis que M. Burcbell, notre nouveau compagnon, cheminait sur le bord de la route; nous disant avec un sourire malin regardant nos mauvaises mon- tures, qu'il serait mal h lui de nous quitter en-arriere. L'inon- dation durant encore, nous fumes forces de prendre un guide qui trotta en-avant de la petite caravane; M. Burcbell et moi formions Farriere-garde. Nous allegeames les fatigues du voyage par des discussions pbilosopbiques qu'il semblait par- faitement comprendre. Mais, ce qui me frappa le plus en lui, e'est que, quoique emprunteur, il defendait ses idees avec autant d'obstination que s'il eut 6te mon patron; m'indiquant de temps*
38 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.'
Ill) ttat lay in our view as we travelled (54, 727) the road. ^^That/' cried lie (829, 55), pointing to a very magnificent house, which stood (855) at some distance, "belongs (854) to Mr. Thornhill, a young gentleman who enjoys a large fortune, though entirely dependent (834) on the will of his uncle, Sir William Thornhill, a gentleman who, content with a little him- self, permits (52, 678) his nephew (1178) to enjoy the rest, and chiefly resides (52, 727,1104) in town."— " What,'' cried I, "is (736, 39, 735) my young landlord then the nephew of a man whose (657, 663) virtues, generosity (550), and singularities are so universally known (773)? I have heard (56, 405) Sir William Thornhill represented as one of the (548) most generous (550) yet whimsical men in the kingdom ; a man (555 bis)'of consummate benevolence." — " Something, perhaps, toomuch so," replied Mr. Burchell: "at least, he carried (55, 1066) bene- volence to an excess when young (846); for his passions were (54, 1066) then strong (556, 332), and, as they were all (606) upon the side of virtue (535), they led it up (55) to a romantic extreme. He early began (767) to aim at (315) the qualifications of the (555 bis) soldier and the scholar; was (854) soon distin- guished in (824) the army, and had (55) some reputation among (826 bis) men of learning. Adulation ever follows (52) the ambitious; for such alone receive most pleasure from flattery. He was (854, 773) surrounded with crowds, who (54) showed him only one side of their character; so that he began (55, 1144) to lose (1143) a regard for private interest in universal sympathy. He loved (55,727) all mankind; for fortune prevented (54, 434) him from knowing (1178) that there were rascals. Physicians tell us (309, 52, 679) of a disorder in which the whole (606) body is so exquisitely sensible (806), that the (548) slightest touch gives (542, 247) pain : what some have (56, 780) thus suffered in their persons, this gentleman felt (55, 824) in his *mind. The slightest (412 bis, 548) distress, whether (930) real or fictitious, touched (54, 623) him to the (315) quick (950), and his (368) soul labored (58, 776) under a sickly sensibility of the miseries of others (386). Thus disposed (275, 773) to relieve,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 89
h autre le nom des proprietaires dont nous apercevions les resi- dences pendant que nous avancions. — "Voila/^ s'ecria-t-il, me designant dans le lointain un superbe chateau, " la propriete de M. Thornhill gentilhomme de grande fortune, quoique entiere- ment dependant du testament de son oncle le Baron William Thornliill. Content de peu lui-meme, ce gentilhomme permet h son neveu de jouir du superflu, et passe a Londres la majeure partie de son temps/' "Quoi!'' m'ecriai-je, '' serais-ce possible que mon proprietaire fut le neveu d'un homme dont les vertus, la .generosite, et les manieres originales, sont si repandues dans le pays ? Souvent ai-je entendu parler de M. Thornhill comme de I'homme le plus genereux du royaume, quoique pourtant le plus excentrique; homme d'une bienveillance sans bornes." ^'Peut-etre trop,'' repliqua M. Burchell; " du moins porta-t-il trop loin la bienveillance j)endant sa premiere jeunesse. Or, comme ses passions ardentes le portaient a la vertu, elles le jeterent aussi dans Fexces du romanesque. Aspirant d'abord aux distinctions militaires et scientifiques, bientot remarque dans Tarmee son nom fut aussi en estime parmi les savants. La flatterie poursuit toujours les ambitieilx; et de tous les^hommes le plus susceptible de flatterie, c'est Fambitieux. Presse de gens qui ne lui montraient qu'un cote de leur caractere, il echangea son inter^t particulier contre une sympathie univer- selle. II aima tout le monde; car la fortune Tempechait de croire aux gueux et aux fripons. Les m^decins nous parlent d'une maladie ou le corps devient si sensible que la douleur suit le moindre attouchement. Eh bien, ce que d'autres ont eprouv^ dans le corps, ce gentilhomme Feprouva dans Fesprit. La moindre detresse, soit Active, soit reelle, le touchait au vif. Son coeur etait mine par une sensibilite morbide que lui causaient les peines d'autrui. Ainsi dispose k la bienveillance, on doit
40 THE VICAR OP WAKEriELD.
it will be (665, 52) easily conjectured (1176), lie found num- bers disposed to solicit: bis (367) profusion began (55, 679) to impair(367, 1187 bis) his fortune, but (925) not bis good nature; tbat, indeed, was (54) seen (1176) to increase as the otber seemed to decay; be grew (54, 679) improvident, as be grew poor (202); and tbougb (667 bis) be talked (743, 751) like (848) a man of sense, his actions were (54, 679) those of a fool. Still, however, being surrounded (1231, 854) with importunity, and no longer able to satisfy (1178) every (606) request that was made (665, 54) him, instead of money he gave (55) promises. They were (640, 54) all he had to bestow (54, 740) ; and he had (771) not resolution enough to give (54, 1178) any man pain by a denial. By this he drew (55, 93) round him (276) crowds of dependants, whom (659) he was sure (434) to disappoint (1178), yet wished (772) to relieve. These hung (767) upon him for a time, and left (55, 679) him with merited reproaches and contempt. But in pro- portion as he became (773) contemptible to others, he became (55, 130) despicable to himself. His mind had leaned (54, 679) upon their adulation, and, that support taken away (55), he could find (55, 727) no pleasure in the applause of his heart, which he had never learned (1176) to reverence (1177). The world now began (55, 623) to wear a different aspect (337,331) ; the flattery of his friends began (769, 72) to dwindle into (825) simple approbation. Approbation soon took (55, 679) the more friendly form of advice; and advice, when rejected (773), pro- duced (52, 776) their reproaches. He now, therefore, found (55) that such friends as benefits had gathered (58, 777) round him were (54, 679) little estimable (559) ; he now found (55, 175) that a man's own heart (304, 341) must be (52, 1176) ever (776) given to gain (1144) that of another. I now found (52) that — that — I forgot (52) what I was (54, 1076) going to ob- serve (1176) : in short, sir, he resolved (55, 216, 434) to respect (1178) himself, and laid down (55, 727) a plan of restoring his falling fortune. For this purpose, in his own whimsical manner, he travelled (55) through Europe on foot (1165); and now, though he has scarce (743) attained the age of thirty (988), his
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 41
facilement comprendre qu'il fat victime d'une JPoule de soUi- citeurs. Ses prodigalites derangerent sa fortune, sans toutefois changer sa bonne nature : sa bonte, au contraire, semblait augmenter en raison de la d^croissance de ses biens. Misere engendre insouciance, et quoiqu'il parlS^t en homme-d' esprit ses actions annongaient un sot. Neanmoins, entoure d'impor- tuns, incapable de satisfaire aux deniandes qu'on lui adressait de tons cotes, faute d'argent il fit des promesses. C'etait alors la seule monnaie qui lui restat. Manquant de ferniete il craignait d'ofienser par un refus. De cette maniere il s'attira une foule de necessiteux qu'il etait stir de mecontenter tout en soubaitant de les satisfaire. Comptant sur lui pour quelque temps ils Fabandonn^rent plus tard, I'accablant de reprocbes et d'un mepris bien merite. Ainsi meprise des autres il devint un objet de bonte a lui-meme. Son coeur recbercbait la flatterie, et quand ce support manqua il ne trouva plus en lui de satisfaction, n'ayant jamais su apprendre a ce coeur h se respecter. Le monde alors s'offrit a lui sous un nouvel aspect. Se reduisant d'abord en simple approbation, les flatteries de ses amis prirent bient6t la forme familiere de conseil. Un conseil rejete est toujours suivi du reprocbe. II s'apergut maintenant que les amis que lui avaient procure Tinteret etaient peu dignes de son estime. II comprit aussi qu'un coeur ne doit se donner qu'en ecbange d'un autre coeur. Je reconnais maintenant que —que — mais j'oublie la remarque que j'allais faire ! Pour en finir, monsieur, il resolut de se respecter et forma un plan pour retablir sa fortune delabree. A cet effet, selon sa maniere originale, il parcourut a pied toute I'Europe; et quoiqu'il ait a peine trente ans, aujourd'bui ses moyens p^cuniaires sont
42 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
circumstances are (52, 679) more affluent than ever (403, 484). At present his bounties are more rational and (1232) moderate than before; but he still preserves (52, 1015) the character of a humorist, and finds (727, 94) most pleasure in eccentric virtues." My attention was (54, 776) so much taken up by Mr. BurchelFs account (504), that I scarce looked (54, 621) forward as we went (727, 1165) along, till we were (265 bis, 773) alarmed by the cries of my family; when (844), turning, I perceived (55, 129) my youngest daughter in the midst of a rapid stream, thrown (773, 108) from her (881) horse, and struggling (769, 74) with the torrent. She had sunk (58, 87) twice, nor was it in my power to disengage myself (769, 1178) in time to bring (623, 1176) her relief. My sensations were even (54, 679) too violent to permit my attempting (1178) her rescue: she must have cer- tainly perished, had not my companion, perceiving (769, 592) her danger, instantly (52, 726) plunged in to her (367) relief, and, with some difficulty, brought (52, 727) her in safety to the (315, 316) opposite shore. By taking the current a little farther up (418), the rest (278) of the family got (55, 698, 1113) safely over; where we had an opportunity of joining (55, 699) our acknowledgments to hers (652, 330). Her gratitude may be (59, 665) more readily imagined (405, 817) than described: she thanked (54, 1176) her deliverer more with looks than words, and continued (861, 854) to lean (773) upon his (592) arm, as if still willing to receive assistance. My wife also hoped (54, 893) one day to have (39, 620) the pleasure of returning (1178) his (367) kindness at her own (1016) house. Thus, after we were refreshed (270, 119) at the next inn, and had dined (55, 1046 bis) together, as Mr. Burchell was going (771, 861) to a different part of the country, he took (55,1046 bis) leave (861), and we pursued (769, 366) our journey, my wife observing (623, 55, 910), as he went, that she (54) liked him extremely, and protesting (854), that if he had birth (39, 162 bis) and fortune, to entitle him to match into such a family as ours (654), she knew (54, 1074) no man she would sooner fix upon. I could not (55, 1176) but smile (772) to hear her talk in this lofty strain (963);
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 43
plus abondans que jamais. Plus rationelles ses largesses ac- tuelles sont aussi plus moderees qu'autrefois. Neanmoins, il est toujours d'un caractere original et ne se plait qu'en vertus excentriques."
J^etais tellement absorbe par le recit de M. Burchell qu'^ peine regardais-je en-avant pendant que nous cbeminions, quand a un detour de la route alarme des cris de ma famille, j'aper- §us ma fille cadette jetee de cbeval se debattant au milieu du torrent. Ne pouvant me debarrasser k temps pour I'arracber k ce danger, elle avait dejk disparu deux fois. A son comble mon emotion ne me permettait pas de lui porter secours, et e'en etit ete fait d'elle sans mon compagnon, qui, apercevant le danger, plonge instantanement, Farracbe h. la mort, et non sans de vigoureux efforts Famene au rivage oppose. Traver- sant le torrent en-amont le restant de la famille gagna en surete Fautre cote de Feau, et joignit ses remerciments h ceux de la sauvee. Pauvre fille ! on imaginera plut6t sa reconnais- sance qu'il ne me serait possible de la peindre moi-meme. Ses regards plus que ses paroles remerci^rent son sauveur. Sus- pendue au bras de M. Burchell, elle semblait encore consentir k en etre secourue. Ma femme esperait egalement qu'un jour, chez elle, elle aurait aussi le plaisir de lui prouver sa recon- naissance. Allant d'un autre cote ce fut ainsi que M. Burchell prit conge de nous; apres avoir participe aux rafraichissements et au diner que nous primes h Fauberge voisine. Poursuivant notre voyage etant encore sur la route, ma femme fit Fobservation que dans le cas ou M. Burchell, qu'elle aimait prodigieusement, serait homme de naissance et de fortune a se meriter Falliance d'une famille comme la notre, qu'elle ne connaissait personne a lui preferer. Entendant ces paroles hautaines sortir de la bouche d'une femme presque reduite k Findigence, je ne pus reprimer
44 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
one almost at the verge (1085) of beggary, thus to assume language of the most insulting affluence, might excite (39, 1176) the ridicule of ill nature; but I was never (54, 1154) much dis- pleased with those harmless delusions that (657) tend (52, 679) to make us (1177) more happy.
CHAPTER lY.
A PROOF THAT EVEN THE HUMBLEST (407) FORTUNE MAY GRANT HAPPINESS, WHICH (657,52) DEPENDS NOT ON CIRCUMSTANCES, BUT (833,315) CONSTI- TUTION.
The place of our retreat was (54, 623) in a little neighborhood consisting (265 bis) of farmers, who tilled (54) their own grounds, and were equal (606, 556) strangers to opulence (306) and poverty. As they had almost all (769, 69) the conveniences of life within themselves, they seldom visited towns (306) or cities in search of superfluities. Remote (265 bis) from the polite, they still retained (54) the primeval simplicity of manners ; and frugal (351) by habit, they scarce knew (54, 727, 679) that (307) temperance was (52, 728) a virtue. They wrought (771) with cheerfulness on days of labor, but observed (54, 679) festivals as intervals of idleness and (833) pleasure. They kept up (767, 769) the Christmas carol, sent (74, 769) true-love knots (530) on Valentine morning, ate (771) pancakes on Shrovetide, showed their wit (771, 71) on the first of April, and religiously cracked nuts (727, 290) on Michaelmas-eve (1233). Being apprized (265 bis, 773) of our approach, the whole (606) neighborhood came (55, 860) out to meet their minister (71, 366), dressed (696) in their fine clothes (556), and preceded (773, 697) by a pipe and tabor (517, 833). A feast also was provided (293, 58) for our recep- tion j at which we sat (55, 1046) cheerfully down; and what the conversation wanted (854) in wit was made up (55, 952) in laughter.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 45
un sourire de pitie. Affecter Farrogance du riche quand on est pauvre pourrait aigrir un temperament bilieux; mais je m'etais fait une loi de prendre en bonne part ces hallucinations qui tendent a nous rendre heureux ici-bas.
CHAPITRE IV.
LA FORTUNE LA PLTTS MEDIOCRE PEUT NOUS PROCURER LE BONHEUR J LEQUEL DEPEND MOINS DBS CIRCONSTANCES QUE DE N0US-MI!MES.
Le lieu de notre residence 6tait dans un modeste voisinage compose de fermiers aises qui cultivaient leur propre terrain, tous egalement etrangers h Fopulence et au besoin. Possedant le necessaire rarement visitaient-ils les villes pour y cbercher le superflu. Eloignes de la civilisation ils conservaient leurs manieres simples et primitives ; frugals par habitude ils igno- raient m^me que la temperance est une vertu. Travaillant gaiement, pendant la semaine, ils observaient les fetes comma intervalles de delassement et de plaisir ; celebrant la Noel par leurs chants ; s'envoyant reciproquement des lacs-d' amour le jour de la Saint-Valentin ; mangeant des crapes pendant les jours gras; montrant leur esprit le premier d'Avril; et cassant religieusement des noix la veille de la Saint-Michel. Informes de notre arrivee, pares de leurs plus beaux habits, precedes d'un haut- bois et d'un tambourin, tout le voisinage vint au-devant de son ministre. Pour nous feter ils avaient aussi prepare un r^gal, auquel nous primes part bien volontiers oil la gaite supplea k r esprit.
46 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
Our little (412 bis) habitation was situated (771, 315) at the foot of a sloping hill, sheltered (771, 414) with a beautiful un- derwood behind, and a prattling river before (826) ; on one side a meadow, on the other a green. My farm consisted (54, 679) of about twenty (583) acres of excellent (579) land, having given a hundred (583) pounds for my predecessor's good-will. Nothing could exceed (925, 54) the neatness of my little en- closures, the elms and hedge-rows appearing (54, 938) with in- expressible beauty. My (592) house consisted (727) of but one story, and was covered with thatch (265 bis), which gave it an air (866) of great snugness; the walls on the inside were (54, 679) nicely whitewashed, and my daughters undertook (55, 127) to adorn (1178, 623) them with (414) pictures of their own de- signing. Though the same room (601) served us for parlor and kitchen, that only (815) made it the warmer (400.) Besides, as it was kept (54, 776) with the utmost neatness, the dishes (550), plates, and coppers being well scoured (773), and all dis- posed in bright rows on the shelves, the eye was (54, 679) agreeably relieved (54, 776), and did not want rich furniture. There were (103, 361) three other apartments, — one for my wife and me, another for our two daughters within our own, and the third (362) with two beds, for the rest of the children.
The little republic to which I gave (829) laws was (54, 86) regulated (592) in the following (556) manner : by sunrise (1168) we all assembled (45,93) in the common apartment, ihe fire being previously kindled by the servant (511). After we had saluted (776) each^ other (674) with proper ceremony, for I always thought (1231) fit (1178) to keep up (535, 537) some mechanical ^forms of good breeding, without which (662) freedom ever destroys (52) friendship, we all bent (54, 679) in gratitude to that Being who gave us (54, 623) another day. This duty being performed (773), my son and I went (54, 93) to pursue our usual industry abroad, while my wife and my (609) daughters employed themselves (54, 679) in providing breakfast (535), which was always ready (773) at a certain time. I allowed (54, 727) half (564) an hour for this meal, and an hour for (535) dinner,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 47'
Adossee au versant d'une colline et abritee sur Tarri^re par un jeune taillis de belle venue, notre cbaumine etait vis-^-vis d'une riviere dont on entendait le doux murmure. La ferme se com- posait d'environ vingt arpents de bonne terre. Pour qu'il m'en cedat le droit je donnai cent livres k mon pred^cesseur. Rien n'egalait la proprete de mes petits enclos, ou les ormeaux et les baies-vives s'y distinguaient par une vigoureuse croissance. Couverte de cbaume, tres-Gonfortable en apparence, le tout con- sistait en un rez-de-cbaussee. Par des dessins de leur composi- tion mes fiUes tacb^rent d'en orner les murs interieurs, qui etaient tout simplement badigeones de cbaux. La cuisine et le salon se trouvant dans la meme piece, celle-ci n'en etait que plus chauder A vrai dire, elle etait tenue avec une proprete exces- sive; les plats, les assiettes, les cbaudrons, parfaitement ecures et allignes, y flattaient Foeil sans le secours de plus beaux meubles. II y avait encore trois pieces — une pour ma femme et moi; contigue h la notre une seconde pour mes filles; la troisi^me a deux lits etait pour les autres enfants.
Yoici comment je gouvernais ma petite republique. D^s le soleil leve nous nous assemblions tons dans le meme apparte- ment, ou, k Favance, le feu avait ete eclaire par la domestique. Apr^s nous etre salues les uns les autres, ayant toujours cru necessaire de maintenir des formes sensibles de politesse, sans les- quelles un trop grand laisser-aller detruit I'amitie ;*nous nous pros- ternions tons devant cet Etre qui nous donnait un nouveau jour d'existence. Cela fait, mon fils et moi nous nous rendions aux cbamps; tandis que ma femme et mes filles preparaient le dejeuner, toujours servi a une beure fixe de la journee. J'ac- col'dais une demi-heure pour ce premier repas, et une beure
48 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
which time was taken up (54, 1104) in innocent (556) mirth between my wife and daughters, and in (825) philosophical ar- guments between my son and me.
As we rose (265 bis, 773) with the sun, so we never pursued our labor after it was gone down (1168), but returned (771,315) home to the expecting family, where (938) smiling (556) looks, a neat hearth, and (550, 1189) pleasant j&re, were prepared (938, 54) for our reception. Nor were (727, 679) we without guests (289). Sometimes farmer Flamborough (593), our talkative neighbor, and often the blind piper (517), would pay us (623, 54) a visit, and taste (769) our gooseberry- wine ; for the making of which (384, 662) we had lost neither the receipt nor (764) the reputation. These harmless people (514, 54) had several ways of being good company; for while one played (54, 1104), the other would sing (727, 1106) some soothing ballad, Johnny Armstrong's (304) last Grood-night, or the Cruelty of Barbara Allen. The night was concluded (54, 86) in the same manner we began (58, 679) the morning, my youngest boys (409) being appointed (776) to read (623, 758) the lessons of the day; and he that (649) read loudest (548, 550), distinctest, and best, was to have (86) a half (564) penny on (5S5) Sunday, to put into the poor's box.
When Sunday (535) came (54), it was (103, 39) indeed a day of finery, which all my sumptuary edicts could not restrain. How well soever I fancied (935) my lectures against pride had conquered the vanity of my daughters, yet I still found (769, 69) them secretly attached (773) to all their former finery : they still loved laces (535), ribands, bugles, and (550) catgut. My wife herself retained (54, 1001) a passion for her (367) crimson (532) paduasoy, because I formerly happened (722, 1178) to say it became her (54, 727, 1133).
The first Sunday in particular, their behavior served to mortify me (57, 727). I had desired (58, 706) my girls the preceding night to be dressed (1065, 782, 72, 73) early the next day; fori always loved to be at church a good while before the rest of the" congregation. They punctually obeyed (55, 727) my directions;
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 49
pour le diner ; intervalles qui se passaient en plaisanteries inno- centes entre ma femme et mes filles, et en raisonnements philo- sopliiques avec mon gar § on.
Debouts des le soleil leve, quittant les champs des son coucher, rentrant au logis ou Ton nous attendait, nous y trou- vions tout-a-la-fois des regards riants, un ^tre propre, et un bon feu qui y petillait. Les visites ne nous manquaient pas de meme. De temps-5;-autre le fermier Flamborough notre voisin jaseur, et souvent aussi le haut-bois aveugle nous honoraient de leur compagnie ; goutant a Toccasion notre vin de groseille, dont nous avions conserve la recette et la renommee. Ces bonnes gens possedaient plusieurs qualites sociales, et tandis que I'un jouait un air sur son instrument, Fautre entonnait una complainte attendrissante, soit le Dernier bon-soir de Jeannot Armstrong, ou les Rigueurs de Barbara Allen. Le soir se terminait de la meme 'maniere qu'avait commence le matin ; les plus-jeunes de mes garyons etant charges de nous lire la liturgie du jour, je donnais un sou pour mettre dans le tronc des pauvres, le dimanche, k celui qui avait lu le plus haut, le plus distinctement, et le mieux.
Malgre mes lois somptuaires il aurait fallu voir la toilette des qu'etait venu le dimanche. Tout convaincu que je fus du bon effet produit sur mes filles par mes predications sur la vanite, neanmoins elles restaient secr^tement attachees k leurs anciens colifichets : aimant toujours avec fureur les dentelles, les rubans, les perles, et la gaze. Ma femme meme avait un faible pour sa poult-de-soie cramoisie; parcequ'il m'echappa de dire dans le temps que cette rob^ui seyait.
Le premier dimanche surtout je fus mortifie de leur conduite. La veille j'avais bien recommande a mes filles de se tenir pretes d^s le matin^ m' etant fait une r^gle d'etre present k Teglise avant I'arrivee de mes paroissiens. Mes ordres furent ponctu- ellement obeis, et quand nous nous rendimes au dejeuner,
50 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
but when we were to assemble (55) in the morning at (315) breakfast, down came (726) my wife and daughters, dressed out in all their former splendor, their hair (1184) plastered up with pomatum, their faces patched to taste (1025 bis), their trains (594) bundled up into a heap behind, and rustling at every motion. I could not help (55, 1176) smiling at their vanity, particularly that (381) of my wife, from whom (662) I expected (54) more discretion. In this (773, 1046 bis) exigence, there- fore, my only resource was (55, 1178) to order my son, with an important air (1178), to call our coach. The girls were (55, 86) amazed at the command; but I repeated it (623, 55) with more solemnity than (409) before. "Surely, my dear, you jest (52, 854),^' cried my wife: " we can (52,1176) walk it perfectly well : we want no coach (727, 1160 bis) to carry us now." — " You mistake, child (511)," returned I: "we do want (52) a coach; for if we walk (727) to church in this trim, the very children in the parish will hoot (59, 162 bis) after us." — "Indeed," replied my wife, "I always imagined (58, 785, 74) that my Charles was fond (54, 679) of seeing (1177) his children neat and handsome about him." — "You may be (40, 135) as neat as you please," interrupted I, "and I shall love you the better (415) for it; but all (606) this is not neatness, but frippery. These ruflBings, and (606) pinkings, and patchings, will only make us (59, 1176) hated by all the wives of our neighbors. No, my children," con- tinued I, more gravely (407), " those gowns may be altered (275 bis, 876) into something of a plainer cut (407, 409) ; for finery is very unbecoming (52, 1133) in us, who want (727, 665, 991) the means of decency. I do not know whether such flouncing and shredding is becoming (52) even in the rich, if we consider (727, 1046 bis), upon a moderate calculation, that the nakedness of the (317, 332) indigent world may be (105) clothed from the trimmings of the vain."
This (363) remonstrance (55, 415) had the proper effect. They went (55, 679) with great composure, that very instant, to change (1176, 1141, 1144) their dress; and the next day I had (55, 679) the satisfaction of fiiidiug (1178) my daughters, at their
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 51
confusion ! . . . . Ne voilil-t-il pas que ma .femme et mes filles se presentent attifees dans toute leur splendeur d'autrefois. Les cheveux empomades, le visage couvert de mouches k Favenant, et les queues de leurs robes troussees sur le derriere frollant h chaque pas qu'elles faisaient. Yoyant leur vanity je ne pus reprimer un sourire; ma femme principalement k qui je sup- posais plus de bon-sens. Ainsi pris au d^pourvu, mon unique ressource fut d'ordonner imperativement k mon fils de faire approcher le carrosse. Get ordre abasourdit mes filles; et je le r^petai d'une maniere encore plus emphatique. '^ Vous vous moquez, mon cher," s'ecria ma femme ; " nous pouvons parfaite- ment aller a-pied et nous passer de carrosse." " Tu te trompes, mon enfantj" repliquai-je ; " il nous faut un carrosse; car si nous allons k I'eglise dans cet Equipage, nous serons hues en route par les gamins de la paroisse.'' '' Vraiment !" repliqua ma femme; ^' toujours m'etais-je imagine que mon Cbarles aimait k voir k son entour ses enfants propres et bien mis." " Soyez aussi propres qu'il vous plaira," dis-je, en I'interrom- pant, " et je vous en aimerai mieux pour cela; mais votre mise n'est pas de bon gout, c'est de la pure friperie! Ces colerettes, ces broderies, ces chiffons, nous feront cordialement detester de toutes les femmes du voisinage. Non, mes enfants/' ajoutai-je, avec plus de solennite, " quand on manque du necessaire le luxe sied mal k notre position. Or, par un calcul tres-modere, si nous prenons en consideration que le superflu de la vanity peut couvrir la nudite de I'indigent, je doute fort que ces colificbets sieent aux riches eux-memes."
Cette remon trance produisit Teffet que j'en attendais. Sur-le- champ, sans murmures, elles all^rent changer leur toilette. Le jour d'apres j'eus la satisfaction de voir mes filles de leur
52 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
own request, employed (773) in cutting up (1177) their trains into Sunday waistcoats for Dick and Bill, tlie two little ones ; and, what was (642, 103) still more satisfactory, the gowns seemed improved (55, 727) by this curtailing.
CHAPTER y.
A NEW AND (555 bis, 551) great acquaintance introduced — WHAT WB PLACE MOST HOPES UPON, GENERALLY PROVES MOST FATAL (621, 952.)
At a small distance from the (823) house, my predecessor had made (58, 861) a seat overshadowed (773) by a hedge of haw- thorn and honeysuckle. Here (417), when the weather was fine, and our labor soon finished, we usually sat together, to enjoy (771) an extensive landscape, in the calm of the evening. Here too we drank (54, 1047) tea, which was now become an occasional banquet j and as we had (727) it but seldom, it difi'used a new joy, the preparation for it being made with no small share of bustle and ceremony. On these occasions, our two little ones always (54, 1026, 1185) read for us, and they were (665, 54) regularly served after we had done. Sometimes, to give (1176) a variety to our amusements, the girls sung (54, 679) to the guitar (772) ; and while they thus (854) formed a little concert, my wife and I would stroll (771) down the sloping field, that was (773) embellished with blue-bells and centaury (303, 332), talk of our children (54, 680) with rapture, and enjoy (679, 69) the breeze that wafted (54, 727) both health and harmony (550).
In this manner we began to find (55, 621) that every situation in life may bring (52, 728) its own peculiar pleasures; every morning (103, 1201) waked us (54, 679) to a repetition of toil ; but the evening repaid (54, 727) it with vacant hilarity.
It was about (648, 54) the beginning of autumn (509, 966), on a holy day, for I kept such (54, 727) as intervals of relaxation from labor, that I had drawn out (769, 1081) my family to our usual
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 53
propre mouvement coiipant la queue de leurs robes, et en faire des gilets du dimanclie pour Richard et Gruillaume nos deux petits bambins. Mais, ce qu'il y a de mieux, c'est que les robes gagnerent k ce retranchement.
CHAPITRE Y.
PRESENTATION d'uNE NOUVELLE ET GRANDE CONNAISSANCE SOUVENT
SOMMES-NOUS DEgUS DANS NOS PLTTS BELLES ANTICIPATIONS.
Un banc, entoure d'aubepines, qu'ombrageaient des cb^vres- feuilles avait ete place par mon devancier aupres de la maison. L^, par un beautemps apr^s notre journ^e de travail, jouissant de la vue d'un immense paysage et goutant le calme du soir nous venions y trouver le repos. La aussi de temps-a-autre nous rendions-nous pour y prendre le tbe ; et comme ces occa- sions 6taient rares le plaisir n'en etait que plus sensible. Pendant ce repas nos bambins, qu'on servait reguli^rement apres nous, nous faisaient toujours une lecture. Pour varier nos delassements mes filles quelquefois cbantaient en s'accompa- gnant sur la guitare ; et pendant leur petit concert, errants sur la pente du cbamp embelli de campanules bleues et de cen- tauree, humant une brise qui nous portait la sante et le bonbeur, ma femme et moi causions avec delices de notre petite famille.
Ainsi apprimes-nous que le bonheur appartient h tons les etats. Chaque matin, il est yrai, ramenait avec lui la memo somme de labour; mais le soir par son hilarity compensait amplement nos fatigues.
C'etait aux premiers jours d'automne, pendant une fete, — que j'observais regulierement comme instants de repos et de relache du travail, — ayant conduit ma famille dans cet asile de d^lasse-
5«
54 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
place of amusement, and our young musicians (556, 334) began (58, 679) their usual concert. As we were thus engaged, we saw a stag bound nimbly by (55, 960), within about (826, 583) twenty paces of where we were (54, 679) sitting, and, by its panting, it seemed pressed (773) by the hunters. We had (744) not much time to reflect (751, 1178) upon the poor animal's dis- tress (304), when we perceived (55, 129) the dogs and horsemen come sweeping (767) along at some distance behind, and making (769, 247) the very path it had taken (58, 777). I was in- stantly for returning in (665, 736) with my family; but either curiosity (930), or surprise (930), or some more hidden motive, held (679, 55) my wife and daughters to their seats. The hunts- man who rode (54) foremost (362) passed us (55, 727) with great swiftness, followed (773) by four or (865, 971) five persons more, who seemed (767) in equal haste. At last, a young gentle- man of a more (409) genteel appearance than (410) the rest, came (55) forward, and, for a while regarding us (623), instead of pursuing (769, 69) the chase, stopped (727, 73) short (607), and, giving (55) his horse to a servant who attended (54), ap- proached (55) us with a careless superior air (866). He seemed (767, 1176) to want no introduction, but was going (55, 679) to salute (1176) my daughters as one certain of a kind reception; but they had early learned (58, 777) the lesson of looking (1177) presumption out of countenance. Upon which he let us (55) know (1176) that his name was Thornhill, and that he was (54) the owner of that estate that lay (727) for some extent round us. He again, therefore, offered (55) to salute (1177) the female (1185) part of the family; and such was (55, 727) the power of fortune and fine clothes, that he found (55, 167) no second (927) repulse. As his address, though confident, was easy, we soon became (55, 1041 bis) familiar; and, perceiving (771, 1103) musical instruments lying near (918), he begged (55,1178, 1019) to be favored with a song. As I did not approve (769, 69) of such disproportioned (773) acquaintances, I winked (55, 727) upon my daughters, in order (1178) to prevent their com- pliance; but my hint was (769, 69) counteracted by one from
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 55
ment, nos jeunes musiciennes avaient a peine commence leur concert, quand tout-a-coup un cerf pantelant sans doute vive- ment lance par les chasseurs, bondit legerement h environ vingt pas d'ou nous etions assis. Avant que nous eussions eu le temps de reflechir sur le sort du pauvre animal, nous aper- gumes les chiens et les cavaliers galopant un peu en arriere suivant la direction qu'il avait prise. J'ordonnai sur-le-champ qu^on rentrat a la maison ; neanmoins, soit curiosite ou surprise, soit tout autre motif secret ma femme et mes filles rest^rent comme clouees sur leurs sieges. Le chasseur qui galopait le premier passa sous nos yeux avec une grande vitesse, suivi de quatre ou cinq autres allant tous du meme train. Enfin, apr^s nous avoir regarde un instant, un jeune personnage mieux mis que les autres s'avanga vers nous. Abandonnant la cbasse et s'arretant tout court, il donna son cbeval h un valet qui Tac- compagnait; puis, d'un air important et decide il se dirigea vers Tendroit que nous occupions. Paraissant vouloir se dis- penser du ceremonial d'une presentation il alia droit vers mes filles pour les saluer, comptant d'etre bien accueilli; mais les petites de bonne-heure avaient appris k decontenancer les pr^- somptueux. II nous fit alors savoir que son nom etait Thorn- bill, et que le domaine devant nous etait a lui. De rechef s'aventura-t-il k saluer les dames ; et tel fut I'ascendant de la fortune relevee par une bonne mise, qu'il n'essuya pas de nouveau refus. Quoique remplie de presomption sa politesse facile nous mit bientot a I'aise. Decouvrant des instruments de musique deposes tout pr^s il nous pria de le regaler d'une chanson. N'approuvant pas les liaisons disproportionnees, je fis signe de Toeil k mes filles de refuser I'invitation ; mais un coup- d'oeil de leur m^re neutralisant mon injonction, par contre nous
56 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
their motlier, so that, with a cheerful air, they gave us (55, 727) a favorite song of Dryden's. Mr. Thoruhill seemed (55, 855) highly delighted with their performance and choice, and then took up (55) the guitar himself. He played (55, 1104) but very indifferently; however, my eldest daughter repaid (55, 727) his former applause with interest, and assured him (769, 71) that his tones were (54, 679) louder than (410) even those of her master (618, 367). At this (769) compliment he bowed (55), which she returned (55, 727) with a courtesy. He praised (55, 732) her taste, and she commended (727, 367) his understand- ing: an age could not have made (666, 777) them better (54, 679) acquainted. While the fond (556, 579) mother, too, equally happy, insisted (54, 679) upon her landlord's stepping in (1041 bis), and taking (49, 1046) a glass of her gooseberry. The whole family (606) seemed (54, 699) earnest to please him; my girls attempted (55, 679) to entertain (1178, 623) him with topics they thought most modern (54, 679) ; while Moses, on the con- trary, gave him a question (55, 623) or two from the ancients (354), for which he had the satisfaction of being laughed at (665, 55, 926) ; my little ones were (855) no less busy, and fondly stuck (54, 679) close to the stranger. All my endeavors could scarce keep (648, 55) their dirty fingers from handling and tar- nishing (1178) the laces on his clothes, and lifting up (769, 69) the flaps of his pocket-holes to see (1176) what was (54, 679) there. At the approach of evening, he took (55) leave, but not till he had requested (50, 155) permission to renew (1178) his visit, which, as he was our landlord, we most readily agreed to. As soon as he was gone (861), my wife called (55, 1060 bis) a council on the conduct of the day. She was (54, 1008) of opinion, that it was (727, 54) a most fortunate hit, for she had (679) known even (603) stranger things than that (781) brought to bear. She hoped (54, 443) again to see (1176) the day in which we might hold up (39) our heads (592, 1183) with the best of them ; and concluded, she protested she could see (54, 547) no reason why the two Miss (1187) Wrinkles should marry (736, 54, 1137 bis) great fortunes, and her children get none.
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fumes regales d'une chanson populaire de Dry den. Charme de Fexecution et du choix du morgeau M. Thornhill prit lui-meme la guitare. II en pin§a passablement mal. Ma fille ainee, neanmoins, paya avec usure les compliments qu'elle avait re§ns de lui; I'assurant que ses sons etaient plus forts que ceux de son maitre a elle. Entendant ce compliment il s'inclina; ma fille lui repondit par une reverence. II loua son gout ; elle k son tour complimenta son jugement. On aurait cru a les voir qu'ils se connaissaient depuis un siecle. Tandis que non moins heureuse la tendre mere engageait a toute force son proprietaire a mettre le pied, chez-nous, pour y prendre un doigt de sou excellent vin de groseille. Toute la famille en etait engouee. Mes filles clierclierent a le charmer par des topiques de jaserie qu'elles croyaient nouveaux. Moise, au contraire, le questionna une ou deux fois sur les anciens, et on lui rit au nez pour cela. Non moins affaires mes bambins serraient aussi de pres Te- tranger. Ce fut avec_toutes les peines du monde que j'empecbai leurs doigts malpropres de ternir par leur toucher les galons de ses habits ; soulevant indiscretement les pattes des poches pour decouvrir ce qu'elles contenaient. Sur le soir il prit conge de nous, apres avoir demande permission de renouveler ses visites : chose qui lui fut immediatement accordee vu sa qualite de proprietaire. Des son depart ma femme tint conseil sur les affaires de la journee. L'incident a son avis etait de bon augure; ayant connaissance d'^venements plus extraordinaires qui n'en avaient pas moins tourne h bien ; aussi esperait-elle revoir le jour ou, parmi les plus huppes, elle tiendrait la tete haute. Declarant, avant d'en finir, qu'elle n'apercevait pas de raison pour que les deux demoiselles Wrinkles fissent de tr^s- riches manages, tandis que ses filles en feraient de fort mauvais.
58 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
As tMs last argument was (54) directed to me, I protested (55) I could (103, 54) see no reason for it either, nor why Mr. Sim- kins got (736, 751) the ten thousand pound prize in the lottery, and we sat down (54, 338) with a blank. "I protest (52), Charles,^' cried my wife (55), "this is (52, 648) the way you al- ways damp (52) my girls and me when we are (52, 679) in spirits. Tell me, Sophy (727, 443), my dear, what do you think (727, 952) of our new visitor? Don't you think (164) he seemed (52, 679) to be good-natured?" — "Immensely so, indeed, mamma," replied (55) she; "I think (52) he has a great deal (540) to say upon every thing, and is (52) never at a loss, and the more trifling the subject (839), the more he has to say; and what is more, I protest he is very handsome.'^ — " Yes," cried Olivia, " he is (52, 1010) well enough for a man; but, for my part, I don't much like (1018) him, he is so extremely impudent and familiar; but on the guitar he is shocking." These two last speeches I inter- preted (55) by contraries. I found by this (52, 679) that Sophia internally despised (54) as much as Olivia secretly admired (727, 623) him. "Whatever may be (736, 743) your opinions of him, my children," cried I, " to confess a truth (52), he has not pre- possessed (56, 623) me in his favor. Disproportion ed friend- ships (555) ever terminate in disgust; and I thought, notwith- standing all (367) his ease, that he seemed perfectly sensible of the distance between us. Let us keep (40) to companions of our own rank. There is (103, 547) no character more contemptible than a man that is a fortune-hunter, and I can see no reason why fortune-hunting women should not (377, 39) be contemptible too. Thus, at best (1060), we shall be contemptible (59, 776) if his views are honorable (52, 679); but if they be otherwise (59, 52) ! I should shudder (726, 938, 1178) but to think of that ! It is (103) true, I have no (52, 166) apprehensions from the conduct of my children, but I think there are (103, 376) some from his character." I would have proceeded (39, 155), but for the interruption of a servant (318, 511) from the squire, who (767), with his compliments, sent us a side of venison, and a promise (1178) to dine with us some days after. This well-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 59
Comme cette tirade ^tait h mon adresse, j'ajoutai ^' qu'il n'y avait pas non plus d^e raisons pour que M. Simkins gagnat dix mille livres a la lotterie^ tandis que nous restions coi avec un pan-de-nez." " Je declare, Charles/' s'ecria ma femroe, " c'est ainsi que vous attristez toujours moi ou vos filles quand vous nous voyez de bonne humeur. Dis-moi, Fiphi, que penses-tu de cotre nouvelle connaissance ? ne crois-tu pas qu'il a bon carac- t^re ?" " Tout-a-fait bon, maman/' repliqua-t-elle ; ^' et je le crois aussi un beau-diseur. II n'est jamais court de paroles : plus le sujet est insignifiant plus il en conte; mais, pour tout dire, j'avoue qu'il est fort joli gargon." " Oui," s'ecria Olivie, " il est passable pour un homme sans etre pourtant a mon gout. Impudent et familier sur la guitare il est clioquant." J'interpretai ces deux opinions par leurs contraires. Elles me dirent que le coeur de Sophie meprisait I'homme qu' Olivie admirait interieurement. " Mes enfantS; quelle que soit votre fa§on-de-penser, j'avoue qu'il ne m'a gu^re predispose en sa faveur. Amitie dispro- portionnee toujours engendre degout. Oui^ malgre son laisser- aller, j'ai demele en lui la superiorite qu'il croit avoir sur nous. Prenons pour compagnons nos egaux. II n'y a pas pour un homme de reputation plus meprisable que celle de chercheur de fortune ; pourquoi n'en serait-il pas de meme des femmes ? Prenant la chose par le bon cote, si ses vues sont honorables nous ne meriterons pas moins le mepris, — qu'en sera-t-il s'il en est autrement ? . Mon sang se glace d'y penser ! Je n'ai, il est vrai, aucune crainte sur la conduite de mes enfans; mais il n'en est pas de meme de lui." J'aurais continue, quand je fus interrompu par I'arrivee d'un domestique du baronnet, apportant un quartier de venaison et les compliments de son maitre, avec promesse de venir diner chez-nous quelques jours apr^s. Yenu si a propos ce present produisit un effet favo-
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timed present pleaded (55) more powerfully in his favor than any thing I had to say (39, 155) could obviate. I therefore con- tinued (55, 1046) silent, satisfied (556, 1193) with just having (1230) pointed out (69, 535) danger (271) and leaving it (55) to their own discretion to avoid it (1178). That virtue (310) which requires to be ever guarded (105) is scarcely worth the sentinel.
CHAPTER YI.
THE HAPPINESS (555 bis) OF A COUNTRY FIRESIDE.
As we carried (155, 765) on the former dispute with some (537) degree of warmth, in order to accommodate matters it was (57, 265 bis) universally agreed (776, 706) that we should have (757) a part of the venison for supper, and the girls undertook (55) the task (1041 bis) with alacrity. " I am sorry (103, 1158),'' cried I, "■ that we have (757) no neighbor or stranger (839), to take part (1046 bis, 1176) in this good cheer. Feasts of this kind ac- quire (844, 52, 988) a double relish from hospitality.'' — " Bless me (423)'," cried (55) my wife, "here (829,1077) comes our good friend Mr. Burchell, that saved (730) our Sophia, and that run (55, 732) you down fairly in the argument." — " Confute me (50) in argument, child!" cried I (55,727), "you mistake (52, 380) there, my dear. I believe there are (52, 679, 701) but few that can do that. I never dispute (52, 727) your abilities at making (103, 105) a goose-pie, and I beg you will leave (52) argument to me (645)." As I spoke (54, 439), poor Mr. Burchell entered (54, 679) the house (824), and was welcomed (57) by the fa- mily, who shook him heartily by the hand (1175), while little Dick officiously reached him (623, 55) a chair (541, 863).
I was pleased (54, 679, 1176) with the poor man's friendship (303) for two reasons : because I knew (54, 1074) that he wanted
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 61
rable pour le donataire; or, tout ce que j!aurais oppose ne pouvant reagir contre cet effet je pris done le parti de me taire. Content d'avoir signale le danger je laissai a leur prudence de Feviter. La vertu qu'il faut toujours surveiller ne vaut pas le nom de vertu.
CHAPITRE VI.
BONHEUR D'uN FOYER RUSTIQUE.
Ayant mis un peu de chaleur a notre derniere discussion, comme arrangement il fut decide h I'unanimite d'avoir pour souper un morceau de venaison : mes filles aussitot mirent la besogne en train. ''II est f^cheux/^ m'ecriai-je, " de n'avoir ni voisins ni etrangers pour prendre part k cette bonne-cli^re. Quand rbospitalite j assiste de tels galas en valent beaucoup mieux," " Grraces-a-Dieu !^' s'^cria ma femme, " voici M. Bur- cbell notre bon ami qui nous vient; lui qui sauva notre Sophie et rembarra si bien vos arguments !'^ " Rembarrer mes argu- ments, mon enfant!" m'ecriai-je; '' c'est une erreur. Ma ch^re, bien peu sont de force a le faire. Je ne conteste jamais ta capacite quand il faut faire un pate-d'oie ; mais de grace la controverse k moi est mon fait." Comme je pronon9ais ces mots, entrant dans la maison M. Burcbell j fut bien accueilli de tout le monde ; le petit Richard fort poliment lui presenta une chaise pendant qii'il touchait la main aux autres.
Deux motifs me faisaient appr^cier Famitie de ce pauvre malheureux. D'abord, je savais qu'il avait besoin de moi; et je
6
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mine (54, 990), and I knew (54, 727) him to be (54) friendly as far (806, 1065) as lie was able. He was known (665, 623, 54) in our neighborhood (592) by the character of the (541) poor gentleman, that would do (58, 1176) no good when he was young, though he was not (55, 988) yet thirty. He would at intervals talk (54, 623) with great good sense; but in general he was fondest (769, 69) of the company of children, whom he used to call (54, 1178) harmless little, men (540). He was (54, 1154) famous, I found (55), for singing them (772, 771) ballads, and telling (727) them stories, and seldom went out (54, 621) with- out something in his pockets for them, — a piece (318, 930) of gingerbread, or (930) a halfpenny whistle. He generally came (54, 1104) for a few days into our neighborhood once a year, and lived (771, 1016, 510 bis) upon the neighbors' hospitality (304). He sat (55, 1046, 706) down to supper among us (826 bis, 856), and my wife was not (727, 1019) sparing of her gooseberry-wine. The tale went round (55, 1030). He sung (55, 623) us old songs, and gave (55, 732) the children the story of the Buck of Beverland, with the history of Patient Grizzel, the Adventures of Catskin (427), and then Fair Rosamond's Bower. Our cock (971), which always crew (52, 728) at eleven, now told (55, 623) us it was (54, 1017) time for repose; but an unforeseen dif- ficulty started (55, 706) about lodging the stranger. All our beds (606,354) were (54, 679) already taken up, and it was (665, 54) too late to send (1176, 623) him to the next alehouse. In (824) this dilemma, little Dick offered (55, 618) him his part of the bed, if his brother Moses would (743, 751, 143, 623, 1176, 1168) let him lie with him.— "And I," cried Bill, " will give (59, 162 bis) Mr. Burchell my part, if my sisters will take me (52, 623) to theirs." — "Well done, my good children," cried I: "hos- pitality (535) is one of the first (362) Christian duties. The beast retires (52, 623, 824, 1168) to its shelter, and the bird flies (52, 1140) to its nest, but helpless man (535) can only find (727) refuge from his fellow-creature. The greatest (548) stranger in this world was (55) He that came (727) to save it. He never had (55, 166, 547) a house, as if willing (57, 1176,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 63
n'ignorais pas non plus qu'il m'aimait de toute son ^me. On le connaissait, dans le voisinage, comme un pauvre gentilhomme qui n'avait pas su" faire le bien pendant sa jeunesse, quoiqu'il eut a peine trente ans. De temps-a-autre il s'exprimait tres- sensement; aimant beaucoup les enfants qu'il se plaisait h appeler des petits-hommes inoffensifs. II s'etait fait une reputa- tion, ainsi que je Fappris, en leur chantant des ballades, ou en leur racontant des bistoires. Rarement allait-il les poches vides; ayant toujours pour eux soit un morceau de pain-d'epices, soit un petit sifflet d'un sou. Cbaque annee il passait quelques jours dans notre voisinage vivant cbez les uns et chez les autres. II prit part a notre souper oil ma femme ne fut pas cbiche de son vin de groseille. Le chant fit le tour de la table. II nous cbanta quelques vieilles chansons, et raconta aux enfants le conte du Daim de Beverland, la Legende de Griselle la tranquille, les Aventures de Catskin, et le Bocage de la Belle Rosamonde. Notre coq, qui regulierement cbante a onze heures du soir, nous avertit qu'il etait temps d'aller nous reposer; mais alors surgit une difficulte toucbant le coucber de I'etranger : tous nos lits avaient leur emploi. A pareille beure, neanmoins, on ne pou- vait I'envoyer coucber au cabaret voisin. Dans ce dilemme le petit Ricbard ofi"rit sa place, pourvu que son frere Moise voulut le recevoir dans son lit. " Et moi," dit Guillaume, '^je cederai la mienne k M. Burcbell si mes soeurs me font place dans le leur.'^ " Bravo! mes enfants,'^ m'ecriai-je, " I'bospitalite est un des premiers devoirs du Chretien. La bete-fauve se retire dans sa taniere; I'oiseau s'envole vers son nid; mais I'bomme sans asile ne trouve d'abri que chez son semblable. Le plus aban- donne de tous en ce monde en fut le Sauveur ; et, comme s'il eut voulu s'assurer du peu d'hospitalite qui reste ici-bas, il
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623) to see what hospitality was (52, 728, 1087) left remaining among us. Deborah, my dear," cried I to my wife, " give (40) those boys a lump of sugar each, and let Dick's (304) be (736) the (548) largest, because he spoke (56, 155) first."
In the morning early, I called out (55, 706) my whole family to help (1176) at saving an after-growth of hay; and our guest offering (771) his assistance, he was accepted (55, 623) among the number. Our labors went on (727) lightly; we turned (55, 732) the swath to the wind. I went (769) foremost, and the rest (727) followed in due succession (669). I could not (55) avoid (623, 1176), however, observing (1178) the assiduity of Mr. Burchell in assisting (1177, 1230) my daughter Sophia in her part of the task. When he had finished (58) his own, he would join in hers (54, 623, 381, 382), and enter (54, 1137 bis) into a close conversation ; but I had (23, 54) too good an opinion (318, 1189) of Sophia's understanding, anfl was (854) too well convinced (54, 992) of her (368) ambition, to be under (1170, 817) any uneasiness from a man of broken fortune (925). When we were finished (57, 679) for the day, Mr. Burchell was (55, 434) invited, as on the night before ; but he refused (55), as he was (769, 73) to lie that night at a neighbor's, to whose (657) child he was carrying (54, 1066) a whistle. When gone (57, 155), our conversation (592) at supper turned (55) upon our late unfortunate guest. ^'What (363, 364 bis) a strong instance," said I (55), "is (52) that poor man of the miseries attending (52, 679, 767) a youth of levity and (550) extravagance! He by no means (738 bis, 743) wants sense, which only serves (792, 1176) to aggravate his former folly. Poor forlorn creature (1191) ! Where are (52) now the revellers, the flatterers, that he could (54) once inspire (727) and command? Grone (56, 623, 1089), perhaps (1016), to attend (52, 621, 952) the bagnio pander, grown rich (773) by his extravagance (367, 368). They once praised (54, 679, 623) him, and now they applaud (52) the pander. Their former (861) raptures at his wit are (52, 679) now con- verted (776) into sarcasms at his folly. He is poor (854), and perhaps deserves (52, 727) poverty; for he has neither (555 bis)
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 65
n'eut jamais de toit pour abriter sa t^te. Deborali, ma cTiere," fis-je a ma femme, " donne un morceau de sucre h chacun de ces enfants ; mais que le plus gros soit pour Ricliard parce qu'il a fait la preijp^re offre."
Le jour suivant, des le matin, je sortis avec ma famille pour preparer un regain de foin. Ayant offert de nous aider nous acceptames la proposition de notre hote. Le travail avanga sans fatigue. Nous tournames du cote du vent la premiere ligne faucliee ; moi passant le premier, les autres me suivant chacun h, son tour. Je ne pus m'empecher de ^marquer, pendant ce temps, I'assiduite que mit M. Burcliell a aider ma fille Sophie dans sa part de travail. Des qu'il avait rempli sa tache, il Taidait a accomplir la sienne et causait intimement avec elle ; mais j'avais une trop bonne opinion du bon-sens de Sopliie et de son ambition, pour apprebender qu'elle ne s'attacbat h un homme sans fortune. Quand la journee fut terminee nous fimes h M. Burchell la meme offre que la veille ; mais il refusa cette offre, devant se rendre pour coucher cbez un voisin h qui il apportait un sifflet pour son enfant. Des qu'il fut parti, pen- dant le souper, la conversation tomba sur notre bote malbeureux. " Get homme," m'ecriai-je, " est un exemple frappant des mis^res qui accompagnent Finconduite et la legerete de la jeu- nesse ! II s'en faut de beaucoup que ce soit un sot ; mais cela ne sert, apr^s tout, qu'a agraver ses anciennes folies. Pauvre homme ! oii sont maintenant ses compagnons d'orgie, ces flat- teurs qu'il commandait et qu'il dirigeait autrefois? lis I'ont abandonne. Peut-etre qu'k cette heure entourent-ils un recru- teur du bagne enrichi des prodigalites de ce pauvre malbeureux. Jadis ils I'applaudissaient ; aujourd'hui leurs applaudissements sont pour ce meme recruteur. Outrees, leurs anciennes louanges sur son esprit sont changees en sarcasmes contre sa folie. Pauvre ! peut-etre merite-t-il sa position faute d^ ambition pour
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the ambition to be independent, nor (837, 911) the skill to be ■useful." Prompted (773) perhaps by some secret reasons, I de- livered (65, 909) this observation with too much acrimony, which my Sophia -gently reproved (59, 623). ''Whatso(^er (604) his former conduct may have been (743, 736), papa, his circum- stances should (52, 623, 1039) exempt him from censure now. His present indigence is (792) a sufficient punishment for former folly; and I have heard (56, 1176) my papa himself say that we should never strike (1066, 105) one unnecessary blow (547) at a victim over whon^(660, 427) Providence holds the scourge of its (367, 368) resentment."— '^ You are (52, 988) right, Sophy,"' cried my son Moses, ''and one of the ancients finely represents so malicious a conduct, by the attempts of a rustic to flay Marsyas, whose (657) skin, the fable tells us (855), had (58) been wholly stripped (776) off by another; besides, I don't know (52, 164) if this poor man's situation be so (806) bad as my father would represent (623, 52) it. We are not (648, 52, 623, 864) to judge of the feelings of others by what (841) we might feel (39, 743, 751,952) if in their place. However (604, 743) dark the habit- ation of the mole to our eyes (298), yet the animal itself finds (52, 77) the apartment sufficiently lightsome. And to confess a truth (52, 1179), this man's mind (304) seems fitted (52, 773) to his station, for I never heard (621, 56, 672) any one more sprightly than (410) he was to-day, when he conversed with you (54, 623)." This was said (55) without the least design: how- ever, it excited (55, 732) a blush, which she strove (727, 434) to cover (1178) by an affected laugh (773), assuring him (769) that she scarcely took any notice of what he said to her, but that she believed (54, 125) he might once have been (58, 847) a very fine gentleman. The readiness with which (662, 438) she un- dertook (55, 1177) to vindicate herself, and her blushing (1121), were (732, 535) symptoms I did not internally approve (727) ; but I repressed (55, 1098) my suspicions (55, 623, 1163).
As we expected (769, 69) dur landlord the next day, my wife went (895) to make (1076) the venison-pasty; Moses (54, 954, 1185) sat reading, while I taught (54) the (315) little ones.
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Be faire independant ou d'liabilete h se rendre utile." Mu par un motif secret, je melai sans doute trop d'acrimonie a mon observation; ce qui m'attira une sensible reprimande de la part de Sophie. " Quelle qu'ait ete sa conduite, cber papa, la pauvrete aujourd'hui lui fait expierson extravagance d' autrefois. Souvent vous ai-je entendu dire, papa, qu'il ne faut jamais porter des coups inutiles k la victime que menace le fl^u de la Providence." " Tu as raison, Sophie," s'ecria mon fils Moise ; '^ pareille mechante conduite est admirablement illustree par un ancien, nous representant un paysan s'efforgant d'ecorcher Mar- syas, qui, selon la fable, avait dejk. ete ecorcbe par un autre. J'ignore, en outre, si la position de ce malheureux est aussi blamable que le represente mon pere. Ce n'est pas a nous a juger des autres par ce que nous eprouverions nous-memes fus- sions-nous a leur place ; quelle que soit a nos yeux I'obscurite de la residence d'une taupe, cet animal neanmoins trouve son trou suffisamment clair, Le coeur de cet bomme, je Favoue, me semble fait pour sa position; car, jamais ai-je vu personne plus heureux que lui aujourd'hui quand il te parlait." Dit sans la moindre intention, cela causa pourtant h Sophie uu rougissement qu'elle t^cha de couvrir par un sourire affecte; ajoutant, qu'ayant a peine remarque ses paroles, elle croyait neanmoins qu'il avait ete un homme de bon-ton. La promp- titude qu'elle mit h se disculper et son rougissement, furent des symptomes que mon coeur desapprouva; mais je contins mes doutes et me tus.
Attendant notre propri^taire pour le lendemain ma femme alia faire sa patisserie de venaison. Pendant que je donnais
68 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
My daughters seemed (54, 679) equally busy with the rest; and I observed (55, 910) them for a good while cooking (55, 1041) something over the fire. I at first supposed (55) they were (54) assisting (679, 865 bis) their mother; but little (450) Dick in- formed me (55, 623), in a whisper, that they were making (54, 679) a wash for the face. Washes (306) of all kinds I had (854) a natural antipathy to; for I knew (767) that, instead of mending the complexion, they spoiled it (52, 679). I therefore approached (55) my chair by slow degrees to the fire, and grasping (769) the poker, as if it (618) wanted mending (711), seemingly by accident overturned (732) the whole composition, and it was too late (54, 67) to begin another.
CHAPTER yil.
A TOWN WIT DESCRIBED (555 bis, 450) — THE DULLEST FELLOW (548, 890) MAT LEARN (105) TO BE COMICAL FOR A NIGHT OR TWO.
When the morning arrived on which we were (54, 861) to entertain (1176) our young landlord, it may be (666) easily sup- posed (105, 900) what provisions were (57, 776) exhausted to make (1034) an appearance. It may also be conjectured (666, 1216) that my wife and (609) daughters expanded (730, 732) their gayest plumage on this occasion. Mr. Thornhill came (55, 623) with a couple (510) of friends, his chaplain and (609) feeder. The servants, who were (54, 679) numerous, he politely ordered (730, 623, 1178) to the next alehouse; but my wife, in the triumph of her (367) heart, insisted (55, 727) on entertain- ing (1177) them (1016) all; for which, by-the-by (930), our family (55, 105, 1065) was pinched for three weeks after. As Mr. Burchell had hinted (58, 1107) to us, the day before, that he was making (58, 727) some proposals of marriage to Miss Wil- mot, my son George's former mistress, this a good deal damped
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 69
une legon aux deux bambins Moise faisaifc une lecture. Mes filles n'etaient pas moins affairees que les autres ; j'entrevis qu'elles mirent pendant quelque temps une chose au feu. Je crus d'abord qu'elles aidaient a leur m^re ; mais le petit-bon-bomme Eichard me dit a voix-basse qu'elles preparaient un cosmetique. Ennemi des cosm^tiques de tout genre sacbant qu'ils detruisent le teint au lieu de I'embellir, graduellement je rapprocbai ma chaise de la cbeminee. Sans rien dire, prenaut le fourgon en apparence pour attiser le feu, je repandis toute la composition comme par accident ; et le temps manquait maintenant pour en commencer une autre.
CHAPITRE VII.
DESCRIPTION d'vS BEL-ESPRIT DE VILLE — LE PERSONNAGE LE PLUS ENNTJ- YEUX PEUT fiTRE AMUSANT PENDANT UNE OU DEUX SOIREES.
Il est facile de s'imaginer, que, pour faire montre d'abon- dance, d^s la matinee du jour ou nous devious recevoir notre proprietaire, toutes les provisions du menage furent mises en requisition. On pent aussi conjecturer, qu'en cette occasion, ma femme et mes filles epuis^rent toutes leurs ressources de toilette. M. Tbornhill nous arriva accompagne d'un couple d'amis : son aumonier et son maitre-d'botel. Quant a ses gens, qui etaient en tres-grand nombre, il leur ordonna d'aller au cabaret voisin. Mais, ne voulant pas faire les cboses a demi, de surabondance de coeur ma femme insista a les retenir tons cbez- nous : ce qui, dit en passant, fut cause qu'il fallut nous serrer le ventre pendant trois semaines. Comme M. Burchell, la veille, nous avait' donne h entendre que M. Tbornhill avait fait des propositions de mariage k Mile. Wilmot, I'ancienne pretendue de mon fils Georges, cela amortit considerablement le laisser-
70 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD
(55) the heartiness of his (592) reception. But accident, in some measure, relieved (727) our embarrassment; for one of the company happening (155, 765) to mention her name, Mr. Thorn- hill observed (55, 910, 1092), with an oath, that he never (54, 925) knew any thing more absurd than calling (1178) such a fright a beauty; "for, strike me (52, 1176, 1113 bis) ugly," continued he (55, 732), "if I should not find (734) as much pleasure in choosing (1177, 623, 592) my mistress by the information of a lamp under the clock of St. Dunstan^s." At this he laughed (55, 1156), and so did we: the jests of the rich are (726) ever suc- cessful Olivia, too, could not (55, 732) avoid (623, 1176) whispering (1178), loud enough to be heard (665, 55), that he had (54) an infinite fund (1025 bis) of humor.
After dinner, I began (55, 1066) with my usual toast, the church; for this I was thanked (57) by the chaplain, as he said (657, 623, 55) the church was (54) the only mistress of his (367) afi'ections. "Come, tell us (40) honestly, Frank,'' said (55) the squire, with his usual archness, " suppose (52, 229) the church, your present mistress, dressed (773) in lawn sleeves, on one hand (1185), and Miss Sophia, with no lawn about her, on the other, which would you be for (39) ?" — " For both, to be sure," cried the chaplain. "Right, Frank," cried (55) the squire; " for may this glass suffocate me (52, 623), but a fine girl is (52, 215) worth all the priestcraft in the creation; for what are (171, 52) tithes and tricks but an imposition, all (421) a confounded imposture ? and I can prove it (52, 212, 1176)."— "I wish (39) you would (938, 1176)," cried (727) my son Moses, "and I think (52, 727)," continued he (55), ^Hhat I should be (52, 726) able to answer you." — "Very well, sir," cried the squire, who imme- diately smoked (771, 1156) him, and winking (769, 1034) on the rest of the company, to prepare us (618) for the sport; " if you are (52) for a cool argument upon (802, 405) that subject, I am ready to accept (52, 623, 1176, 1026 bis) the challenge. And first, whether are you (59, 623, 621) for managing it (854, 59, 679, 443) analogically or dialogically ?" — "I am for managing it (59, 727) rationally," cried (727) Moses, quite happy at (1193) being
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 71
aller de la reception. Mais le hasard en qnelque sorte vint en aide k notre embarras. Quelqu^un de la compagnie ayant mentionne le nom de cette demoiselle, M, Thornhill fit la remarque accompagnee d'un gros juron, qu'il ne trouvait rien d'aussi absurde que d'appeler beaute une telle borreur. '^ Et je veux passer pour un laid," ajouta-t41, "si je n'aurais autant de plaisir h me choisir une maitresse a la clarte de la lampe placee sous I'borloge de St. Dunstan/' Cela dit, il epouffa de rire, et nous de rire de plus belle. Les plaisanteries des riches sont toujours bien accueillies; aussi, de maniere a ce qu'on I'entendit parfaitement, Olivie ne put s'empecher de chucboter qu'il posse- dait un grand fond-d'bumeur.
Apres le diner je portai mon toast ordinaire, '^ I'Eglise." L^aumonier m'en remercia, disant que c'etait sa maitresse de predilection. '' Pour lors, Fran§ois/' dit le baronnet d'un ton frivole; " dites-nous franchement quel serait votre cboix, si, d'un cote, Ton vous presentait votre maitresse actuelle, Teglise paree en mancbes de lin, et de I'autre Mile. Sopbie sans mancbes V " Je les cboisirais toutes deux," repondit I'aumonier. " Par- fait, Fran9ois," ajouta le baronnet; " mais, que ce verre m'e- touffe si une jolie fille ne vaut pas toute la pretraille du monde; car, apr^s tout que sont les dimes et les simagrees, sinon des tromperies et d'abominables impostures ? ce que je peux du reste prouver." '^Je voudrais vous y voir/' s'exclama mon fils Moise. "Je crois," ajouta-t-il, ''que je suis bomme a vous repondre.^' "Tres-bien, monsieur," repliqua le baronnet, commengant par lui rire au nez, et faisant signe de I'oeil a I'as- semblee pour la preparer a ce divertissement. '' Si vous traitez froidement cette question je suis votre bomme aussi. D'abord, comment me la presenterez-vous ? sera-ce sous son aspect ana- logique ou dialogique ?" " Je la traiterai d'une maniere ra- tionnelle," repliqua Moise encbante d'avoir la permission de
72 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(9^2) permitted to dispute (1178, 886).— '^ Good again," cried (52, 678) the squire; "and (857), firstly, of the first, I hope you will not deny (59) that whatever is, is. If you don't grant*(52, 623) me that, I can go (727) no farther." — "Why," returned Moses, "I think (52) I may (764, 623) grant that, and make (623) the best of it." — "I hope (52, 806), too," returned the other, "you will grant (59, 171) that a part is less than (410, 412 bis) the whole (330)."— "I grant that too," cried (55, 623) Moses: "it is (648, 52) but just and reasonable."— " I hope (52, 893)," cried the squire, "you will not deny (59, 893) that the three angles of a triangle are (52, 556) equal to two right ones." — "Nothing (855) can be plainer," returned (55) the other, and looked round (771) him with his usual importance. — "Very well," cried the squire (55, 231), speaking very quick : " the pre- mises being thus settled (773), I proceed (52) to observe (910, 1176) that the concatenation of self-existences, proceeding (711) in a reciprocal duplicate ratio, naturally produce (52, 679) a pro- blematical dialogism, which (657) in some measure proves (52, 679) that the essence of spirituality may be (105, 1016) referred to the second (927) predicable."— " Hold, hold (40)," cried the other, "I deny (52, 818 bis) that. Do you think (727) I can (52, 925) thus tamely submit to such heterodox doctrines ?" — " What I" replied (55) the squire, as if in a passion (866), " not submit (52, 1160 bis) ! Answer me (40, 623) one plain question. Do you think (52,679) Aristotle right (988), when he says (764) that relatives (52, 679, 86) are related ?" — " Undoubtedly," replied (55) the other.—" If so (484), then," cried (727) the squire, J' answer (52) me directly to what I propose. Whether do you judge (52) the analytical investigation of the first part of my en- thymem deficient (556) secundum quoad, or quoad minus ? and give me (40, 623) your reasons, I say, directly." — "I protest (52)," cried (55) Moses, "I don't rightly comprehend (52, 1107) the force of your reasoning; but if it be reduced (54) to one single proposition, I fancy (52, 623, 1019, 900) it may then have an answer." — " Oh, sir," cried (55) the squire, "I am your most humble servant; I find you want me (105) to furnish you
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 73
dispute!*. " Tres-bien/^ dit le baronnet, une secoude fois. '' D'abord, premierement, vous ne nierez pas, j'espere, que tout ce qui est, est : si vous me refusez cela je m'arrete." " Mais," dit Moise, " je crois pouvoir vous Faccorder et le tourner a mon avantage." 'U'esp^re aussi," repliqua I'autre, " que vous con- viendrez, n'est-ce pas, que la partie est toujours moindre que le tout." "'D'accord!" s'ecria Moise, "c'est par trop juste et raisonnable." ^' Yous ne nierez pas non plus," dit le baronnet, '^que les trois angles d'un triangle sont egaux h deux rectangles V " Rien de plus simple," repliqua Fautre regardant autour de lui d'un air important. " Tres-bien," dit le baronnet parlant avec volubilite. "■ Les premisses ainsi posees, je poursuis et fais observer que la concatenation des etres existant d'eux-memes, procedant en raison duplique et reciproque produit naturelle- ment un dialogisme problematique, qui, en quelque sorte, prouve que Fessence du spiritualisme pent §tre le resultat d'un second predicable." "Attendez! attendez done !" s'ecria fautre; "je nie cela. Croyez-vous que, sans mot dire, j'accepte des doctrines aussi h^terodoxes ?" " Quoi !" s'ecria le baronnet comme d'un ton fache; " vous ne vous rendez-pas I Repondez a cette simple question. Aristote a-t-il raison de dire que les relatifs ont une relation ?" " Mais certainement oui," reprit Fautre. " Pour lors, s'il en est ainsi," repliqua le baronnet, '^repondez imme- diatement a cette proposition. Jugez-vous Finvestigation a.naly- tique de la premiere partie de mon entbymene incomplete, secundum quoad ou quoad minus ? Donnez-moi de suite vos raisons." " J'avoue," s'ecria Moise, "que je ne comprends pas clairement la force de vos arguments ; les reduiriez-vous en une simple proposition je me crois a meme d'y repondre." " Ob, monsieur," s'ecria le baronnet, " je suis votre tres-bumble servi- teur. Non-seulement faut-il vous fournir en arguments, mais
74 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
with argument and intellect too. No, sir : there, I*protest (52, 623), you are (52, 1019) too hard for me.'' This effectually raised (55) the laugh against poor Moses, who sat (55) the only dismal figure in a group of merry faces ; nor did he (55) offer a single syllable more during the whole (606) entertainment.
But (667 bis), though all (516) this gave (755, 854) me no pleasure, it had (720) a very different effect upon Olivia, who mistook (55, 727) it for humor, though but a mere act of the memory. She thought him (55, 620), therefore, a very fine gentle- man ; and such as consider (52) what powerful ingredients a good figure, fine clothes and fortune are (52, 679) in that character, will easily forgive (59, 1019) her. Mr. Thornhill (861), notwith- standing his real ignorance, talked (54, 679) with ease, and could expatiate (727, 1137 bis) upon the common topics of conversation with fluency. It is not (484) surprising (765), then, that such talents should win (743, 749) the affections of a girl who (657) by education was taught (76,1177) to value an appearance in herself, and, consequently, to set (54, 1176) a value upon it in another.
Upon his departure, we again entered (55, 679) into a debate upon the merits of our young landlord. As he directed his looks (54, 367) and conversation to Olivia, it was (484, 854) no longer doubted but that she (55) was the object that induced (54, 623) him to be our visitor. Nor did she seem (55) to be much displeased (773) at the innocent raillery (891) of her (367) brother and (609, 367) sister upon this occasion. Even Deborah her- self seemed (54, 679) to share (1176) the glory of the day, and exulted (769, 72) in her daughter's victory (304), as if it were her own (381, 382). '^And now, my dear," cried (55) she to me, " I'll fairly own (52) that it was (648, 52) I that instructed (56) my girls to encourage (1177) our landlord's addresses. I had (56) always some ambition, and you now see (52, 390) that I was right (54, 988) ; for who knows (52, 727) how this may end (59, 988)?"— ''Ay, who knows that (656, 52, 623), indeed?" answered I (55), with a groan ; "for my part (845), I don't much (79,776) like it, and could have been (39, 155) better pleased
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 75
vous pourvoir aussi d'intelligence. Non, monsieur, je Tavoue, je ne suis pas de force avec vous." Ici tout le monde rit aux depens de Moise, qui, seul au milieu d'un cercle de rieurs, montra un long visage et ne dit mot de toute la soiree.
Quoique peu de mon gout ces choses produisirent un effet contraire sur Olivie, qui meprit pour esprit ce qui n'etait qu'un effet de memoire. Elle considera le baronnet comme un liomme accompli; et ceux qui connaissent Tinfluence qu'exercent une bonne-mine, la fortune et de beaux habits sur de pareils ca- ract^res, seront indulgents envers elle. Malgre son ignorance incontestable, ayant la parole facile, M. Thornbill discourait avec aise sur tous les topiques. Alors, rien de surprenant que de tels talents obtinssent I'affection d'une personne qui, ayant appris k compter I'exterieur pour quelque chose, naturellement devait apprecier cette m§me quality chez les autres.
Des son depart, un nouveau debat commen§a sur les merites de notre jeune proprietaire. Comme ses regards et sa conversa- tion etaient pour Olivie, nul doute qu'elle ne fut I'objet qui nous attirait ses visites. Elle ne parut pas, non plus, tr^s-fach^e des taquineries innocentes que lui firent son fr^re et sa soeur h ce sujet. Deborah, elle-meme, semblait partager I'honneur de la journee; se glorifiant du triomphe de sa fille comme du sien propre. ^^ Eh bien, mon cher," me dit-elle, ^'j'avoue, mainte- nant, que c'est moi qui ai enseigne h mes filles h encourager les pretentions de notre proprietaire. J'ai toujours et6 ambitieuse, et vous voyez aujourd'hui que j'avais raison; car, qui sait ot. cela finira?" "Qui le sait, mon Dieu!'^ repliquai-je, avec un soupir. ^' Quant h moi, je ne suis gu^re satisfait. Oui, j'aurais prefere quelqu^un pauvre, mais honnete, k un gentilhomme
76 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(86) with one that was poor and honest than this fine gentle- man, with his fortune and infidelity ; for depend (40, 623) on't, if he be (52, 438) what I suspect him (52), no free-thinker shall ever have (59, 162 bis) a child of mine (1200 bis)/'
"Sure, father," cried Moses, '^you are too (52) severe in this; for heaven will never (52, 1060) arraign him (162 bis, 547) for what he thinks (366, 280), but for what he does. Every man has (278) a thousand vicious thoughts, which (657) arise without his power to suppress (1178). Thinking (49, 457) freely of re- ligion may be (1016) involuntary with this gentleman ; so that, allowing (52, 679) his sentiments to be wrong (727), yet as he is (52, 679) purely passive in his assent, he is (52) no more to be blamed (776) for his errors than (59, 485) the governor of a city (1185, 925) without walls for the shelter he is obliged (773, 1178) to afibrd an invading enemy."
"True, my son," cried I (55, 623); "but if the governor in- vites (52, 678) the enemy there (52, 623), he is justly culpable; and such is (648, 52) always the case with those who embrace (52, 679) error. The vice does not lie (52) in (824) assenting to the proofs they see (52, 110 bis), but in being blind (772) to many of the proofs that offer. So that, though our erroneous opinions (52) be involuntary (844) when formed (52,623,679), yet as we have (52,*776) been wilfully corrupt, or very negligent, in form- ing (772, 623) them, we deserve (52, 679, 541) punishment (885) for our vice, or contempt (535) for our folly."
My wife (863) now kept (771, 1046) up the conversation, though (55, 1041 bis) not the argument. She observed (55, 910) that several very prudent men of our acquaintance were (854,450) free-thinkers, and made (54,679) very good husbands; and she knew (54, 679) some sensible girls that had (58, 776) skill enough to make (1176, 713) converts of their (594, 71) spouses: "and who knows (52, 1074), my dear," continued she (55, 445), "what Olivia may be able (59, 1176) to do? The girl has a great deal to say (1177) upon every subject, and, to my knowledge, is (52) very well skilled (447) in controversy."
" Why, my dear, what controversy can she have read (777) ?"
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 77
riclie sans croyance religieuse. Soyez-en bien certains, s'il est tel que je le suppose ma fille ne sera jamais accord^e k un esprit-fort."
" Surement, mon pere/^ s'ecria Moise, '^ en cela vous etes trop severe. Le ciel ne tient pas compte de nos paroles mais de nos actions. Nous portons tous, dans notre coeur, une foule de mauvaises pensees qu'il ne nous est pas toujours possible d'etoufFer. Penser librement, sur la religion, est peut-etre une chose involontaire avec ce gentilhomme ; et, si nous accordons que ses idees sont fausses, comme son consentement est tout passif, il n'est pas plus blamable pour son erreur que ne le serait le gouverneur d'une ville sans defenses, oblige de se soumettre a I'invasion d'un ennemi.^^
'^Cela est vrai, mon fils," m'ecriai-je; "mais, si le gouverneur invite I'ennemi dans la place, n'est-il pas alors justement cou- pable ? Et c'est Ik, ordinairement, le cas de ceux qui em- brassent I'erreur. Le mal n'est pas dans I'assentiment donn6 aux preuves que nous voyons; mais en rejetant plusieurs de celles qui nous sont offertes, a tel point, que, si nos opinions erronees sont involontaires quand nous les formons, comme nous sommes sciemment corrompus ou tr^s-negligents en les formant, nous m^ritons un chatiment pour notre corruption, ou le m^pris pour notre folic. '^
Prenant actuellement en-main la conversation ma femme mit de cote tout raisonnement. Elle fit remarquer, qu'k sa connais- sance, un grand nombre d'hommes prudents et esprits-forts n^en ^taient pas moins bons maris. Elle connaissait aussi quelques femmes vertueuses qui avaient ^te assez babiles pour op^rer la conversion de leurs maris; " et qui sait, mon cber," ajouta-t- elle, " ce que pourra faire Olivie ? La petite a beaucoup k dire sur tout, et, a mon su, est tres-babile en contro verse."
"Mais, ma bonne," m'^criai-je, "quelle esp^ce de controverse
a-t-elle lue ? Je ne me souviens, aucunement, d'avoir mis "de
7«
78 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
cried I (55). ^' It does not occur (52, 921) to me that I ever (1178, 405) put such books into her hands. You certainly overrate (52) her (368) merit."—" Indeed, papa," replied (55) Olivia, " she does not : I have read (56, 776) a great deal of controversy ; I have read (854) the disputes between Thwackum and Square; the controversy between Robinson Crusoe and Friday the savage ; and I am now employed in reading (52, 86) the controversy in Religious Courtship."— " Very well," cried 1(55, 623), "that's a good girl; I find (52, 679) you are perfectly qualified (556, 1176) for making converts ; and so go (40, 865 bis) help your mother to make (1177) the gooseberry-pie/'
CHAPTER VIII.
AN AMOUR (618) WHICH PROMISES (657, 52) LITTLE GOOD FORTUNE, YET MAT
BE (657, 415, 1176) productive of much.
The next morning we were (55, 86) visited (542) by Mr. Burchell, though I began (55, 727), for certain reasons, to be (623, 1177) displeased with the frequency of his return ; but I could not (54) refuse him my company and (609) fireside. It is (103, 52) true, his labor more than requited (54, 757) his enter- tainment; for he wrought (727) among us with vigor, and, either in the meadow (930) or at the hayrick, put himself foremost. Besides, he had (54) always something (516) amusing to say (1177), that lessened (54, 107) our toil, and was (727) at once so out of the way, and yet so sensible (806), that I loved (54, 623), laughed at, and pitied (727) him. My only dislike arose (54) from an attachment he discovered (58, 777) to my daughter. He (54, 623) would, in a jesting manner, call (1178) her his (367) little mistress; and when he bought (54, 281) each of the girls a set of ribands, hers (381) was (54, 548) the finest. I knew
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 79
pareils livres entre ses mains : k coup-sur tu exag^res son merite." "Vraiment, papa," repliqua Olivie, 'Ml n'y a pas d'exageration : je suis tres-versee en controverse. J'ai lu les dis- putes entre Thwackum et Square ; la controverse entre Robinson Crusoe et le sauvage Yendredi ; je lis actuellement la controverse sur Famour religieux." '^ Tr^s-bien/' m'ecriai-je; " voila une bonne petite. Tu possedes toutes les qualit^s requises pour operer des conversions; sur ce va aider k ta mere k faire des tartes de groseille."
CHAPITRE VIII.
TTN AMOUR QUI PROMET PEU DE FORTUNE, ET QUI PEUT NEANMOINS EN PROCURER BEAUCOUP.
Le jour d'apr^s, dds le matin, nous eumes une autre visite de M. Burchell. Cette frequence de sa part commen§a k me d6- plaire; mais je ne pouvais lui fermer ma porte, ni lui refuser ma conversation ou mon coin-du-feu. II est vrai que son travail faisait plus que compenser son entretien; car il s'y livrait avec vigueur, etant toujours le premier, soit aux champs, soit aux meules-k-foin. Toujours avait-il, en outre, quelque cbose a nous center qui allegeait le poids de la besogne. Nous etions si par- faitement a False avec lui, et lui avec nous etait si bon, que, pour ma part, je Faimais, je riais de lui, et en avals pitie tout-a-la fois. Mon seul degout provenait de Fattacbement qu'il avait temoigne k Sopbie. II se permettait, en plaisantant, de Fappeler sa petite-mie ; et s'il acbetait du ruban pour mes filles, celui de Sophie ^tait toujours le plus joli. Je ne sais trop comment cela
80 THE' VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(55, 821) not how, but he every day seemed (55) to become (1176) more amiable, his wit to improve, and his simplicity to assume (55, 1176) the superior airs (866) of wisdom.
Our family (829) dined in the field, and we (773) sat, or rather reclined, round a temperate repast, our cloth spread (1041 bis) upon the hay, while Mr. Burchell gave (769, 69) cheerfulness to the feast. To heighten our satisfaction (1176, 434), two blackbirds answered each other (54, 623, 674) from opposite hedges, the familiar redbreast came (54, 1176) and picked the crumbs from our hands, and every (1201) sound seemed (54, 706) but the echo (958, 535) of tranquillity. " I never (1201) sit (79) thus," says Sophia, "but I think (623, 1176) of the two lovers, so sweetly described (773) by Mr. Gray, who were struck (55, 679) dead in each other's arms. There is (103, 824) some- ^thing so pathetic in the (358, 358 bis) description that I have read (738 bis, 777, 623) it a hundred times with new rapture." — ^^In my opinion," cried (55) my son, 'Hhe finest strokes in that description are (52, 679) much below those in the Acis and (894, 833) Galatea of Ovid. The Roman (427) poet (441) understands the use of contrast better; and upon that figure, artfully managed (579), all strength in the pathetic depends (^679)/' — "It is (105) remarkable," cried (55) Mr. Burchell, "that both the poets you mention (657, 52) have equally contributed (780, 1177) to introduce (541, 1190) a false taste into their (594) respective countries, by loading (771, 71) all (855) their lines with epithets. Men (535) of little genius found them (52, 679) most easily imitated in their defects ; and English poetry (535, 440), like that in the latter empire (427, 450) of Rome, is nothing at present but a combination of luxuriant images, with- out (839) plot or (839) connection ; a string of epithets that im- prove the sound (52, 696) without carrying (1230) on the sense. But perhaps, madam, while I thus reprehend (52, 542) others, you'll (925) think (59, 679) it just that I should give (740, 1095) them an opportunity to retaliate; and, indeed, I have made (56) this remark only to have (1176) an opportunity of introducing (1178) to the (317) company a ballad, which (657), whatever
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 81
se fit; mais, de jour en jour, notre h6te sembla devenir plus aimable et plus spirituel; sa simplicite nous parut meme assumer les allures imposantes de la sagesse.
Yoici comment nous dinions aux champs; assis ou pour mieux dire accroupis autour d'un repas frugal, la nappe mise sur le foin et M. Burehell egayant le festin. Pour accroitre notre plaisir de deux haies opposees deux merles s'entre repondaient. Le familier rouge-gorge venait prendre les miettes j usque dans nos mains; et chaque son qui vibrait dans Fair ressemblait k Techo de la tranquillity. " Toutes les fois que je suis ainsi assise/' dit Sopbie, " je ne peux que me rapj)eler les deux amants si bien decrits par M. Gray, qui moururent ensemble et subitement les bras entrelaces. II y a un je-ne-sais-quoi si toucbant dans cette description, que je I'aie lue cent fois toujours avec un nouveau plaisir." " A mon avis," s'ecria mon fils Moise, " les plus belles touches de ce recit sont bien au-dessous de celles de I'Acis et Galatee d'Ovide. Le poete remain entend mieux le contraste, et c'est du bon emploi de cette figure que depend la force du pathetique." " II faut remarquer," s'ecria M. Burcbell, *^que les deux poetes dont vous parlez cbargeant leurs vers d'epitbetes inutiles, ont cbacun contribue h introduire un faux gout dans leurs pays. Les poetes mediocres reussissent parfaite- ment dans ces sortes d' imitation s ; et, comme celle du Bas- empire, la poesie anglaise n'est autre chose aujourd'hui qu'une combinaison d'images sans plans ni rapports; une enfilade d'epitbetes qui frappent Foreille sans parler au coeur. Mais, Madame, tandis que je tance ainsi les autres, croirez-vous k propos, sans doute, que j'ouvre la porte k leur critique. Yrai- ment, je n'ai fait cette remarque que pour avoir Toccasion de
82 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
be its defects, is (79), I think, at least free from those I have (52, 1178) mentioned.
A BALLAD.
" Turn, gentle hermit of the dale,
And guide my lonely way To where yon taper cheers the vale
With hospitable ray.
" For here forlorn and lost I tread, With fainting steps and slow,
Where wilds immeasurably spread Seem lengthening as I go.'*
"Forbear, my son," the hermit cries, ' "To tempt the dangerous gloom;
For yonder faithless phantom flies To lure thee to thy doom.
"Here to the houseless child of want
My door is open still ; And, though my portion is but scant,
I give it with good will.
" Then turn to-night, and freely share
Whatever my cell bestows j My rushy couch and frugal fare,
My blessing and repose.
"No flocks that range the valley free,
To slaughter I condemn ; Taught by that Power that pities me,
I learn, to pity them.
" But from the mountain's grassy side A guiltless feast I bring, —
A scrip with herbs and fruits supplied. And water from the spring.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 83
presenter k la compagnie une ballade qui, malgr^ ses d($fauts, est du moins exempte de ceux dont je viens de parler.
BALLADE.
" Ermite de ce val, bon ermite, An nom du Christ et de sa charity !
Dirige mes pas vers ce gite, Qui brille dans Tobscuritl.
" Sans amis, mort ^ I'esp^rance !
Harass^, d'un pas incertain, C'est aveo crainte que j'avance
Vers ce desert, vaste et lointain."
" Ah ! garde-toi," dit le saint homme,
" De suivre ce sentier trompeur j Au loin, un decevant fantSme
Profiterait de ton erreur.
" A I'enfant du besoin, sans gite.
Get asile est toujours ouvertj Accepte VoSre," dit Termite;
" Et dors en paix sous mon convert.
" Oh! ne pars pas, je t'en conjure;
Jouis de ce qu'offre mon toitj De ma benediction je t'assure,
Au lit de jono je te c§de mon droit.
"Du sang des animaux, paissant dans la prairie.
Jamais je ne rougis ma main ; "^ Le Cr6ateur qui m'a donne la vie,
M'ordonne en vers eux d'etre humain.
" Les flancs f^conds de la montagne
Me produisent legume et fruit;
L'eau pure, qui du roc sourdit, Calme ma soif, et verdit la campagne.
84 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
"Then, pilgrim, turn, thy cares forego j All earth-born cares are wrong :
Man wants but little here below, Nor wants that little long."
Soft as the dew from heaven descends
v' His gentle accents fell :
The modest stranger lowly bends. And follows to the cell.
Far in a wilderness obscure
The lonely mansion lay ,• A refuge to the neighboring poor.
And strangers led astray.
No stores beneath its humble thatch Required a master's care ;
The wicket, opening with a latch. Received the harmless pair.
And now, when busy crowds retire To take their evening rest.
The hermit trimmed his little fire, And cheered his pensive guest :
And spread his vegetable store, And gayly pressed, and smiled,
And, skilled in legendary lore. The lingering hours beguiled.
Around, in sympathetic mirth. Its tricks the kitten tries ;
The cricket chirrups in the hearth j The crackling fagot flies.
But nothing could a charm impart To soothe the stranger's woe :
For grief was heavy at his heart. And tears began to flow.
His rising cares the hermit spi^d. With answering care opprest :
" And whence, unhappy youth," he cried, "The sorrows of thy breast ?
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 85
" PSlerin, d^tourne tes pas,
S6journe ici, tes noirs chagrins oubliej Peu sufloit 2, rhomme ici-bas :
C'est rSve si court que la vie V
Du saint acceptant le secour.
Incline, I'etranger modeste Le suit dans cet humble s6jour,
Que couvre I'egide celeste.
Seule dans ce morne desert,
Telle 6tait la sainte demeure ; ^ ' Au malheur ouverte £L toute heure, Et du voyageur le convert.
Par un simple loquet de h^tre,
Le guichet 6tait defendu;
Point de tresor, de superflu, Beclamant la garde du maitre !
Dans la nuit, cherchant le repos,
Voyez cette foule mondainej Ici, notre ennite S, huis clos,
De son hdte calme la peine.
Etalant legumes et fruits,
Et d'un souris I'invitant au partage, II charme la longueur des nuits
Par des legendes d'un autre ^ge.
De son maitre prenant I'humeur,
Le chaton fait le diable-^-quatre ; Le fagot petillant leur jette sa lueur;
Et le grillon chante sous. Tatre.
" H61as ! malheureux pelerin !
Rien ne pent calmer tes alarmes ;
Et dans tes yeux, gonfl^s de larmes, De ton coeur je lis le chagrin."
D'un ton de voix que rien n'imite,
Mii par cette grande douleur, Discretement le bon ermite,
S'enquiert du chagrin de son coeur. 8
86 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
"From better habitations .spurned.
Reluctant dost thou rove ? Or grieve for friendship unreturned.
Or unregarded love ?
"Alas ! the joys that fortune brings
Are trifling, and decay ; And ^ose who prize the paltry things.
More trifling still than they.
"And what is friendship but a name, A charm that lulls to sleep,
A shade that follows wealth or fame. But leaves the wretch to weep ?
" And love is still an emptier sound. The modern fair one's jest;
On earth unseen, or only found To warm the turtle's nest.
" For shame, fond youth ! thy sorrows hush^ And spurn the sex," he said :
But, while he spoke, a rising blush His love-lorn guest betrayed.
Surprised he sees new beauties rise. Swift mantling to the view.
Like colors o'er the morning skies, — As bright, as transient too.
The bashful look, the rising breast,
Alternate spread alarms : The lovely stranger stands confest
A maid, in all her charms !
And, "Ah! forgive a stranger rude, A wretch forlorn," she cried,
" Whose feet unhallowed thus intrude Where heaven and you reside :
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 87
" N6 dans le sein de I'opulence,
Le destin t'aurait-il frapp6 ? D'un ami pleures-tu Tabsence ?
SouflFres-tu d'un amour trompi ?
" Les biens que la Fortune donne,
Ne durent qu'un jour, sont des riens; Ceux que son caprice couronne,
Sont encor* plus faux que ses biens !
*' L'amitig ! qu'est-ce ? Une vaine ombre,
Qui s'attache aux pas du bonbeur ; Et, des que le temps devient sombre,
S'enfuit ne laissant que douleur.
" Mais Tamour ! Ah, c'est moins encore ;
C'est le jouet de la beaute du jour : Pourtant dans le monde on I'bonore ;
Le nid des tourtereaux est I'embleme d'amour !
" Honte a toi \" s'gcria Termite, •
** Maudis le sexe, et referme ton coeur."
Soudain la plus vive rongeur Couvrit le front du c6nobite.
Aussit&t parait si ses yeux
D'une beaute la douce image; Rayonnante comme les cieux
Quand le matin est sans nuage.
Tendre regard, sein palpitant,
Du solitaire augmentent la detresse; Car, le pelerin penitent
N'est qu'une vierge enchanteresse !
" Pardonne une indiscrete erreur,'*
Ajoute la belle affligee; " Ta demeure chdre au Seigneur,
Par une infidele est souilli§e !
* Poetical license, such as the dropping of a in aecoura.
THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
** But let a maid thy pity share, Whom love has taught to stray ;
Who seeks for rest, but finds despair Companion of her way.
"My father lived beside the Tyne,
A wealthy lor-d was he ; And all his wealth was marked as mine.
He had but only m,e.
" To win me from his tender arms,
Unnumbered suitors came j Who praised me for imputed charms.
And felt, or feigned, a flame.
**Each hour a mercenary crowd
With richest proffers strove : Among the rest young Edwin bowed,
But never talked of love.
*' In humble, simplest habit clad, No wealth nor power had he :
Wisdom and worth were all he had ; But these were all to me.
" And when, beside me in the dale.
He carolled lays of love. His breath lent fragrance to the gale
And music to the grove.
" The blossom opening to the day.
The dews of heaven refined. Could naught of purity display
To emulate his mind.
" The dew, the blossom on the tree. With charms inconstant shine ;
Their charms were his, but — woe to me !— • Their constancy was mine !
" For still I tried each fickle art.
Importunate and vain j And, while his passion touched my heart,
I triumphed in his pain :
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 89
*' MiSe au d^sespoir par I'amour,
Pardonne a rimprudente fille, Qui ne connut pas un beau jour,
Des qu'elle eut quitt6 sa famille !
"Mon pere est un puissant seigneur,
Sur le Tyne ayant residence; Espoir de sa maison, idole de son coeur,
J'h^rite aussi de sa puissance.
" Autour de moi des pr^tendans nombreux,
Se pr6valant de ma jeunessej
Pour m'arraoher a sa tendresse, Se disaient tons mes amoureux.
" A chaque instant en ma presence
Ce cercle flatteur se pressait ; Par son amour et sa Constance,
Edwin entre tous I'emportait.
" Modeste, franc, de bonne mine,
Peu de naissance, point d' argent,
II devait tout a son talent, OflFrait tout £L son Ang^line.
" Quand j'^coutais ses lais d* amour,
Assis pres de moi sous I'ombrage,
Le doux murmure du feuillage, Et ses chansons, charmaient le jour.
*' Perles du ciel, fraiche rosee !
Fleurs qui ne vivez qu'un instant, On ne saurait, m^me en pens6e,
Vous comparer a mon amant.
" Tendres fleurs et blanche ros6e
N'ont d'existence qu'un moment; Si ma Constance a leur dur^e,
Leurs charmes sont de mon amant I
" Par des airs de coquetterie,
Pres de moi je le sua tenir; En reine je fus ob^ie,
Et me pi As k le voir g^mir. 8*
90 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
'' Till, quite dejected with my scorn.
He left rae to my pride, And sought a solitude forlorn,
In secret, where he died !
" But mine the sorrow, mine the fault ;
And well my life shall pay : ni seek the solitude he sought, ^
And stretch me where he lay.
" And there, forlorn, despairing, hid,
I'll lay me down and die ; *Twas so for me that Edwin did.
And so for him will I."
"Forbid it. Heaven !" the hermit cried,
And clasped her to his breast. The wondering fair one turned to chide,
'Twas Edwin's self that prest !
" Turn, Angelina, eyer dear.
My charmer, turn to see Thy own, thy long-lost Edwin here,
Restored to love and thee !
" Thus let me hold thee to my heart,
And every care resign : ^
And shall we never, never part,
My life, — my all that's mine?
» ** No, never from this hour to part,
We'll live and love so true ; The sigh that rends thy constant heart
Shall break thy Edwin's too."
"While this ballad was reading (54, 776), Sophia seemed (54) to mix (1176, 905) an air (866) of tenderness with her appro- bation. But our tranquillity was soon disturbed (57, 776) by the report of a gun just by us, and immediately after, a man waa seen (726, 73) bursting through (822) the hedge, to take up (1176) the game he had killed (854). This sportsman (54) was the
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 91
" Blesse de mes mepris, de mon ingratitude,
Par mon orgueil desespere, Dans une affreuse solitude,
II est mort, dit-on, oublie.
" Voila mon tort : il faut que je I'expie,
Et pour cela je veux mourir :
Vivre encore c'est trop soufiFrir, Edwin n'est plus ! ai-je droit a la vie ?
" Hors du monde et pleurant son sort, Dans cet affreux desert vivant ensevelie, Je passerai ma triste vie;
J'y trouverai la m^me mort."
*' Que Dieu t'en garde/' dit Termite,
En la serrant contre son sein ; Son corps, d'une pudeur subite,
Frissonne ^ I'^treinte d'Edwin.
" Ang^line ! Ang61ine chere !
Mon charme, mon tout, revois-moi !
Edwin est ici pres de toi. Pour toujours t' aimer et te plaire.
" Viens, que ton coeur presse le mien !
Et qu'aujourd'hui cessent mes peines; A toi mon ^tre, oh ! mon seul bien,
Plus d'amers cbagrins ni de haines.
" D§s ce moment rien que bonheur !
Un amour constant et sincere j Et le soupir qui brisera ton coeur,
D'Edwin aussi finira la carri^re !'*
Pendant que cette ballade etait lue, k un air de tendresse Sophie paraissait aussi joindre un sentiment d' approbation. Le calme dont nous jouissions fut bientot trouble par la detona- tion d'une arme-a-feu decbargee tout pres de nous. Pour ramasser le gibier tue, imm^diatement apres le coup un individu se pr^cipite k travers la haie. Ce chasseur n'^tait autre que
92 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
squire's chaplain, who had shot (54) one of the blackbirds that so agreeably (54, 679) entertained us. So loud a report, and so near, startled (55) my daughters; and I could perceive (55, 910) that Sophia, in the fright, had thrown (55, 73) herself into Mr. Burchell's arms (304) for protection. The gentleman came up (769, 73) and asked (55, 732) pardon for having (1176, 777) disturbed us, affirming (772, 419) that he was ignorant (54) of our being so near. He therefore sat down (55) by my youngest daughter, and, sportsman like, offered (55, 623) her what he had killed (58) that morning. She was going (54, 1076) to refuse; but a private look (541, 605 bis) from her mother (367) soon induced (855) her to correct (55, 358) the mistake, and accept his (732) present, though with some reluctance. My wife, as usual, discovered (55) her (367) pride in a whisper ; observ- ing (910) that Sophia had made (54) a conquest of the chaplain, as well as her sister had (54, 780) of the squire. I suspected, however (727), with more probability, that her affections were placed (54,679) upon a different object. The chaplain's errand was (54, 623, 1176) to inform us that Mr. Thornhill had pro- vided (58, 155) music and refreshments, and intended (54, 679) that night giving (1178, 316) the young ladies a ball by moonlight on the grass-plat before (826 bis) our door. "Nor can I deny," continued he (55, 443), " but I have (52) an interest in being first (1177) to deliver this message, as I expect for my reward (1178) to be honored with Miss Sophia's hand as a partner." To this my girl replied (55) that she should have (39) no ob- jection, if she could do it with honor (55). "But here (417)," continued she (55), " is a gentleman," looking at Mr. Burchell, "who has been (56) my companion in the task of the day, and it is fit (264 bis) he should (739) share in its amusements." Mr. Burchell returned her a compliment for her intentions, but resigned (55) her up (317) to the chaplain, adding, that he was (54) to go that night five (589) miles, being invited to a harvest- supper. His refusal appeared (55, 623) to me a little extraordi- nary, nor could I conceive (1176) how so sensible a girl as my youngest could thus prefer (734, 751) a man of broken (1191)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 93
raumonier du baronnet, venant de tuer Fun des merles qui nous avaient si joyeusement distraits. La detonation fut si forte, si pres de nous, que mes filles en furent effrayees. Ma Sophie, ainsi que j'en fis la remarque, se jeta dans les bras de M. Bur- cliell pour protection. Se rapprocbant, le chasseur nous fit des excuses pour nous avoir ainsi deranges; ajoutant qu^il ignorait que nous fussions la. En meme temps il s'assit pr^s de ma fille cadette, et, en vrai chasseur, il lui fit hommage du produit de sa chasse du matin. Elle allait refuser quand un coup-d'ceil de la m^re corrigea cette meprise. Enfin, elle accepta; mais non sans se faire prier. Ma femme, comme toujours, manifesta son orgueil, k voix basse, disant que Sophie avait fait la conqu^te de Taumonier, de m§me que sa soeur avait fait celle du baronnet. Quant h moi je me doutais que ses affections etaient pour un autre. La venue de Taumonier etait pour nous informer que M. Thornhill avait commande de la musique et des rafraichisse- ments ; et qu^l se proposait ce m§me soir, par le clair-de-lune, de donner aux dames un bal sur la pelouse vis-k-vis de la maison. '^Et je ne vous cacherai pas," ajouta-t-il, "que j'ai interet k m'acquitter de la commission avant tout autre, dans I'espoir d'en ^tre recompense par la main de Mile. Sophie comme partenaire." Ma fille repondit qu'elle n'aurait aucune raison pour refuser son offre, put-elle Faccepter avec honneur. "Mais," ajouta-t-elle, regardant M. Burchell, "voici un monsieur qui tout le jour a ete mon compagnon-de-travail ; il est done juste qu'il partage avec moi les amusements de la soiree." La remerciant de sa bonne intention M. Burchell la ceda k Faumo- nier; ajoutant, qu'il allait ce soir assister k un souper de moisson chez un fermier k cinq milles de distance. Un pareil refus m^etonna, ne pouvant comprendre non plus comment une fille intelligente, ainsi que F etait ma Sophie, pr^ferat un homme
94 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
fortunes to one wliose expectations were (855) much, greater. But as men are (52, 679) most capable of distinguishing (548, 408) merit in women, so the ladies often form (52, 679) the truest judgment of us. The two sexes seem placed (773) as spies upon each other, and are (855, 776) furnished with differ- ent abilities, adapted for mutual inspection.
CHAPTER IX.
TWO LADIES OP GREAT DISTINCTION INTRODUCED (555 biS, 861) — SITPERIOB FINERY EVER SEEMS (52, 679) TO CONFER (1176, 623) SUPERIOR BREEDINa.
Mr. Burchell had scarce taken leave (57, 1046 bis), and Sophia (771, 1178) consented (1177, 706) to dance with the chaplain, when my little ones came (55, 679) running (771) out to tell us (1176, 623) that the squire was come (77) with a crowd of company. Upon our return we found (55) our landlord with a couple (510) of under-gentlemen, and two young ladies, richly dressed (773), whom he introduced (55,623) as women (368) of very great distinction and fashion from town. We happened (620, 771) not to have chairs enough for the whole company ; but Mr. Thornhill immediately proposed (732) that every gentleman should sit (39, 1170) in a lady's lap (304). This I positively objected to (55, 623), notwithstanding a look of disapprobation from (414) my wife. Moses was (57, 895) therefore despatched (776, 764) to borrow a couple of chairs; and, as we were in want (54, 679, 991) of ladies to make up (1176) a set at coun- try-dances, the two gentlemen went (55) with him in quest of a couple (510) of partners. Chairs and,, partners were (57,679) soon provided (776). The gentlemen returned (55, 773) with my neighbor Flamborough's (304) rosy daughters, flaunting (679, 73) with red topknots. But an unlucky circumstance was (55, 665, 1128) not adverted to: though the Miss Flamboroughs (855)
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 95
pauvre a un autre d'une position superieure. Mais, de m^rne que les tommes sent les meilleurs juges du caractere des femmes, de meme celles-ci nous apprecient-elles mieux. Chacun doues de qualites propres k leurs r51es, les deux sexes sent comme deux espions charges de se surveiller mutuellement.
CHAPITE.E IX.
PRESENTATION DE DEITX DAMES DE HAUT-EANa — BELLB-MISE ET GRANDE- NAISSANCE SEMBLENT SE DONNEB LA MAIN.
A PEINE M. Burcliell eut-il pris conge de nous, Sophie en m^me temps venant de consentir a danser avec I'aumonier, que, courant tout essouffles, nos deux marmots vinrent nous annoncer Tarriv^e du baronnet et de sa suite. De retour a la maison, nous y trouvames notre proprietaire accompagne de deux messieurs de second ordre; plus deux dames richement parees, qu'il nous presenta comme des personnes de distinction et de haute-societe. Nous trouvant k-court de chaises, immediatement M. Thornhill proposa que les messieurs s'assieraient sur les genoux des dames. Je m'opposai formellement k sa proposition, en depit meme d'un regard reprobateur de ma femme. Moise fut envoye a la recbercbe d'une couple de chaises; et, comme les dames manquaient aussi aux cavaliers, pour completer la contredanse les deux messieurs se detach^rent avec lui en qu^te d'une couple de danseuses. Danseuses et chaises fureni bien vite procurees. Les deux messieurs retournerent accompagnes des deux filles vermeilles du voisin Flamborough, se pavanant coiffees d'enormes noeuds de ruban rouge. Mais on ne songea pas k une chose. Quoique comptees dans la paroisse comme
96 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
were reckoned (776) the very best dancers in (414) the parish, and understood (556) the jig and the roundabout to perfection, yet they were totally unacquainted (54) with country-dances. This at first discomposed us (55, 623) : however, after a little shoving and dragging, they at last went (55, 415) merrily on. Our music (535, 958) consisted (54) of two fiddles, with a pipe and tabor. The moon shone (54, 1026) bright; Mr. Thornhill and my eldest daughter led up (55, 1095) the ball (293), to the great delight, of the spectators ; for the neighbors, hearing (767) what was going (54, 1160 bis) forward, came (54, 73, 777, 1160 bis) flocking about us. My girl (304, 535) moved with so much (806, 814 bis) grace and vivacity, that my wife could not (816, 55, 1176) avoid (1178) discovering the pride of her (367) heart by assuring me that, though the little chit did it so cleverly, all the steps were stolen (54, 1176) from herself. The ladies of the town strove (55) hard to be equally easy, but without suc- cess. They swam, sprawled (769, 73), languished (727), and frisked, but all would (55) not do. The gazers, indeed, owned (54, 679) that it was (54, 679) fine; but neighbor Flam- borough observed (55, 910) that Miss Livy's feet (804) seemed (54,679) as pat to the music as its echo (958). After the dance had (155) continued about (826) an hour, the two ladies (1187 bis), who were apprehensive (767) of catching (1178) cold, moved (55) to break up (1178, 1095) the ball. One of them, I thought, expressed (727) her (367) sentiments upon this oc- casion in (541) a very coarse manner, when she observed that, by the living jingo, she was (726) all of a muck of sweat (86, 1128). Upon our return to the (773,317) house, we found (55, 607) a very elegant cold supper, which Mr. Thornhill had or- dered (58, 938, 792, 1176) to be brought wfth him. The con- versation at this time was (55, 679) more reserved than before. The two ladies threw (55, 405) my girls quite into the shade, for they would talk of nothing but high life (765, 815, 1137 bis) and high-lived company ; with other fashionable topics, such as pictures, taste, Shakspeare, and the musical glasses. 'Tis true (52, 103), they once or twice mortified us sensibly by slipping
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 97
d'excellentes dauseuses, et parfaites pour les gigues et les rondes, les demoiselles Flamborough, n^anmoins, ignoraient compl^te- ment la contredanse. De prime-abord cet incident nous contraria. Mais, apres leur avoir montre a la hate la manidre de s'y prendre, avec un pen d'aide elles finirent par s'en tirer passablement. L'orcliestre ^tait compose de deux violons, d'un haut-bois, et d'un tambourin. Le clair-de-lune ^tait superbe. M. Thornhill et ma fiUe ainee ouvrirent le bal, a la grande satisfaction des spectateurs qui etaient nombreux; car sachant ce qui se passait les voisins s' etaient rendus en foule. Dans ses mouvements ma fille deploya tant de souplesse et tant de grS,ce, que, dans un paroxisme d'amour-propre, ma femnie ne put s'emp§cber de dire que la petite fripone, tout babile qu'elle 6tait, ne fai- sait que reproduire les pas de sa m^re. Les grandes-dames mirent tout en jeu pour paraitre avec avantage; faisant des glissades, se prelassant, et jouant les precieuses; mais ce fut peine perdue. Les curieux avouaient que c'etait Fessence du bon-ton ; et le voisin Flamborougb fit la remarque naive, que les pas de ma fille Olivie faisaient ecbo a la musique. La danse ayant dure environ Tintervalle d'une lieure, craignant de s'en- rbumer, les grandes-dames propos^rent de clore le bal. L^une d'elles, a cette occasion, s'exprima d^une mani^re assez grossi6re, s'^criant, ^^ Depar Dieu I la transpiration m/a trempie comme une soupe!" Rentres a la maison, nous trouvames, tout servi, une collation froide que M. Thornliill y avait fait apporter. La con- versation, alors, prit un caract^re plus r^serv^ qu'elle n'avait eu au- paravant. Nos deux grandes-dames ^clabousserent completement mes pauvres filles j ne causant que de haute societe et de grand- genre, introduisant les topiques du jour, ne parlant que peinture, bon-gout, Shakspeare, et harmonica. II est bon d'aj outer, qa'k
' ■ *
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(55, 722) out an oatli ; but that appeared to me (52, 679) as the surest symptom of their distinction (though I am (665, 52) since^nformed that swearing (1092) is perfectly unfashionable). They finery, however, threw (55, 1176) a veil over any gross- ness in (823) their conversation. My daughters seemed (54, 679) to regard (892, 1176) their superior accomplishments with envy (427), and whatever appeared (54, 679) amiss (1233) was ascribed (54, 80) to tip-top quality breeding. But the con- descension of the ladies was (54, 679) still superior to their other accomplishments.. One of them observed (55, 910) that had Miss Olivia seen a little more of the world it would greatly improve (39, 1113) her ; to which (667 bis) the other added (55) that a single winter in (864) town would make (39) her little Sophia quite another thing. My wife warmly assented (54, 865 bis) to both, adding that there was nothing (925) she more ardently wished (765) than to give her girls a single winter's (304) polish- ing. To this I could not help (55, 623, 1176) replying (1178) that their breeding was (765) already superior to their fortune, and that greater refinement would only serve (54, 679) to make (1177) their poverty ridiculous and give them (772, 71) a taste for pleasures they had no right to possess.. " And what pleasures," cried (55) Mr. Thornhill, '^ do they not deserve to possess (39, 1178), who have so much in their power to bestow ? As for (845) my part," continued he (55, 732), "my fortune is pretty large; love (535), liberty, and pleasure (550) are (52, 679) my maxims; but curse me (851), if a settlement of half (564) my estate could give (54, 1176) my charming Olivia pleasure, it should be (39) hers; and the only favor I would ask (727) in return would bo (727) to add (1178) myself to the benefit." I was not such a stranger to the world as to be ignorant that this was the fashion- able cant to disguise the insolence of the basest proposal; but I made an effort (55) to suppress my resentment. " Sir," cried I (55), "the family which you now condescend (52) to favor (1176) with your company has been bred (56, 776) with as nice a sense (824) of honor (806) as you. Any attempts to injure that may be attended (935, 59) with very dangerous consequences. Honor
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 99
deux reprises et h notre confusion il leur ^chappa de jurer; mais cela ne servit qu'a me convaincre plus profond^ment de la grandeur de leur naissance. On m'a dit, pourtant, qu'aujour- d'hui les jurons sont passes de mode dans le grand-monde. Leur parure et leurs attifets, neanmoins, firent oublier la vul- garite inconvenante de leur conversation. Mes filles semblaient admirer leur talent. Tout ce qui paraissait defectueux chez ces dames etait attribue k un baut degr^ d'etiquette; mais leur condescendance ^clipsait toutes leurs autres qualites. L'une d'elles fit la remarque qu'Olivie gagnerait beaucoup h> voir plus amplement le grand-monde; ce a quoi Tautre ajouta qu'un seul hiver passe a la ville suffirait pour transformer Sopbie. Ma femme abondait dans leur sens ; ne desirant rien autre chose que de laisser ses filles passer un hiver h Londres pour achever de s'y polir. A cela je ne pus m'emp^cher d'aj outer qu'etant d6ja au- dessus de leur fortune, augmentee de qualites brillantes leur education ne servirait qu'a rendre leur pauvrete plus ridicule, leur donnant un av ant-gout de plaisirs au-dessus de leur portee. " Et quels sont les plaisirs qu'elles ne meriteraient pas de poss^der/' s'ecria M. Thornhill, '^ elles qui ont tant de faveurs en leur possession ? Quant a moi/' ajouta-t-il, " ma fortune est assez considerable. L'amour, la liberte, les plaisirs, sont mes maximes constantes ; mais que le diable m'emporte ! si la moitie de ma fortune devait faire 1b bonheur d'Olivie, je la lui donne- rais bien volontiersj et la seule faveur que je demanderais ce serait d'etre ajoute au marche." Je connaissais trop bien le monde pour meprendre le sens de paroles voilant I'insolence d'une proposition des plus revoltantes; mais je reprimai la vio- lence de mon ressentiment. " Monsieur/' m'ecriai-je, " la famille que vous daignez honorer de votre compagnie a 6t6 ^levee dans des sentiments d'honneur aussi delicats que les v6tres. Tout attentat qui souillerait cet honneur sera suivi de
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(535), sir, is our only possession at present, and of that last treasure we must be (52, 621) particularly careful/' I was (55) soon sorry for the warmth with which I had spoken (1178, 155) thiS; when the young gentleman, grasping (769) my hand (592), swore (55, 1092) he commended my spirit, though he disapproved (54, 935) my suspicions. ^^ As to (845) your present hint," con- tinued he, "I protest, nothing was (52, 679) farther from my heart than such a thought. No, by (840) all that's tempting, the virtue that will stand (876, 1178) a regular siege was (56) never to my taste ; for all my amours (504) are carried (52) by a cowp-de-main (530)."
The two ladies (1187 bis, 657), who affected (54, 679) to be ignorant (1178, 54, 1178) of the rest, seemed (55, 679) highly dis- pleased (556, 1193) with this last stroke of freedom, and began (55, 318) a very discreet and serious dialogue upon (535) virtue. In this my wife, the chaplain, and I soon (55, 1034) joined; and the squire himself was (55) at last brought (776) to confess (1178) a sense of sorrow for his former (556) excesses. We talked (732, 434) of the pleasures of temperance (535, 506, 317), and of the sunshine in the mind (556) unpolluted with guilt. I was (54, 807, 776) so well pleased (1185, 511) that my little ones were (665, 55, 1178) kept up (1041 bis) beyond the usual time, to be edified by so (806) much good conversation. Mr. Thornhill even went (57) beyond me, and demanded (55, 623) if I had (39) any objection to giving (1178, 535) prayers. I joyfully embraced (55) the proposal; and in this manner the night was (55, 629) passed (86) in a most comfortable way, till (828) at length the company began (55) to think (1177) of re- turning. The ladies seemed (773) very unwilling to part with my daughters, for whom they had (861) conceived (771) a par- ticular affection, and joined (55, 679) in a request to have the pleasure of their company (1046 bis) home. The squire seconded (727) the proposal, and my wife added (732) her (367) entrea- ties. The girls, too, looked (54, 623) upon me, as if they wished to go. In this (824) perplexity, I made (55) two or three ex- cuses, which (657) my daughters as readily removed (55, 679) :
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 101
funestes consequences. L'honneur, aujourd'hul, est le seul bien qui nous reste; aussi devons-nous le surveiller d'un oeil jaloux.'* Bientot regrettai-je d'avoir exprime mes sentiments d'une fa§on si chaleureuse. Me saisissant la main, le baronnet jura, que, tout en blamant mes soup§ons, il approuvait ma maniere de voir. ^' Quant a votre suggestion/' ajouta-t-il, ^'je proteste Bolennellement que rien n'est plus eloigne de ma pensee. Non, par ce que les appas ont de plus seduisants, la vertu capable de soutenir un siege regulier n'a jamais ^te de mon gout: toutes mes amours sont I'objet d'un coup-de-main."
Les deux dames qui affectaient d'ignorer ce qui venait de se. passer, parurent tres-mecontentes de ce dernier coup d'impu- dence. D'un air sensible et discret elles commencerent un coUoque sur la vertu. Ma femme, I'aumonier et moi, ne tar- dames pas a faire concert avec elles. Nous causames des d^- lices de la temperance et de la splendeur de I'ame exempte des souillures du crime. J'etais tellement satisfait, qu'on oublia de mettre au lit les bambins quand vint I'heure ordinaire de leur coucher j bien aise de les edifier par une conversation si pieuse. Dans mon zele je fas meme devanc^ par M. Tliornhill, qui me demanda si je trouverais mauvais de commencer la pri^re. J'accueillis sa proposition avec joie; et de cette maniere agr^able nous terminames la soiree, jusqu'au moment ou un cbacun de nous songea a se retirer pour la nuit. Les dames t^moign^rent beaucoup de regrets d' avoir h se separer de mes filles ; ^prouvant pour elles un grand attacbement elles sollicit^rent la permission de les prendre ebez-elles. Le baronnet seconda la proposition, et ma femme joignit sa supplique a celle des autres. Les petites me regardaient d'un oeil solliciteur qui decelait leur grande envie dialler. Dans cet embarras, j'opposai une ou deux diffi-
9»
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SO that at last I was obliged (57, 776) to give (1178) a peremp- tory refusal, for whicli we had (55, 623) nothing but sullen looks (1185) and short answers the whole (606) day ensuing.
CHAPTER X.
THE FAMILY ENDEAVOR (52, 623) TO COPE (763) WITH THEIR BETTERS (570) — THE MISERIES OP THE POOR (535, 330) WHEN THEY ATTEMPT (52, 679) TO APPEAR (1176) ABOVE THEIR CIRCUMSTANCES (816).
I NOW began (55, 106) to find that all my long and (609) painful lectures upon (535) temperance (550), simplicity, and contentment were (54, 679) entirely disregarded (776). The distinctions lately paid us (58, 777, 1112) by our betters awakened (55, 679) that pride which I had (764) laid asleep (854) but not removed. Our windows again, as formerly, were filled (55, 777) with washes for the neck (834, 550) and face. The sun was dreaded (55, 776) as an enemy to the skin without- doors, and the fire as (485, 484) a spoiler of the complexion within. My wife observed (55, 910) that rising (1168) too early would hurt (39, 1115) her daughters' eyes (304), that working after dinner (884) would redden (39, 727) their noses (71, 290), and she convinced me (55, 623) that the hands never looked (52) so (806) white as when they did (55, 665) nothing. In- stead, therefore, of finishing (1230) Oeorge's shirts (304), we now had them new-modelling (54, 679) their old gauzes (538, 337), or flourishing upon catgut. The poor Miss Flamboroughs, their former gay companions, were (55, 679) cast off (776) as mean acquaintances, and the whole conversation now (665, 55) fell upon high life and high-lived company, with pictures (554), taste, Shakspeare, and the musical glasses (532).
But we could have borne (55, 103) all this, had not a fortune- telling gipsy come (732) to raise us into perfect (55, 1072) sub- limity. The tawny (579) sibyl no sooner appeared (57, 780),
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cultes que mes filles aplanirent sur le champ; k tel point que je fus force de refuser net. Ce qui me valut de longues mines et de seches reponses tout le lendemain.
CHAPITRE X.
LA PAMILLE S'eSSAIE A RIVALISER AVEC DE PLUS HATJT-PLACES — MIsiRE DU PAUVRE QUAND IL VEUT PARAlTRE PLUS QU'lL n'eST.
Je m'apergus maintenant que mes longues et penibles morales sur la temperance, la simplicite, et le contentement, etaient tout-k-fait negligees. Les attentions dernierement re§ues des gens de haute condition reveillerent notre orgueil latent, mais toujours vivace. Comme autrefois nos croisees se virent char- g^es de cosmetiques pour le cou ou pour le visage. Le grand- soleil fut considere comme un ennemi de la peau, et le feu dans la maison comme un destructeur du teint. Ma femme fit Tob- servation que de se lever trop matin serait prejudiciable aux yeux de ses filles, et qu'apres le diner le travail rougirait leur nez. Elle me convainquit meme que les mains ne sont jamais aussi blanches que quand on s'abstient de tout ouvrage ; aussi, loin d'achever les chemises de Georges, elles remodelaient de vieilles gazes ou pin§aient de la guitare. Leurs anciennes com- pagnes joyeuses, les pauvres demoiselles Flamborough, furent negligees et mises de cot^ comme connaissances disproportionnees. D^sormais on ne parla que haute-societe, grands-personnages, peinture, bon-goiit, Shakspeare, et harmonica.
Tout cela eut encore 6te supportable sans I'arrivee d'une diseuse de bonne-aventure, bohemienne qui les porta aux anges. La sibylle bronz^e n'eut pas plus tot paru, que, tout courant, mes
104 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
than my girls came (55, 679) running (607) to me for (854) a shilling apiece (600) to cross her hand with silver. To say the truth (1177); I was tired (58) of being (1230) always wise, and could not (55) help (1176) gratifying (1178, 1029) their request, because I loved (771) to see them (1177, 623) happy (556). I gave (55, 623) each of them a shilling; though, for the honor of the family, it must be observed that they never went (54, 679) without money themselves, as my wife always generously let them have a guinea each, to keep in their pockets, but with strict injunctions never to change it. After they had been closeted up (531) with the fortune-teller for some time, I knew (55, 129) by their looks, upon their returning, that they had been (58, 777) promised something great. "Well, my girls, how have you sped? Tell me, Livy (40, 623), has the fortune-teller given thee' (56, 623) a pennyworth?" — '^I protest (52), papa," says the girl (55), ^'I believe (52) she deals with somebody that's not right, for she positively declared (56, 869, 734) that I am to be married (1137 bis, 704) to a squire in less than a twelve-(505 bis) month!"— "Well, now, Sophy, my (368, 511) child," said I (55), " and what^ort of a husband are you (59) to have ?" — " Sir," replied she (55, 445), "I am to have (623, 59) a lord soon after my sister has married (1137 bis) the squire." — "How," cried I (55, 623), "is that all (606) you are to have (52, 726) for your two shillings ? — only a lord and a squire for two shillings ! — You fools (337) ! I could have promised you (39, 155) a prince and a nabob for half the (1185) money."
This curiosity of theirs (71), however, was attended (52, 538) with very serious effects : we now began (55, 878) to think (769, 69, 74) ourselves designed (54) by the stars to something (1191) exalted, and already (55, 106) anticipated (1177, 87, 706) our future grandeur.
It has been (666, 665) a thousand times observed (792, 910), and I must (52, 415) observe it once more (648), that the hours we pass (880, 773, 1104) with happy prospects in view are (52, 409) more pleasing than those crowned (52) with fruition. In (824) the first case, we cook (52, 620) the dish to our own
I LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 105
fiUes vinrent me demander un sdielling chacune . pour lui croiser la main avec leur piece. A vrai dire, j'etais las d'etre toujours sage : aussi ne pus-je m'emp^clier de faire droit a leur demande, aimant a les voir heureuses et satisfaites. Je leur donnai done un sclielling, ajoutant, pour I'lionneur de la famille qu'elles avaient toujours argent en poche : ma femme ayant Fhabitude de pourvoir chacune d'elles d'une guinee, mais avec defense expresse de la changer. Apres un assez long tete-a-t§te avec la diseuse de bonne-aventure, a leur retour je reconnus a leurs visages qu'elles avaient eu de belles promesses. " Eh bien, mes fiUes, quel a ete votre succes ? Dis-moi, Livie, la sor- ciere t'en a-t-elle donne pour un sou?" "Je vous assure, papa/' dit la petite, "que je la crois avoir fait pacte avec Satan; — ne m' a-t-elle pas assure qu'en moins d'un an j'epou- serai un baronnet V " Tres-bien ; et toi, Sophie, mon enfant/' ajoutai-je, "quel sera done ton mari?" "Papa," repliqua-t-elle, " des que ma soeur sera mariee a un baronnet un seigneur m'e- pousera." " Comment/' m'ecriai-je, "est-ce 1^ tout ce que vous avez pour vos deux schellings ? Un baronnet et un sei- gneur pour deux schellings ! c'est trop pen ! Petites folles, je vous aurais donne, moi, un prince et un nabab pour la moitie de vos pieces."
De leur curiosite neanmoins surgirent de fi^cheux resultats. Croyant que notre etoile nous destinait a de grandes choses, nous common games a anticiper sur notre future grandeur.
On a fait remarquer mille fois, et je dois encore en faire ici la remarque ; c'est que les heures consumees a repasser dans notre esprit I'idee d'un bonheur anticipe, sent toujours plus agreables que celles ou ce bonheur se realise. Dans le premier cas nous
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appetite; in (833) the latter, nature cooks it (648, 52, 623) for us. It is (855, 103, 414) impossible to repeat (1178) the train of agreeable reveries we called up J^55, 106} for our entertainment. We looked upon (55, 679) our fortunes as once more rising; and as the whole parish (606) ^sserted (54, 699) that the squire was (727) in love with my daughter, she was (55, 679) actually so (1208) with him; for they persuaded (55, 623) her into the passion. In this agreeable interval, my wife had (55) the most lucky dreams in the world, which she took care (732) to tell us (1178) every (1201) morning with great solemnity and exactness. It was (541, 54, 648) one night a coffin (1185) and cross-bones (974), the sign (555 bis) af an approaching wedding; at another time she imagined (54, 900) her daughters' pockets filled (556, 1193) with farthings, a certain sign they would (39) shortly be stuffed (776) with gold. The girls themselves had (54, 679) their omens : they felt (727) strange kisses on their lips ; they saw (727) rings in the candle; purses bounced (727) from the fire; and true-love knots lurked (727) in the bottom of every (606) teacup.
Towards the end of the week, we received (55, 175) a card (1185) from the town ladies; in which (662, 385), with their compliments, they hoped (54, 679) to see (1178) all (606) our family at (535) church the Sunday following (556), All (606) Saturday morning I could perceive (55), in consequence of this, my wife and daughters (609) in close (1176, 1060 bis) con- ference together, and now and then glancing (54, 623) at me with looks that betrayed (385, 54, 679) a latent plot. To be sincere, I had (54) strong suspicions that some absurd proposal was (665, 54, 623) preparing (1076) for appearing (1176) with splendor the next day. In the evening (414) they began (55, 106) their operations in a very regular manner, and my wife undertook (855) to conduct (732, 55) the siege. After tea, when I seemed (55, 623) in spirits, she began (55, 106) thus :— " I fancy (52, 623, 900), Charles, my dear, we shall have (59, 679) a great deal of good (538, 1185) company at (592) our church to-mor- row (405)." — "Perhaps we may (52, 380), my dear," returned
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 107
pr^parons nous-memes le plat a notre gout; dans le second c'est la nature qui nous le prepare. Impossible de reproduire la chatne de reveries agreables que nous evocames pour amuser notre imagination. Nous considerames notre fortune dans son point culminant ; et comme toute la paroisse pretendait que le baronnet etait amoureux de ma fille, elle devint amoureuse de lui parce qu'on lui suggera cette passion. Pendant cet inter- valle de bonheur ma femme fat travaillee par les plus beaux reves du monde. Avec precision et d'un ton solennel chaque matin elle eut grand soin de nous les communiquer. Une nuit e'etait une biere avec des os en croix, signe d'un mariage^ro- chain. D'autres fois elle croyait voir ses filles les poches pleines de liards, marque certaine qu'elles seraient bientot farcies d'or. Les petites elles-memes avaient aussi leurs presages. Elles 4prouvaient sur leurs levres I'empreinte de baisers etranges; elles apercevaient des bagues dans la flamme de la cbandelle ; des bourses bondissaient hors du foyer, et des noeuds-d'amour ^taient deposes dans le fond de chaque tasse de the.
Sur la fin de la semaine nous regumes un billet des dames de la ville, dans lequel, joint a leurs compliments, elles nous te- moignaient I'espoir de rencontrer toute la famille le procbain dimancbe h I'eglise. Par suite de cette promesse, tout le samedi matin je vis ma femme et mes filles tenir de secrets colloques, et, de temps-^-autre, elles me langaient des regards qui annon- gaient la preparation d'un complot. A parler franchement, je prevoyais qu'on allait me faire quelque proposition absurde pour paraitre avec splendeur le lendemain. Des le soir m§me elles commencerent leurs operations d'uhe maniere reguliere; ma femme commanda le siege. Apres le the, quand elle me sentit de bonne-humeur, elle contmenga ainsi : — " Charles, mon cher, je m'imagine que domain nous aurons beaucoup de beau-monde k I'eglise.'' " C'est possible, ma chere," repliquai-je; " mais ne
108 THE VICAU OF WAKEFIELD.
I (55); '' though you need be (445, 52, 163) under no uneasiness about that, you shall have a sermon (59, 679) whether there be or not."— ^' That is what I expect (54, 623, 938)," returned she (55) ; ^'but I think (54, 1075), my dear, we (52, 648) ought (39) to appear (1176) there (397) as decently as possible, for who (1074, 52) knows what may (380,103, 105) happen (952) V — "Your precautions," replied I (55,443), "are (52,679) highly commendable (665, 727). A decent behavior and appearance at church is (52, 623, 679) what charms me. We should be (105, 397) devout and humble (104), cheerful and serene." — "Yes," cried she (55), "I know that; but I mean (621, 54, 1075), we should (103, 39) go (397, 1176) there in as (806) proper a manner as possible, not altogether like (485) the scrubs about us."— "You are (52, 372) quite right (992), my dear," returned I (55), "and I was (52, 648) going (54, 1076) to make (1176) the very same (601) proposal. The proper (556) manner of going (1178, 397) is (52, 648, 397, 1176) to go there as early (806) as possible, to have (306) time for (1176) meditation before the service begins (106)." — "Phoo (422), Charles,'' inter- rupted she (55), "all that is very true, but not what I would be at (52, 1075). I mean (1107, 52) that we should go there (39, 897) genteelly. You know (52, 163, 821) the church is (52) two miles (589) off, and, I protest (52, 727), I don't like (727, 164) to see (760, 1177) my daughters trudging up (623, 49) to their pew all (606) blowsed (773) and red with (306) walking, and looking (769) for all the world as if they had been (155, 270) winners at a smock-race. Now, my dear, my proposal is this (829): — there are (52, 679) our two plough-horses, the colt that has been (52, 657) in (592) our family these nine years, and his companion Blackberry, that has scarce done (925) an earthly thing for this month past (1187 bis); they are (79, 776) both grown (772, 861) fat (556) and lazy: why should not they do (163, 39, 162 bis) something (516, 485) as well as we? And, let me tell you (40, 445), when Moses has trimmed them (59, 155) a little, they will cut (59, 727) a very tolerable figure." To this proposal I objected (55) that (306) walking would be
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 109
t'en inquiries pas, vous aurez un sermon quoi qu'il arrive." " Je m'y attendais/' ajouta-t-elle; ^' mais, ce que je voulais dire, mon cher, c'est que nous devrions nous j rendre aussi decem- ment que possible ; qui sait ce qui peut arriver ?" '' Yos pre- cautions," repliquai-je, ^' sont on ne peut plus louables. A I'eglise une conduite et un exterieur modeste m^ont toujours charme. II faut y etre decents, pieux, humbles, de bonne- humeur, et satisfaits." " Oui," s'ecria-t-elle, "je sais parfaite- ment tout cela; aussi voulais-je dire qu'il faudrait y aller d'une maniere convenable, et non point comme des souillons." " Mais tu as parfaitement raison, ma chere/' repliquai-je, "et c'est la precisement la proposition que j'allais te faire. La vraie maniere d'y aller, c'est de s'y trouver d'aussi bonne-beure que possible, afin d'avoir le temps de mediter avant que le servicgi^eommence." " Bah ! Charles," dit-elle, en m'interrompant, " tout ce que vous dites-la est tres-vrai, mais ce n'est pas ce que j'entends dire. Je pense que nous devrions nous y rendre de la fagon la plus decente. Yous n'ignorez pas que Feglise est a une distance de deux milles; et j'avoue que je n'aime pas a voir mes filles se trainer k leur banc tout essoufflees, rougies par la fatigue de la marche, ayant I'air d'avoir remporte le prix h la course-au-sac. Maintenant, mon cher, voici ma proposition. Nous avons deux chevaux de labour; le poulain, qui est depuis neuf ans k la maison, et son compagnon Blackberry. lis n'ont absolument rien fait le mois passe ! En s'engraissant ils sont devenus paresseux ; pourquoi ne travailldraient-ils pas comme nous ? Quand Moise leur aura fait les crins, croyez-m'en bien, ils feront passablement bonne-mine."
A cette proposition j'opposai que la marclie serait plus decente
10
110 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(39, 679) twenty (764) times more genteel than such (556) a paltry conveyance (1185), as Blackberry was (54, 298) wall-eyed, and the colt wanted (990, 54) a tail; that they had never been broke (598, 54, 776, 265 bis) to the rein, but had (54, 679) a hundred (584, 556) vicious tricks; and that we had (163, 54) but (815) one saddle and (550) pillion in (824) the whole house. All (606) these objections, however, were overruled (57, 776, 1041 bis), so that I was (57, 727, 776) obliged to comply (1178). The next morning I perceived (55, 623, 175) them not a little busy in (1177) collecting such materials as might be necessary for the expedition; but, as I found it would be (769, 54) a busi- ness of time, I walked on (55, 76, 1046 bis) to the church before, and they promised (621, 769) speedily to follow (623, 1178, 824). I waited (55, 128) near an hour in the reading-desk for their arrival ; but, not finding them (769, 69) come as expected (54, 679), I was (55, 106) obliged (86) to begin (1178), and went (727, 628) through the service, not without some (623, 1176) uneasiness at finding them (706) absent. This was in- creased when all was finished and no appearance of the family. I, therefore, walked back (55, 437) by the horse-way, which was five miles round, though the foot- way (815) was but two, and when got about (484, 776) half-way home, perceived (55) the procession marching (771, 405) slowly forward toward the church, — my son, my wife, and the two little ones, exalted (773) upon one (293) horse, and my two daughters on the other. I demanded (55) the cause of their delay; but I sooii found (55, 727) by their looks they had met (58, 777) with a thousand (588) mis- fortunes on the road. The horses had at first refused (54, 679) to move (1176) from the door, till Mr. Burchell was kind enough to beat them forward (55, 1176) for about two hundred (583) yards with his cudgel. Next the straps of my wife's pillion (304) broke down (771), and they were obliged (55, 105) to stop (1178, 623) to repair (764) them before they could proceed (1178). After that, one of the horses took it into his head (55) to stand still (1177), and neither blows (837) nor entreaties (838) could prevail (732, 679) with him to proceed (1029, 1176). It
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. Ill
que de mis^rables montures, attendu que Blackberry avait Toeil vairon et que le poulain n'avait pas de queue; qu'aucun d'eux n'etait accoutume a la selle, et qu'ils etaient en outre tres- vicieux; enfin, que nous n'avions dans toute la maison qu'une selle et qu'un simple coussinet. Une h une mes raisons furent mises de cote, et je fus force de me soumettre. Le jour suivant, des le matin, je les aperQus tons occupes a rassembler le materiel que necessitait I'expedition. Yoyant que cela demandait du temps je pris a pied le cbemin de Feglise, eux ^romettant de me suivre dans quelques instants. J'attendis dans la cbaire pr^s d'une beure pour leur arrivee; mais ne les voyant pas venir ainsi qu'ils me I'avaient promis je commencai et finis le service, non sans m'inquieter de leur absence. N'etant pas encore arrives, mes craintes augmenterent apres le service. Je retournai par la grand-route qui faisait un detour de cinq milles, tandis que le sentier pour les pietons n'etait Eloign e que de deux. Arrive k moitie cbemin j'apergus enfin le convoi lentement s'avaiigant vers r^glise, — mon fils, ma femme et les marmots perches sur un cbeval, mes deux filles en croupe sur I'autre. Je m'in- formai de la cause du retard, et a leur air je reconnus qu'ils avaient eprouve une foule de tribulations sur le cliemin. Les cbevaux, en premier lieu, ne voulaient pas quitter I'ecurie ; mais avec son baton M. Burchell les fit avancer I'espace environ de deux cents metres. Plus tard les sangles du coussinet sur lequel etait ma femme venant a rompre, il fallut s'arreter pour les raccommoder avant de continuer le voyage. Un des cbevaux apr^s cela s'enteta k ne pas vouloir marcher, et ni les coups ni les menaces ne purent le faire bouger. lis sortaient de ce
112 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
was (54, 679) just recovering (1077) from this dismal situation that I found them (55); but, perceiving (769) every thing safe, I own their present mortification did not much displease me (57), as it would give me (54, 623, 1176) many opportunities of future (537, 542) triumph, and teach (727, 706) my daugh- ters (409) more humility.
CHAPTER XL
THE FAMILY STILL KESOLVE (52, 98) TO HOLD UP THEIR (592, 1183) HEADS.
MiCHAELMAS-EVE (1233) happening on the next day, we were invited (55, 665, 86) to burn (1177) nuts (290) and play (1030, 1177) tricks (1185) at neighbor Flamborough's (1016). Our late mortifications had (738 bis, 751) humbled (776) us a little, or it is (52) probable (103) we might have (57, 679) rejected (776) such an invitation with contempt: however, we suffered (55, 623) ourselves to be happy (1176). Our honest neighbor's goose (304) and dumplings (609) were fine (54, 679, 766), and the lambs' wool, even (603) in the opinion of my wife, who was (657, 54) a connoisseur (345, 556, 330), was (727, 679) excellent. It is true (484,855,52), his manner of telling stories (1178) was not (55) quite so well. They were (54, 679) very long and very dull (813, 890, 861), and all about himself; and we had laughed at them (743, 751, 792) ten times before: however, we were (86) kind enough to laugh (55, 679, 623) at them once more.
Mr. Burchell, who was of the party (937, 438), was always fond (918, 706) of seeing (1177) some innocent amusement going forward (1041 bis), and set (55) the boys and. girls to blindman's-buff. My wife, too, was persuaded (665, 55) to join (1177) in the diversion, and it gave me (55, 623) pleasure to think she was (620, 54) not yet too old (336). In the mean time, my neighbor and I looked on (54, 954, 1030), laughed
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 113
dernier embarras au moment on je les rencontrai. M'aperce- vant que tout allait bien, je fus satisfait de cette nouvelle mor- tification qui devait un jour me procurer quelques triomphes : elle apprenait a mes filles h etre plus humbles *dans leurs gouts.
CHAPITEE XI.
LA FAMILLE SE DECIDE A TENIR ENCORE LA T^TE HAUTE.
Le jour d'apres, veille de la Saint-Michel, on nous in vita h, torrefier des noix et h faire des jeux chez notre voisin Flambo- rough. Si nous n'eussions ete un peu humilies par notre fraiche mesaventure, il est probable que cette offre eut 6t6 rejet^e avec mepris. * Nous nous laissames pourtant inviter. L'oie et les crotites de I'honnete voisin etaient appetisantes, et sa petite biere au dire m^me de ma femme, qui etait grand connaisseur, etait d'une qualite superieure. Disons-le, sa fagon de center ne fut pas autant de notre gout. Tres-longs,et ennu- yeux, ses contes avaient toujours rapport a lui; et quoiqu'ils nous eussent divertis maintes-fois, nous condescendimes d'en rire encore une.
M. Burcbell, Tun des invites, toujours pr§t k mettre en train des jeux innocents, suggera aux gar§ons et aux filles une partie de Colin-Maillard. On decida ma femme a se mettre au nombre des joueurs; et je m'aper§us avec plaisir qu'elle n'^- tait pas encore trop vieille. Pendant le jeu le voisin et moi
10*
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4
(728, 179) at every feat, and praised (623) our'own dexterity (771, 706) when we were young. Hot-cockles succeeded (55, 679) next, questions (550) and commands followed that (55, 679, 706), and, last of all (666, 55) they sat down (706) to hunt the slipper. As every person may (52, 1016) not be acquainted (556) with this primeval (299) pastime, it may be necessary to observe (59, 633) that the company, in this play (948), plant themselves (52, 679, 204) in a ring upon the ground (802, 934),* all except one (774), who stands in the middle, whose business it is (52) to catch (1177, 870 bis) a shoe, which the company shove about (771) under their hams, from one to another, some- thing like a weaver's shuttle (304, 950). As (824) it is im- possible, in this case, for the lady who (657) is up (52, 1176) to face all (370) the company at once (812, 450), the great beauty of the play lies (52, 1185) in hitting her (1177, 623) a thump with the heel of the (315) shoe on that side least capable (876) of making a defence. It was (54) in this manner that my eldest daughter was (54) hemmed in (773) and thumped (727) about, all blowzed (556, 581, 1193, 861), in spirits, and bawling (769) for fair play with a voice (290) that might deafen (1177, 618) a ballad-singer (450); when, confusion on confusion, who should enter (55, 679) the room but our two great acquaintances from town. Lady Blarney and Miss Carolina (427, 941) Wilhel- mina Amelia Skeggs (951) 1 Description would but beggar (484), therefore it is unnecessary to describe (103, 1178), this new m5rtification. Death ! to be seen (805, 1178) by ladies of such high breeding in' such vulgar attitudes ! Nothing better could ensue (54, 665) from such a vulgar (865 bis) play of Mr. Flamborough's (304) proposing. "We seemed (773, 484) stuck to the ground for some time, as if actually petrified (57, 776, 1195) with amazement.
The two ladies had been (58, 777) at our (1016) house to see us, and, finding (769) us from home (938, 623), came (58, 776) after us hither, as they were uneasy (556, 357) to know (1178) what accident could have kept us from church (306) the day before. Olivia (427, 71) utidertook (55, 706) to be (855) our prolocutor,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 115
faisions cercle, riant a chaque capture, et nous complimentant sur les prouesses de notre jeunesse. Apres cela on passa a main-cliaude ; les questions et les gages vinrent a leur tour, et Fon finit par une partie de savate. Comme ce passe-temps de nos simples aieux pent etre inconnu de certaines personnes, nous dirons que les joueurs s'asseyent tous par-terre en rond; sauf celui, qui, debout au milieu du cercle, cherclie k saisir la savate circulant sous les jambes des autres comme la navette d^un tisserand. Dans ce cas, -comme la dame dans le cercle ne peut envisager tout-a-la fois un chacun des joueurs, le beau de Fhistoire consiste k lui appliquer une claque, avec le talon de la savate, sur la partie de sa personne moins capable de defense. Ainsi environnee et claquee, rouge, pleine de gaiete, demandant bon-jeu d'une voix k defier celle d'un cbanteur de complaintes, telle etait la position de ma fille ainee, quand, pour comble de malheur pour elle, nos deux connaissances de ville, Lady Blarney et Mile. Caroline-Guillaumette-Amelie Skeggs, se presentent dans la cbambre ! Impossible de decrire ce nouveau coup inflige a notre amour-propre. L'entreprendre serait folic ! Plutot que d'etre surpris par d'aussi grandes dames dans une position si vulgaire, il cut mieux valu etre mort. Aussi, que pouvait-on attendre d'un jeu de bas-aloi. propose par Flambo- rougb? Atteres pour quelques instants nous fumes petrifies d'etonnement.
Pour nous visiter ces deux dames avaient d'abord ete cbez nous ; mais ne nous y ayant pas rencontres, impatientes de con- naitre la cause de notre absence a Feglise, la veille, elles s'^taient rendues ici pour nous voir. Cbargee d'etre notre interpr^te
116 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
and delivered (541) the whole in a summary way, only saying (769), "We were thrown (56, 776, 108) from our horses (950).'' At which account the ladies were (55, 679) greatly concerned; but being told (665, 623, 52) the family received no hurt (1115, 58), they were extremely glad. But being informed (769) that we were almost (58, 1085) killed by the fright, they were vastly sorry; but hearing (772) that we had (56, 777) a very good night, they were (732) extremely glad again. Nothing could exceed (58, 861) their complaisance to my daughters. Their professions the last evening were (54, 679) warm, but now they were (1176, 623) ardent. They protested (54, 679) a desire of a more lasting acquaintance (1041). Lady Blarney was (54) particularly attached (776) to Olivia; Miss Carolina Wilhelmina Amelia Skeggs (450, 427) (I love (52, 760) to give the whole name) took (54, 776) a greater fancy to her sister. They sup- ported (55, 130) the conversation between themselves, while my daughters sat (773) silent (556), admiring (54, 679) their exalted breeding. But as every reader, however (743, 751) beggarly himself, is fond (52, 345) of high-lived dialogues, with anecdotes of lords, ladies, and knights of the garter (941), I must beg leave (52, 610) to give (1178, 623) him the concluding part of the present (556) conversation.
"All (606) that I know (415, 52) of the matter," cried (55) Miss Skeggs, "is (648, 52) this: that it may be (52,174) true, or it may not be true; but this I can assure (52, 1176) your ladyship, that the whole (606) rout was (57, 776) in a maze. His lordship turned (55) all manner of colors, my lady fell (732, 1091) into a'swoon; but Sir Tomkyn, drawing his sword (679, 368), swore (732) he was hers to the (828) last drop of his blood.''
"Well," replied our peeress, "this I can say (52, 623): that the duchess never told me (56, 415) a syllable of the matter; and I believe (855) her grace would keep (163, 52) nothing a secret from me. This you may depend on (52, 1134) as a fact, that the next morning my lord duke cried out (55) three times to his valet-de-chambre, ' Jernigan ! Jernigan ! Jernigan ! bring me (40, 623) my garters.' "
LE yiCAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 117
aupr^s d'elles, Olivie leur raconta le fait d'une mani^re tres-som- maire, disant sans preambule, ^' nous avons ete jetes de cheval/' Sur ce les dames parurent fort inquietes; elles se rassurerent pourtant quand on leur dit que nous n'avions pas eu de nial. Apprenant ensuite que I'accident avait failli nous faire mourir de peur; de nouveau reveillees leurs craintes se calmerent en sacliant que nous avions eu une bonne nuit. Rien n'egalait leur complaisance envers mes filles. Toutes vives qu'elles avaient ete a leur derniere entrevue, aujourd'hui leurs protes- tations d'amitie paraissaient s'accroitre d'une nouvelle ardeur. Leur grand desir etait de faire connaissance d'une mani^re plus ample et plus durable. Lady Blarney etait exclusivement atta- chee h, Olivie; Mile. Caroline-Gruillaumette-x\melie Skeggs (j'aime a decliner tons ses noms) se prit d'une grande amiti^ pour SopMe. Elles maintinrent la conversation h. elles deux; tandis que, sileneieuses, assises, mes filles admiraient la recberche de leurs expressions. Comme le lecteur, quelque gueux qu'il puisse etre, est amateur des dialogues du bon-ton, ou d'anecdotes sur les seigneurs, les hautes-dames, et les chevaliers -de-la-jarre- tiere, je demande permission d'introduire la fin de cette conver- sation.
'' Tout ce que j'en sais," s'ecria Mile. Skeggs, " c'est que la cbose pent etre vraie, comme elle pent aussi ne pas I'etre. Ce que je peux affirmer, c'est que toute I'assemblee fut mise en ^moi. Sa seigneurie devint de toutes les couleurs, et madame tomba en syncope; mais le cbevalier Tomkyn, degainant, jura qu'il la defendrait jusqu'k la derniere goutte de son sang."
"Tres-bien," repliqua la pairesse, ''je vous assure que la ducbesse ne m'en a jamais dit mot, et pourtant sa Grace n'a pas de secrets pour moi. Neanmoins, je vous donne pour certain que dans la matinee qui suivit, le due h trois reprises cria k son valet-de-cbambre, ' Jernigan ! Jernigan ! Jernigan ! apporte-moi mes jarreti^res.' "
118 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
But previously I should have (39, 155) mentioned (1176, 706) the very impolite behavior of Mr. Burchell, who (657) during this discourse (364, 773) sat with his (367) face turned (773) to the fire, and at the conclusion of every (1201) sentence would cry (54) out, "Fudge (423) !'' An expression (555) which dis- pleased (55, 623, 706) us all, and in some measure damped (55, 527) the rising spirit of the conversation.
''Besides, my dear Skeggs,'' continued (55) our peeress, '' there is (103) nothing of this in the copy of verses that Dr. Burdock (535, 55) made upon the occasion.^' Fudge!
"1 am surprised (52, 623) at that,'^ cried Miss Skeggs; "for he seldom leaves (103, 722) any thing out, as he writes only for his own amusement. But can your ladyship favor me (623, 415) with a sight of them (952) ?" Fudge !
"My dear creature," replied (55) our peeress, "do you think I (736) carry such things about me ? though they are very fine, to be sure, and I think myself something of a judge (623, 1163) ; at least I know what pleases myself. Indeed, I was (56) ever an admirer of all Dr. Burdock's little pieces (304) : for, ex- cept what he does (855), and our dear Countess at Hanover (304) Square, there's (1223) nothing comes out but the most lowest stufi" in nature; not a bit of high life among them." Fudge !
"Your ladyship should (39) except (415, 1176)," says the other, "your own things in the Lady's Magazine. I hope (52, 893, 861) you'll say (59) there is nothing low-lived there ? But I suppose we are (103) to have (59) no more from that quarter?" Fudge I
"Why, my dear," says the lady, "you know (39, 735) my reader and companion (304) has left me (56, 777) to be married (1137 bis) to Captain Koach, and, as my poor eyes (298) won^t suff'er (52, 623) me to write (1178) myself, I have been (52, 1008) for some time looking out for another. A proper person is no easy matter to find (457, 623) ; and, to be sure, thirty (861) pounds (1185) a year (505 bis) is a small stipend for a well-bred girl of character, that can read, write, and behave (1176) in company :
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 119
J'aurais dH mentionner k I'avance la conduite impolie que tint M. Burchell pendant ce dialogue. Assis, le visage tourne vers la cheminee, il s'ecriait k la fin de chaque tirade, '' A d'autres!" Expression qui nous d^plut h tons, et qui en quelque sorte amortit Fentrain de la conversation.
" Bien plus, ma ct^re Skeggs," continua la pairesse, " rien de tout cela ne se trouve dans la copie des vers que fit le Dr. Bur- dock k cette occasion." " A d'autres !"
''Cela m'^tonne," s'ecria Mile. Skeggsj ^' car, n'^crivant que pour son amusement, il est rare que quelque chose lui echappe. Mais ne pourriez-vous pas m'en procurer la vue ?" "■ A d'autres /"
^' Ma chere,'' repliqua la pairesse, " croyez-vous que je me surcharge de pareilles choses ? Quoique pourtant je m'y con- naisse, ayant assez de jugement pour savoir ce qui est beau et ce qui me plait. Yraiment, j'ai. toujours admire les pieces compo- s^es par le Dr. Burdock; et h I'exception de ses compositions ou de celles de notre chere comtesse de la Place du Hanovre, il ne nous reste que de miserables produits. Vainement y cherclierait- on quelque chose du grand-monde." " A d'autres!"
" Madame devrait en excepter," ajouta I'autre, " ses contribu- tions aux Magasin-des-Dames. Yous conviendrez, j'esp^re, que ses pages n'ont rien de vulgaire ? Mais il est h craindre qu'il ne nous viendra plus rien de ce cote I" ^^ A d'autres !"
''Quoi! ma ch^re," dit la dame, " ignoreriez-vous que ma de- moiselle de compagnie, en meme temps ma lectrice, m'a quitt^e pour se marier avec le capitaine Roach ? Comme ma mauvaise vue ne me permet pas d'ecrire moi-meme, je suis actuellement ^ la recherche d'une autre personne. Pour trente livres par an se procurer une demoiselle bien ^levee, de bonne reputation, sachant lire, ^crire, et agir convenablement en societe, k-coup-sUr n'est
120 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
as for (845) the chits about town^ there is no bearing them about one." Fudge 1
^^That I know (52, 379)/' cried (55) Miss Skeggs, ^^by ex- perience; for of the three (304) companions I had (56, 777) this last half-year, one of them refused (55) to do (1178) plain work an hour in the day, another thought (732) twenty-five (583) guineas a year (505 bis) too small a salary (942), and I was (57, 776) obliged (706, 763) to send away (1108) the third (362), because I suspected (55, 106) an intrigue with the chaplain (1184). Virtue (535), my dear lady Blarney, virtue (550) is worth (52, 215) any price; but where is that to be found (432, 375, 665, 445) ?'' Fudge 1
My wife had been (679) for a long time all attention to this discourse, but was (57) particularly struck (776) by the latter part of it (592). Thirty pounds (1185) and twenty-five guineas (583) a year (897) made fifty-six pounds (360) five shillings English money, all which was in a manner going a begging, and might easily be (54) secured (1176) in the family. She for a moment studied my looks (55) for approbation ; and, to own ji truth, I was (54) of opinion that two such places would fit (39) our two daughters exactly. Besides, if the squire had (751) any real afi'ection for my (330, 368) eldest daughter, this would be (54) the way (1178, 623) to make her every way qualified for her fortune. My wife therefore was (55) resolved that we should not be (1178) deprived of such advantages for want of assurance, and undertook to harangue (1178) for the family. "I hope (52, 893)," cried she (55), ^^ your ladyships will pardon (59, 706) my present presumption. It is true (52, 103) we have (727) no right to pretend (1176) to such favors, but yet it is natural (103) for me (738 bis) to wish putting my children (1178, 623) for- ward in the world. And I will be (39) bold to say (1176) my two girls have had (52) a pretty good education, and capacity : at least the country can't show. (39, 1074, 1176) better (803). They can read (52, 1176), write, and cast accounts (757, 764); they understand their needle (1185), broad stitch, cross (52) and change, and all manner of plain work; they can (727) pink,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 121
pas chose facile a trouver. Quant k ces coureuses de ville. oa ne peut en aucune maniere s'en accommoder." ^'A d'autres!" " Je sais cela par experience," s'ecria Mile. Skeggs. " Be.. trois demoiselles de compagnie que j'ai cues pendant ces derniers six mois, Tune d'elles me refusa de travailler une heure du jour a de simples coutures ; une autre trouva qu'un salaire de vingt- cinq guinees par an n'etait pas une retribution convenable; et je fus forcee de renvoyer la troisieme, parce que je soupgonnai une intrigue entre elle et M. I'aumonier. La vertu, ma chere dame Blarney, la vertu n'a pas de prix! Mais ou la trouve-t-on ?" " A d'autres 1"
Pretant depuis longtemps une oreille attentive a ce colloque, ma femme fut grandement frappee de sa conclusion. Trente livres et vingt-cinq guinees par an, a son compte, faisaient cin- quante-cinq livres argent anglais ; le tout considere comme une bagatelle qu'on pouvait aisement approprier a la famille. Pour s'assurer de mon approbation ses yeux me consulterent un instant. A ne rien cacber, j'etais d'avis que ces places convien- draient parfaitement a mes filles. De plus, s'il etait sur que le baronnet eprouvat une veritable affection pour mon ainee, c'etait Ik une occasion de la qualifier pour sa future position de fortune. D'avis de ne pas compromettre ces avantages par un d^faut d'assurance^. ma femme resolut de parler au nom de toute la famille. " Ces dames, j'espere, me pardonneront ma presomp- tion. II est vrai, nous n'avons 'aucun droit pour pretendre a de telles faveurs; neanmoins, chercbant Favantage de mes enfants, il est naturel que je tacbe de les avancer dans le monde. Ainsi done, j'oserai dire, qu'h, la capacite mes filles joignent aussi une assez bonne education; ici du moins le pays ne saurait en montrer davantage. Elles savent lire, ecrire, et compter. Habiles de leur aiguille, elles faufilent, ravaudent, et font toute esp^ce de couture. Elles savent faire les oeillets, les points, et les festons.
11
122 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
point, and frill (941) ; and know (52, 1073) something of music ' (950) ; they can do up small clothes, and work (52) upon catgut (950); my eldest can cut (727, 52) paper, and my youngest has (727) a very pretty manner of telling (1178, 1231) fortunes upon the cards (907)/' Fudge!
When (844) she had delivered (57) this pretty piece of elo- quence, the two ladies looked (727, 93) at each other a few minutes in silence, with an air (866) of doubt and importance. At last Miss Carolina Wilhelmina Amelia Skeggs (941) conde- scended (55) to observe (910) " that the young ladies, from the opinion she could (58) form (1176) of them from so slight an ac- quaintance, seemed (54) very fit (556) for such employments: but a thing of this kind, madam," cried she (55), addressing my spouse, "requires a thorough examination into characters, and a more perfect knowledge of each other. Not, madam," continued she (443), "that I in the least suspect (52) the young ladies' virtue, prudence, and discretion: but there is (1223) a form in these things, madam; there is a form." Fudge!
My wife approved (55) her suspicions very much, observing (910) that she was (54) very apt to be suspicious herself; but referred her (377) to all the neighbors for a character: but this our peeress declined (55, 108), as unnecessary, alleging (765) that her (367) cousin ThornhiU's recommendation would be (39) sufficient (623) ; and upon this we rested our petition.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 123
Elles connaissent un peu de musique, font le linge de dessous, et brodent sur gaze. Mon ainee decoupe parfaitement le papier, et sur les cartes ma cadette poss^de une mani^re s^duisante de dire la bonne-aventure."
Quand elle eut termine ce petit morceau d'^loquence, silen- cieuses, les deux dames s'entre regard^rent d'un air de doute et important. Mile. Caroline-Gruillaumette-Amelie Skeggs con- descendit k nous dire, que, d'apres 1' opinion qu'elle avait pu former depuis une aussi legere connaissance, mes filles lui parais- saient tr^s-competentes pour I'emploi. " Mais une affaire de ce genre, madame,^' ajouta-t-elle, s'adressant a mon epouse, ^' neces- site une enquete severe sur la moralite des personnes, et une connaissance parfaite entre les parties. Ce n^est pas, madame/' ajouta-t-elle, '^que j'entretienne le moindre doute sur la vertu, la prudence, ou la discretion de vos filles ; mais il y a des formes en tout, madame : oui, il y a des formes." ^' A d'autres!''
Ma femme approuva ces precautions et de bon cceur, faisant remarquer qu'elle etait tres-soup9onneuse elle-meme, s'en rap- portant pour sa reputation au dire de tout le voisinage. Mais la pairesse rejeta cette proposition comme inutile, disant que la recommandation de son cousin Tbornbill lui suffirait. De lui done dependait le succes de notre petition.
124 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTER XII.
FORTTTNE (535, 52) SEEMS RESOLVED TO HUMBLE (764, 1176) THE FAMILY OP (618) WAKEFIELD — MORTIFICATIONS (535) OFTEN MORE PAINFUL THAN (847) REAL CALAMITIES.
When we were (855) returned home, the night was (65) de- dicated (1104, 623) to schemes of future conquest. Deborah exerted (55, 727, 1031) much sagacity in conjecturing which (662) of the two girls was likely to have (39) the best place, and most (548) opportunities of seeing (1178, 1230) good company. The only obstacle to our preferment was (657, 740^ 751) in ob- taining (54, 1178) the squire's recommendation (304); but he had (58, 155) already shown us too many instances of his friend- ship to doubt (54, 1176) of it now. Even (603) in bed my wife kept up (55) the usual theme. "Well, faith, my dear Charles, between ourselves, I think we have made (56, 155, 777) an ex- cellent day's work of it (1041 bis)."— ^' Pretty well/' cried I (55, 179 ter), not knowing (679) what to say (1176). *' What, only pretty well?" returned she (55,445); "I think it is (52) very well. Suppose (727,679) the girls should come (736 bis, 748) to make acquaintances of taste in town ! This I am assured of (415, 52, 776), that London is (52, 158) the only place (1183) in the world (1185) for all manner of husbands. Besides, my dear, stranger things happen (665, 52) every day (1201); and as ladies of quality (52, 623) are so (806) taken (52, 776) with my daughters, what will 'not men of quality be (415, 59)? Entre nous, I protest (52), I like my lady Blarney vastly: so very obliging (52, 806, 770). However, Miss Carolina Wilhel- mina Amelia Skeggs has (450, 427) my warm heart (52, 727). But yet, when they came (52, 1077, 776) to talk (1177) of places in (825) town, you saw (56) at once how I nailed them (777)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 125
CHAPITKE XII.
LA FORTUNE SEMBLE VOULOIR HUMILIER LES "WAKEFIELDS — LES BLESSTJRES DE L'AMOUR-PROPRE SONT SOLVENT PLUS DOULOUREUSES QUE LES INPQR- TUNES REELLES.
De retour chez-nous la nuit se passa en plans de futures con- quetes. Deborah fit preuve d'une sagacite etonnante en eonjec- turant laquelle, de ses deux filles, aurait chance de la meilleure place et de frequenter la plus haute societe. La seule difficulte qui maintenant se presentat c'etait d'obtenir la recommandation du baronnet; mais comme il nous avait deja donne tant de preuves de son amitie, en cette circonstance nous ne pouvions aucunement la mettre en doute. Au lit meme ma femme continua le theme favori de la journee. " Charles, mon cher, soit dit entre nous; je crois que nous avons mis aujourd'hui un bon levain." ^' Passable," m'^criai-je, ne sachant trop que repondre. " Passable ?" fit-elle; '' pour moi je le crois excellent. Supposez que les petites en ville fassent de brillantes connais- sances ! et de cela je suis certaine; vous n'avez pas d'endroits au monde comme Londres pour y rencontrer des maris de toute esp^ce. Bien plus encore, mon cher, ne voit-on pas tons les jours des choses plus etranges ? Et comme les dames de bon- ton se trouvent enthousiasmees de mes filles, que n'en sera-t-il pas des gentilshommes ? Entre-nous, j'avoue que j'aime Lady Blarney k la fureur; elle est si obligeante. Neanmoins, Mile. Caroline-Gruillaumette-Amelie Skeggs possede en tout mon affec- tion. Toutefois quand elles en sont venues a parler de places en ville, avez-vous vu comment je les ai clou^es sur-le-champ ?
11*
126 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
Tell me (52, 229), my dear, don't you think (56) I did (821 bis) for my children there (171)?'' — "Ay/' returned I (55), not knowing (769) well what to think (1176) of the matter : " Heaven (535) grant (736, 484) they may be (52, 679) both the better for it this day three months I" This was (648, 54) one of those ob- servations I made (52, 231) to impress (1176) my wife with an opinion of my sagacity; for if the girls succeeded (679, 54, 1177), then it was (648, 54) a pious wish fulfilled; but if any thing unfortunate ensued (54), then it might be (665, 54) looked upon (49, 1176) as a prophecy. All this (363) conversation, how- ever, was (55) only (815) preparatory to another scheme; and indeed I dreaded (54) as much. This was (54, 727) nothing less than, as we were (727) now to hold up (1176) our heads (592, 535, 1183) a little higher in the world (1185), it would be proper (54, 103) to sell (1176) the colt, which (667) was (54, 1154) grown old, at a neighboring fair, and buy us (397, 1176) a horse that would carry (751, 141, 1072) single, or double upon an occasion, and make a pretty appearance at church (930) or upon a yisit. This at first I opposed (55, 405) stoutly, but it was as stoutly de- fended. However, as I weakened (54), my antagonist gained (727) strength, till at last it was resolved (57) to part (1178) with him.
As the fair happened (769, 992) on the following day, I had intentions (55, 938) of going (1178, 856) myself; but my wife persuaded me (769, 623, 777) that I had got (1231, 54) a cold, and nothing could prevail (55) upon her to permit me (740, 751) from home. '^No, my dear," said she (55), *' our son Moses is (52) a discreet boy, and can buy (52, 1176) and sell (1177) to very good advantage. You know all our great bargains are (648) of his purchasing. He always stands out (52, 1065) and hig- gles (727), and actually tires them (828) till he gets (744) a bargain."
As I had (769, 69, 767) some opinion of my son's prudence (304), I was (57) willing enough to intrust him (1177, 623) with this commission ; and the next morning I perceived (55, 621, 129) his sisters mighty busy (405, 773) in fitting (706,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 127
Dites-moij mon clier, j'ai parfaitement agi pour mes enfants, n'est-ce pas?" '' Mon Dieu !" repondis-je, ne sachant trop que penser de tout cela ; " fasse le ciel qu^elles en valent mieux Fun^ et Fautre d'ici a trois mois F' C'etait la une de ces obser- vations faites pour impressionner ma femme sur la portee de ma sagacite. C'etait un pieux souhait fait pour mes filles dans le cas ou elles viendraient h reussir; s'il en etait autrement, aisement aurait-on pu donner un sens prophetique k ces paroles. Cette conversation ne fut pourtant que le preliminaire d'un autre projet, que je ne redoutais pas moins et qui consistait en ceci. Comme nous devious encore tenir la tete haute, soit en allant h, Feglise, soit en rendant nos visites, a la foire prochaine il nous fallait vendre le poulain qui se faisait vieux, pour y acheter un cheval-de-selle qui au besoin portat en croupe. Je fis d'abord une vigoureuse opposition k ce projet; mais la defense n'en fut pas moins vive que Fattaque. A mesure que je mollissais mon adversaire gagnait du terrain, h tel point que je fus force de consentir.
La foire ay ant lieu le lendemain je resolus d*y aller moi- m^me; mais, m'ayant convaincu que j'avais un rhume, ma femme s'opposa k ce que je quittasse la maison. "Non, mon clier," dit-elle; "notre Moise est un gar§on fort habile, qui s'entend egalement k vendre ou a acbeter. C'est k lui que nous sommes redevables de tous nos excellents marches. II tient toujours ferine et marchande obstinement, jusqu'k ce que de guerre-lasse il obtienne une bonne affaire/'
Ayant une bonne opinion de la prudence de mon fils, je fus assez port^ a le charger de cette commission; aussi, dans la matinee du lendemain aper§us-je mes filles activement occupees
128 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
1177) out Moses for the fair, — trimming (769) his hair (1184), brushing his (769) buckles^ and cocking his hat with pins. The business of the toilet being over (773), we had (55) at last the satisfaction of seeing him (623, 1178, 1120) mounted upon the colt, with a deal box (1184, 304) before him, to bring home (1176, 623) groceries in. He had (54, 1066) on a coat made (776) of that cloth they call (773) thunder and lightning, which (607, 855), though grown too short, was much too good to be thrown (1176, 155) away. His waistcoat was (54) of gosling green, and his sisters had tied (58, 679, 706) his hair (1184) with a broad black riband. We all followed (55, 434, 825) him several paces from the door, bawling (771, 74) after him, "Grood luck ! good luck!" till we could see him (55) no longer.
He was scarcely (54, 622) gone (1178, 1078), when Mr. Thorn- hill's butler (304) came (55, 1078) to congratulate us (623) upon our good fortune, saying (679, 69) that he overheard (55, 777) his young master mention (1176, 706) our names with great com- mendation.
Grood fortune seemed resolved (52) not to come alone. An- other footman from the ^me (601) family followed (52), with a card (1185) for my daughters, importing, that the two ladies (1187 bis) had received (58, 679, 777) such pleasing accounts from Mr. Thornhill of us all, that, after a few previous inquiries (556), they hoped (855) to be (39) perfectly satisfied (776, 405). "Ay,'^ cried (623, 55) my wife, "I now see (52) it is no easy matter to get (1178, 1046) into the families (1191) of the great; but when one once gets in, then, as Moses says (55), one (665, 1140) may go to sleep." To this piece of humor, for she intended (623, 54) it for wit, my daughters assented (57, 776) with a loud laugh of pleasure. In short, such was (55) her satisfaction at this message, that she actually put (769) her hand in her (367) pocket and gave (55) the messenger seven pence halfpenny.
This was to be (54) our visiting-day (365 bis). The next that came (55) was (727) Mr. Burchell, who had been (484) at the fair. He brought (415, 55) my little ones a penny-worth of gingerbread each (600), which my wife undertook (623, 55) to
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 12^
h preparer Moise pour le marche; nettoyant ses boucles, lui taillant et lui arrangeant les cheveus, et afistolant les cornes de son cliapeau avec des epingles. Sa toilette achevee nous etimes le plaisir de le voir juclie sur le poulain, tenant au- devant de lui une boite de sapin pour nous rapporter quelques epiceries. L'habit qu'il portait etait fait de ce drap appele foudroyant, et^ tout ^trique qu'il fut, trop bon encore pour §tre mis de cote. Son gilet etait gorge-de-pigeon; ses cbeveux avaient ete noues par ses soeurs d'un large ruban noir. Nous raccompagnames en famille a plusieurs pas de la porte, lui criant jusqu'a ce qu'il fut hors de vue, ''Bonne cbance ! bonne cbance I"
A peine venait-il de partir que le sommelier du baronnet vint nous complimenter sur notre bonne fortune; ajoutant qu'il avait entendu son jeune maitre parler de la famille d'une mani^re tr^s-flatteuse.
Un bonbeur ne vient jamais seul. Un laquais de la m^me maison suivit bientot porteur d'un billet pour mes filles, mar- quant que les dames avaient regues de M. Thornhill d'excel- lentes recommandations sur notre compte, et qu'apres quelques formalites indispensables elles seraient entierement satisfaites. '^Ab!" s'ecria ma femme, " maintenant vois-je qu'il n'est pas cbose aisee de prendre pied dans les grandes families. Mais, comme le dit Moise, une fois dedans on pent aussitot tirer r^cbelle." Cette boutade d'esprit, car c'est ainsi que I'envi- sageait ma femme, fut accueillie de mes filles par un grand eclat-de-rire. En un mot, telle fut sa jubilation, que mettant sur-le-champ main en poche elle en tira quinze sous dont elle gratifia le porteur.
Ce jour-1^ etait le jour de nos visites. Le visiteur qui suc- c<5da fut M. Burcbell de retour de la foire. Pour cbacun de nos marmots il en rapporta deux sous de pain-d'^pices, que ma
130 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
keep (1178) for tliem and give them (1178, 623) by letters at a time. He brought (773) my daughters also a couple (510,696) of boxes, in which they might keep (938, 1176) wafers, snuffy patches, or even money (1185), when they got it (39, 623). My wife was (58, 405) usually fond of a weasel-skin purse (1185), as being the most lucky (548, 695, 556); but this (365 bis) by- the-by. We had still (54) a regard for Mr. Burchell, though his late rude behavior was (57, 743) in some measure displeasing (556) ; nor could we (622, 55, 623) now avoid (816, 1176) com- municating (1178, 764) our happiness to him, and asking (823, 1178) his advice. Although we seldom followed (679) advice, we were (54) all ready enough to ask it. When he read (57, 1140) the note from the two ladies, he shook (769) his (592) head, and observed (55, 910) that an affair of this sort demanded (54) the utmost (548) circumspection. This (364 bis) air (866) of diffi- dence highly (55) displeased my wife. "I never doubted (56, 163), sir,'^ cried she (55), "your readiness to be against my daugh- ters and me. You have (52, 395) more circumspection than is wanted. However, I fancy (59, 990) when we come to ask ad- vice, we will apply (162 bis, 59) to persons who seem to have (59, 155) made use of it themselves." — " Whatever (604) my own conduct may have (58) been (743, 679), madam,'^ replied he, "is not the present question ; though, as I have made no use of advice myself, I should in conscience give it (52, 623, 1176) to those that will." As I was apprehensive (769) this answer might draw (39) on a repartee, making up (39, 932) by abuse what it wanted in wit, I changed (55, 1141) the subject, by seeming to wonder what could keep our son so • long at the fair, as it was now almost nightfall. "Never mind (854) our son," cried (55) my wife : " depend upon it (380, 52), he knows (52, 1074) what he is about. I'll warrant we'll never (59) see him sell (1176) his hen on a rainy day. I have seen him (56, 623, 1176) buy such bargains as would amaze (39, 776) one. I'll tell you (623, 59) a good story about that, that will make you (727, 1039) split your sides (1176) with laughing. But, as I live (556, 52,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 131
femme se chargea de leur distribuer par lettres k reprises diffe- rentes. Destinees k mes filles etait une couple de boites pour mettre des pains-a-cacbeter, du tabac-k-priser, ou de Targent quand elles en auraient. Ma femme toujours avait eprouve une secrete preference pour les bourses de peau de belette, parce que ce sont les plus fortunees ; mais cela n'est dit qu'en passant. Encore conservions-nous envers M. Burcbell un cer- tain degre de consideration, quoique pourtant en dernier lieu son inconvenante conduite eut ^t^ fort desagreable h nous tons. NeanmoinS; nous ne pumes nous empecher de lui faire part de notre bonbeur ni de lui demander conseil. Suivant rarement les conseils qui nous etaient offerts, nous etions pourtant assez disposes k en demander, Des que M. Burcbell eut parcouru le billet que nous avaient adresse les deux dames, branlant la tete il fit la remarque, qu'une affaire de ce genre reclamait de notre part la plus grande circonspection. Get air d^inde- cision deplut grandement k ma femme. " Je n'ai jamais dout^, monsieur," s'^cria-t-elle, " de votre opposition h mes filles et h. moi. Yous etes plus circonspect qu'il ne le faut! Toutefois, quand nous aurons besoin d'un avis, nous nous adresserons k quelqu'un qui aura su mieux profiter de ceux qu'on lui a donnes," " Quelle qu'ait ete ma conduite, madame, ce n'est pas la question du moment. Quoique j'aie fait moi-meme fi des conseils qu'on m^a donnes, en conscience je ne puis en refuser k ceux qui m'en font la demande.'' Appreliendant que cette reponse am^nerait une replique oil I'aigreur suppleerait h I'esprit, — sous pretexte de la longue absence de Moise, qui k nuit-close n' etait pas encore de retour de la foire, — je cban- geai le texte de la conversation. "N'importe notre fils/' s'^- cria ma femme, '^ c'est un luron qui entend parfaitement son affaire. Yous ne lui verrez jamais vendre sa poule par un jour de pluie : je lui ai vu faire des achats dont vous seriez tons abasourdis. A ce sujet je vous conterai une bistoire dont le rire vous fera fendre les cotes; mais aussi sure que je suis
132 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
1015), yonder comes (727) Moses, without a horse, and the box at his (592) back."
As she spoke (54), Moses came (55, 623) slowly on foot (1165) and sweating (771) under the deal box, which he had strapped (773) round his shoulders like a pedlar. "■ Welcome ! welcome (40, 573), Moses ! Well (447), my boy, what (836 bis) have you brought us (623, 52) from the fair V'—'' I have brought (623, 52) you myself (55),'' cried Moses, witb a sly look, and resting (679) the box (69) on (802) the dresser.— '' Ay (849), Moses," cried (727, 623) my wife, 'Hhat we know (623, 727); but where is (52, 776) the horse?''— "I have sold him (56, 777)," cried Mo- ses (55), "for three pounds five shillings and twopence (992)." — "Well done (447), my good boy (439)," returned she (55) ; ''I knew (54, 1074) you would touch (39, 1140) them off. Between ourselves, three pounds five shillings and twopence is (679) no bad day's work (556). Come, let us have (40, 1160 bis) it, then." — "I have (52) brought back no money," cried (55) Mo- ses, again. " I have (56, 777) laid it all out in a bargain, and here it is (829)," pulling out (679) a bundle from his breast; "here they are (54, 648, 679), a gross of green spectacles (412 bis, 1185) with silver rims and shagreen cases." — " A gross of green spectacles !" repeated my wife, in a faint voice. "And you have parted with the colt (56, 777), and brought us (1176) back nothing but (815) a gross of green paltry (556) spectacles !" — " Dear mother," cried (55) the boy, " why won't (1176, 764) you listen (535) to reason? I had them (56, 623, 777, 988) a dead bargain, or I should not have (39) bought them (777). The silver rims (1185) alone (556) will sell (59) for double the money." — " A fig for the silver rims !"cried my wife (55), in a passion: "I dare swear (39, 1092) they won't sell (52, 215) for above half the money at the rate (1184, 336) of broken silver, five (971) shillings an ounce (1186)."—" You need be (52, 163) under no uneasiness," cried (55) I, "about (535) selling the rims, for they are not worth sixpence; for I perceive (52, 93) they are (727) only copper varnished (776, 1093) over." — "What!" cried (55) my wife, "not (855) silver! the rims not
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 133
en vie, j'aper§ois Moise la-bas sans clieval, charge d'une boite sur le dos."
Pendant qu'elle parlait encore, suant sous le faix de la boite de sapin passee en sautoir comme celle d'un colporteur, Moise, a pied, s'avanya peniblement. "■ Sois le bienvenu, Moise ! Moise, sois le bienvenu I Tr^s-bien, mon fils, mais que nous apportes-tu de la foire ?" ^' Je yous apporte ma personne," fit Moise d^un air narquois deposant la boite sur le buffet. ^' Mon Dieu, Moise, nous le savons," s'ecria ma femme, "mais qu^est devenu le cheval ?" " Je Tai vendu," repliqua Moise, ^' trois livres, cinq scbellings, et quatre sous." " Tr^s-bien, bon gar- yon,*' ajouta-t-elle j "je savais bien que tu pincerais quelqu'un. Entre-nous soit dit, trois livres, cinq schellings et quatre sous, sont une assez bonne journee. Aliens ! passe-moi cet argent." "Mais, je ne rapporte pas d'argent," ajouta Moise. "JeTai employe a un grand marcbe, que voici." Disant celk il tira un paquet de son sein. C'etait une grosse de lunettes vertes, a montures d' argent, et etuis de peau-de-chagrin. " Une grosse de lunettes vertes !" s'exclame ma femme d'une voix defail- lante, " ^ montures d'argent et etuis de peau-de-cliagrin ! Et tu as vendu le cheval, n'est-ce pas, pour nous porter en retour une grosse de mauvaises lunettes vertes V " Bonne mere," s'ecria 1' enfant, " pourquoi ne pas vouloir entendre raison ? Je les ai cues pour un morceau de pain ; sans cela les euss4-je acbetees ? L'argent seul des montures doit produire le double de ce que j'ai paye." "Un Hard pour tes montures!" s'ecria ma femme avec colere; "je gagerais qu'elles ne valent pas la moitie de ce qu'elles nous content, a raison de cinq scbellings I'once prix du vieil argent." " Ne vous inquietez pas de la vente des montures," m'ecriai-je, " car elles ne valent pas six sous, Je m'apergois qu'elles sont de cuivre argente." " Quoi 1" s'ecria ma femme, " elles ne sont pas d'argent ! les montures
11
134 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
silver!" — "No," cried I (727), "no more silver than your sauce- pan."— "And so," returned she (55,445), "we have parted (52, 782, 93) with the colt, and have (727) only got a gross of green spectacles with copper rims and shagreen cases ! A murrain (1185) take (52, 851) such trumpery! The blockhead has been (52, 1176) imposed upon, and should have (155, 39) known (1176) his company better (1074) !" — " There, my dear," cried I (55), "you are (52) wrong: he should not have (39, 155) known them at all." — "Marry, hang the idiot!" returned she (55), "to bring us (49) such stuff! If I had them (54, 623), I would throw them (39) in the fire." — "There again you are (648,^39) wrong, my dear," cried I ; " for, though they be copper, we will keep them (59) by us; as copper spectacles (304), you know (52), are (52, 405) better than nothing."
By this time the unfortunate Moses was (55, 706) undeceived. He now saw (55, 128) that he had indeed (58) been imposed upon by a prowling sharper, who (657, 769), observing his figure (367), had marked him (623, 58) for an easy prey. I therefore asked him (55) the circumstances of his deception (251). He sold (54, 103, 58) the horse, it seems, and walked (419, 623, 54, 1165) the fair in search of another. A reverend-looking man (318) brought him (55) to a tent, under pretence of having one to sell (1178, 623). "Here (417)," continued Moses, " we met (55) another man, very well dressed (773), who desired (55, 727) to borrow (1176) twenty (583) pounds upon these, saying (769) that he wanted money, and would dispose (623, 39, 1176) of them for a third of the value. The first gentleman, who (657) pretended (54, 623) to be (1176) my friend, whispered me (55) to buy (1177) them, and cautioned me (771) not to let (1178) so good an offer pass (764). I sent for (55, 1176, 1080) Mr. Flamborough, and they talked (623, 55) him up as finely as they did (623, 55, 777, 1207) me; and so at last we were (665, 55) persuaded (86, 1216) to buy (1178) the two gross between us (826)."
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 135
ne sont pas d' argent?" '^Non/' r^pondis-je, "pas plus que ne Test ton poelon." " Pour lors/' repliqua-t-elle, " nous nous sommes defaits du poulain et n'avons en ecliange.qu'une grosse de lunettes vertes de cuivre, avec etuis de peau-de-chagrin ! que le diable les emporte ! Le butor s'est laiss^ flouer quand il aurait dii mieux connaitre son monde." " Ma chere, tu as tort maintenant," m'ecriai-je : "il n'aurait dti les connaitre en au- eune mani^re." " Pour nous avoir port^ de pareilles salope- ries ridiot meriterait d'etre pendu. Si je les tenais ces lunettes je les jetterais dans le feu !" " Ma chere/' m'ecriai-je, " ce serait-lk un plus grand tort; quoique de cuivre nous les garde- rons. Certes, tu n'ignores pas que ces lunettes, toutes cuivre qu'elles sont, valent apres tout mieux que rien V
Ce fut alors que le malheureux Moise recouvra tout-k-fait de son illusion. II vit maintenant qu'il avait ete dupe d'un adroit filou, qui, ayant remarque sa phjsionomie benevole, Favait juge une proie facile. Je lui demandai alors comment il avait ete dupe. II parait qu'il avait vendu le cheval et qu'il se promenait dans la foire pour y en trouver un autre. Sous pretexte de lui en vendre un, un homme d'un ext^rieur decent I'amena sous une tente. "Ici," ajouta Moise, "nous rencontrames un autre individu bien mis qui pretendit vouloir emprunter vingt livres sur les lunettes, disant que le besoin d' argent les lui faisait ceder poTir un tiers de leur valeur. Le premier de ces messieurs, qui se disait mon ami, m'engagea h voix basse k en faire I'acbat; me recommandant de ne pas laisser echapper cette magnifique occa- sion. J'envoyai prendre le voisin Flamborougli. Tous lui repr^senterent Faffaire aussi brillante qu'ils me I'avaient faite h moi-meme ; k tel point qu'on nous persuada d'acheter les deux grosses k nous deux."
136 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTER XIIL
MB. BITRCHELL IS FOUND TO BE (1216) AN ENEMY J FOR HE HAS THE CONFI- DENCE TO GIVE DISAGREEABLE ADVICE.
Our family (592) had now made (58^ 777) several attempts to be (1176) fine ; but some unforeseen (556) disaster demolisbed (57, 776) eacb as soon as projected. I endeavored (55, 623) to take (1178) the advantage of every disappointment, to improve (1178) their good sense, in proportion as they were frustrated in ambition. " You see (623, 52), my children," cried I (55), "how little is to be got (665, 52) by attempts to impose (764, 1176) upon the world, in coping (1177) with our betters (407, 634). Such as are poor, and will (52) associate with none but the rich (52, 679), are hated (792, 149) by thote they avoid, and despised (854, 776) by those they follow (679). Unequal combinations (556, 861) are always disadvantageous to the weaker side; the rich having (52) the pleasure, and the poor (854) the incon- veniences, that result from them. But come (40), Dick, my boy, and repeat (40, 74, 623) the fable you were (56, 777) reading to-day, for the good of the company."
"Once upon a time (1223, 103)," cried the child, '^a giant and a dwarf were (623, 55) friends, and kept (727) together. They made a bargain (484, 854) that they never would forsake (706, 166, 1178) each other (1089), but go seek (55, 895, 1176, 1079) adventures (861). The first (556, 362) battle they fought (55) was (727) with two Saracens (1187 bis, 287) ; ^nd the dwarf, who was (855) very courageous, dealt (55) one of the champions a most angry blow. It did the Saracen very little injury, who, lifting up (769) his sword, fairly struck off (55) the poor dwarf ^s arm (304). He was (623, 55) now in a woeful plight; but the giant, coming (771, 70) to his assistance, in a short time left
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 137
CHAPITEE XIII.
ON REGABDE M. BURCHELIi COMME ENNEMI, PARCE QU'lL A LA PRESOMPTION D'OFFBIB UN CONSEIL QUI DEPLAlT.
Pour paraitre avec splendeur la famille avait fait plusieurs essais, qui, toujours des leur naissance, furent renverses par de nouveaux desastres. Je m'eflFor§ai done de tourner a son avan- tage toutes ces eontrarietes, et, en raison de ces dernieres, tS-chai d'ameliorer le jugement de ceux qui la composaient. "Yous le voyez, mes chers enfants/' m'ecriai-je, " on gagne peu k vouloir tromper le monde et h lutter avec plus grands que soi. Le pauvre qui veut singer le riclie se fait hair de ceux qu'il ^vite, et mepriser de ceux qu'il copie. Fondles sur Tin^galit^ les liai- sons sont toujours funestes aux plus faibles. Le riclie recolte Tavantage, le pauvre Finconvenient qui r^sulte de ces liaisons. Mais viens ici Richard, mon brave, et pour T^dification de la compagnie redis-nous la fable que tu as lue aujourd'hui."
*' II J avait autrefois/' dit Tenfant, " un g^ant et un nain qui se prirent- d'amiti^ et vecurent quelque temps ensemble. Con- venus de ne jamais se quitter ils allerent de compagnie courir des aventures. La premiere bataille qu'ils livr^rent fut centre deux Sarrasins. Le nain tres-brave porta un coup terrible k Tun des champions, sans pourtant lui faire trop de mal. Levant son sabre, I'adversaire coupa le bras du pauvre nain qui se trouva dans une triste position ; mais courant a son secours en un clin-d'oeil le geant tua les Sarrasins. De depit le nain coupa
12*
138 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(298,55) the two Saracens dead on the plain, and the dwarf cut off p32) the dead man's head (304) out of spite. They then travelled on (55) to another adventure. This was (556, 727) against three bloody-minded satyrs, who were carrying (54, 679) away a damsel (368) in distress. The dwarf was (623, 54) not quite so fierce now as before, but, for all that, struck (55, 1072) the first blow, which was returned (665, 55) by another that knocked out his eye (298, 556); but the giant was soon up with them, and, had they not fled, would certainly have (89, 155, 777) killed them (623) every one. They were all (665, 55) very joyful for this victory, and the damsel who was relieved (773, 86) fell in love (1230) with the giant, and married him (623, 55, 1207). They now travelled far, and farther than (39, 1176) I can tell, tilll they met (55, 706) with a company of robbers. The giant, for the first time, was (58, 679, 1046 bis) foremost now, but the dwarf was not (54) far behind. The battle was (55) stout and long. Wherever the giant came, all (607) fell (54) before him ; but the dwarf had like to have been (55, 1085) killed (920) more than once. At last the victory declared (54, 93) for the two ad- venturers (592); but the dwarf lost (55) his leg (592). The dwarf had (1185) now lost (58) an arm, a leg, and an eye, while the giant was (58, 679) without a single wound. Upon which he cried (55) to his little companion, 'My little hero, this is glorious sport; let us get (40) one victory more, and then we shall have (59) honor forever.' — ' No,' cries (52, 726) the dwarf, who by this time was grown (55) wiser, 'no; I declare off (52, 726): I fight (52, 623, 1176) no more: for I find (52) in every battle that you get (52) all the honor and rewards, but all the blows (953, 52) fall upon me.' "
I was going (54, 1076) to moralize (1176) upon this fable, when our attention was called off (55) to a warm dispute between my wife and Mr. Burchell upon my daughters' intended (304) expedition to town. My wife very strenuously insisted (54) upon the advantages that would result from it (39). Mr. Bur- chell, on the contrary, dissuaded (54) her with great ardor, and t stood (845, 55) neuter. His present dissuasit^ns seemed (54)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 139
la t^te a rhoinme mort. lis s'en all^rent alors en quete de nou- velles aventures. La prochaine fat centre trois satyres sangui- naires qui enlevaient une malheureuse damoiselle. Actuellement le nain s'etait un pen refroidi de sa premiere ardeur ; neanmoins, ce fut lui qui porta ie premier coup, qu'on lui rendit par un oeil creve. Le geant ne tarda guere a arriver ; et si I'ennemi n'eut pris la fuite il les aurait tues.tous les trois. On chanta yictoire. Devenue amoureuse du geant la damoiselle delivree se maria avec lui. lis cheminerent loin, fort loin, — beaucoup plus loin que je ne pourrais I'exprimer, — jusqu'a -ce qu'ils rencontr^rent une compagnie de voleurs. Pour la premiere fois le geant avait pris Tavance, mais le nain n'etait pas de beaucoup en-arri^re. Acbarnee, la bataille dura long-temps. Tout cedait devant le geant, et le nain faillit etre tue plus d^une fois. La victoire enfin se declara pour nos deux aventuriers, mais le nain laissa une jambe a la bataille. Ce pauvre diable avait actuellement perdu un bras, une jambe, et un oeil, tandis que le geant n' avait pas re§u de blessures. ' Heros mignon !' s'ecria-t-il a son cama- rade j 'le jeu est admirable : gagnons encore une aulre victoire, et nous aurons de la gloire sans fin.' 'Non,' s'ecrie le nain, devenu sage a ses depens. 'Jevous quitte pour ne plus me battre. Morbleu ! je m'aper§ois que dans chaque bataille les iionneurs et la gloire sont pour vous, tandis que tons les coups sont pour moi.' "
J'allais moraliser sur cette fable, quand une violente dispute entre M. Burcbell et ma femnle, au sujet du voyage de mes filles h Londres, absorba totalement notre attention. Ma femme insistait fortement sur les avantages qui devaient en r^sulter. M. Burchell au contraire mettait toute son ardeur k Ten dis- suader. Quant k moi je restai neutre. Ses motifs de dissuasion
140 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
but the second part of those which were received (665, 58) with so ill a grace in the morning. The dispute grew (55) high, while (593) poor Deborah, instead of reasoning stronger, talked (54) louder, and at last was obliged (57, 776) to take shelter from a defeat in clamor. The conclusion of her harangue (367), however, was (55) highly displeasing to us all : she knew (633), she said, of some who had (52, 726) their secret reasons for what' they ad- vised; but, for her part, she wished (52) such to stay (764) away from her house for the future. ^' Madam," cried (55) Mr. Bur- chell, with looks (866) of great composure, which tended (55) to inflame her the more, "as for secret (556) reasons, you are (52, 769) right; I have (415, 727) secret reasons, which (657) I forbear (52, 1059) to mention (1178), because you are not (52) able to answer (1176) those of which I make (52, 1176) no secret; but I find (52, 623, 93) my visits here are become (52, 776, 298) troublesome; Til take my leave (59, 1046 bis), there- fore, now, and perhaps (1016, 39, 622) come once more, to take (1028) a final farewell, when I am quitting (727, 1088). the country." Thus saying, he took up (55) his hat ; nor could (855) the attempts of Sophia, whose (657) looks (298) seemed (54, 679) to upbraid (1176) his precipitancy, prevent his (854, 556) going. When gone (57, 776), we all regarded (55) each other (674) for some minutes with confusion (863). My wife, who knew (54, 93) herself to be (86) the cause, strove (55) to hide (1178) her concern with a forced Smile, and an air (866) of assurance (1185), which I was willing to reprove (55). " How, woman!" cried I to her, "is it thus we treat (52) strangers? Is it thus we return (727) their kindness? Be assured (155, 623, 40), my dear, that these were (56) the harshest (548) words, and to me (74, 861) the most (548) unpleasing, that ever (740) escaped (776) your lips I" — "Why would he provoke me, then (54, 623, 181) ?" replied she; "but I know (52, 821 bis) the motives of his advice perfectly well. He would prevent (54, 1176) my girls from going (1178, 706) to town, that he may have (1176) the pleasure of my youngest daughter's company here at home. But, whatever (667 bis, 103 bis) happens, she shall (59^ choose (1177,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 141
^talent les memes que ceux donnes dans la matinee, et qu'on avait si mal accueillis. La dispute prit un caractere alarmant; mais, au lieu de payer en bonne raisons, ma pauvre Deborah criait de plus belle. Enfin, pour se tirer d'embarras, elle sou- leva une veritable clameur. La conclusion de sa harangue nous fit a tons une peine inconcevable. "Nous connaissons des gens," dit-elle, " qui ont de secrets motifs pour donner certains conseils. Quant h moi/' ajouta-t-elle, "je ne soubaite rien tant pour Favenir que de les voir se dispenser de mettre les pieds dans ma maison." '' Madame,'^ s'ecria M. Burcbell d'un air tres-compose, ce qui porta au comble la fureur de son adver- saire, " vous avez raison quant aux motifs secrets. Oui, j'en ai de secrets que je me garde bien de vous communiquer, vu que vous ne pouvez repondre aux cboses que je vous fais connaitre. Mais, je m'apergois que mes visites ici sont vues de fort mauvais ceil. Je prendrai done conge de vous : peut-etre, retournerai-je encore vous faire un dernier adieu quand je quitterai le pays." A ces-mots il prit son cbapeau et partit; malgre Sophie dont les yeux semblaient lui reprocher cette resolution irreflechie.
Des qu'il fut sorti, pendant quelques minutes et d'un air confus, nous nous regardames tous les uns les autres. .Ma femme, qui se sentait cause de ce qui venait de se passer, affecta de cacher son emotion par un rire force, et sous un air d'assu- rance qui lui attira ma reprobation. " Femme," lui dis-je, " est- ce ainsi que nous traitons les etrangers qui viennent chez nous ? est-ce de cette maniere que nous reconnaissons leur bonte ? Sois en sure, ma chere, ces paroles m'ont ete penibles k entendre. Ne sont-ce pas les plus mechantes qui jamais soient sorties de ta bouche, et les plus blessantes pour mes oreilles ?" '^ Mais, pourquoi me provoquait-il aussi V repliqua-t-elle. " Je n'ignore pas non plus ce qui lui faisait donner ce conseil. Son but etait d'empecher mes filles d'aller k la ville, afin d' avoir ici la com- pagnie de la plus jeune. Mais, quoi qu'il en arrive, elle aura k
142 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
623) better company than sucli low-lived fellows (562, 450) as he/'— "Low-lived, my dear (69,857), do you call (52, 121) himT' cried I (55) ; ^^ it is very (103) possible we may mistake (738 bis, 1161) this man's character, for he seems (56) upon some occasions (706) the most finished gentleman I ever knew (556). Tell me (40, 623), Sophia, my girl, has he ever (438, 52, 403) given you (792) any secret instances of his attachment?" — "His (367) conversation with me, sir," replied (55) my daughter, " has ever been (56, 405) sensible, modest (556), and pleasing. As (845) to aught else, no, never (404). Once, indeed, I remember (55, 1176) to have heard him say (1107) he never knew (58, 679) a woman who could find (740, 751) merit (537) in a man that seemed poor." — ''Such, my dear," cried I (55), "is (52, 679) the common cant of all the unfortunate or idle. But I hope (52, 1216) you have been taught (56, 623, 777) to judge (1177) properly of such men, and that it would be (648, 39) even (1208) madness to expect happiness (1178, 1187 bis) from one who has been (648, 56) so very bad an economist of his own. Your mother and I have (52, 680, 628) now better prospects for you. The next winter, which you will (59) probably spend (1104) in town, will give (727) you opportunities of making (1178) a more prudent choice."
What Sophia's reflections (^304) were (55) upon this occasion, I cannot pretend (59) to determine ; but I was not (55, 622, 764) displeased at the bottom that we were rid (1178, 623) of a guest from whom (657) I had much to fear (54, 1176). Our breach of hospitality went (55) to my conscience a little ; but I quickly silenced (727) that monitor by two or three specious reasons, which (55, 855) served to satisfy and reconcile me to myself. The pain which conscience gives (52) the man who has already done wrong is soon got over. Conscience is a coward; and those faults it has not strength to prevent (1178) it seldom has justice enough to accuse (628, 1176).
LE VICAIRB DE WAKEFIELD. 143
se choisir une society meilleure que celle de ce va-nu-pieds." ''Et tu I'appelles lui, un va-nu-pieds ?^^ m'ecriai-je. "II est possible que nous nous meprenions sur sa naissance, car en de certaines occasions je Fai reconnu pour un gentilliomme accom- pli. Dis-moi, Sophie, ma fille^ ne t'a-t-il jamais fait connaitre secr^tement son affection ?" " Sa conversation, papa, a toujours ^t6 raisonnable, chaste, et agreable. Quant k autre chose — jamais ! Une fois, pourtant, lui ai-je entendu dire qu'il n'avait jamais rencontre de femmes qui trouvassent du merite dans un homme sans fortune." " Telles sont, ma ch^re, les raisons ban ales que donnent toujours les gueux et les faineans. On t'a enseigne, j'espere, h juger sainement de pareils caract^res; et ce serait folie k toi de fonder ton bonheur sur un homme qui a tant abuse du sien. Ta mere et moi avons d'autres vues sur ton avenir. L'hiver prochain tu le passeras probablement k la ville; la tu trouveras occasion de faire un choix plus conve- nable.''
Je ne pr^tendrai pas decider quelles furent les reflexions que fit Sophie k ce sujet. Toutefois, fus-je bien aise de m'etre debar- rass6 d'une connaissance qui nous faisait tant apprehender sur son compte. Ce manque d'hospitalite, il faut Tavouer, toucha un peu ma conscience ; mais, avec deux ou trois pretextes, je satisfis ce conseiller et moi-m§me. La peine qu'occasionne une conscience coupable est toujours de courte duree. Lache, une pareille conscience n'est jamais assez juste pour s'accuser du mal qu'elle n'a pas eu la force d'emp^cher.
144 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTER XIY.
FRESH (556) MORTIFICATIONS, OR (911) A DEMONSTRATION THAT SEEMING CALA- MITIES MAY BE (105, 679) REAL BLESSINGS.
The journey of my daughters to town was (54) now resolved (773) upon, Mr. Thornhill having kindly promised (769) to inspect (1178) their conduct himself and inform us (1178, 623) by letter of their behavior. But it was thought (769) indis- pensably necessary that their appearance should (740, 751) equal the greatness of their expectations, which could not be done (623, 55) without expense. We debated (57), therefore, in full coun- cil, what were the easiest (550) methods of raising (1171) money, or, more properly speaking (1176), what we could (55, 1090) most conveniently (1160 bis) sell. The deliberation was soon finished (55, 222) : it was found (55, 1091) that our remain- ing horse (54, 1087) was utterly useless for the plough without his companion, and equally unfit (727) for the road, as wanting an ey£ (298). It was (57, 776) therefore determined that we should dispose of him, for the purpose above mentioned, at the neighboring fair, and, to prevent (1176) imposition, that I should go (39, 1060 bis) with him myself Though this was (55) one of the first mercantile (556) transactions of my life, yet I had (54) no doubt of acquitting myself (1178, 623, 799) with re- putation. The opinion a man forms (52, 1154) of his own pru- dence is measured by that of the company he keeps; and as mine was (54) mostly in the family way, I had conceived (727). no unfavorable sentiments of my worldly wisdom. My wife, however, next morning, at parting, after I had got (771) some paces from the door, called me (55, 623) back to advise me (1176, 623), in a whisper, to have (1178, 1019) all my eyes about me (607).
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 145
CHAPITEE XIV.
NOUVELLES CONTRARIETES, OIT DEMONSTRATION QUE LES CALAMIT^S APPA- RENTES PEUVENT SE CONSIDERER COJIME DE VRAIES BENEDICTIONS.
D:fisoRMAis le voyage de mes fiUes h Londres etait une chose arr§tee ; de bonte de coeur M. Thornhill ayant offert de les sur- veiller lui-meme, et promis de nous informer par lettres de leur conduite. Croyant n^cessaire, indispensable meme que leur apparence dans le monde egalat la grandeur de leurs esperances, alors nous aper§umes-nous que cela ne pouvait avoir lieu sans depense. Consequemment un grand conseil fut tenu sur les voies-et-moyens de se procurer de I'argent, ou, pour parler plus clairement, nous convinmes de vendre Tobjet dont nous pouvions le plus aisement nous passer. La deliberation fut bientot close. Nous tombames d'accord, que, sans son compagnon, le cbeval qui nous restait ne pouvait servir k la cbarrue; comme borgne il 4tait aussi impropre au voyage. Par ces motifs, et a cette fin, la vente a la prochaine foire en fut aussit6t resolue ; et, pour eviter toute tromperie, Ton decida que j'irais moi-meme tenir foire. Quoique ce fut Ik une de mes premieres operations commerciales, je ne doutais aucunement de m'en tirer avec bonneur. L'opi- nion qu'un bomme forme de sa prudence est toujours relative a celle de son entourage; et comme la mienne etait toute de famille, je me figurais posseder 'une grande connaissance du monde. Le jour d'apres, avant le depart, etant encore a quel- ques pas de la porte, ma femme neanmoins me rappela pour me dire, k voix basse, d'etre tout yeux et tout oreilles.
13
146 THE VICAR or, WAKEFIELD.
I had (1176); in tie usual forms^ when I came (855) to the fair, put (792, 1039, 606) my horse through all his paces, hut for some time had (154, 679) no bidders. At last a chap- man approached (55), and after he had (155, 679) for a good while examined (767, 484) the horse round, finding him (623, 769) blind of one eye, he would have (55) nothing to say to him; a second (927) came up (55), but, observing he had (54) a spavin, declared (55, 677) he would not take, him (415, 1176, 623) for the driving home ; a third perceived (69, 769) he had (318) a wind-gall, and would (678, 55, 166, 1176) bid no money; a fourth knew (732) by his eye that he had (54, 679) the bots; a fifth wondered (623, 55, 732) what a plague I could do (740, 751) at the fair with a blind, spavined, galled hack, that was only fit to be cut up for a dog-kennel. By this time (1185) I began (54, 857) to have (1177) a most hearty contempt for the poor animal myself, and was (769) almost ashamed at the approach of every customer; for though I did not entirely believe (925, 1176) all the fellows told me (415, 54), yet I reflected (727) that the number of witnesses was (54, 679) a strong presumption (706) they were (54, 988) right; and St. Gregory upon good works, professes himself (52) to be of the same opinion.
I was (54) in this mortifying situation (766), when a brother clergyman, an old acquaintance, who had also (767, 1176) busi- ness at the fair, came up (55), and, shaking me (1176) by the hand, proposed (623) adjourning (706) to a public house, and taking (1177) a glass of whatever we could get. I readily closed (55) with the (592) offer, and, entering (771) an alehouse, we were shown (665, 86) into a little back room, where (432) there was (54) only a venerable old* man, who sat (627, 773) wholly (861, 54, 679, 405) intent (907) over a large book which he was reading (26, 466). I never (166) in my life (58) saw a figure that prepossessed (623, 751) me more favorably. His locks of silver- gray (577) venerably shaded (54) his temples, and his green old age Seemed to be (54, 679) the result of health and benevolence. However, his presence did not interrupt (55) our conversation. My friend and I discoursed (732) on the various turns of fortune
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 147
Arriv^ au cliamp-de-foire, ayant fait prendre a mon clieval toutes les allures d'usage, je demeurai quelque temps sans ache- teurs. Enfin un chaland s'approclia. Ayant pendant long- temps examine et tourne autour du clieval, s^apercevant qu'il etait borgne il dedaigna de faire une offre. Un deuxieme vint ensuite; mais snr la decouverte que le clieval avait des ^par- vins, il declara n'en pas vouloir dusse-je lui en faire present. Apercevant une molettCj un troisi^me ne voulut m'offrir aucun prix. Au simple coup-d'oeil un quatrieme decouvrit que le cheval avait des vers dans Festomac. Le cinquieme, enfin, parut s'etonner que je fusse venu k la foire pour y vendre une rosse borgne, eparvinee, blessee au dos, et bonne a donner aux chiens. Sans croire pourtant tout ce que ces gaillards m'en disaient, a cette beure je commen§ais moi-meme a avoir une triste opinion de la pauvre bete, eprouvant une certaine honte k I'approclie de chaque cbaland. Leur nombre cependant don- nait un certain poids h lexfrs dires, et montrait qu'ils n'avaient pas tout-^-fait tort ; car, parlant des bonnes oeuvres, St. G-regoire partage aussi cette opinion.
J'^tais dans cette position embarrassante quand un confrere du clerge, ancienne connaissance, vint me toucher la main et m'inviter a prendre un verre de quoi-que-ce-soit dans le cabaret voisin. Entrant dans cette guinguette on nous indiqua une petite chambre sur le derriere, ou, assis, un vieillard venerable lisait attentivement dans un grand livre place devant lui. De ma vie je n'avais rencontre de visage qui me predisposat plus en sa faveur. De long cbeveux d'un gris-cendre recouvraient ses tempes venerables, et sa verte vieillesse paraissait le resultat de la sante et de la bienveillance. Sa presence, neanmoins, ne gena en rien notre conversation. Nous caus0.mes mon ami et
148 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
we had met ; tlie Whistonian controversy, my last pamphlet, the archdeacon's reply (304), and the hard measure that was dealt (58, 777) me (941, 950). But our attention was (54) in a short time taken off (776) by the appearance of a youth, who (655), entering (771) the room, respectfully said (55) something softly to the old stranger. ^' Make (40, 484) no apologies, my child," said (55) the old man ; " to do (1176) good is a duty we owe (52) to all our fellow-creatures. Take (40) this (365 bis) ; I wish it were (1176, 764) more; but five pounds will relieve (52, 1176) your distress, and you are (52, 679) welcome." The modest youth shed (55) tears (287) of gratitude ; and yet his gratitude was
(54) scarcely equal (556) to mine (381). I could have hugged (58, 777) the good old man in my arms, his benevolence pleased me so. He continued (679) to read (1185), and we resumed
(55) our conversation, until my companion, after some time, re- collecting (751, 921) that he had (623, 58) business to transact in the fair, promised (771) to be soon back; adding (55) that he always desired to have .(1178) as much of Dr. Primrose's company (304) as possible. The old gentleman, hearing (769, 1176) my name mentioned (861), seemed (55, 623, 1176) to look at me (706, 556, 1193) with attention for some time, and, when my friend was gone (57, 776), most respectfully demanded (623, 55) if I was (54) any way related to the great Prim- rose, that courageous monogamist, who (855) had been (86) the bulwark of the church. Never did (55) my heart feel sincerer rapture than (855, 55) at that moment. " Sir," cried I (623, 55), " the applause of so good a man as I am sure you are (610, 623, 1176) adds (679, 52) to that happiness in my ^breast which your benevolence has (57, 777) already excited. You behold (52) before you, sir, that Dr. Primrose, the monogamist, whom you have been pleased (56) to call (1178) great. You here see (52) that unfortunate divine, who has so long, and it would ill be- come me to say (39, 1178) successfully, fought (56, 780) against the deuterogamy of the age." " Sir," cried (55) the stranger, struck (773) with awe, " I fear (52) I have been (1178, 155) too familiar ; but you'll forgive (726, 706) my curiosity, sir; I beg
LE VICAIEE DE WAKEFIELD. 149
moi des diverses circonstances de notre vie, de la controverse Whistoniene, de mon dernier pamplilet, de la replique de Farcliidiacre, et de la mesure severe qu'on avait prise a mon egard. Sous peu notre attention fut portee sur un jeune homme qui, entrant dans la cliambre, ^ voix basse et d'un ton respec- tueux parla au vieillard. "• Pas d'excuses, mon enfant/' dit la personne agee, '^ bien faire est un devoir que nous devons tous au prochain. Prends ceci, et quoique je regrette de ne pouvoir faire davantage, cinq livres neanmoins doivent te tirer d'em- barras: tu es le bien-venu/' Le jeune adolescent versa des larmes de reconnaissance; et pourtant cette reconnaissance ^galait a peine la mienne. J'en etais tellement affecte que j'aurais volontiers presse le vieillard entre mes bras. Conti- nuant sa lecture nous reprimes aussitot notre causerie, jusqu'au moment ou mon compagnon se rappelat Taffaire qui I'avait amen^ a la foire. Me promettant de revenir bientot il ajouta, que, son desir, avait toujours ete de jouir autant que possible de la societe du Dr. Primrose. Entendant prononcer mon nom, pendant quelque temps le vieillard sembla me considerer avec une vive attention. Des que mon ami m'eut quitte, d'un ton respec- tueux il me demanda, si, par basard, j 'etais parent ou allie du grand Primrose, le courageux monogamiste et le boulevard de I'eglise. Non, de ma vie, mon coeur ne fut penetre d'allegresse comme il le fut en ce moment. "Monsieur," m'ecriai-je, "les eloges d'un bomme aussi bon que vous paraissez Fetre, pe- netrent mon coeur d'une douce joie qu'a dejii excite votre bienveillance. Oui, vous avez sous les yeux le Dr. Primrose, ce monogamiste qu'il vous a plu d'appeler le grand, cet eccle- siastique malheureux qui si longtemps — me si<^rait-il d'ajouter victorieusement — a combattu la deuterogamie du siecle." " Mon- sieur," s'ecria I'etranger penetre de respect, ^'je crains d'avoir ete trop cavalier a votre dgard; de grace accordez-moi votre
13*
150 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
(861) pardon." — " Sir," cried I, grasping his (592) hand, "you are so far from displeasing (1178) me by your familiarity, that I must beg you'll accept my friendship, as you already have (52) my esteem." — " Then with gratitude I accept (623, 52) the offer," cried he, squeezing me by the hand, " thou glorious pillar of un- shaken orthodoxy. And do I behold (169, 737) — " I here (417) interrupted (55) what he was going (54, 1076) to say (1176) ; for though (842) as an author I could digest (876, 1178) no small share of flattery, yet now my modesty would permit (623, 55, 1178) no more. However, no lovers in romance ever (404, 103) cemented (679) a more instantaneous friendship. We talked (732, 1137 bis) upon several subjects. At first, I thought (732) him rather devout than learned, and began (727, 1177) to think (54, 679) he despised (606) all human doctrines (556) as dross. Yet this no way lessened (55) him in my esteem; for I had (769) for some time begun (155) privately to harbor such an opinion myself. I therefore took (55) occasion (706, 623, 910) to observe, that the world in general began (54) to be blamably indifferent as to doctrinal matters, and followed (1176) human speculations too much. ''Ay, sir," replied he (55), as if he had reserved (57, 777) all (606) his learning to that moment; "Ay, sir, the world is (52) in its dotage, and yet the cosmogony or creation of the world (683) has puzzled (56, 535) philosophers of all ages. What a medley (276) of opinions have they not broached (777, 860) upon the creation of the world? Sancho- niathon, Manetho, Berosus, and Ocellus Lucanus, have all (939, 606) attempted (773) it in vain. The latter has these words : Anarchon ara kai atelutaion to pcm (948), which imply (52) that all things (606) have neither (727, 925) beginning (839) nor (535) end. Manetho, also, who lived about the time of Nebuchadon-Asser (427) — Asser being a Syriac word, usually applied as a surname to the kings of that country, as (933) Teglat Phael- Asser, Nabon- Asser — he, I say (181, 55), formed a conjec- ture equally absurd ; for, as we usually say, ek to hihlion kuhernetesj which implies that books will never teach (59, 404) the world, so he attempted (55) to investigate (1178) But, sir, I ask
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 151
pardon!" "Monsieur/^ m'ecriai-je en lui presentant la main, " loin de me deplaire acceptez mon amitie, car vous possedez deja mon estime." '^Pour lors je Faccepte avec. reconnais- sance/^ ajouta-t-il en me serrant la main. ^' Toi glorieux et inebranlable pilier des doctrines ortliodoxes ! Est-ce bien vrai que je contemple . . , ." Ici j'interrompis ce qu'il allait me dire ; car, qnoique auteur et capable d'imbiber une forte dose de flatterie, ma modestie neanmoins ne me permit pas de le laipser finir. y raiment, il ne s'est jamais trouve de heros de roman qui se soient pris Fun pour I'autre d'un attacbement aussi spon- tane. Nous causames sur plusieurs sujets. Je supposai d'abord qu'il etait plus devot que lettre, et commengai a croire qu'il considerait toutes les doctrines bumaines comme un vain fatras ; mais cela ne diminua en rien I'opinion favorable que j'avais formee sur son compte, ayant moi-meme pendant quelque temps penche vers cette croyance. J'eus done soin de lui faire remar- quer, qu'en general, encourant le reprocbe d'indifference pour tout ce qui toucbait aux doctrines speculatives, le monde ne paraissait s'interesser qu'aux temporelles. '' Men Dieu, mon- sieur," repliqua-t-il, comme s'il eut reserve toute sa science pour ce moment-1^, ^' le monde retombe dans I'enfance ; neanmoins la cosmogonie, ou sa creation, a embarrasse les pbilosopbes de toutes les epoques. Quel tas d'opinions n'ont-ils pas emises sur cette creation? Sancboniaton, Manes, Berose, et Ocellus Lucain s'y sent tons essayes a pure perte. A ce dernier appar- tiennent ces mots : Anarchon ara hai atelutaion to pan, qui signifient que tout est sans commencement et sans fin. Manes, aussi, contemporain de Nabucbodonosor — Asor en syriaque etant generalement employe comme surnom des rois de ce pays; temoin Teglat-Phael-Asor, Nabon-Asor,-^Manes, dis-je, batit une bypotbese non moins absurde; et comme nous disons d'ordi- naire : eh to hihlion huhernetes : neanmoins, * les livres n'instrui-
152 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
(40, 623) pardon ; I am straying (56, 158) from tlie question." That lie actually was (623, 58) ; nor could I (39, 821 bis), for my life, sea how (415, 1176) the creation of the world had (54, 769) any thing to do (855) with the business I was talking (69) of; but it was sufficient to show me (365 bis, 771) that he was (54, 1001) a man of letters, and I now reverenced him (55, 623, 799) the more. I was resolved (55), therefore, to bring (11^8) him to the touchstone ; but lie was (54) too mild and too gentle to contend (1176, 623, 535) for victory. Whenever (600) I made any observation that looked like (54, 1095) a.chal- lenge to controversy, he would smile (54, 769), shake his head (727, 592), and say (54, 229) nothing; by which I understood (623, 54) he could say mucli (39,155, 1177) if be thought (57, 374, 789) proper. The subject, therefore, insensibly changed (55) from the business of antiquity to that which brought (623, 54, 769) us to the fair. Mine (382), I told (55, 623) him, was (54) to sell (1176, 938) a^borse, and, very luckily (447) indeed, his was (54, 727) to buy one (1178, 938, 799) for one of his tenants. My borse was (57) soon produced (776), and, in fine, we struck (405, 55) a bargain. Nothing now remained (769) but to pay me (623, 1176), and he accordingly pulled out (55) a thirty-pound note (1185), and bid me change it (1142). Not being in a capacity of complying .(1176, 706) with his demand, lie ordered (55, 1176) his footman (511) to be called up (69), who made his appearance (55) in a very genteel livery. ''Here (417), Abraham," cried he (55), " go (40) and get (1142) gold for this; you'll (52,652) do it at neighbor Jackson's, or any- where." While the fellow was gone, he entertained me (623, 55) with a patbetic harangue on the great scarcity of silver (1185); which I undertook to improve (771), by deploring (55) also the great scarcity of gold; so that by the time Abraham returned, we had both agreed (1091, 58) that money (1185) was (58) never so hard to be come at (1177) as now. Abraham re- turned to inform us (55) that he had been (58) over the whole fair, and could not get (925, 764) change, though he had offered (769) half a crown for doing it. This was (55, 648) a very great
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 153
ront jamais le monde/ Manes malgre cela eutreprit de traiter
cette Mais excusez-moi, monsieur, j'ai abandonne
mon sujet." II est liors de doute qu'il Favait abandonne, et mon existence dut-elle en dependre je ne pourrais, non plus, dire ce qu'avait de commun la creation du monde avec notre conversa- tion du moment. Ceia m'ayant montre que j'avais a faire h un savant, je ne pus que Ten estimer davantage. Je resolus pour- tant de Fessajer h la pierre-de-touche, mais il etait trop bon ou trop modeate pour me disputer la victoire. Chaque fois que mes questions ouvraient la porte a la controverse, il souriait, branlait la tete et ne disait mot; ce qui me faisait croire qu'il eut eu beaucoup a dire s'il I'eut voulu. De Fantiquite la con- versation peu a peu tomba sur le sujet qui nous amenait h la foire. Mon affaire h, moi, lui dis-je, etait pour y vendre un cheval ; tres-heureusement, pour lui, la sienne etait d'y en aclieter un pour Tun de ses tenanciers. Mon cheval fut bientot presente et un marche fut aussitot conclu. Ne restant plus qii'h me payer, il tira de sa pocbe un billet de trente livres qu'il me pria de lui changer. Ne pouvant obtemperer a sa demande, il fit appeler son domestique qui parut aussitot sous une livree fort decente. ^^Ici, Abraham," s'ecria-t-il, " va me changer ce billet pour de Tor. Pour cela entre chez le voisin Jackson, ou n'im- porte partout ailleurs.'^ Pendant Tabsence du valet, il me parla d'un ton tr^s-pathetique sur I'excessif besoin d' argent. Renche- rissant sur sa harangue, je Fentretins de mon cote sur Fextreme rarete de For. A tel point, qu'avant le retour d' Abraham, nous etions tombes d'accord que jamais Fargent n'avait ete plus diffi- cile h se procurer. A son retour Abraham nous fit savoir qu'il avait parcouru toute la foire sans pouvoir changer ; ayant meme effort un ecu pour le change. Ce fut pour nous tous un grand
154 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
disappointment to us all; but tlie old gentleman, having paused a little, asked me (623, 65) if I knew (163, 39) one Solomon Flamborougli in my part of the country. Upon replying that he was (648,52) my next-door neighbor — " If that be the case, then/' returned he, " I believe we shall deal (59, 231). You shall have (727) a draft upon him payable at sight; and let me tell you (736, 740, 1178), he is as warm a man as any within five miles (589) round him. Honest Solomon and I have been ac- quainted (623, 52) for many years together. I remember (52, 921) I always beat him (623, 54) at three jumps; but he could hop upon (987) one leg farther than I." A draft upon my neigh- bor was to me (54) the same as money, for I was sufficiently convinced (706) of his ability. The draft was signed (623, 57, 776) and put into my hands, and Mr. Jenkinson, the old gentle- man, his man Abraham, and my horse, old Blackberry, trotted o£P (55), very well pleased (773) with each other (941).
After a short interval, being left to reflection, I began (55, 58) to recollect that I had (988) done wrong in taking (1178) a draft from a stranger, and so prudently resolved (623, 59) upon following the purchaser (706,1178) and having back (623, 764) my horse: — but this was now (103,54) too late; I therefore made (55) directly homewards, resolving (773) to get (763) the draft changed into money at my friend's (304) as fast as possi- ble. I found (769) my honest neighbor smoking his pipe at his own door, and, informing him (623, 55) that I had (54) a small bill upon him, he read it (55) twice over. ''You can read the name (52,1176), I suppose (727),'' cried I (55), '' Ephraim Jenkinson." — ''Yes," returned he, "the name is written plain enough (776), and I know (52) the gentleman, too, — the greatest (548, 556) rascal under the canopy of heaven. This is the very same rogue who sold us (55) the spectacles. "Was he not (648, 54) a venerable-looking man, with gray hair, and no flaps to his pocket-holes ? and did he not talk (56) a long string of learning about Grreek, and cosmogony, and the world ?" To this I re- plied (365 bis) with a groan. — "Ay," continued he (55, 445), *' he has but (52, 815) that one piece of learning in the world
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 155
mecompte. Apres une courte pause, le vieux monsieur me demanda; si, dans mon voisinage, je n'aurais pas connaissance d'un nomme Salomon Flamborough. " Mais c'est mon voisin/^ repliquai-je; "nous demeurons porte-k-porte." "Dans ce cas/^ ajouta-t-il, " nous ferons affaire. Vous aurez un mandat sur lui h vue. Et qu'il me soit permis de dire qu'a cinq milles a la ronde on ne trouverait pas de meilleur homme. Brave Salomon ! je m'en souviens, je le gagnais toujours aux trois-sauts, mais k cloche-pied il etait mon maitre.'^ Ne doutant pas de la solva- bilite de mon voisin, un mandat sur lui etait pour moi de For en barres. Ce mandat me fut remis apres signature, et le vieillard M. Jenkinson, Abraham et le cbeval le vieux Blackberry, satis- faits d'eux-memes s'eloignerent en trottant.
Apr^s un peu de reflexion, je compris que j'avais eu tort d'ac- cepter le mandat d'un inconnu. La prudence me suggera alors de rejoindre Facbeteur pour lui faire rendre le cbeval. Mais il etait trop tard maintenant. Je pris done sur-le-cliamp le cbemin de la maison, decide a encaisser cbez mon ami le plus tot possible le montant de mon mandat. Ayant trouve mon honnete voisin assis devant sa porte, fumant sa pipe, je Finformai du mandat que j'avais sur lui. II le lut a deux reprises. " Vous pouvez le decbiffrer je suppose," ajoutai-je ; "■ c'est d'Epbraim Jen- kinson.'^ " Oui," repliqua-t-il, "le nom est passablement mis, et je connais aussi le personnage, — le plus grand vaurien que recouvre la calotte des cieux. C'est le m^me fripon qui nous vendit les lunettes. N'etait-ce pas un vieillard venerable k cbeveux gris, avec un habit sans pattes aux poches ? Ne vous a-t-il pas^ de plus, debite une longue kyrielle de mots grecs et parle de la cosmogonie du monde ?" A cela je repondis par un gemissement : " Morbleu \" ajouta-t-il, '^ il ne sait que ce morgeau,
156 THE VICAR OP WAKEriELD.
(1185), and he always talks it (623, 1178) away whenever he finds (52) a scholar in company; but I know the rogue (52, 1074), and I will catch (59, 988) him yet."
Though (667 bis) I was sufficiently mortified (556, 861), my greatest (407) struggle was (54, 1177) to come, in facing my wife and daughters. No truant (1031) was ever more afraid (815) of returning (52) to school, there to behold the master's visage (304), than I was of going (623, 55) home. I was deter- mined (58, 622), however, to anticipate (1178, 706) their fury (69, 70), by first falling (769) into a passion myself.
But, alas ! upon entering I found (55) the family no way dis- posed (773) for battle (1177). My wife and (609) girls were (54, 769) all (607) in tears (288), Mr. Thornhill having been (155, 771) there that day to inform (780, 623) them that their journey to town was (54) entirely over. The two ladies (1187 bis), having heard (771) reports of us from some malicious per- son, were (58, 776) that day set out for London. He could (54, 679) neither discover the tendency nor (836) the author of these; but whatever they might be (604, 743, 736, 751), or who- ever might have broached them, he continued (58) to assure (1178) our family (592) of his friendship and (609) protection. I found, therefore, that they bore (55) my disappointment with great resignation (861), as it was eclipsed (773) in the greatness of their own. But what (642) perplexed (55, 623) us most (548), was (55, 648) to think (1178) who could be (58) so base as to asperse (1176) the character of a family so harmless as ours (382), — too humble to excite envy (1176, 535), and too inoffensive to create (1137 bis, 814, 1176) disgust.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 157
qu'il ne cesse de rabacher quand il fait rencontre d'un savant. Jeconnais le vaurien et il aura de mes nouvelles."
Quoique suffisamment humiliee mon amour-propre encore devait passer a travers une bien plus rude epreuve. II me fallait paraitre face-a-face avec ma femme et mes filles. Apres avoir fait Fecole buissonniere, Tecolier ne retourne pas avec plus d'agitation vers son maitre que je n'en eprouvai, helas ! en ren- trant chez-moi; aussi, resolus-je d'anticiper sur leur fureur en donnant moi-meme des signes de violente colere.
Des mon entree au logis, je trouvai la famille peu disposee a chamailler. Ma femme et mes filles etaient en larmes ; celles-ci avaient appris dans la journee, de M. Thornhill, que leur voyage a Londres etait tout-a-fait chose rompue. Ayant ehtendu sur notre compte les rapports de mal-intentionnes, le jour meme les deux dames etaient parties pour la ville. Ni la cause ni Fauteur de ces rapports etaient connus. Quels qu'ils fussent, M. Thorn- hill avait promis a la famille de lui conserver son amitie et sa protection. Eclipsee par leur propre chagrin, avec une grande resignation, ils supporterent la mortification que j 'avals eprouvee moi-meme. Ce qui pourtant nous intrigua le plus, ce fut de decouvrir qui avait eu le coeur assez has pour decrier des gens d'un caractere aussi inofiensif qu'etait le notre, — trop humbles pour exciter TenviC; trop hons pour causer le degout.
14
158 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTER XV.
ALL MR. BURCHELL's (304) TILLANY AT ONCE (812) DETECTED — THE FOLLT
OP BEING OYERWISE.
That evening, and part of the following day, were employed (55, 1104) in fruitless attempts to discover (1177) our enemies; scarcely a family in the neighborhood but incurred (744, 771) our suspicions, and each of us had (54) reasons for our opinion best known (1039) to ourselves. As we were (54, 669, 161) in this perplexity, one of our little boys, who had been playing (767) abroad, brought in (55) a letter-case which (659) he found (58) on the green. It was quickly (665, 55) known to belong (54) to Mr. Burchell, with whom it had been seen (623, 58, 662), and, upon examination (769, 69), contained some hints upon dif- ferent subjects; but what particularly engaged (55, 898) our at- tention was (727, 648) a sealed note, superscribed (773) '^ The copy (555) of a letter to be sent (773) to the ladies (316, 368) at Thornhill Castle." It instantly occurred (55) that he was the base informer; and we deliberated (55,623) whether the note should not (39) be broken open. I was '(55) against it ; but Sophia, who said (54) she was sure that of all men he would be (54, 876, 357) the last to be guilty of so much baseness, in- sisted (732) upon its being read (751, 1216). In this she was seconded (380, 55, 535) by the rest of the family, and at their j oint (556) solicitation, I read (55) as follows (948) : —
^' Ladies (368, 1187 bis) : — The bearer will sufficiently satisfy (59, 178, 179 bis) you as to the person from whom this comes : one, at least, the friend of innocence (310, 535), and ready to prevent (1177) its being (665) seduced. I am informed (1217) for a truth, that you have (52, 728) some intention of bringing
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 159
CHAPITRE XY.
LA BASSESSE DE M. BTJRCHELL MISE TOXTT-l-COTTP AU GRAND-JOUR — TOLIE D':fiTRE PAR TROP SAGE.
Pendant la soiree et partie du jour suivant nous consu- mames notre temps, mais en vain, a recherclier quels etaient nos ennemis. Comme un cliacun de, nous avait ses raisons particu- li^res a faire valoir, a peine y eut-il dans tout le voisinage une famille qui ecliappat h nos soupgons. Nous etions encore tout boulevers6s par ces doutes, quand, jouant au-dehors de la maison, I'un de nos petits marmots nous apporta un porte-feuille qu'il avait ramasse sur la pelouse. On sut bientot qu'il appartenait k M. Burcliell dans les mains duquel on Favait vu. Examinant le contenu de ce porte-feuille nous y liimes plusieurs notes sur divers sujets. Mais ce qui fixa plus particulierement notre attention, ce fut une lettre cachetee et rubriquee : " Copie de la lettre envoy ee aux dames"du chateau Tbornhill/^ A I'instant il nous vint a la pensee que le vil calomniateur etait M. Burcbell, et aussitot nous consultames-nous pour savoir si nous ouvririons la lettre. A cela je m'opposai d'abord; mais Sophie, qui affir- mait que M. Burchell etait incapable de tant de bassesse, insista pour qu'on I'ouvrit. Comme ce fut aussi Favis des autres membres de la famille, k leur commune instance je lus ce qui suit : —
^' Mes dames : Le porteur vous fera amplement connaitre celui qui a ecrit ces lignes : c'est un ami de Finnocence, du moins tout reJolu k empecher qu'on ne la seduise. On m'a rapporte comme vrai que vous etes dans Fintention d'amener en ville,
160 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(1178, 1081 bis) two young ladies (825) to town, whom I have some knowledge of, under the character of companions (530, 711). As I would (52,1107) neither have (438) simplicity imposed upon (902) nor (838) virtue contaminated, I must offer it (52, 623) as my opinion that the impropriety of such a step will be attended (59, 776) with dangerous consequences.. It has never been (103, 105) my way to treat (1178, 405) the infamous or the (550) lewd with severity, nor should I now have (39, 155) taken (777) this method of explaining (623, 1178, 799) myself, or reproving folly, did it not aim (57) at guilt. Take (40), there- fore, the admonition (314) of a friend; and seriously reflect (40, 727) on the consequences of introducing (1230, 535) infamy (307) and vice (550) into (824) retreats where (432) peace and innocence have (52) hitherto resided (769)."
Our doubts were now (103^ 54) at an end. There seemed (54, 876) indeed something applicable to both sides in this letter, and its censures mighl; (54, 1176) as well be referred to those (384) to whom it was written as to us ; but the malicious meaning was (54, 679) obvious, and we went (55) no further. My wife had (55) scarcely patience to hear (1178, 764) me to the (828) end, but railed (769) at the writer with unrestrained resentment. Olivia was (55, 405) equally severe, and Sophia seemed (732) perfectly amazed at his baseness. As for (845) my part, it ap- peared (54) to me one of the vilest (407) instances of unpro- voked ingratitude I had ever met with. Nor could I account (771,623) for it in any other manner than by imputing (55) it to his desire of detaining (1178) my youngest daughter in (414, 875) the country, to have (623, 1176) the more frequent oppor- tunities of an interview. In this manner we all sat ruminating (54, 1132 bis) upon schemes of vengeance, when our other little boy came (55, 623) running in to tell us (1176) that Mr. Burchell was approaching (623, 54) at the other end of the field- It is easier (861, 52, 407, 1177) to conceive than (484, 833) describe the complicated sensations which are felt (52) from the pain of a recent injury, and the pleasure of approaching vengeance.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 161
k titre de dames-de-compagnie, deux jeunes demoiselles de ma connaissance. Comme je n^entends pas qu'on en impose aux cre- dules ni qu'on souille la vertu, je dois vous dire que le scandale de cette demarclie sera suivi de facheux resultats. II n'est pas dans mes habitudes de traiter severement les debauches ni les infames; je n'aurais meme pas pris ce mode de m'en expliquer avec vous, ni condamne votre folie, si le crime n'eut ete I'objet de cette demarche. Croyez-en le conseil d'un ami. Songez murement aux consequences funestes qui doivent suivre Tintro- duction du vice et de I'infamie dans la residence de la paix et de la vertu."
Pour nous a present il n'y avait plus de doute. II est vrai que la lettre etait susceptible d'une double interpretation. Sa censure pouvait s'appliquer a nous tout autant qu'a ceux h qui elle etait adressee ; mais comme sa tendance maligne ne pouvait se meprendre^ nous ne voulumes pas d'autres preuves. Ma femme eut a peine la patience de me laisser lire jusqu'au bout, sans mesure jetant ses invectives centre Tecrivain. Olivie fut egalement severe envers lui, et sa bassesse rendit Sophie stupe- faite. Pour moi je trouvais en lui Fexemple unique de la plus noire ingratitude. Ne pouvant m'expliquer ses motifs, je les attribuai entierement au desir de retenir ma filie cadette k la campagne, afin de la voir plus souvent. Ainsi ruminions-nous sur nos projets de vengeance, quand, en toute hate, Fun des petits vint nous annoncer que M. Burchell s'approchait de I'autre cote du champ. Les sensations tumultueuses que nous ressentons apres avoir regu une insulte, et le plaisir que nous ^prouvons h Tapproche de la vengeance, sont plus faciles k
14*
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Thougli our intentions (1183) were (55) only to upbraid him (1178, 623) with his (368) ingl-atitude, yet it was resolved (55) to do it in a manner that would be perfectly cutting. For this purpose, we agreed to meet him (1178) with our usual smiles, to chat (771, 1137 bis) in the beginning with more than ordinary kindness, to amuse him (623, 1176) a little, and then, in the midst of the flattering calm (556), to burst (769) upon him like an earthquake, and overwhelm (623, 1176) him with the sense of his own baseness. This (364, 773) being resolved (155, 855) upon, my wife undertook (55) to manage (706, 535) the business herself, as she really had some talents for such an (556) under- taking. We saw him (623, 1176) approach. He entered (772), drew (55, 1046 bis) a chair, and sat down (623,55). "A fine day (103, 1026), Mr. Burchell."— ^'A very fine day, doctor; though I fancy (623, 52) we shall have (59) some rain, by the shooting (535, 711) of my corns.^^ — " The shooting of your horns," cried (55) my wife, in a loud fit of laughter, and then asked (771) pardon (706) for being (1178) so fond of a joke. — ^'Dear madam (366, 280),'^ replied he, "I pardon you with all my heart, for I protest I should not (39, 166) have thought (155, 776) it a joke had you not (749, 751) told me."—" Perhaps (648,52) not, sir," cried (55) my wife, winking (771) at us; ^' and yet I dare say you can tell us (39, 799) how many jokes go (52,623) to an ounce (1186)?" — "I fancy, madam," returned Mr. Burchell, "you have been reading (56) a jest-book this morning (358 bis) ; that ounce of jokes is so very good a conceit: and yet, madam, I had rather see half (564) an ounce of under- standing."— '' I believe you might (52, 648)," cried (55) my wife, still smiling at us (771), though the laugh was (55, 706) against her. "And yet I have seen (52, 405, 605 bis) some men pretend to understanding, that have (623, 727) very (447) lit- tle."— "And no doubt," replied her antagonist, "you have known (52) ladies set up for wit (540, 556) that had. none." I quickly began (623, 55) to find (847) that my wife was likely (54) to gain (1176) but little (824, 318, 304) at this business : so I resolved (55, 622) to treat him (623, 1178) in a style of more severity
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 163
concevoir qu'elles ne le sont a decrire. Quoique notre inten- tion ne fut que de lui reprocher son ingratitude, nous con- vinmes h Favance que la vengeance en serait tiree de maniere a le bien mortifier. Nous decidames pour cela de le recevoir avec notre affabilite ordinaire ; causant avec lui plus amicale- ment que de coutume afin de Tamuser. Puis, au milieu de ce calme trompeur eclatant comme une bombe, nous devions le confondre en etalant Fhorreur de son abominable conduite. Ce plan arrete ma femme se #hargea de la mise a execution; et j'avoue qu'elle ne manquait pas de tact pour des manoeuvres de ce genre. Nous le laissames done s'approcber. En entrant il prit une chaise et s'assit. " II fait un tres-beau temps, M. Burchell.'' ^'Oui, en effet, docteur, il fait un tres-beau jour; quoique, pourtant, si j'en juge par les elancements de mes cors, bientot devrons-nous avoir de la pluie." " Les elancements de vos cornes!'^ s'ecria ma femme, partant d'un grand 6clat-de- rire, et lui demandant pardon de sa demangeaison de dire un bon-mot. " Ma cliere dame," ajouta-t-il, "je vous pardonne de bon coeur; et, ne me Feussiez-vous pas dit, jamais ne me serais- je doute que e'en fut un I" " C'est possible, monsieur," ajouta ma femme nous faisant un clignotenient ; "mais ne pourriez- vous pas nous dire toutefois ce qu'il en va de pareils h Fence ?" " Madame," repliqua M. Burchell, " a en juger par ce que je vois, il faut croire que vous avez lu ce matin un recueil de calembourgs. Votre once, ma foi, est par trop spirituelle sans valoir une demi-once de bon-sens." " C'est possible encore," fit ma femme, en nous souriant, quoique le rire fut centre elle ; "je connais neanmoins certains messieurs qui croient avoir beau- coup de jugement, et qui pourtant en ont tres-peu." " C'est encore vrai," repondit son adversaire ; '^ mais ne connaissez- vous pas aussi des dames qui se donnent pour des beaux-esprits et qui ne sont rien moins que cela ?" Je m'aper§us bien vite que ma femme n'avait qu'a perdre dans une affaire de ce genre; aussi pris-je le parti de le relancer moi-meme d'une bonne et
164 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
myself. '^Both wit and understanding (535, 550)/' cried I (55), ^^are (52, 679) trifles without integrity; it is that (52, 648) which gives (535) value to every character : the ignorant peasant (442, 556) without fault is (52, 215) greater than the philosopher with many; for what is genius (335) or courage (550) without a heart ?
*''An (306) honest man (1191) 's (304) the noblest (337) work of God.'"
^' I always held (405, 56) that hackneyed maxim of Pope," returned (55) Mr. Burchell, " as ft85) very unworthy (885, 357) a man of genius, and a base desertion of his own superiority. As the reputation of (306) books is raised (52, 679), not by their freedom from defect, but the greatness of their beauties ; so should that of men be (1176) prized, not from their exemption from fault, but the size of those virtues they are possessed of (69). The scholar may want (52, 405, 991) prudence, the states- man may have pride (855), and the champion ferocity; but shall we (623, 52) prefer (623, 1176) to these the low mechanic, who (655) laboriously plods (52, 108) on through life without censure (839) or applause? We might as well (39) prefer (1176) the tame correct paintings of the Flemish school (304, 427) to the erroneous but sublime animations of the Roman pencil (427)."
"Sir," replied I (55), "your present observation is (623, 52) just, when there are (855) shining virtues and minute defects (556) ; but when it appears that great vices (538) are opposed (52, 769) in the same mind to as extraordinary virtues (538), such a character deserves contempt (52, 535)."
^' Perhaps," cried he (55), " there may be (39, 665) some such monsters (556) as you describe (623, 52), of great vices (538) joined (771, 905) to great virtues (535), yet in my pro- gress through life I never yet found (166, 623, 56) one instance of their existence. On the contrary (358), I have ever (56, 405, 727) perceived (780) that where the mind was (54, 769) capacious, the affections were good. And, indeed. Providence seems (623, 52) kindly our friend in this particular, thus to de- bilitate (52, 727, 535) the understanding where (^432) the heart is (52) corrupt, and diminish (727) the power (861) where there
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 165
verte fagon. ^^L'esprit et le jugement/^ m'ecriai-je, ''nesont rien sans I'integrite. C'est elle qui donne du poids au carac- tere. Le paysan ignare mais sans defauts vaut mieux que le pliilosophe vicieux. A quoi bon le genie ou le courage quand le coeur manque ?
*Le plus bel ouvrage de Dieu c'est rhonnete-homme.'"
'^ Toujours ai-je considere cette maxime banale de Pope/^ repliqua M. Burchellj '•' comme indigne d'un homme de genie et eomme uu complet abandon de sa propre superiorite. De meme que la reputation d'un ouvrage gagne plus par la grandeur des beautes qu'il contient que par Fabsence totale de fautes; de meme devrait-il en etre de la reputation d'un homme qu'on doit juger par ses vertus et non par ses defauts. Le savant manque sou- vent de prudence, rhomme- d'etat de modestie, et le guerrier d'bumanite. Devonsruous, toutefois, leur preferer Fhumble artisan qui, sans censure et sans eloges, vegete peniblement toute sa vie ? Mieux vaudrait a ce compte preferer aussi les pein- tures naives et correctes de I'Ecole Flamande, aux conceptions sublimes mais fautives de FEcole de Rome V
"Monsieur," repondis-je, '^ quand les vertus sont grandes et que les defauts sont petits votre observation me parait juste; mais quand dans la meme ame de grands vices s'opposent a de « grandes vertus, cette ame est digne de mepris."
" Peut-etre," s'ecria-t-il, " trouverait-on des monstres tels que vous les depeignez, joignant de grands vices a des vertus non moins extremes. Neanmoins, dans le cours de ma vie jamais n'en ai-je rencontre de pareils. J'ai toujours reconnu, au con- traire, qu'un grand coeur et les bons sentiments allaient de pair. Sous ce rapport la Providence me parait vraiment bonne envers)*^ ses creatures. Partout ou le coeur est corrompu, elle affaiblit le
166 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
is the will to do mischief (1178). This rule seems (52) to extend (623, 1176) even to other animals (293). The little vermin race (556) are (52, 769) ever treacherous, cruel, and cowardly; while those endowed (776) with strength and power are (769) generous (331), brave, and gentle (349).^'
^' These observations sound (52, 769) well,'' returned I (55), '' and yet it would be (623, 39) easy this moment to point out (1178, 623) a man," and I fixed my eye (55, 898) steadfastly (1183, 976) upon him, " whose head (663) and heart (535, 550) form (52, 769) a most detestable contrast. Ay, sir,'' continued I (55), raising my voice, " and I am (39) glad to have this op- portunity (454) of detecting him (623, 54) in the midst of his fancied security. Do you know (52, 1074) this (365 bis), sir, this pocket-book (533, 171) ?"— " Yes, sir," returned he (55), with a face of impenetrable assurance ; ^' that pocket-book is mine (382), and I am glad (1020) you have found it (56,777)." "And do you know," cried I (732), 'Hhis letter? Nay, never falter, man, but look (40, 623) me full in the face ; I say (52), do you know (1112) this letter (363) ?"— "That letter," replied he (55); ''yes, it was I (648, 56, 777) that wrote that letter."— ''And how could you (56)," said I (55), '' so basely, so ungrate- fully presume (1176, 1177) to write this letter?" — "And how came you (777)," replied he (55), with looks of unparalleled ef- frontery, ''so basely to presume (623,1176) to break open (108)
' this letter ? Don't you know now (52, 181) I could (52, 727) hang you (1030, 606) all for this ? all that I have (163, 52) to do (1177) is to swear (1178, 1092) at the next justice's (304) that you have been guilty of breaking open (56, 777) the lock of my pocket-book, and so hang you (1039, 764) all up at this door." This piece of unexpected insolence raised me (155, 487) to such a pitch that I could scarce (163, 55, 1176) govern my passion. " Ungrateful wretch ! begone (40), and no longer pollute (727)
*^*my dwelling with thy baseness. Begone ! and never let me see (623, 1176) thee again. G-o (727) from my door; and the only punishment I wish thee (52, 623) is (648) an alarmed conscience, which will be (59) a sufficient tormentor!" So saying, I threw
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 167
jugement et la faculte de mal-faire. Cette loi paratt meme s'etendre jusqu'aux autres animaux. Traitre, cruelle, — la faible vermine est toujours lache. Doux, g^nereux, — braves sont les animaux doues de force et de vigueur/^
"Ces remarques sonnent bien/^ r^pliquai-je; "pourtant il me serait possible a Tinstant m§me de vous montrer un homme" — ici je le regardai entre les deux yeux — "dont la tete et le coeur forment un infernal contraste. Ah ! monsieur/' ajoutai-je, '' je suis ravi de le surprendre au milieu de sa security imaginaire. Reconnaissez-vous ceci, monsieur, ce porte-feuille ?" " Oui, monsieur/' repliqua-t-il avec un regard imperturbable ; "je suis bien-aise que vous I'ayez trouve." "Et reconnaissez- vous aussi cette lettre ? Allons, pas de faiblesse, regardez-moi bien en face : reconnaissez-vous cette lettre, je vous le demande?'' " Cette lettre/' repondit-il, " c'est moi qui I'ai ecrite." '' Mais comment/' dis-je, "avez-vous eu assez de bassesse pour songer a ecrire une pareille lettre?" '^Et vous/' fit-il, avec un regard effronte, " comment avez-vous ose la decacheter ? Savez-vous que pour ce fait je peux vous faire tous condamner? Pour cela je n'ai qu'h faire ma declaration au premier juge-de-paix venu, jurer que vous avez force le fermoir de mon porte-feuille, et vous faire tous pendre devant cette porte." Irrite de cet ecban- tillon d'impudence je ne pus contenir ma fureur. " Sors, abominable ingrat ! Sors, te dis-je, pour ne plus te revoir. Francbis le seuil de ma porte. La seule punition que je te soubaite, c'est une conscience pleine de remords qui seront tes executeurs." A ces mots je lui jetai son porte-feuille. Le
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him (55,623) Ms pocket-book (367), which he took up (623, 769) with a smile, and shutting (769) the clasps, with the utmost composure, left us (55, 1088) quite astonished at the serenity of his assurance (869,1185). My wife was particularly enraged (54, 107) that nothing could (58) make him angry (1158), or make him seem ashamed (1039) of his villanies. '^My dear," cried I (55), willing (769) to calm (1177, 1039) those passions that had been (58) raised too high among us (826 bis), "we are not to be surprised (163, 52, 86) that bad men want (427) shame. They only blush (52, 861) at being detected in doing good, but glory (769) in their vices.
^' Guilt and Shame (535), says (52,943) the allegory, were (54) at first companions, and in the beginning (414) of their journey inseparably kept together; but their union was soon found (55) to be disagreeable and inconvenient to both. Guilt (427) gave Shame frequent uneasiness, and Shame often betrayed (55) the secret conspiracies of Guilt. After long disagreement (538, 556), there- fore, they at length consented (665, 55) to part (623, 1178) for- ever. Guilt boldly walked (54, 1091) forward alone, to overtake (825) Fate (307,427), that went (54, 418) before in the shape of an executioner; but Shame, being naturally timorous, returned back (55) to keep (1176) company (1060 bis, 706) with Virtue, which (657) in the beginning of their journey they had left (623, 58, 776, 1060 bis) behind. — Thus, my children, after men have travelled through (777, 155) a few stages in vice. Shame forsakes them, and returns (623, 52) back to wait upon (1176) the few virtues (798) they have still remaining (679)."
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 169
ramassant avec sourire et le fermant d'un air tranquille, il nous quitta saisis d'etonnement que nous caus^rent sa gaiete et son impudence. Ma femme, surtout, enrageait de ce que rien n'a- vait pu Femouvoir ni Ife faire rougir de sa sceleratesse. " Ma ch^re," m'ecriai-je, me sentant dispose a faire taire ces passions qui avaient tant pris d'ascendant sur nous, ^^ ne nous etonnons point si les m^chants manquent de honte ; tirant vanite de leurs vices ils ne rougissent que quand ils sent surpris faisant le bien.
" Le Crimp et la Honte (dit la fable) 4taient autrefois cama- rades, D'accord des le commencement de leur voyage, cette union neanmoins devint insupportable aux deux parties. Sou- vent le Crime procurait des inquietudes a sa compagne. Celle- ci maintes fois divulgua les conspirations secretes de Fautre. Apr^s de longues querelles on decida de se separer pour tou- jours. Le Crime marcba hardiment en poursuite de la Fatalite, qui sous la forme d'un bourreau marcbait en-avant. Naturelle- ment timide la Honte retrograda pour tenir compagnie k la vertu, dont ils s'etaient tenus a I'ecart pendant tout le temps du voyage. C'est ainsi, mes enfants, qu'apres avoir parcouru quelques ecbelons du vice les bommes se trouvent delaiss^s par la honte. EUe les abandonne pour cultiver le peu de vertus qui restent encore h I'humanite."
15
170 THF4 VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTEE XVI.
THE FAMILY USE (610, 535) ART, WHICH IS OPPOSED BY STILL GBEATER.
Whatever might (604, 747, 751) have been Sophia's sensa- tions, the rest of the family were (55, 623) easily consoled (861) for Mr. Burchell's (304) absence by the company of our land- lord, whose (627) visits now became (55, 769) more frequent and (814 bis) longer. Though he had been disappointed (86, 556, 484, 357) in procuring (155,. 56) my daughters the amusements of the town, as he designed (58, 906), he took (54) every oppor- tunity of supplying (1178, 623, 74) them with those little recrea- tions which our retirement would (54) admit of. He usually (405) came (54, 769) in (1104, 706) the morning, and while (846) my son and I (1204) followed (54, 769) our occupations abroad, he sat (54, 727) with the family at home, and amused (727) them by describing the town, with every part of which (627) he was (54, 86) particularly acquainted. He could repeat (727) all (606) the observations that were retailed (54, 769) in the atmosphere (824) of the play-houses, and had (771) all the good things of the high wits (413, 540) by rote, long before they made their way into the jest-books. The intervals between conversation were (54, 86) employed (1134) in teaching my daughters picquet ; sometimes (432) in setting (1039) my two little ones to box, to make them sharp (623, 1176), as he called it (54, 706, 1177) ; but the hopes of having (1230) him for a (1189) son-in-law in some measure blinded us (727, 623) to all his imperfections. It must be (105) owned that my wife laid (54, 588) a thousand schemes to entrap him (1041 bis), or, to speak it (1176) more tenderly, used (54) every art to magnify (1176) the merit of her daughter. If the cakes at tea (1047) ate (54, 556) short and crisp, they were made (623,777) by Olivia; if
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 171
CHAPITRE XVI.
LA PAMILLB A RECOURS AUX ARTIFICES — ^ILS SONT OPPOSES PAR DE PLTJS
GRANDS.
QuELLES que fussent les emotions de Sophie, les autres membres de la famille se consolerent bien vite de I'absence de M. Burcbell par la societe de notre proprietaire, dont les visites maintenant devinrent plus frequentes et plus longues. Contra- rie de n'avoir pu procurer a mes filles les amtisements de la capitale ainsi qu'il se Tetait propose, il saisissait neanmoins les opportunites de leur donner toutes les petites distractions que comportait notre localite. D'ordinaire il passait la matinee chez-nous, et pendant que mon fils et moi etions aux cbamps il amusait la famille avec ses descriptions de Londres, dont il connaissait meme les plus petits recoins. II leur contait toutes les remarques faites dans Tatmospbere des theatres ; sacbant par coeur avant publication ce qui y debitaient les beaux-esprits. Pendant les repos de la conversation il donnait des legons de piquet a mes filles, ou faisait boxer les deux bambins pour les degourdir, ainsi qu'il lui plaisait de dire. Mais, que voulez-vous, Tespoir de T avoir pour gendre nous aveuglait sur ses defauts. II faut le dire, egalementmafemme mettait tout en oeuvre pour le mettre dedans, ou pour m'exprimer plus poliment elle soule- vait ciel et terre pour relever le merite de sa fille. Si les gateaux au the etaient croquants c'etait Olivie qui les avaient
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the gooseberry-wine was well knit (54, 776), the gooseberries were (727, 799) of ber gathering; it was (54, 648) her fingers which gave (727, 769) the pickles their peculiar green ; and in the composition of a pudding (861), it was (665) her (367) judg- ment that mixed (535) the ingredients (950). Then the poor woman (1191) would sometimes tell (54, 1177) the squire that she thought (855) him and Olivia (54, 679) extremely of a size, and would bid both (769, 623) stand up (1178) to see (1176) which (662) was (54) the (548) tallest (407). These (861) in- stances of cunning, which she thought (54) impenetrable (556), yet which everybody saw (484, 743, 855, 741) through, were (54, 86) very pleasing (405, 706) to our benefactor, who (627) gave (679, 727) every day (1201) some new proofs of his (367) passion, which (842), though they had not arisen (925) to proposals of marriage, yet we thought (54, 935) fell but little short of it; and his (363) slowness was (54, 776) attributed sometimes to native (556) bashfulness, and sometimes to his fear of offending (1230) his uncle. An occurrence, however, which happened (55) soon after, put it (55, 678) beyond a doubt (418) that he de- signed (54, 1176) to become one of our family. My wife even regarded (55) it as an absolute promise.
My wife and (887) daughters happening to return (769, 69) a visit at neighbor Flamborough's, found (55) that family had lately got (54, 792, 241, 777) their pictures drawn by a limner who travelled the country and took (770, 1034) likenesses for (1184) fifteen shillings a (505 bis) head. As this family and ours had (54) long a sort of rivalry in point of taste, our spirit took the alarm (55, 1046 bis) at this stolen march upon us, and, notwithstanding all I could say (367, 368), and I said much (55), it was resolved (1217) that we should (162 bis, 39) have our pictures done too. Having (769, 69), therefore, engaged the limner (155, 69)— for what could I (451, 34, 1038) do ?— our next deliberation was (1217) to show (623, 39) the superiority of our taste (709) in the attitudes. As for (845) our neighbor's family, there were seven of them, and they were (54, 792, 1039) drawn with seven (970) oranges ; a thing (1187 bis) quite out of
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faits. Le vin de groseille etait-il bien depouille, c'est parce- qu'Olivie en avait cueilli le fruit. C'etait encore les doigts d'Olivie qui donnaient aux conserves-au-vinaigre cette vive couleur verte; de meme qu'on devait k son jugement les combi- naisons d' ingredients employes dans un pouding. D'autres fois la bonne femme se prenait a dire que le baronnet et Olivie etaient de meme taille, les priant de se tenir debout pour savoir qui des deux etait plus grand. Quoique connues de tout le monde ces ruses qu'elle croyait impenetrables plaisaient nean- moins h notre bienfaiteur, qui cliaque jour donnait de nouvelles preuves de sa passion, sans toutefois parler de mariage quoique tout semblait Tannoncer. Parfois cette hesitation etait attribuee k une timidite naturelle; d'autres a la crainte d'offenser son oncle. Mais un incident qui surgit bientot apr^s mit hors de doute qu'il voulait entrer dans la famille : ma femme du moins considera la cbose comme certaine.
Pendant une visite cbez les voisins Flamborougb, Deborah et mes filles y decouvrirent qu'ils s'etaient faits peindre par Tin peintre ambulant, faisant le portrait a raison de quinze schellings par tete. Comme nos deux families depuis longtemps nourrissaient Tune envers Fautre une rivalite de gout, cette avance de leur part nous alarma. Aussi, malgre mon opposition, qui fut tres-vive, decida-t-on que nous ferions faire nos portraits. Ayant retenu le rapin (qui pouvais-je faire apres tout?) on de- cida, aussi, que par nos poses nous nous y deploirions avec la su- periorite de notre gout. Quant a la famille du voisin, sept au complet, ils s'etaient fait peindre separement tenant chacun une orange h la main, chose entierement passee de mode sans variete
J 5*-
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taste, no variety (925) in life, no (839) composition in the world (1185). We desired (103, 54) to have something (516) in a brighter style, and, after (430) many debates (556), at length came (55, 1091) to a unanimous resolution of being drawn (1230, 1039, 792) together in one large historical family-piece. This would be (54, 1078) cheaper, since one frame would serve (771) for all (606), and it would be (771) infinitely more genteel; for all (775, 606) families of any taste were now drawn (93, 54, 1039) in the same manner (601). As we did not immediately recollect (771) an historical subject to fit us (623, 55), we were (732) contented each with being (757, 1039) drawn as independent (556) historical (541) figures. My wife desired (55,129) to be represented (938,26,776) as Yenus (427), and the painter was requested (86) not to be (764, 554) too frugal of his diamonds in her stomacher and hair (1185). Her two little ones were to be (54) as Cupids by her side; while I, in (825) my gown and (834) band, was to present her (623, 727) with my books on the Whistonian controversy. Olivia would be drawn (938, 54) as (848) an Amazon sitting (269, 204) upon (802) a bank of flowers, dressed (773) in a green Joseph, richly laced with gold, and a whip in her hand (592). Sophia was (776, 706) to be a shepherdess, with as many sheep (1185) as the painter could put in (54, 415, 1176) for nothing (925) ; and Moses was to be (54, 938) dressed out with a hat and white feather.
Our taste so much (807, 405) pleased (55, 129, 706) the squire, that he insisted on (732, 1015) being (1177) put in (776) as one of the family, in the character of Alexander (427) the Great, at Olivia's feet (304). This (379, 855) was considered (861, 484) by us all as an indication of his desire to be (54, 623, 1176) introduced into the family, nor could we (55, 163) refuse (547) his request. The painter was (55, 106), therefore, set to work, and, as he wrought (54, 769) with assiduity and expedition, in less than four days the whole was (55) completed. The piece (1115) was (54) large, and it must be (40, 623, 375) owned he did not spare (58) his colors ; for which my wife gave him (55, 623)
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ni composition. II nous fallait k nous quelque chose de plus distingue. Apres maints debats, nous tombames d'accord de nous faire peindre sur un grand tableau historique de famille tout-a-la-fois. De plus cela revenait a meilleur compte, un seul cadre servant pour nous tons et la composition etant d'un plus haut genre, vu que les personnes de gout se faisaient peindre de cette maniere. Ne nous ressouvenant pas en ce moment d'un sujet historique qui nous fut applicable, nous arretsimes de nous faire peindre so as un caract^re independant quoique appartenant k rhistoire. Ma femme voulut y etre representee comme Yenus, avec recommandation au peintre d'etre prodigue de diamants sur la poitrine et dans les cheveux. Sous la figure de deux petits- amours les marmots devaient etre a ses cotes ; tandis que moi, en robe et en surplis, je lui presentais mes oeuvres sur la contro- verse Whistonienne. Olivie, tel fut son desir, devait y paraitre en Amazonne assise sur une couche de fleurs, v§tue d'une longue robe verte h galons d'or et tenant un fouet h la main. Entouree d'autant de moutons que le peintre pouvait en faire pour rien, Sophie voulut etre representee en pastourelle. Moise devait y figurer en chapeau surmonte d'un haut panache blanc.
Notre gout plut tellement au baronnet qu'il insista k ^tre admis dans le tableau comme membre de la famille ; posant aux pieds d'Olivie sous la figure all^gorique d'Alexandre-le-Grrand. Consideree par nous tous comme signe certain qu'il voulait s'allier k la famille, son insistence n'eprouva pas d'opposition. Le rapin common 9a la besogne ; et comme il travaillait vite et assidue- ment, en moins de quatre jours il completa son oeuvre. La toile etait fort grande. Disons-le, les couleurs n'y avaient pas 6t6 ^pargnees, ce dont ma femme complimenta I'artiste sans
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great encomiums. We were (54) all perfectly satisfied (776) with his performance ; but an unfortunate circumstance, which had not occurred (58) till the picture was (57, 776) finished, now struck (55) us with dismay. It was (54) so very large (806) that we had (665, 54) no place in the house to fix it (1176, 623). How we all came (55) to disregard (722) so material a point is inconceivable ; but certain it is, we had all been (727) greatly remiss. The picture, therefore, instead of gratifying (1178, 1230) our vanity, as we hoped (623, 54), leaned (55) in a most mortifying manner against the kitchen wall, where the (314) canvas was (666, 54) stretched and painted (769, 69), much too large to be got (1176, 1113 bis) through any of the doors, and the jest of all our neighbors. One compared it (605 bis, 769) to Robinson Crusoe's long-boat (304), too large to be removed (1176, 155, 776) j another thought it (541, 623, 769) more resembled a reel in a bottle. Some wondered (54, 777) how it could be (665, 54) got out, but still more were amazed (54, 164, 166, 900) how it ever got in (665, 623, 792, 1176).
But, though it excited (54, 1039, 1156) the ridicule of some, it efTectually raised (55, 127) more malicious suggestions in many. The squire's portrait (304) being found (769, 623) united (936 bis,706) with ours, was (648, 54) an honor too great to escape (1176, 706) envy. Scandalous whispers (556) began (54) to circulate (727, 769) at our expense, and our tranquillity was (54, 405) continually disturbed (776) by persons who (657) came (679) as friends to tell (1176) us what was said of us by enemies. These (103) reports were (623, 54) always resented with be- coming spirit; but scandal ever improves (52,825) by opposition.
We once again, therefore, entered (55) into consultation upon obviating the malice of our enemies, and at last came (55, 130) to a resolution which had (54) too much cunning to give me entire satisfaction. It was this: as our principal object was (54) to discover (1178, 434, 1073) the honor of Mr. Thornhill's ad- dresses, my wife undertook (623, 55) to sound him (1178), by pretending to ask (709, 623, 1178) his advice in the choice of a husband for her eldest daughter (861). If this was (39) not
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 177
mesure. Nous ^tions tons emerveilles de son talent. Mais un malheureux incident auqnel aucun de nous n'avait songe se revela quand le tableau fut acheve. II etait si grand qu'en aucune maniere on ne pouvait le placer dans la maison. Qu'uu point aussi important nous fut echappe parait chose inconce- vable j tons neanmoins nous fimes cette faute. Au lieu de satis- faire notre amour-propre ainsi que nous nous Fetions promis, par suite de ce desagrement le tableau resta appuye ignoblement contre le mur de la cuisine^ ou Ton avait etendu et peint la toile; trop grand pour passer au-travers d' aucune porte et la ris^e de tons nos voisins. Certains le comparaient au grand canot de Robinson Crusoe, trop lourd pour etre change de place; d'autres k un devidoir dans une bouteille. Quelques uns se demandaient comment on pourrait le faire sortir; mais ne pou- vaient aucunement s'imaginer comment on 1' avait fait entrer.
Pendant qu'il faisait rire les uns il provoqua la malice d'un plus grand nombre, et d'une terrible maniere. Le portrait du baronnet se trouvant joint aux n6tres, c' etait un trop grand motif de jalousie pour echapper a I'oeil des envieux. Grlisses h, Foreille certains mots scandaleux circulaient a nos depens. Notre repos etait incessamment trouble par des gens officieux qui venaient nous rapporter les propos de nos ennemis. II est vrai que ces propos se traitaient d'une maniere convenable ; mais le scandale augmente toujours en raison des obstacles qu'on lui oppose.
Nous nous consultames done encore une fois sur la conduite que nous devious tenir envers nos ennemis, et convinmes entre nous d'un projet qui ressentait trop la ruse pour qu'il fut ti mon , enti^re convenance. Voici le fait : le principal objet en vue c'etait de connaitre les vrais sentiments du baronnet. Pour cela, sous pretexte de le consulter sur le choix d'un mari pour sa fille, ma femme se chargea de le sonder. Dans le cas ou ce moyen
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found sufficient to induce (623, 1039) him to a declaration, it was then (54, 405, 665) resolved to terrify him with a rival. To this last step, however, I would by no means give (55, 1046 bis) my consent, till Olivia gave me (55) the most solemn assurances that she would marry (59, 1046 bis) the person provided to rival him upon this occasion, if he did not prevent it by taking her himself. Such was (54, 679) the scheme laid, which, though I did not strenuously oppose (925, 623, 938, 1176, 405), I did not entirely approve (163, 54).
The next time, therefore, that Mr. Thornhill came to see us, my girls took care (55, 782) to be out of the way (623, 1178, 1060 bis), in order to give (1176) their mamma an opportunity of putting her (367) scheme in execution; but they only retired (55) to the next room, whence (432) they could overhear (732) the whole conversation : my wife artfully introduced it (727) by observing (910) that one of the Miss Flamboroughs was like to have (54, 1076) a very good match of it in Mr. Spanker. To this the squire assenting, she proceeded (55) to remark that they who (769, 657, 54) had (679) warm fortunes were (679, 54) always sure (434) of getting (1178, 538) good husbands. ^'But Heaven help,^^ continued she, " the girls who have none! What signifies beauty, Mr. Thornhill ? or what signifies (667 bis) all the virtue and all the qualifications in the world, in this age of self-interest ? It is not, what is she ? but, what has she ? is all the cry.''
^^ Madam," returned he (55), "I highly approve the justice, as well as the novelty, of your remarks, and if I were (54, 535) a king, it should be (103, 39, 799) otherwise. It should (39, 648) then, indeed, be fine times for the girls without fortunes; our two young ladies should be (727, 679) the first for whom I would provide.''
"Ah ! sir," returned my wife, " you are pleased (623, 52) to be (1025 bis) facetious ; but I wish I were (857, 39) a queen, and then I know (727, 679) where my eldest daughter should look for a husband. But now that you have put it (623, 397, 52, 592) into my head seriously, Mr. Thornhill, can't you recommend
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serait insuffisant pour le faire declarer, on devait alors TeiFrayer par rannonce d'un rival. En aucune fa§on ne voulus-je prendre part a ce manege, a moins qu'Olivie de la maniere la plus solennelle ne me promit qu'elle prendrait pour mari ce rival, si le baronnet ainsi pousse refusait de Tep^ouser lui-meme. Sans m'y opposer formellement, tel etait le projet que je n'approu- vais pas dans tout son contenu.
Ainsi done, pour donner a leur maman Toccasion d'executer son projet, des la premiere visite de M. Thornhill nos filles eurent soin de se tenir tors de vue. Elles se retirerent pour cela dans la chambre voisine d'ou elles entendirent toute la con- versation. Ma femme debuta d'une maniere fort habile ; faisant remarquer qu'une des demoiselles Flamborough allait faire un bon mariage en prenant M. Spanker. Le baronnet repondit k cela par un signe d'assentiment. Elle continua sa remarque, disant que les filles avec une grosse dot etaient sures de trouver de bons maris. " Mais," fit-elle, " que Dieu assiste celles qui ne possedent rien ! Que signifie la beaute, M. Thornbill ? a quoi bon toutes les qualites du monde ? Dans un siecle interesse comme le ndtre on ne demande jamais qui elle est; mais tous se demandent ce qu'elle a."
"Madame," repliqua-t-il, "j'approuve grandement la justesse et la nouveaute de vos remarques. Si j'etais roi il en serait tout autrement. Oh ! pour lors ce serait un bon temps pour les demoiselles sans fortune, et les votres seraient les premieres que je pourvoirais."
"Ah, monsieur," repliqua ma femme, "je le vols vous etes en fond d'en conter; et moi je souhaiterais d'etre reine et je saurais alors a qui accorder ma fille alnee. Mais, puisque vous m'y faites serieusement songer, ne pourriez-vous, M. Thornhill, vous-m^me me recommander un mari a convenance. Actuelle-
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me (163, 821 bis, 1176) a proper husband for her ? she is (55, 988) now nineteen years old (676), well grown (52, 676), and well educated, and, in my humble opinion, does not want for parts."
" Madam," replied he (55), "if I were (648, 54, 740, 751, 706) to choose, I would find out (623, 39) a person possessed (876, 1178) of every accomplishment that can make (897, 304) an angel happy. One with prudence, fortune, taste, and sincerity (941) : such, madam, would be (39), in my opinion, the proper husband." — ^^Ay, sir,'^ said she, " but do you know (52, 1073) of any such person?" — "No, madam," returned he, "it is im- possible (672, 166) to know any person that deserves (52,706) to be (623, 1178) her husband ; she's too great a treasure for one man's possession ; she's a goddess (541). Upon my soul, I speak (52, 706) what I think (727), she is (648) an angel."— "Ah; Mr. Thornhill, you only ^tter (52,98) my poor (1191) girl : but we have been thinking (56, 1128) of marrying her (1230, 1137 bis, 706) to one of your tenants, whose (657) mother is lately dead (52), and who wants (52, 991, 706) a manager ; you know whom (657, 52) I mean (1075), Farmer Williams; a warm man, Mr. Thornhill, able (876, 356) to give her (623, 1060 bis) good bread, and who has (56, 777) several times made her pro- posals"— which was (648, 54) actually the case — " but, sir,"con- cluded she," I should be (89) glad (79, 776) to have (743, 751) your approbation of our choice (366)." — "How, madam !" replied he (1030), " my approbation ! my approbation of such a choice ? Never ! What ! sacrifice so much (806) beauty, and sense, and goodness (833), to a creature (876) insensible of the blessing ! excuse me (40, 623), I can (212, 403) never approve (39) of such a piece of injustice ! and I have (52) my reasons." — "In- deed, sir," cried Deborah (55), " if you have your reasons (52), that's another afiair ; but I should be glad (735) to know (623, 764) those reasons." — " Excuse me, madam," returned he : "they lie (52, 679) too deep for discovery," laying his hand (769) upon his bosom (367); "they remain (679, 52) buried (776), riveted here."
After he was gone (55, 1060 bis), upon a general consultation,
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ment elle accomplit sa dix-neuvieme annee ; elle est tres-deve- loppee pour son age et possede une bonne education; sans flatterie elle ne manque pas de m^rite."
^^ Madame/' repondit-il, ^^si c'^tait moi qui fut charge de ce choix, je lui trouverais quelqu'un capable d'assurer le bonheur d'un ange. Un liomme prudent, riche, de bon gout, et sincere, Tel serait d'apres moi le mari convenable/' '^ Mais connaissez- vous, monsieur, une personne de ce genre V ^' Non, madame," ajouta-t-il, '^ personne ne merite de I'avoir. C'est une divinite ! Sur mon ame et conscience je ne dis que ce que je crois, c'est un ange." " Ab, Monsieur Tbornbill, vous ne faites que flatter ma pauvre fille. Nous avons pourtant songe h la marier k Fun de vos tenanciers, dont la m^re est morte depuis peu et qui manque actuellement de menag^re. Yous savez qui je veux dire. C'est Williams le fermier. Un brave bomme, M. Thornbill, capable de lui tenir du pain, et qui souvent lui a propose de I'epouser," (ce qui etait la pure verite;) "mais, monsieur,'^ dit-elle en acbevant, "je serais ravie que vous ap- prouvassiez notre cboix." " Comment, madame," fit-il, " mon approbation ! mon approbation d'un tel cboix ? Jamais ! Com- ment, sacrifier tant de beaute, de jugement, et de bonte a une brute incapable d'en apprecier la faveur ! excusez-moi; je n'ap- prouverai jamais une pareille injustice, et j'ai mes raisons pour cela." "Yraiment, monsieur," s'ecria Deborab; "vous avez vos raisons ! pour lors c'est une autre affaire. Mais ne pourriez- vous pas me les dire?" " Excusez-moi, madame," ajouta-t-il, "elles soDt profond^ment cacbees." Posant la main sur son coeur, " c'est-la qu'elles resteront ensevelies."
Tin conseil-g^n^ral fut tenu apr^s son depart; mais nous ne
16
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we could not tell (55, 623, 1176) wliat to make (535, 303) of these fine sentiments. Olivia considered tliem (938, 54) as in- stances of the most (548) exalted (556) passion; but I was (845, 54) not quite so (806) sanguine; it seemed to me (623, 54) pretty plain that they had (54, 769) more of love (411) than matrimony in them. Yet (747), whatever (604, 743) they might (751) portend, it was resolved (55, 622) to prosecute (1177) the scheme of Farmer Williams, who (657), from my daughter's first appearance (304) in the country, had paid her (58, 367) his addresses (1112, 1031).
CHAPTER XVII.
SCARCELY (103) ANT VIRTUE FOUND (876, 357) TO RESIST (1178, 706) THE POWER OF (541) LONG AND PLEASING (556, 579) TEMPTATION.
As I only (815) studied (54, 825, 992) my child's real happi- ness (304), the assiduity of Mr. Williams pleased me (55, 623), as he was (648, 54) in easy (861, 824) circumstances, prudent and sincere (556). It required (103, 54) but very little (447) encouragement to revive (1039, 764) his former (368) passion, so that (825) in an evening or two he and Mr. Thornhill met (623, 769) at our (1016) house, and surveyed (623, 55) each other for some time with looks (866) of anger (1158) : but Wil- liams owed (163, 54) his landlord (598) no rent, and little re- garded (55, 1033) his (368) indignation. Olivia, on her (367) side, acted (55, 1036) the coquette to perfection, if that might be called acting (457) which was her real character, pretending to lavish all her tenderness on her new lover. Mr. Thornhill appeared (55) quite dejected at this preference, and with a pen- sive air (866) took (1046 bis) leave ; though I own (55) it puz- zled me to find him (1178, 623) in so much pain as he appeared to be (861), when he had it in his power so easily to remove
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pumes nous expliquer la portee de ces grands sentiments. Olivie y trouvait la preuve de la passion la plus exaltee ; quant a moi j'etais plus calme. II me paraissait evident qu'ils conte- naient plus d'amour que de mariage ; aussi quelle que fut leur signification, nous decidames-nous a donner cours au projet arr§t^ sur le fermier Williams ; lui qui le premier d^s notre arrivee avait fait sa cour k notre fille.
CHAPITRE XVII.
IL Y A PEINE DE VERTU CAPABLE DE EESISTER A UNE TESTATION LONaUB
ET ATTEAYANTE.
CoMME je n'avais en vue que le bonheur reel de mon enfant Tassiduite de M. Williams me fit plaisir. Aise dans sa position de fortune c'etait en outre un homme prudent et lionn^te. Pour faire renaitre en lui son ancienne passion il fallait done tr^s-peu de chose. Aiissi, dans le cours d'une ou deux soirees M. Thorn- hill et lui se trouvant en presence, chez-nous, se mesurerent-ils quelque temps des yeux d'un air colere. Comme Williams cependant ne devait aucun arrerages a son proprietaire, il ne fit pas grand cas de F indignation de ce dernier. De son c6te Olivie k merveille fit la coquette, si faire pent se dire d'une chose naturelle chez elle. Sa tendresse fut toute pour ce nouvel adorateur. Une telle preference parut entierement decourager M. Thornhill, qui prit conge de nous d'un air r^veur. Comme ♦ il lui etait facile, toutefois, de changer I'etat des choses par
184 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(1141) the cause, by declaring an honorable passion. But what- ever (604) uneasiness he seemed to endure, it could easily be perceived (1217) that Olivia's anguish (304) was still greater. After any of these interviews between her lovers, of which (662) there were several, she usually (988, 54) retired (1060 bis) to solitude, and there indulged her grief. It was in such a situa- tion (648, 52) I found her (623, 55) one evening, after she had been for some time supporting (58, 777) a fictitious gayety. "You now see (52, 623), my child,'^ said I (65), "that your confidence (825) in Mr. ThornhilFs passion (304) was (726,163, 815) all a dream; he permits (52, 861) the rivalry of another, every way (607, 855) his inferior, though he knows (39) it lies in his power to secure you (1176, 623) to himself by a candid declaration." — "Yes, papa,-' returned she (55,445), "but he has (52, 679) his reasons for this delay ; I know (52, 623) he has. The sincerity of his looks and (609) words (52, 623, 679) convinces me of his real esteem. A short time, I hope (52), will discover (855) the generosity of his sentiments, and convince you (59, 776) that my opinion of him has been (726) more just (847) than yours." — " Olivia, my darling," returned I (55), " every scheme that has been (56, 777) hitherto pursued to com- pel him to a declaration has been proposed (780) and planned by yourself, nor can you (163, 52) in the least say that (623, 1176) I have constrained you. But you must not suppose (52, 164, 900), my dear, that I will ever be (726, 1127) instrumental in sufiering his honest rival to be the (^1019) dupe of your ill- placed passion (556). Whatever (604, 743) time you require (52, 623) to bring (1176) your fancied admirer (556, 358) to an explanation, shall be (727) granted (623). But at the expiration of that term, if he is still regardless, I must absolutely insist (727) that honest Mr. Williams shall be (736, 776) rewarded (706) for his fidelity. The character which I have (855) hitherto sup- ported in life demands (623, 52, 902) this from me, and my ten- , derness as a parent shall never influence my (59,231,405, 1176) integrity as a man. Name (40, 443, 623), then, your day; let it be (52, 484) as distant (743) as you think proper, and in the
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 185
Taveu d'un amour honorable, je m'etonnai de le trouver aussi cliagrin. Mais, quel qu^il fut, ce chagrin etait peu se- rieux quand on le comparait a celui qu'eprouvait Olivie. Apres quelques unes de ces entrevues avec ses pretendants, lesquelles se renouvelerent frequemment, elle avait coutume de se tenir a I'ecart pour y entretenir sa melancolie. C'est ainsi que je la trouvai pendant une veillee ou elle avait pour quelque temps soutenu une gaiete factice. "Tu le vois, mon enfant/^ lui dis-je, ^^ ta confiance en Tattachement de M. Thorn- hill n'est qu'une reve. Lorsqu'il pourrait facilement t'obtenir 11 tolere la rivalite d'un autre qui en tout est son inferieur." "Oui, papa/' repliqua-t-elle ; "mais ces retards croyez-le ont leurs motifs; je le sais, j'en suis bien sure. La sincerite de ses regards et de ses paroles me sont garants de son estime. Encore un peu de temps, je I'espere, vous serez convaincu par vous-meme que I'opinion que j'ai congue de lui est plus juste que n'est la votre." "■ Olivie, ma ch^re," repondis-je, "deja avons-nous employe tous les moyens que tu nous a suggeres; tu ne peux non plus m'accuser de contrainte en vera toi. Mais ne t'imagine pas, mon enfant, que je te prete la main dans cet attachement deplace et que je dupe son honnete rival. Quel que soit le temps que tu me demandes pour obtenir une explication de ton adorateur imaginaire, je te I'accorde volon- tiers; mais s'il garde le silence apr^s Fexpiration de ce delai, j'entends absolument que Fhonnete M. Williams soit recompense de sa fidelite. Ma reputation dans le monde et le nom que j'y porte m'imposent rigoureusement ce devoir; et ne I'ignore pas, la bonte paternelle ne me fera jamais oublier ma quality d'homme-de-bien. Donne-moi ton jour. Peu m'importe qu'il
16»
186 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
mean time take care (736, 744) to let Mr. Thornhill know (706) the exact time on whicli (432) I design delivering you up (59) to another. If he really loves you (738 bis, 405, 623), his own good sense (974, 59) will readily suggest (706) that there is but one method alone (1178) to prevent his losing you forever.'' This proposal, which she could not avoid considering (769) as perfectly just, was readily agreed to (55, 623). She again re- newed (732) her most positive promise of marrying (1230) Mr. Williams in case of the other's (304) insensibility ; and at the next opportunity, in Mr. ThornhilFs presence, that day month was fixed (54, 898) upon for her nuptials (288) with his rival.
Such vigorous proceedings seemed (55,679) to redouble (1176) Mr. Thornhill's (303) anxiety ; but what Olivia really felt gave me (623, 55) some uneasiness. In this struggle between pru- dence (535, 550) and passion, her vivacity quite forsook her, and every opportunity of solitude was sought (54, 86) and spent (1176, 938, 1104) in tears (288). One week passed away (55) ; but Mr. Thornhill made no efibrts to restrain her nuptials. The succeeding week he was still assiduous, but not more open. On the third (1233) he discontinued (57, 777) his visits entirely ; and instead of my daughter testifying (1178) any impatience, as I expected (54), she seemed (855) to retain (732) a pensive tranquillity, which I looked upon (55, 1046 bis) as resignation. For my own part, I was now sincerely pleased (54, 86) with thinking that my child was going (54, 1076) to be secured in a continuance of competence and peace (550), and frequently ap- plauded (769) her resolution, in preferring (1230) happiness to (535) ostentation (550).
It was within about four days of her intended nuptials, that my little family at night were (696) gathered (773) round a charm- ing fire, telling (771) stories of the past, and laying schemes (727) for the future, busied (484, 773) in forming a thousand (588) projects, and layghing (706) at whatever (606) folly came (54) uppermost. '^ Well, Moses,'' cried I (55), "we shall soon, my boy, have (59) a wedding in (824) the family : what (171) is your opinion of matters and things in general (951)?" — "My
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 187
soit 6loigne, pourvu que M. Thornliill connaisse F^poque ou je te confierai k son rival. S'il est reellement vrai qu'il t'aime son jugement lui suggerera le moyen d'empecher que tu sois a un autre." Ne pouvant nieconnaitre la justice de cette pro- position elle I'accepta. Olivie, de nouveau, d'une maniere solennelle promit d'epouser M. Williams dans le cas ou Tautre demeurerait insensible. Elle devait^ en outre,- des la premiere occasion informer M. Thornhill du jour fixe pour son mariage avec M. Williams.
Des precedes aussi energiques parurent redoubler Finquietude de M. Thornliill. Quant a Olivie son etat me causa un grand malaise. Dans cette lutte entre la prudence et la passion elle perdit toute sa vivacite. Elle rechercliait Fisolement pour y entretenir ses larmes. Une semaine s'ecoula sans que M. Thornhill mit obstacle a la celebration des noces. Quoique assidu dans ses visites il garda obstinement le silence pendant la semaine d'apres; complete absence de sa part quand la troi- sieme fut venue. Au lieu de montrer de Fimpatience, ainsi que je m'y attendais, ma fille tomba dans un etat de taciturnity que je mepris pour de la resignation. Quant a moi je m'applaudis- sais sinc^rement, songeant que mon enfant d'une maniere per- manente allait s'assurer le necessaire et la tranquillite ; approu- vant aussi sa resolution de pr^ferer le bonheur a Fopulence.
Quatre jours environ avant les noces, pendant la soiree, tons aupr^s de moi group 6s autour du feu, racontant des choses d'autre temps et tirant des plans pour Favenir; occupes de mille projets, riant de toutes les folies qui nous passaient par la t§te. ''Eh bien, Moise," m'ecriai-je, "bientot allons-nous avoir un mariage dans la famille! Qu'en penses-tu, mon gargon?
188 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
opinion, father, is (52, 679) that all things go on very (447) well, and I was just now thinking (54, 405) that when sister Livj is married (1137 bis, 780) to Farmer Williams, we shall then have (59) the loan of his cider-press and brewing-tubs for nothing."—'' That we shall (1228), Moses," cried I (732), ''and he will sing us (59) Death and the Lady {835), to raise (623, 1176) our spirits, into the bargain." — "He has taught (56) that song to our Dick," cried Moses (55), "and I think (623, 52) he goes through it very prettily." — " Does he so (1228) ?" cried I (732), "then let us have it (736, 623, 855): where is little Dick (432, 52)? let him up (1106) with it boldly."— ^' My brother Dick," cried (55) Bill, my youngest, '^is just gone out (1076, 52) with sister Livy; but Mr. Williams has taught (777) me two songs, and 1^11 (59) sing them for you^ papa. Which song do you choose (662, 52) — The Dying Swan ; or the Elegy on the Death of a Mad Dog r'— "The Elegy, child, by all means," said I (55), " I never heard that yet (790) — and Deb- orah, my life, grief, you know (52), is dry (1106) ; let us have (40, 623) a bottle of the best (408) gooseberry-wine, to keep up (1176, 706) our spirits (1183). I have (56, 405) wept (777) so much at all sorts of elegies of late, that without an enlivening glass I am sure (623, 52) this will (39) overcome me (1039). And Sophy, love, take (40) your guitar and thrum (40, 1104) in with the boy a little.^'
AN ELEGY ON THE DEATH OP A MAD DOa.
Good people all, of every sort,
Give ear unto my song; And if you find it wondrous short,
It cannot hold you long.
In Islington there was a man,
Of whom the world might say That still a godly race ho ran, Whene'er he went to pray.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 189
Bis moi franchement ta pensee^ ne cache rien.'^ '"^Mes vues, mon pere, sont que tout va k merveille. Je songeais justement que quand ma soeur Livie aura epouse le fermier Williams, nous aurions pour rien Tusage de ses cuves et de sa presse-a-cidre." ^' All ! certes oui, Moise^ nous I'aurons/' r6pondis-je, '^ sur le marclie pour nous mettre en bonne-liumeur il nous chantera aussi la compiainte sur la Mort et la Dame." " II a enseigne cette chanson au petit Richard," dit Moise, " qui la chante passablement bien." "Yraimentl" m'ecriai-je, ''pour lors qu'il I'entonne sans hesitation." "■ Mon frere Richard/' s'ecria "Guillaume, " vient de sortir maintenant avec ma soeur Livie. Mais, papa, je sais deux chansons que M. Williams m'a en- seignees et que je vous chanterai. Laquelle voulez-vous, Le Cygne mourant ou VElegie sur la mort d'un chien enrage?" "L'elegie, mon petit bon-homme, coute que coute," repondis-je; " je ne I'ai jamais entendu chanter. Deborah, ma vie, tu sais que le chagrin est toujours sec. Pour maintenir notre gaiety donne-nous une bouteille de ton meilleur vin de groseille. Der- nierement j'ai verse tant de pleurs sur des pieces de ce genre que sans un verre de vin, j'en suis stir, celle-ci me ferait encore pleurer. Sophie, ma bonne, decroche ta guitare et fais un accompagnement a ce petit marmot."
ELEaiE
SUR LA MORT D'UN CHIEN ENRAGE.
Bonnes gens de toute sorte, Pretez Toreille a ma cham^n ;■
EUe est tres-courte, mais qu'importe, Je vous en demande pardon.
Dans Islington vivait un hommo
Que tout le voisinage aimait; Bon-vivant, et pieux en somme,
3urtout quand priere faisait.
190 THE TICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
, ' A kind and gentle heart he had,
To comfort friends and foes ; The naked every day he clad, When he put on his clothes.
And in that town a dog was found ;
As many dogs there be. Both mongrel, puppy, whelp, and hound.
And curs of low degree.
This dog and man at first were friends;
But when a pique began. The dog, to gain some private ends.
Went mad and bit the man !
Around from all the neighboring streets The wondering neighbors ran.
And swore the dog had lost his wits. To bite so good a man.
The wound it seemed both sore and sad To every Christian eye ;
And whUe they swore the dog was mad, They swore the man would die.
But soon a wonder came to light. That showed the rogues they lied ;
The man recovered of the bite. The dog it was that died.
"A very good boy (854), Bill, upon my word, and an elegy that may (666) truly be called (1217) tragical. Come (40), my cbildren, here's Bill's health (304), and may he (728 bis, 105) one day be a bishop (118^) I"
"With all my heart," cried (55) my wife; "and if he but preaches (438, 52) as well as he sings (817, 861), I make no doubt of him. The most of (545) his family, by the mother's side, could sing (54, 1015, 1178) a good song. It was (105) a common saying in our country, that the family of the Blenkin- sops could never (54) look (1176) straight before them, nor the
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 191
Compatissant et cliaritable,
Selon Dieu son prochain fetait ; H revetait le miserable,
Quand lui-mlme se revetait.
Dans Tenceinte de cette ville,
Un pauvre chien passait ses joursj Ainsi qu'on en rencontre mille.
Par chemins et par carrefours.
L'homme et le caniche s'aimerent,
C'est la du moins ce que I'on dit; Mais un jour U se querellerent,
Et le quadrupede mordit.
Aussit6t, tout le voisinage, .
A la morsure a reeonnu, Que le chien est attaint de rage ;
H^las ! quel malheur imprevu !
La douleur parut surhumaine,
A tout chrgtien sympathisant, Et chacun predit gravement.
La mort comme chose certaine.
Mais un miracle s'opera,
Ce que notre chronique assure ; Le pauvre chien — on I'enterra:
L'homme guerit de la morsure !
" Guillaume, tu es un excellent petit gargon, je t'en donne ma parole. Mais I'on pent reellement appeler cette elegie tragique ! Allons, mes enfants, buvons k la sante du petit Gruillaume. Puisse-t-il un jour etre ev§que I"
"■ De tout mon coeur/' s'ecria ma femme, " et s'il pr^clie aussi bien qu'il chante je ne doute aucunement de son succ^s. La plupart de ses devanciers, du cote de la mere, etaient tons h, meme de chanter une bonne chanson. Au point que dans le pays il etait passe en proverbe que les Blenkinsops ne pouvaient
192 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
^Hugginsons (727) blow out a candle; that there were (54, 103, 397) none of the Grrograms (518) but could sing (1176) a song, or of the Marjorams but could tell (623, 1176) a story."—" How- ever that be (743, 736 bis)," cried I (55), "the most (548) vulgar (556) ballad of them all generally pleases me better (804) than the finest modern odes (556), and things that petrify us (657, 52, 1129) in a single stanza, productions that we at once detest (52) and praise (769). Put (40, 1160 bis) the glass to your (706) brother, Moses. The great fault of these elegiasts is (52, 648), that they are in despair (535, 71, 525) for griefs that give (52, 679) the sensible part of mankind (276) very little pain. A lady (1187 bis) loses her (367) muff, her fan, or her (368, 609) lap-dog, and the silly poet (441, 556) runs home (1016) to versify (1041 bis) the disaster."
" That may be (103, 415, 1016) the mode," cried Moses (55), "in sublimer compositions; but the Ranelagh songs that come down to us are perfectly familiar, and all cast (679, 52) in the same mould. Colin meets (52) Dolly, and they hold (623, 1157) a dialogue together. He gives her a fairing to put in her hair (1185), and she presents him with a nosegay; and then they go (187, 52) together to church, where they give (666, 52) good advice to young nymphs and swains (706) to get married as fast as they can."
" And (648, 52) very good advice, too," cried I (55) ; " and I am told (623, 1217) there is (1223) not a place in the world where advice can be given (738 bis) with so much propriety as there, for, as it persuades us to marry, it also furnishes us with a wife; and surely that must be (52,739) an excellent market, my boy, where we are told (55, 666) what we want (991), and supplied (814, 732) with it when wanting."
" Yes, sir," returned (55) Moses, " and I know but (1223) of two such markets for wives in Europe (825) : Ranelagh, in Eng- land, and Fontarabia, in Spain. The Spanish market is open (1060 bis, 776) once a year ; but our English wives are salable (52, 1015) every night."
"You are right, my boy," cried his mother; "Old England
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 193
regarder en face, et qu'il etait impossible aux Hugginsons d'e- teindre une chandelle ; que tons parmi les Grrograms pouvaient chanter une chanson, tandis que les Marjorams excellaient k center une histoire." ^' Quoi qu'il en soit," m'ecriai-je, '^a bal- lade la plus commune me plait • mieux que ne le font les plus belles odes modernes, ou que ces compositions qui nous petrifient des le premier verset ; productions que nous detestons tout en les louant. Moise, passe done le verre h ton fr^re. Le grand defaut des poetes elegiaques, c'est que leur desespoir repose tou- jours sur des riens dont tout le monde se moque. Qu'une dame perde son manchon, son eventail ou son chien mignon, le poete imbecile aussit6t va chez-lui pour y mettre en vers Taccident."
^' Peut-etre en est-il ainsi des grandes compositions," s'^cria Moise; "mais les chansons du E-anelagh qui nous arrivent sortent toutes du meme moule. Colin rencontre Colette et aussitot ils se mettent a jaser. Colin fait un present de foire k sa belle pour qu'elle en orne ses cheveuxj en retour celle- ci donne un noeud de ruban k Colin. L'un et Tautre apr^s cela s'en vont a Feglise, ou I'on conseille aux jeunes nymphes et aux jouvenceaux de se marier sans retard."
"^ Et c'est un excellent conseil," m'ecriai-je ; ^' il n'y a pas d'endroits au monde, m'a-t-on assure, ou les conseils soient donnes avec plus de convenance; car en conseillant le ma- riage on fournit aussi la femme. Oui, mon gar§on, c'est un excellent marche que celui ou I'on nous avertit de ce qu'il nous faut, et oil Ton nous fournit ce qui nous manque."
'' Sans doute, mon pere," s'exclama Moise. " II n'y a en Europe que deux marches de cette espece, Ranelagh en An- gleterre et Fontarabie en Espagne. Le marche espagnol n'est tenu qu'une fois par an ; mais en Angleterre les femmes sont eu vente tons les soirs."
"Tu as raisoUj mon fils/' s'ecria la mere. '^ La vieille An-
17
194 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
is the only place in the world for husbands to get (1046 bis) wives/^ — ''And for wives to manage (1176) their husbands (1082)/^ interrupted I (55). " It is a proverb abroad, that if a bridge were built (1127. 666, 54) across the sea, all (606) the ladies of the continent would come over (1113 bis, 623, 54) to take (1176,1046 bis) pattern from ours (366); for there are (52, 665, 377) no such wives in Europe as our own (381). But let us have (40, 623) one bottle more, Deborah, my life, and, Moses, give us a good song. What thanks (1248) do we not owe to Heaven for thus bestowing (623, 52) tranquillity (535), health, and (550) competence! I think myself happier (52,407) now than (548) the greatest monarch upon earth (303). He has no (727, 556) such fireside, nor (839) such pleasant faces about it. Yes, Deborah, we are now growing (52, 1154) old, but the even- ing of our life (1185) is likely to be happy. We are descended (52, 689) from ancestors that knew no stain, and we shall leave (59) a good and virtuous race of children behind us. While we live they will be (727, 59) our support and our (609) pleasure here, and when we die they will transmit (727) our honor un- tainted to posterity (1187 bis). Come (40), my son, we wait (52) for a song; let us have (40, 41) a chorus (958). But where is my darling Olivia? That little cherub's voice (304) is always sweetest in the concert." Just as I spoke (54), Dick came (55) running in (772). — " Oh (854), papa, papa, she is gone (56,777) from us! she is gone (158) from us ! my sister Livy is gone from us forever (1088) V'—" Gone, child !''—'' Yes; she is gone (776) off with two gentlemen in a post-chaise (450, 530), and one of them kissed (54, 623) her, and said (769) he would die (39) for her; and she cried very much (607), and was for coming back (54,1178); but he persuaded her again (773), and she went (79, 713) into the chaise, and said (765), * Oh! what will (59) my poor papa (162 bis) do when he knows (772) I am (52) undone V " — " Now, then," cried I (55), '^ my children, go (40) and be (727) miserable, for we shall never enjoy one hour more (52, 855) ! And 0 ! may (855, 736) Heaven's everlasting fury light upon him (1158, 1176, 623, 654) and his ! Thus to rob (623,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 195
gleterre est un endroit unique dans le monde pour les hommes qui veulent prendre femme/' " Et pour les femmes qui gou- vernent leurs maris," ajoutai-je. '' C'est un proverbe courant k I'etranger que si Ton jetait un pont sur la Manche, toutes les dames dii continent le passeraient pour prendre module de nos femmes. On n'en trouve pas de pareilles en Europe ! Mais Deborah, ma vie, donne-nous une seconde bouteille. Toi Moise cbante-nous une bonne chanson. Que de remerciments ne devons-nous pas au ciel qui nous donne la paix, la sant^, et le necessaire ! En ce moment je me crois plus heureux que le plus grand monarque de la terre. Pour le stir il n'a pas un coin-du-feu pareil au mien, ni d'aussi joyeux visages autour de lui. Nous nous faisons vieux, ma chere Deborah, mais n'importe le declin de nos jours sera heureux! Nous descen- dons Fun et Fautre de families dont la reputation est sans tache ; et apres nous des enfants bons et vertueux composeront notre posterite. lis seront notre soutien et notre joie pendant notre vie; et ils transmettront sans souillure apres notre mort notre memoire a leurs descendants. Mon fils nous n'attendons que toi. Chante et nous ferons chorus a ta chanson. Mais oil est ma chere Olivie ? Dans nos concerts c'est la voix de ce petit cherubin qui est toujours la plus suave." Comme je disais ces mots Richard entra en courant, — " Oh, papa, papa, elle nous a quittes, elle est partie ! Ma soeur Livie nous a quittes pour toujours!" ^^ Partie, mon enfant?" " Oui, partie en chaise-de-poste avec deux messieurs; et Tun d'eux I'em- brassant disait qu'il mourait pour elle. Tout en pleurs elle s'efforgait de revenir; mais persuadee de nouveau elle est entree dans la voiture, s'ecriant, ^ Ah ! que dira mon pere en apprenant que je suis perdue !' " ^' Pour le coup, mes en- fants," m'ecriai-je, ^' allez et soyez malheureux. Pour nous ici-bas plus de bonheur ! Puisse le ciel dans sa colere, se de- chainer sur le coupable et sur tous les siens ! m'enlever ainsi
196 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
49) me of my child ! And sure it will (59, 1230), for taking back (665, 52) my sweet innocent that I was leading up (54) to Heaven. Such sincerity as my child was (54, 679, 806) possessed of (852) ! But all our earthly happiness is now over ! Gro (40), my children, go (,727) and be miserable and infamous (135, 40);^for my heart (1185) is broken within me!" — "Father,'' cried my son, " is this your fortitude (167) V — " Fortitude (1187 bis, 367), child! yes, he shall see (59,199,415) I have fortitude. Bring me (40) my pistols; I'll (736,1225) pursue the traitor. While he is on earth I'll pursue him (328, 1185). Old as I am (604, 743), he shall find (59, 217) I can sting him yet (1176). The villain ! the perfidious villain !" I had (54) by this time (1077) reached down (1178) my pistols, when my poor wife (1191), whose (657) passions were not (806) so strong (382) as mine, caught (623, 55) me in (824) her arms. " My dearest, dearest husband," cried she (55), " the Bibk is the only weapon that is fit (740, 679) for your old hands now. Open (40) that, my love, and (1185) read our anguish into patience, for she (618) has (52) vilely deceived us (1008)."— "Indeed, sir," resumed my son (55), after a pause, '^your rage is too violent (556) and unbecoming. You should be my mother's comforter, and you increase her pain (52, 1039). It ill suited you (52,1091) and your reverend character thus to curse (1178) your greatest enemy (548). You should not (39, 777) have cursed him, villain as he is (743,935)." — "I did not curse (52) him, child, did I?"— "Indeed, sir, you did (1226,706); you cursed him twice (73)." — " Then may Heaven (706, 736) forgive me and him (74), if I did. And now, my son, I see (52) it was more than human benevolence that first taught us (731) to bless (1177) our enemies. Blessed be (145, 736, 487) His holy name for all the good He hath given (726), and for all that He hath taken away (728). But it is not, it is not (648, 52) a small distress that can (737, 1176, 288) wring tears from these old eyes (298), that have not wept for so many years (799). My child (951) I to undo (1176) my darling! May confusion seize — Heaven (40, 74) forgive me ; what am I about to say (54, 1076, 722) ? You
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mon enfant! oui, il m'exaucera parce qu'on m'arraclie cette ame douce, innocente, que je conduisais vers cette celeste de- meure. Ma fiUe, elle qui etait si sincere ! Pour nous il n'est plus de bonheur ! Partez, mes enfants, partez ! Soyez mal- heureux et converts d'opprobre car ce coup a brise mon coeur I" " Mon pere/' s'ecria Moise, " est-ce \h votre forti- tude ?'' " Ma fortitude, mon fils ; oui, il en ressentira Fat- teinte. Apporte-moi mes pistolets, que je poursuive ce traitre jusqu'au bout du monde ! Quel que soit mon age il yerra que je puis encore Tatteindre. Scelerat ! inf^me scelerat V Je venais de decrocber mes pistolets quand ma pauvre femme, dont les passions ^taient moins violentes que les miennes, me pressa affectueusement entre ses bras. " Mon cber mari/' s'ecria-t-elle, ^' la Bible k votre age est la seule arme dont vos mains puissent faire un bon emploi. Ouvrez- la, mon cber, et que sa lecture soit un baume k notre douleur. Oh, qu'elle a et^ fausse envers nous !" " Yraiment,'^ ajouta mon fils, " votre fureur est trop violente et trop inconvenante tout-k-la-fois. Loin de consoler ma pauvre mere vous ne faites qu'augmenter son affliction. II ne sied nullement a vous ni h votre caractere religieux de maudire ainsi votre plus cruel ennemi. Quelque scelerat qu'il puisse etre vous n'auriez pas du le maudire.^' "Mais, Fai-je maudit, mon enfant?" "Par- don, mon pere, vous I'avez maudit k deux reprises differentes." *' S'il en est ainsi que le ciel pardonne k lui et a moi. A pre- sent, mon fils, plus que jamais je comprends que celui qui nous enseigna a benir nos ennemis n'etait pas un simple mortel. Beni soit son saint nom pour tout ce qu'ii nous donne ou pour tout ce qu'il retire de nos mains ! Mais croyez-le, ce n'est point une affliction ordinaire qui puisse arracber des larmes des yeux ou I'age semblait en avoir tari la source. Mon enfant ! D6- truire ainsi ma fille cherie ! Que le ciel .... Pardonnez,
ir»
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may remember (52, 921, 706), my love, how good slie was (855), and how charmiiDg. Till this (828) vile moment, all her. care was (58, 780) to make us happy. Had she but died (815, 776) — but she is gone (56, 777). The honor of our family is con- taminated (52, 776), and I must (103, 163) look out for (547) happiness in other worlds than here. But, my child, you saw them (56, 790) go off (1176) : perhaps he forced her (1046 bis, 56,777) away. If he forced her (56,777), she may yet (105) be innocent." — "Ah, no, sir," replied the child (55); "he only, kissed (54,815, 623, 1176) her, and called her (54, 623) his an- gel, and she wept (767) very much, and leaned (623, 54) upon his arm (592), and they drove off very fast (52, 718)."—" She's an ungrateful (556) creature," cried (55) my wife, who (657) could scarcely speak (54) for weeping, "to use us (623, 1176) thus; she never had (56, 777, 1176) the least constraint put upon her affections. The vile strumpet has basely deserted (56, 777, 1089) her parents, without any provocation — thus to bring (680, 59) your gray hairs to the grave ; and I must (59) shortly follow (1176,938,1078)."
In this manner that night, the first of our real misfortunis, was spent (55, 1104) in the bitterness of complaint, and ill-sup- ported sallies of enthusiasm. I determined (55), however, to find out (1178) our (592) betrayer, wherever he was (39), and reproach (1176) his baseness. The next morning we missed (55, 1030) our wretched child (556) at (315) breakfast, where she used (54,1224) to give life and cheerfulness to us all (606). My wife, as before, attempted (55) to ease (1178) her heart by reproaches. '^ Never," cried she (55), "shall that vilest stain of our (592) family again darken (59) these harmless doors. I will never call (59, 648) her daughter more. No ! let the strumpet live (41, 736) with her vile seducer. She may bring us (59) to shame, but she shall (155) never more deceive us (776,1185)."
"Wife," said I (55), "do not talk (40) thus hardly. My detestation of her guilt is as great (410) as yours; but ever shall this house and this heart be open to a poor returning re-
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6 mon Dieu, ce qui allait m'ecliapper ! Bonne femme, te sou- viens-tu de sa bonte et de ses manieres charmantes ? Jusqu'a ce fatal moment elle n'avait recherche que notre bonheur. Que n^est-elle morte — helas ! elle nous a quittes. L'honneur de la famille est souille, et pour moi il n'est plus de bonheur sur la terre. Mais, mon enfant, les as-tu vu partir ? Peut-etre I'a-t-ou prise de force ? S'il en est ainsi elle pent n'^tre pas coupable V ^'Non, mon pere,^^ ajouta I'enfant; '' il ne faisait que Fembrasser et Fappelait son ange. Pleurant abondamment elle s'appuyait sur son bras quand la voiture est disparue." " C'est une ingrate," s'ecria ma femme, dent les sanglots empechaient pres- que la parole : " nous traiter ainsi ! Non, jamais elle n'a su gouverner ses affections ! La malheureuse sans provocation a abandonne son pere et sa mere ! C'est ainsi que vous et moi d^shonores nous descendrons dans la tombe ; car je ne tarderai pas h vous y joindre/'
Ce fut dans les larmes et en eclats d'un faux enthousiasme que se passa la nuit qui suivit ce premier et ce veritable malheur. Afin de lui reprocher sa bassesse je resolus de poursuivre le seducteur partout ou il se refugirait. La matinee d'apres, au dejeuner, notre malheureuse enfant nous fit faute; elle qui d'or- dinaire donnait a tous la vie et la gaiete. Comme auparavant ma femme essaya de soulager son cceur par des recriminations. " C'en est fait je ne Tappellerai plus ma fille. Jamais cet opprobre de la famille ne souillera le seuil de cette demeure habitee par I'innocence. Elle pourra nous causer de la honte, mais nous ne serons plus trompes par ses artifices.^'
"Femme," repris-je, "cesse de parler de la sorte. Ma haine du vice est aussi forte que n'est la tienne ; mais faut-il pour cela fermer notre maison et notre coeur h une pauvre repentie ? Dhs
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pentant sinner. The sooner slie returns (59, 706) from her transgression, the more welcome shall she be (59, 776) to me. For the first time the very best may (52, 105, 1176) err; art (535) may persuade (727), and novelty spread out (52) its charm. The first fault is (52) the child of (535) simplicity; but every other is the offspring of guilt (535). Yes, the wretched (743, 484) creature shall be (59) welcome to this heart and (623) this house, though stained (776) with ten thousand (586) vices. I will again hearken (59) to the music of her voice, again will I hang (727) fondly on her bosom, if I find (52) but repentance there (861). My son, bring hither my Bible and my staff. I will pursue her (59) wherever she is; and, though I cannot save her (52, 1176) from shame, I may (52, 623, 1176) prevent the con- tinuance (706, 1178) of her iniquity."
CHAPTER XVIII.
THE PURSUIT OF A FATHER TO RECLAIM A LOST CHILD TO (535) VIRTUE.
Though (667 bis) the child could (55) not describe (1176) the gentleman's person who (657) handed his (367) sister into the (824) post-chaise, yet my suspicions fell entirely (732) upon our young landlord, whose (657) character for such intrigues was but (54) too well known. I therefore directed (55, 1046 bis) my steps towards Thornhill Castle (304, 1185), resolving (1230) to upbraid him (357, 897), and, if possible, to bring back (1178) my daughter ; but, before I had reached (938, 1178) his seat, I was met (55, 86) by one of my parishioners, who said he saw (270,155) a young lady resembling (771) my daughter in a post- chaise with a gentleman, whom (663), by the description, I could only guess (54) to be Mr. Burchell, and that they drove (769) very fast. This information, however, did by no means satisfy (773) me; I therefore went (55,1016) to the young squire's,
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qu^elle reconnaitra sa faute je serai pret h la recevoir. Unc fois le coeur le plus honnete peut flechir. L'art est un seduc- teur et tout nous charme dans la nouveaute. La premiere faute est le produit de Finnocence ; les autres sont engendrees par le crime. Oui, quoique souillee de mille viceSj si elle se repent cette malheureuse sera ici regue par moi, et elle y sera la bien- venue de mon coeur. Encore ecouterai-je I'liarmonie de sa voix, et avec des sentiments de pere je me penclierai sur son sein. Mon Ills, apporte-moi ma Bible et mon baton. Je la cliercherai partout; et si je ne puis Farracher h la honte je peux Fem- pecher du moins de croupir dans le crime.''
CHAPITRE XVIII.
LA RECHERCHE D'uN PERE QUI VEUT RAMENER SON ENFANT A LA TERTTT.
QuoiQUE le petit gar§on ne put decrire le monsieur qui avait pris sa soeur dans la chaise-de-poste, mes soupgons neanmoins tomberent sur notre proprietaire, dont la reputation pour de pareils coups etait bien connue. Je pris done le chemin du chateau Thornhill, decide a faire mes reproclies au baronnet et tacher de ramener ma pauvre fille. Avant d'y arriver je fis rencontre d'un de mes paroissiens. II me dit avoir vu une jeune dame ressemblant k ma fille, et un monsieur dont la description se rapportait k la personne de M. Burchell, allant grand train en cliaise-de-poste. Nullement satisfait de ce ren- eeignement je me rendis aussitot cliez le jeune baronnet; et
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and, tlioTigli it was (843, 54) yet early, insisted (732) upon see- ing him (1177) immediately. He soon appeared (732) with the most open, familiar air (866), and seemed (732) perfectly amazed (773) at my daughter's (304) elopement, protesting (732) upon his honor that he was (938, 54) quite a stra>Dger to it. I now, therefore, condemned (55, 1175) my former suspi- cions, and could turn them (769) only on Mr. Burchell, who (657) I recollected (1005) had (58, 405) of late several private conferences with her; but the appearance of another witness (933) left me no room to doubt of his villany, who averred (55, 623) that he and my daughter were actually gone (769) to- wards the Wells, about thirty miles (589) off, where there was (54) a great deal of company. Being driven to that state of mind (771) in which we are (52, 1066) more ready to act (1177) precipitately than to reason right, I never debated (55, 1078) with myself whether these accounts might not have been (58, 777) given by persons purposely (607) placed in my way to mislead me (1052, 623), but resolved to pursue (1176) my daugh- ter and her fancied (774) deluder thither. I walked along (55) with earnestness, and inquired (769) of several by the way, but received (55) no accounts till, entering the town, I was met (55, 776) by a person on horseback (1165), whom I remembered (55, 921) to have seen at the squire's, and he assured me (55, 623, 679) that if I followed them (54) to the races (315), which (662) were (54, 679) but thirty miles farther (826), I might de- pend upon (39) overtaking (1178, 870 bis) them; for he had seen (58, 777) them dance (1176) there (938) the night before, and the whole (606, 1185) assembly seemed charmed with (1193) my daughter's performance. Early the next day I walked (55, 1165) forward to the races, and about four in the afternoon (1185) I came (55) upon the course. The company (938) made (54) a very brilliant appearance, all earnestly employed in one pursuit, that of pleasure. How different from mine, that of re- claiming a lost child to virtue ! I thought (55) I perceived (1176) Mr. Burchell at some (537) distance from me; but, as if he dreaded (57,1176) an interview, upon my approaching him he
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quoiqu'il fut encore de fort bonne-heure j'insistai k le voir sur- le-champ. Bientot apparut-il d'lin air tres-naturel et amical. II sembla tout etonne de renlevement de ma fille, et protesta sur son bonneur qu'il y etait enti^rement etranger. Je fis done taire mes premiers doutes ; les reportant sur M. Burchell, qui h, ma souvenance avait eu dernierement plusieurs secrets colloques avec elle. Mais un autre temoin, qui m'assura avoir vu M Burchell avec ma fille, ne me laissa plus de doutes sur la culpabi- lite de ce dernier. II m'affirma qu'il les avait vus tous les deux gagnant du cote de Wells, distant environ de trente milles, oii se trouvait une grande reunion. Etant alors dans une situation d' esprit qui nous porte k agir promptement sans trop ecouter les conseils de la raison; il ne me vint jamais;a la peusee^de consi- derer si ces renseignements ne m'avaient pas 4te fournis tout / expr^s pour me donner le change. Je partis done pour recher- cher ma fille et son suppose seducteur. Je commenyai resolu- ment mon voyage, questionnant toutes les personnes que je rencontrais; mais je ne pus rien apprendre. Enfin, arrive en ville je fus accosts par un monsieur, a cheval, que je me ressou- vins d' avoir vu chez le baronnet. II m'assura, que si je me rendais aux courses qui n'etaient tout-au-plus qu'a trente milles, je serais stir d'attraper les fuyards ; car il les y avait vu danser la veille, tout le monde etant charm^ de la danse de ma fille. Le lendemain de fort bonne-heure je me dirigeai vers les courses, ou j 'arrival sur les quatre heures de Fapres-midi. La societe y ^tait brillante, un chacun occupe de la recherche du plaisir. Quant anion occupation a moi elle etait bien differente ; j'allais y chercher un enfant qui avait abandonne la vertu ! A quelques pas de moi je crus entrevoir M. Burchell; mais comme s'il eut
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mixed (55, 1111, 69) among a crowd, and I saw (55) him no more.
I now reflected (769) that it would be (39, 103) to no purpose to continue (1178) my pursuit further, and resolved (55, 216) to return (1178) home (1016) to an innocent family, who wanted my assistance. But the agitations of my mind, and the fatigues I had (58, 777) undergone (801, 680), threw (55, 679) me into a fever, the symptoms of which I perceived (58, 384) before 1 came (772) off the course. This was (365 bis, 54) another un- expected stroke, as I was (623, 769) more than seventy miles (589) distant from home; however, I retired (55,103,1176) to a little alehouse by the road-side ; and in this place, the usual retreat of indigence (535) and (550) frugality, I laid me down (773, 1168) patiently (55, 405) to wait the issue of my disorder. I languished (55,417) here for near three weeks; but at last my constitution prevailed (732, 1001), though I was unprovided (901, 54, 706) with money to defray (1176) the expenses of my entertainment. It is possible the anxiety from this last circum- stance alone might have (623, 39) brought on (261) a relapse, had I not been supplied (749, 58, 776) by a traveller who (657) stopped (55, 938) to take (438, 938, 1176) a cursory refreshment. This person was (54) no other than the philanthropic bookseller in St. Paul's Church-yard, who has written (56, 777) so many little books for children: he called himself (54,93) their friend; but he was (54) the friend of all mankind (276). He was no sooner alighted, but he was in haste (773, 727) to be gone; for he was (679) ever on business of the (548) utmost importance, and was at that time actually compiling (54) materials for the history of one (605 bis) Mr. Thomas Trip. I immediately recol- lected (55, 921) this good-natured man's red pimpled face; for hp had published (58) for me against the Deuterogamists of the age, and from him (55, 648) I borrowed (732) a few (537) pieces, to be paid at my return. Leaving the inn (772), therefore, as I was (775) yet but weak, I resolved (55) to return home (763) by easy journeys of ten miles (589) a day.
My health and usual (609, 556) tranquillity were (769) almost
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voulu esquiver une entrevue, a mon approche il se faujfila dans la foule.
M'apercevant alors qu'il serait inutile de pousser plus avant ma reclierclie je me decidai a retourner a la maison^ ou ma presence etait n^cessaire a mon innoeente famille. Mais, 1' agi- tation de mon esprit et la fatigue que j'avais enduree, m'occa- sionnerent une fievre dont j'avais ressenti les premiers symptomes en quittant les courses. Me trouvant a soixante-dix milles de chez-moi c'etait encore la un coup inattendu. II fallut done s'arreter dans une petite auberge sur la route, asile de I'indi- gence, ou, alite, j'attendis patiemment la crise de ma maladie. La je languis pres de trois semaines. Enfin mon tempera- ment eut le dessus; mais je manquais d'argent pour payer les frais qu'avaient occasionnes les soins re§us pendant ma maladie. Le chagrin que j'eprouvai m'aurait inevitablement cause une rechute, si je n'eusse ete assiste par un voyageur que le hasard y amena pour s'y raffraichir. Ce voyageur n'etait autre que le libraire philanthrope du Cimetiere de I'Eglise St. Paul, celui qui a fait tant de livres pour les petits enfants. II s'appelait leur ami, mais il etait I'ami de tout le monde. Aussitot des- cendu aussitot parti. II etait toujours presse. II rassemblait en ce moment les materiaux pour la biographic d'un certain M. Tripp. Immediatement me rappelai-je la face bourgeonee de ce brave homme, qui avait ete I'editeur de mes ceuvres sur les deuterogamistes du siecle. Ce fut de lui que j'empruntai quel- que argent, avec promesse de le lui rendre des mon arriv^e chez- moi. En quittant I'auberge, vu mon etat de faiblesse, je me decidai h retourner a la maison par etapes journali^res de dix milles.
Ma sante et ma tranquillite ordinaires m'etant rendues, je me
18
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restored (776, 801), and I now condemned (55) that pride which had made me refractory (58, 792, 1176) to the hand of correc- tion. Man (535, 861) little knows (52, 678) what calamities are beyond his patience (103, 105) to bear, till he tries them : as in ascending (772) the heights of ambition, which look (54) bright from below, every step we arise shows (55,623) us some new and gloomy prospect of hidden disappointment, so in our de- scent from the summits of pleasure, though the vale of misery below may appear at first dark and gloomy, yet the busy mind, still attentive (556) to its own amusement^ finds (52), as we de- scend (727), something to flatter (52) and to please. Still as we approach, the darkest objects appear (623, 52) to brighten (1176, 73), and the mental eye becomes adapted (52, 1154) to its gloomy situation.
I now proceeded (55) forward, and had walked about two hours, when I perceived (55) what appeared at a distance like a wagon, which I was resolved (55, 129) to overtake (1178), but, when I came up (772) with it, found (55) it to be (54, 641) a strolling company's cart (304, 1185), that was carrying (771) their scenes and other theatrical furniture (351) to the next village, where they were to exhibit (1158).
The cart was (54, 1015) attended only by the person who drove it (54, 1081 bis), and one of the company; as the rest of tbe players were (698, 1176) to follow the ensuing day. " Good company (555) upon the road,^' says the proverb (52), *' is the shortest cut." I therefore entered (55) into conversation with the poor player, and as I (58, 780) once had some theatrical powers myself, I descanted (55) on such topics with my usual (556) freedom; but as I was but little acquainted (54) with the present state of the stage, I demanded (55) who were the present theatrical writers in vogue, who the Drydens (520) and Otways of the day. ^'I fancy, sir," cried the player, "few of our modern dramatists would (623, 39) think themselves much honored (782) by being compared (740, 751) to the (315) writers you mention. Dryden's and Howe's manners (304), sir, are (679, 776) quite out of fashion : our taste has gone back (56) a
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reprocliai cet orgueil qui m'avait fait regimber centre la punition que m'infligeait la Providence. Jusqu'a ce qu'il ait ^te eprouv^ rhomme ignore jusques ou sa patience peut aller; et de meme qu'en parcourant les divers degres de Tambition, tout ce qui lui parait brillant s'assombrit a mesure qu'il avance ou disparait cache dans des mecomptes ; de meme aussi en parcourant les bautes-regions du bonbeur jusqu'a la vallee des miseres^ celle-ci peut lui apparaitre triste et sombre. N^anmoins, a mesure qu'il descend distrait par ce qui frappe ses yeux, son esprit rencontre toujours quelque chose qui I'attire ou qui I'amuse. Les objets les plus sombres lui paraissent s'eclaircir en s'en rapprocbant ; et sa vue morale se fait a cette atmosphere de tenebres.
Pendant I'espace de deux heures je poussai toujours en-avant, quand je decouvris k distance quelque chose que je pris pour un chariot et que je resolus d'atteindre. Je reconnus, en m'en rapprocbant, que c'etait la charrette d'une troupe ambulante de comediens se rendant au prochain village pour y donner una representation theatrale ; transportant ainsi leurs decorations et leurs autres attirails-de-theatre.
La charrette etait sous I'escorte d'un membre de la compagnie, plus le roulier qui la conduisait; le gros de la troupe ne devait se rendre que le lendemain. Bonne-compagnie en voyage equi- vaut a un raccourci. J'entamai done la conversation avec le comedien; et, comme j 'avals dans le temps cultive I'art de la declamation, avec ma liberte accoutumee je me langai dans les topiques du theatre. Neanmoins, ignorant en entiers I'etat actuel de la scene, je m'informai des Drydens et des Otways de notre epoque. ^' Je crois, monsieur," me dit mon compagnon, " que peu de nos litterateurs modernes se trouveraient flattes qu'on les comparat aux ecrivains dont vous avez parle. La maniere de Rowe et de Dryden est tout-k-fait passee de mode.
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whole century; Fletcher, Ben Jon son, and all (606) the plays of Shakspeare, are (679) the only things that go down (776).'^ — " How," cried I (55), '' is it possible the present age can he pleased (738 bis, 623) with that antiquated dialect,, that obsolete humor, those (363) overcharged characters (1099), which abound (52) inythe works you mention (52, 855) ?" — ''Sir,'' returned my companion, " the public think (52, 698) nothing about dialect (535, 550), or humor, or character (974), for that is none of their business (1183) j they only go to be amused (1176), and find themselves happy when they can enjoy a pantomime (517) under the sanction of Jonson's or Shakspeare's (304) name." — "So, then, I suppose (52)," cried I (55), ''that our modern dramatists are (52, 679) rather imitators of Shakspeare than (411) nature."—" To say the truth (1177)," returned (55) my companion, "I don't know (52) that they imitate (52, 679) any thing at all (516, 857) ; nor indeed does the public require it (727) of them; it is not the composition of the piece, but (640, 695) the number of (975) starts and attitudes that may be intro- duced, that elicits applause. I have known (52, 1074) a piece with not one jest in the whole, shrugged into popularity, and another (55) saved by the poet's (441) throwing in a fit of the gripes. No, sir, the works of Congreve and Farquhar have (52, 679) too much" wit in them for the present taste; our modern dialect is much imore natural."
By this time (1183) the equipage of the strolling company was (58) arrived -^76) at the (315) village, which, it seems, had been apprized (773) of our approach, and was (679) come out to gaze (1176) at us; for my companion observed (55,910) that strollers always have more spectators without- (802) doors than within. I did not consider (55) the impropriety of my being (1178) in such company, till I saw a mob gather about me (709). I therefore took shelter (55,741), as fast as possible, in the first alehouse that off"ered (855), and, being shown (1230) into the common room, was (55, 938) accosted by a very well-dressed gen- tleman, who demanded (55, 623) whether I was (54) the real chaplain of the company, or whether (432) it was only to be my
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Notre goiit a recule d'un si^cle. Fletcher, Ben-Jonson, et tous les drames de Shakspeare sont actuellement les seules pieces applaudies." ^' Comment," m'ecriai-je, '^ se peut-il que notre epoque se plaise h ce style rococo, h, ces caract^res exageres, ou a cet esprit de tretaux qui abonde dans ces pieces ?" " Mon- sieur," ajouta mon compagnon, " le public ne compte pour rien le dialecte, I'esprit, ou le caractere du role; cela n'est pas son affaire. II ne vient au theatre que pour s'amuser. Une panto- mime qu'on lui donne sous le nom de Shakspeare ou de Jonson le porte aux anges." " Je suppose pour lors," m^ecriai-je, " que les ecrivains du jour sont imitateurs de Shakspeare et non de la nature." ^' A vous parler franchement je crois qu'ils n'imitent rien-du-tout," repliqua mon compagnon; 'He public meme ne I'exige pas. Ce n'est pas la composition de Touvrage qui fait le succ^s; ce sont les poses et les soubresauts des acteurs. Je connais une pi^ce sans la moindre pointe d'esprit popularis^e par des contorsions d'epaules. Une autre dut sa reussite h Theu- reus^idee, qu'eut le poete, d'y introduire la mise-en-scene d'une attaque de colique. JN'on, monsieur, les pieces de Congreve et de Farquhar sont trop spirituelles pour etre goutees de notre Epoque ; notre dialecte moderne est de beaucoup plus naturel."
A cette.heure I'^quipage de la troupe ambulante etait arriv^e au village ; dont les habitants, sans doute k Tavance inform^s de notre arrivee, accouraient de toutes parts poxn" bailler h notre entree. " Les comediens ambulants," me fit remarquer mon compagnon, ^'ont toujours plus de spectateurs au-dehors qu'ils n'en ont devant la scene." En aucune maniere ne m'aper§us-je de I'inconvenance de me trouver en pareille compagnie, que, quand ^utour de moi j'entendis gronder comme une emeute; aussi m'esquivai-je le plus lestement que je pus dans le plus prochain cabaret. Introduit dans la pi^ce commune, j'y fus accoste par un monsieur bien mis, qui me demanda s^rieusement si j'^tais I'auraonier de la compagnie, ou si I'habit que je portals
18*
210 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
masquerade character in tlie play. Upon my informing Lim (771, 74) of the truth, and that I did not belong in any sort to the (317) company, he was condescending enough to desire (49, * 680) me and the player to partake (1177) in a bowl of punchy over which he discussed (679) modern politics with great earnest- ness and interest. I set him down (55) in my mind for nothing less than a parliament-man at least, but was (55, 434) almost confirmed in my conjectures^ when, upon asking (623,776) what there was (666, 54) in the house for supper, he insisted (55) that the player and I (162 bis, 680) should sup with him (39, 1016) at his house; with which request, after some (399) entreaties, we were prevailed (855) on to comply (55, 679).
CHAPTER XIX.
THE (555 bis) description of a person BISCONTENTED (556) "WITH THE PRE- SENT GOVERNMENT, AND APPREHENSIVE (769) OP THE LOSS OP OUR LIBER- TIES.
The house where we were (54, 776) to be entertained, lying at a small distance fro^ the village, our inviter observed that, as the coach was not ready, he would conduct us on foot (1165), and we soon arrived (55) at one of the most magnificent man- sions I had seen (740, 751) in that part of the country. The apartment into which (662) we were shown (55, 623) was (54) perfectly elegant and modern; he went (55) to give (1076) orders for supper, while the player, with a wink, observed (55, 910) that we were (54, 1019) perfectly in luck. Our entertainer soon returned (55), an elegant supper was (732, 776) bi^ght in (1084), two or (865) three ladies in an easy dishabille were (782, 776) introduced, and the conversation began (732, 106) with some sprightliness. Politics (535), however, was (732) the subject on which (662) our entertainer chiefly expatiated
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 211
etait mon costume de theatre. Lui ayant dit ce qu'il en etait, que j'etais entierement etranger a la troupe, il fut assez bon pour nous inviter moi et le comedien a prendre part a un bol de punch; nous entretenant politique chaleureusement et tres-bien pendant que nous le buvions. Au pis-aller je le pris pour uu membre-du-parlement, et^ quand apres nous etre informes de ce que Ton avait a nous donner h manger, il insista sur ce que le comedien et moi irions souper cbez-lui — ce que nous n'accep- tames qu'apres bien des fayons — je fus tout-a-fait sur de Fopi- nion que j' avals formee sur son compte.
CHAPITRE XIX.
DESCRIPTION D'uX PEBSONNAGE MECONTENT DU GOUVERNEMENT ACTUEL, ET QUI BEDOUTE LA PERTE DE NOS LIBERT^IS POLITIQUES.
L':fiQUiPAGE de notre h6te n^etant par sur place en ce moment, et la maison ou nous etions invites se trouvant k une petite dis- tance du village, il s'offjit lui-meme de nous y conduire h pied. Bientot fumes-nous arrives dans une des plus belles residences que j'eusse remarquee dans le pays. L'appartement dans lequel on nous reyut etait tout-a-la-fois elegant et moderne ; le monsieur nous quitta un instant pour aller ordonner le souper. Le come- dien pendant son absence me fit remarquer que nous etions en veine ; paroles qu'il accompagna d'un clignotement. Le retour de notre Amphitryon ne se fit pas long-temps attendre. Un souper Elegant fut servi ; deux ou trois dames en deshabille coquet nous furent presentees, et la conversation common 9a avec beaucoup d'entrain. La politique pourtant fut le sujet sur
212 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
(732) ; for lie asserted (457) that liberty was (54, 679) at once his boast and his (367) terror. After the cloth was removed (55, 1084), he asked me (55, 623) if I had seen (58) the last Moni- tor ; to which replying in the negative, " What ! nor the Auditor, I suppose (52) V^ cried he (55). '^ Neither, sir,'^ returned I. — *' That's strange, very strange (447), '^ replied my entertainer. ^'Now, I read (845,52) all the politics that come out (727), — the Daily, the Public, the Ledger, the Chronicle, the London Evening, the Whitehall Evening, the seventeen (448) Magazines, and the two Eeviews (941); and, though they hate (93,52, 149) each other (674), I love them (52, 623) all. Liberty, sir, liberty (535, 550) is the Briton's (304) boast ; and, by all my coal-mines in Cornwall, I reverence (52, 108) its guardians." — " Then it is to be hoped (105),'' cried I (55), "you reverence (52) the king." " Yes (103)," returned my entertainer, " when he does what we would have (751, 744) him; but if he goes on (438, 52) as he has done (56) of late, I'll never trouble (59) myself more with his matters. I say nothing (93, 52). I think, only (59). I could have (155, 39) directed some things better. I don't think there has been a sufficient number of advisers ; he should advise with every person (39, 1176) willing to give (606, 1185) him advice, and then we should have (39) things done in another guess manner."
" I wish (39)," cried I (55), '^ that such intruding advisers were (736, 751) fixed in the pillory. It should be (52, 648) the duty of honest men to assist (865 bis) the weaker side of our constitution, that sacred power that has (657, 52) for some years been every (600) day declining, and losing (52) its due share of influence in the (824) state. But these ignorants still con- tinue (52, 679) the cry of liberty (535), and, if they have (727) any weight, basely throw it (727, 623) into (824) the subsiding scale." "
"How!" cried (55) one of the ladies (368), "do I live (179 ter, 105) to see (1176, 834) one so base, so (806) sordid, as to be an enemy to (315) liberty, and a defender of tyrants ? Liberty, that sacred gift of Heaven, that glorious privilege of Britons ?"
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 213
lequel notre li6te discourut le plus volontiers. La liberte, h sou dire, etait tout-a-la-fois son orgueil et sa crainte. Quand la nappe fut enlevee, il me demanda si j'avais lu le dernier Moni- teur. Sur ma reponse negative, " Quoi ! ni I'Auditeur, je sup- pose?" ajouta-t-il. ''Pas plus que Fautre, monsieur/^ repondis- je. '^C'est drole, tres-dr61e," repliqua-t-il. "Quant a moi, je lis toutes les feuilles politiques qui paraissent. Le Quotidien, le Public, le Journal, la Chronique^ le Londres-du-soir, le White- hall-du-soir, les Dix-sept-magasins, et les Deux-revues, et quoique ces journaux se detestent cordialement les uns les autres, pour- tant jg les aime tons. La liberte, monsieur, la liberte c'est la gloire de Fanglais ! Et par mes mines-de-bouille, en Cornouaille, je jure que je tiens en honneur ceux qui la defendent!'^ *'I1 faut croire pour lors," m'ecriai-je, ''que vous reverez le roi?'' " C'est selon," repondit mon bote, " pourvu qu'il fasse tout ce que nous voulons. Mais, s'il continue du meme train qu'il a pris .dernierement je ne me melerai plus de ses affaires; je me tais. J'ajouterai pourtant une remarque, c'est qu'k sa place j'aurais beaucoup mieux agi qu'il ne I'a fait en certain es cboses. A mon avis il ne prend pas assez de conseillers. II devrait con- suiter tout le monde ; au lieu de marcher au basard les cboses iraient sur un autre pied."
" Quant k moi," m'ecriai-je, " je soubaiterais que tons ces don- neurs incommodes de conseils fussent mis au pilori. Aider ce pouvoir sacre qui decline tons les jours et qui perd son influence dans le gouvernement, ce cote faible de la constitution, c'est le devoir de tons les bonnetes-gens. Mais au lieu de cela, les ignorants continuent h brailler le mot de liberte; et s'ils pos- sedent un peu d'influence ils la jettent dans le plateau de la balance qui I'emporte."
" Comment," s'ecria I'une des dames, " me faut-il vivre pour voir et pour entendre un bomme assez vil, meprisable, pour bair la liberte ou prendre la defense des tyrans ? La liberte, ce don gacre du ciel, la gloire et le privilege de I'anglais?"
%
214 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
" Can it be (167) possible," cried our entertainer (55), 'Hhat tbere should be (357) any found, at present, advocates for slavery? Any who are for meanly giving up the privileges of Britons ? Can any, sir, be so abject (952) ?"
" No, sir/' replied I (55), '' I am for liberty, that attribute of gods ! Grlorious liberty (427) ! that theme of modern declama- tion. I would have all men kings (39). I would be (39, 727) a king myself We have (52) all naturally an equal right to the throne; we are all (606) originally equal (351). This is (829, 52) my opinion (55, 648), and was once the opinion of a set of honest men who were called (55, 666) levellers. They tried (55) to erect (1178) themselves into a community, where (432) all (606) should be (39, 679) equally free. But, alas ! it would never answer (1091); for there were (54, 679) some among them (826 bis) stronger, and some more cunning (665 bis), than others, and these became (380, 55) masters of the rest; for as sure as your groom rides (52, 1121) your horses because he is a cunninger animal than they, so surely will the animal that is cunninger or stronger than (847) he sit (59, 1066) upon his shoulders in turn. Since, then, it is (52, 648) entailed upon humanity to submit '(1178), and some are (52) born (776) to command (1176) and others to obey (49), the question is (52), as there must be (105) tyrants, whether it is better (405) to have them in the same house (1016) with us, or in the same village (824), or still farther off in the (824) metropolis. Now, sir, for my own part, as I naturally hate (52, 149) the face of a tyrant, the farther off he is removed (52, 1207) from me the better pleased am I (839). The generality of mankind also are (696) of my way of thinking (540), and have unanimously created (56, 621, 445) one king, whose (657) election at once diminishes (769) the number of tyrants, and puts (679, 52) tyranny at the greatest distance from the greatest number of people (315). Now, the great, who were (54) tyrants themselves before the election of one tyrant, are (52) naturally averse to a power raised (56, 665) over them, and whose (535) weight must ever lean heaviest on the subordi- nate orders. It is (52) the interest of the gfeat, therefore, to
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 215
" Est-il aussi possible," s'^cria notre Amphitryon, " de trouver encore aujourd'hui des avocats de Fesclavage? Oui, monsieur, tout homme qui songe h, abandonner ses privileges comme an- glais a mes yeux est un homme abject/'
" Non, monsieur,^' r^pliquai-je; "je suis partisan de la liberte, de cet attribut des dieux ! de cette liberte glorieuse th^me des declamations modernes. Je voudrais que tout homme fut roi, et je le serais egalement. Naissant tons egaux nous avons tous le m§me droit au trone ! Yoila quelle est ma croyance. Ce fut aussi dans le temps celle d'une classe d'honnete-gens que Ton appela Niveleurs. lis essayerent de fonder une societe 0^ tous seraient egalement libres. Helas I la chose tomba en quenouille ! Quelques-uns parmi eux etaient plus forts ; plus habiles etaient certains autres; et ce fut ces deux partis qui devinrent les maitres de tous. Et par la raison que votre pale- frenier monte vos chevaux parcequ'il en sait plus long qu'eux ; de meme un animal plus fort et plus ruse qu'il n'est lui fera k son tour porter-le-bat. Des lors, puisque c'est le lot de I'hu- manite d'avoir des maitres; que les uns sont nes pour com- mander et les autres pour obeir; puisqu'il faut absolument avoir des tyrans, la question pour tous est de savoir s'il vaut mieux avoir ces tyrans chez-soi dans le village, ou mieux encore plus loin dans la capitale. Maintenant, monsieur, comme pour ma part je deteste cordialement les tyrans, plus on les eloigne de moi plus je m'en trouve satisfait. Le commun des hommes je pense est egalement du meme avis. Aussi, a-t-on una- nimement choisi un roi, dont I'^lection coupant court h, la multiplicite des tyrans eloigne I'elu de la majorite du peuple. C'est pourquoi les grands qui etaient eux-m§mes tyrans avant cette election, se trouvent tous hostilcs a un pouvoir que Ton a plac6 au-dessus d'eux; pouvoir qui p6se lourdement sur tous ceux qui le supportent. II est done dans Tint^r^t des grands
216 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
diminish (1178) kingly power (535) as mucli (806) as possible ; because whatever they take (52, 666) from that is naturally re- stored (623, 727) to themselves, and all they have (52, 815) to do in the state is to (1176) undermine the single tyrant, by which they resume (1176, 975) their primeval authority. Now, the state may be (105, 738 bis) so circumstanced, or its laws may be so disposed, or its men (609) of opulence so minded, as all to conspire (52, 679) in carrying on (706) this business of under- mining (535,317) monarchy (950). For, in the first place, if the circumstances of our state be such (52, 679) as to favor (706) the accumulation of wealth and make (1177) the opulent still more rich, this (162 bis) will increase (59, 1039) their am- bition. An (358) accumulation of wealth, however, must (52, 556, 888) necessarily be the consequence, when, as at present, more riches flow (52,122) in from external commerce (535) than arise (54, 1034) from internal industry (535); for external com- merce (775, 535) can only be managed to advantage by the rich, and they have also (52, 679) at the same time all (594) the emoluments arising from internal industry; so that the rich, with us, have (52, 679) two sources of wealth, whereas the poor have (52, 815) but one. For this reason, wealth in all commercial states is found to accumulate (93, 623, 52), and all such have (56) hitherto in time become (790) aristocratical. Again, the very laws also of this country may contribute (52, 679,1176) to the accumulation of wealth ; as when, by their means, the natu- ral ties that bind (769) the rich and the poor together are (679, 776) broken, and it is ordained that the rich shall only marry with the rich; or when the learned are held unqualified (776) to serve their country as counsellors, merely from a defect of opu- lence; and wealth is thus made the object of a wise man's ambi- tion : by these means, I say (52, 229), and such means as these, riches will (623, 52) accumulate. Now, the possessor of accu- mulated wealth, when furnished with the necessaries and pleasures of life, has no other method to employ the superfluity of his fortune but in purchasing (1178,706,74) power (535); that is, differently speaking, in making (52, 679) dependants, by pur-
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de diminuer autant que possible les prerogatives royales ; parce que tout ce que Ton enleve a ce pouvoir leur revient natu- rellement. Par consequent^ pour resaisir leur ancienne autorite ils n'ont qa'k miner le pouvoir royal. II pent done se faire que Torganisation d'un etat soit telle, que ses lois ou que ses hommes puissants amenent secretement la chute de la monarchie. En premier lieu, si Feconomie interieure tend h Taccumulation des ricliesses et a augmenter" la fortune de ceux qui possedent, cela ne fera qu'accroitre Fambition de ces derniers. Cette coijcen- tration est imminente, quand, comme h present, le commerce exterieur produit plus que ne le fait Findustrie nationale; vu que le commerce stranger ne pent etre avantageux qu'aux riches, qui en outre ont leurs profits dans le commerce interieur. De telle sorte qu'avec nous les riches possedent deux sources de prosperity, t.andis que les pauvres n'en ont qu'une. Par suite de cela dans tons les ^tats commergants la fortune se con- centre en peu de mains ; aussi avons-nous vu tous ces etata degenerer en aristocraties. Bien plus, les lois d'un pays peuvent amener cette concentration, quand par exemple les liens naturels unissant le riche au pauvre sont brises. Quand le riche ne recherche que Falliance de son pareil; quand le savant sans argent est ^loigne des affaires publiques, ou quand For est le seul mobile de la societe; c^est par ces moyens, dis-je, ou par de pareils, que s'op^re la concentration de fortune. Maintenant, par suite de cette concentration ayant tous leurs besoins et tous leurs plaisirs satisfaits, pour faire usage du surplus de leur fortune, leurs possesseurs n'ont plus d'autres moyens que de s'acheter le pouvoir, ou ce qui revient au meme achetant la libert6 des pauvres ils s'en font des dependants j achetant aussi
19
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chasing (769) the liberty of the needy, or the venal, of men who are willing to bear (52, 679) the mortification of contiguous tyranny for bread. Thus each very opulent man generally gathers (52, 623) round him a circle of the poorest of the people; and the polity abounding in accumulated wealth may be com- pared (52, 105, 776) to a Cartesian system, each (600) orb with a vortex of its own. Those, however, who are willing (556, 356) to move in a great man^s (304) vortex are only such as must be slaves, the rabble of mankind, whose souls and whose education (930, 833) are adapted to servitude (535, 317), and who know (769) nothing of liberty except the name. But there must still be (52, 623) a large number of the people without the sphere of the opulent man's influence, namely, that order of men which subsists between the very rich and the very rabble ; those men who are possessed of too large fortunes to submit (1176) to the neighboring man in power, and yet are too poor to set up for tyranny themselves. In this middle order (648) of mankind are generally to be found (52, 666) all the arts (550), wisdom, and virtues of society. This order alone is known (52) to be the true preserver of freedom, and may be called the people. Now, it may (105) happen that this middle order of mankind may lose all (606) its influence in a state, and its voice be in a manner (738 bis, 748) drowned (776) in that of the rabble 3 for if the fortune sufficient for qualifying a person at present to give (855) his voice in state aff"airs be (52) ten times less than was judged (54) sufficient upon forming (57, 776) the constitution, it is (52, 103) evident that greater numbers of the rabble will thus be intro- duced (59, 739) into the political system, and they, ever moving (52, 623, 405) in the vortex of the great, will follow (59) where greatness shall direct (727). In such a state (825), there- fore, all (764) that the middle order has left (52, 103) is (648) to preserve (1178) the prerogative and privileges (550i>) of the one principal governor with the most sacred (824, 358) circum- spection. For he divides the power (52, 657) of the rich, and calls off (52, 679) the great from falling (1178) with tenfold weight on the middle order placed (657, 52) beneath them. The
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ces hommes venaux qui pour un morceau de pain sont charmes de se donner un maitre. C'est ainsi, que, dans un pays, les riches se font generalement un entourage des necessiteux. Or, toute politique qui .tend a la concentration de fortuDe, en tout pent etre comparee k un systeme Cartesien dont les spheres ont chacune un tourbillon. Les hommes qualifies pour Fesclavage, soit par le coeur ou par leur education, lie du peuple ne con- naissant la liberte que de nom, sont ceux qui cherchent a se mouvoir dans le tourbillon des grands. Mais en dehors de la sphere du puissant il nous reste encore une grande partie du peuple. Je parle de cette classe intermediaire placee entre le riche et le pauvre; de ces hommes trop independants eux- memes pour courber devant leurs voisins arrives au pouvoir, mais neanmoins trop pauvres pour pretendre a la tyrannic. C'est dans cette classe, dis-je, ou Ton rencontre les arts, la sagesse, et les vertus de la societe. C'est lit aussi que se trouve le peuple vrai defenseur de la liberte. II se pent pourtant que cette classe intermediaire perde toute son influence dans Fetat, et que sa voix soit etouffee par celle de la classe inferieure. En effet, si le cens du vote est dix fois moins eleve aujourd'hui qu'il n'etait a I'epoque ou fut faite la constitution; il est evident qu'un plus grand nombre de proletaires peseront sur le systeme politique. Et comme cette classe s'agite dans le tourbillon des grands, naturellem^nt elle prendra la direction que ceux-ci lui indiqueront. Pour la classe moyenne en pareil cas il ne reste plus qu'une ressource. C'est de conserver dans toute leur inte- grite les prerogatives et les^ivileges de leur gouverneur prin- cipal. C'est lui qui divise le pouvoir des riches ; il previent les puissants de peser de tout leur poids sur la classe moyenne qui
220 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
middle order may be (105, 776) compared to a (1183) town, of wliich the opulent are forming (773, 265 bis) the siege, and of ■which (384) the governor from without (802, 52) is hastening the relief. While the besiegers are in dread (52, 679) of an enemy over them, it is but natural to offer the townsmen the most specious terms; to flatter (59, 71) them with sounds, and amuse (59, 706) them with privileges; but if they once defeat the governor from behind, the walls of the town will be (727, 679) but a small defence to its inhabitants. What they may then expect (1176, 71, 59) may be seen (52) by turning (108, 592) our eyes to Holland, Genoa, or Venice, where the laws govern the poor, and the rich govern the law. I am, then, for (52, 466), and would die (52, 918) for, monarchy (555), sacred monarchy; for if there be (488, 52) any thing sacred among men, it must be (380, 738 bis, 1176) the anointed sovereign of his people ; and every diminution of his power, in war or in peace (930, 834), is (52) an infringement upon the real liberties of the subject. The sounds of liberty, patriotism, and (834) Britons, have already done much : it is to be hoped (622, 103) that the true sons of freedom will prevent (59, 816) their ever doing more. I have known (56, 780) many of these pretended (773) champions for liberty, in my time, yet do I not remember (377, 56) one that was not (751, 598) in his heart and in his family a tyrant.'' My warmth, I found (55, 175, 623), had lengthened this harangue beyond the rules of good breeding; but the impa- tience of my entertainer, who often strove (58) to interrupt it (1178), could be (55) restrained na*)uger (93, 1176). "What!" cried he (55), "■ then I have (39) been all this while entertaining a Jesuit in parson's clothes ! but, by all the coal-mines of Cornwall, out he shall pack (39), if my name be Wilkinson." I now found (55, 405) I had gone (56) too far, and asked pardon (55, 987) for the warmth with which I had spoken (535,303). " Pardon (486)1" returned he (55), in a fury; ''I think (855) such prin- ciples demand (415, 54) ten thousand (586) pardons. What (422) ! give up (1176) liberty, property (381, 609), and, as the Gazetteer says, lie down to be saddled with wooden shoes. Sir,
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vient immediatement apres eux. Cette derni^re classe en tout pent etre comparee a une place assiegee par les riclies, dont le gouverneur au dehors s'avance pour lui porter seeours. Tant que les assiegeants sentent derriere eux un ennemi qui s'ap- proche, il est probable que leur conditions aux assieges seront ^ moins dures. lis leur feront de belles promesses et leur parleront de privileges. Mais une fois le gouverneur dehors battu, les fortifications de cette ville ne seront qu'une faible defense pour ses habitants. Pour savoir ce qui leur adviendra nous n'avons qu'a jeter les yeux sur la Hollande, Genes et Venise, ou les lois gouvernent le peuple et ou les riches font la loi. Je suis done pour une monarchic. Pour une monarchic sacr^e je suis pret a donner ma vie; car s'il est quelque chose de saint parmi les hommes, ce doit §tre le monarque que le peuple s'est donne. Or, toute infraction a ses droits, soit en paix, soit en guerre, sont un empietement sur les libertes reelles des sujets. Les mots de liberte, de patriotisme, de Bretons ont deja fait assez de mal. Aussi faut-il esperer que les loyaux enfants de la liberte empecheront qu'ils n'en fassent davantage. J'ai connu dans le temps plusieurs de ces pretendus champions de la liberty ; mais je n'en ai trouve aucun qui ne fut un tyran dans son cceur ou dans sa famille." Je m'apergus que I'ardeur de mon zele monarehique avait prolonge ma harangue au-dela des regies de la politesse. Mon bote, qui, plusieurs fois, avait tache de m'inter- rompre, plus long-temps ne put se contenic. '' Quoi !" s'ecria-t-il, ^' aurais-je invite un Jesuite sous F habit d'un ministre protes- tant ! Par mes mines de charbon en Cornouailles il decampera ; . sinon j'y perdrai mon nom de Wilkinson. '' Je m'aper§us main- tenant que j'avais porte la chose trop loin; aussi demandai-je pardon pour la chaleur de mes paroles. " Pardon !" repliqua-t-il d'un ton furieux. '' Pareils principes a mon avis en exigeraient mille. Comment ! abandonner nos libertes, nos biens; et, comnie le dit le gazettier, nous coucher par-terre pour qu'on nous sangle •
19*
222 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
I insist (52, 736, 110, 111) upon your marching out (450) of this house immediately, to prevent (1176) worse consequences; sir, I insist upon it!'' I was (54,187) going (1076) to repeat (1176) mjr remonstrances; but just then we heard (55, 128) a footman's rap (304, 1115) at the door, and the two ladies (1187 bis) cried out (1178, 623, 73), "As sure as death, there is our master and mistress come home I" It seems (103, 52) our entertainer all this while was only (54,815) the butler, who, in his master's ab- sence, had a mind to cut (1036) a jQgure, and be for a while the gentleman himself; and, to say (52, 375) the truth, he talked (54) politics as well as most country-gentlemen do. But nothing could now (52, 375) exceed my confusion upon seeing the gen- tleman and his lady enter; nor was (55) their surprise at finding (1178) such company and good cheer, less than ours. " Gen- tlemen,'' cried (55) the real master of the house to me and (833) my companion (623, 709), ^'my wife and I are (679,680) your most humble servants ; but I protest (52) this is so unex- pected a favor that we almost sink under the obligation." How- ever unexpected our company might be (55, 935) to them, theirs (381), I am sure (52, 415, 434), was (438, 54) still more (804) so to us, and I was (54, 935) struck dumb with the apprehensions of my own absurdity, when whom should I next see enter the room but my dear Miss Arabella Wilmot, who was formerly de- signed to be married to my son George, but whose (657) match was broken off (55, 6^), as already related (90^) ! As soon as she saw (55, 623) me, she flew (732, 1140) to my arms with the utmost joy. " My dear sir," cried she (55), " to what (657, 385) happy accident is it that we owe so unexpected (773) a visit (358)? I am sure (52) my uncle and aunt will be (59, 679, 776) in raptures when they find (59) they have the good Doctor Primrose for their guest." Upon hearing (772) my name, the old gentleman and lady very politely stepped up, and welcomed (55, 623) m® with most cordial hospitality. Nor could they (732, 821 bis) forbear (1176, 71) smiling on being informed (55, 679) of the nature of my present visit; but the unfortunate
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 223
nos sabots! Pour eviter toute autre chose j'exige, monsieur, que vous evacuiez la maison. Sur-le-champ, monsieur, je I'ex- ige !" J'allais renouveler mes excuses quand nous entendimes un laquais heurter a la porte, et les deux dames de s'ecrier aussitot : "■ Mort-de-ma-vie ! voila notre maitresse et notre maitre de retour !" II parait que notre Amphitryon n'etait autre que le sommelier, qui, en Fabsence de son maitre, s'etait avise quel- ques instants de jouer le grand seigneur. II parlait politique, disous-le, tout aussi bien qu'en parlent la plupart des seigneurs de campagne. Des Fentree du monsieur et de la dame rien ne put exprimer la confusion que j'eprouvai. Leur etonnement ne fut pas moindre de trouver une aussi bonne-ch^re et une compa- gnie comme la notre. " Messieurs," s'ecria le veritable maitre, s'adressant a mon compagnon et a moi, ''ma femme et moi sommes vos serviteurs tres-humbles. Votre visite, je Tavoue, est si inattendue que nous ne savons comment en reconnaitre la faveur." Tout inattendue qu'elle fut pour eu-x la leur pour nousj'en suis sur, Fetait encore davantage. J'etais tout accable de ma fausse position, quand, le croiriez-vous ? Mile. Wilmot se presenta dans la cbambre, elle Fancienne pretendue de mon fils Greorges dont le mariage fut rompu ainsi que je vous Fai ra- conte. Des qu'elle m'aper§ut, transportee de joie elle se jeta dans mes bras. '^ Mon cber monsieuHJjJ^ s'ecria-t-elle, " k quel accident beureux devons-nous cette surprise? Je ne doute point que ma tante et que mon oncle ne soient enchantes quand ils sauront avoir cbez eux, en visite, Fexcellent Dr. Primrose,'' Entendant mentionner mon nom, s'avangant d'une maniere tr^s-polie, le monsieur age et sa dame me firent un accueil des plus affables, mais ne purent contenir leur rire en sachant la cause de ma presence en leur domicile. Disposes, d'abord, h
224 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
butler, whom they at first seemed disposed to turn away (1108), was (55), at my intercession, forgiven (86).
Mr. Arnold and his lady (558), to whom (557, 333) the house belonged, now insisted upon (55) having the pleasure of my stay for some days; and as their niece, my charming pupil, whose mind, in some measure, had been formed (58, 776) under my own instructions, joined (55,905) in their entreaties, I complied (732, 623). That night I was shown (665, 54) to a magnificent chamber, and the next morning early. Miss Wilmot desired (55, 1185) to walk with me (1032) in the garden, which was deco- rated (54) in the modern manner. After some time spent (1104, 799) in pointing out the beauties of the place, she inquired (623, 55), with seeming unconcern, when lastl hadheard (54, 992) from my son George. "Alas ! madam,'^ cried I (55), " he has now been nearly three years absent, without ever writing to his friends or me (74). Where he is (432, 52) I know not (906, 52) ; perhaps I shall never see him (59, 164, 821 bis) or happiness more. No, my dear madam (1187 bis), we shall never more see (59) such pleasing hours as we once spent (56, 777) by our fireside at Wakefield. My little family are (698) now dispersing very fast, and poverty has brought not only want, but infamy, upon us." The good-natured girl let fall (55, 706) a tear (288) at this ac- count; but, as I saw hQP(769, 69) possessed of too much sensi- bility, I forbore (55) a more minute detail of our sufi'erings. It was (55, 640), however, some consolation to me to find (1178) that time had made no alteration in her affections, and that she had rejected (58, 780) several offers that had been made (855) her since our (58) leaving her part of the country. She led me (623, 55) round all the extensive improvements of the place, pointing (771, 910) to the several walks and arbors, and at the same time catching from every (600) object a hint for some new question relative to my son. In this manner we spent the fore- noon (679, 1104, 55), till the bell summoned us (55) to dinner, where we found the manager of the strolling company that I had mentioned (56, 777) before, who was come (54, 776) to dispose (1176) of tickets for the Fair Penitent, which was (54) to be
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 225
renvoyer leur sommelier, a ma priere ils lui pardonnerent sa faute.
Monsieur et Madame Arnold, maitres de la maison, insisterent h me retenir chez-eux pendant quelques jours. Comme leur niece, ma charmante pupille, dont le caractere en quelque sorte avait ete forme par moi joignit ses instances aux leurs, je me rendis a leur desir. On m'assigna une superbe cliambre pour la nuit. La matinee d'apres, de bonne-heure, Mile. Wilmot me temoigna le desir de faire avec moi un tour de jardin, dont I'arrangement etait d'un gout moderne. Apres m'en avoir fait remarquer les beautes, elle me demanda d'un air d'indifference si j'avais des nouvelles de Georges. " Helas ! mademoiselle/' m'ecriai-je, " le voila absent depuis plus de trois ans sans avoir jamais ecrit a ses amis ou a moi. Ou est-il ? Je Tignore. Peut-etre ne reverrai-je plus ni lui ni le bonbeur. Non, mademoiselle, nous ne gouterons plus ces instants si agreables que nous avons passes a Wakefield. Ma petite famille se disperse rapidement; et la pauvrete en j introduisant le besoin y a aussi conduit I'in- famie." A ce recit une larme roula sur les joues de la bonne fiUe. La sacbant douee d'une sensibilite exquise je m'abstins de plus de details. Ce fut pourtant une consolation pour moi de voir que le |temps n'avait pas cbange ses afi'ections, et qu'elle avait refuse plusieurs partis depuis que nous avions quitte le pays. Elle me montra en detail toutes les ameliorations de I'en- droit, m'y faisant remarquer une quantite d'allees, de berceaux, et saisissant en meme temps toutes les occasions de me faire parler de mon fils. C'est ainsi que se passa toute la matinee. Quand la cloche nous appela pour diner nous trouvames au chateau le regisseur du theatre ambulant dont j'ai deja parle. II etait venu y placer des billets pour la representation de la Belle-Penitente qu'on devait donner dans la soiree. Le role
226 , THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
acted (1176) that evening : the part of Horatio by a young gen- tleman who had never appeared (657,54,1121) on any stage. He seemed to be very warm in the praises of the new performer, and averred (869) that he never saw any one who bid so fair for excellence. Acting, he observed (910, 771, 74), was not (54) learned in a day: "But this gentleman," continued he (55), "seems (52, 855, 776) born to tread (237) the stage. His voice, his figure (609) and attitudes, are all admirable (557). We caught (56, 870 bis) him up accidentally, in our journey down." This account in some measure excited our curiosity, and, at the entreaty of the ladies, I was prevailed upon (57, 776) to accompany them (623, 713) to the play-house, which (657, 662) was (54) no other than a barn. As the company with which I went (54) was incontestably the chief of the place, we were (55) received (776, 175) with the greatest respect, and placed (772, 854, 713) in the front seat of the theatre ; where we sat (732, 706) for some time with no small impatience to see Horatio make his ap- pearance (709). The new performer advanced (55) at last; and let parents (550) think of my sensations by their own (710, 71, 74), when I found (55) it was my unfortunate son ! He was going to begin (1076,1176); when, turning (108, 769) his eyes (592, 298) upon the audience, he perceived (938, 769) Miss Wil- mot and me, and stood (55) at once speechless and immovable (1129,839).
The actors behind the scene, who ascribed (769) this pause to his natural timidity, attempted (55, 679) to encourage him (623, 1178) ; but, instead of going on (1178), he burst (55, 1097) into a flood of tears, and retired oflF (1168) the stage. I don't know (52) what were (55) my feelings on this occasion; for they succeeded (55, 785) with too much rapidity for description ; but I was (727, 405) soon awakened from this disagreeable revery by Miss Wilmot, who (657), pale and with a trembling voice, de- sired me (55) to conduct her back (623, 1178) to her nucleus (304). When got home (55,432), Mr. Arnold, who was (54) as yet a stranger to our extraordinary behavior, being informed (769, 155) that the new performer (727) was my son, sent (55)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 227
d' Horace devait y etre rempli par un jeune debutant qui montait les planches pour la premiere fois. Nous ayant parle de lui avec eloges, il nous assura n'avoir jamais vu de meilleur acteur; nous faisant remarquer que Facquisition du talent scenique n'etait pas I'affaire d'un jour. " Mais, ce jeune homme/' ajouta-t-il, " semble moule pour le theatre. Sa voix, sa tournure, ses atti- tudes, tout en lui est admirable ; c'est en nous rendant ici que nous en avons fait Tacquisition.^' Ces paroles en quelque sorte exciterent notre curiosite. Sollicite par les dames je fus forc6 de les accompagner au theatre, qui du reste n'etait qu'une grange. Comme les personnes que j'accompagnais etaient sans contredit les plus notables de I'endroit, avec beaucoup de cere- monie nous fumes places au premier rang tout-en-face de la scene. Ce ne fut pas sans impatience que nous attendimes sur nos sieges I'arrivee d'Horace. Enfin le debutant fit son entree. Que les peres et que les m^res jugent de mes emotions par les leurs quand je reconnus en lui mon malheureux fils ! II allait commencer, quand, jetant les yeux sur I'audience, et y apercevant Mile. Wilmot et moi, il demeura sans voix ni mouve- ment.
Attribuant cette pause k une timidite naturelle, les acteurs derri^re le theatre essay^rent de I'encourager; mais au lieu de commencer, fondant en larmes il se retira de la sc^ne. J'ignore ce que furent mes etnotions en ce moment. Elles se succe- d^rent avec une telle rapidite que je ne saurais les decrire; quand je fus bientot tire de cette penible reverie par Mile. Wilmot, qui, p^ile et d'une voix tremblante me pria de la ramener chez son oncle. Arrives Ik, M. Arnold, qui ne savait h quoi attribuer notre retour precipit^, ayant appris que le nouvel
228 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
his coach, and an invitation for him ; and as he persisted (679, 55) in his refusal to appear again (1178) on the stage, the players put (377, 732) another in his place; and we soon had him (438, 55) with us. Mr. Arnold gave him (55) the kindest reception, and I received him (623, 727) with my usual transport, for I could never counterfeit (1176, 1104) a false resentment. Miss Wil- mot's reception (304) was mixed with seeming neglect, and yet I could perceive she acted a studie'd part. The tumult in her mind seemed (54, 163) not yet abated (773); she said twenty (55, 583) giddy things (556) that looked like joy (54, 679), and then laughed (55, 244) loud at her own want (991) of meaning. At intervals she would take (54) a sly peep at the glass, as if happy (556) in the consciousness of irresistible beauty, and often would ask (771, 1028) questions, without giving (623,1176) any manner of attention to the answers.
CHAPTER XX.
THE (555 bis) history of a philosophic vagabond, pursuing novelty, but
LOSING (535) content.
After (884) we had supped, Mrs. Arnold politely (55, 405) offered to send (1178) a couple (510) of her footmen for my son's (304) baggage, which he at first seemed (55, 380) to de- cline (1176), but upon her pressing the request, he was obliged (55) to inform her (1178, 623) that a stick and a wallet were (54, 679) all (606) the movable things upon this earth which he could boast of. ^' Why, ay, my son," cried I (55), ^^you left me but poor (556); and poor, I find (52, 727, 623), you are come back ; and yet I make no doubt (52, 776) you have seen (56, .777) a great deal of the world." — '^ Yes, sir," replied (55) my son, " but travelling (457) after fortune is not (163, 52) the way to secure her (1178, 905); and, indeed, of late, I have (56) de-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 229
acteur ^tait mon fils, il lui envoya sa voiture avec une invita- tion. Comme ce dernier refusa de reparaitre sur la scene, les comediens en mirent un autre a sa place et nous I'eumes bientot avec nous : M. Arnold lui fit Faccueil le plus flatteur. De mon cote je le regus avec mes transports accoutumes, n'ayant jamais su jouer un faux ressentiment. Mile. Wilmot Faccueillit avec une sorte de dedain sentant trop I'affectation pour s'y meprendre ; le desordre de son esprit n'etait pas encore calme. Elle dit mille choses sans suite qui semblaient indiquer la joie; puis elle rit de leur incoherence. De temps-k-autre elle se regar- dait dans le miroir, et paraissait contente d'y apercevoir que sa beaute etait irresistible ; faisant souvent des questions sanB s'inquieter le moins du monde des r^ponses.
CHAPITRE XX.
HISTOIRE D'uN PHILOSOPHE VAGABOND EN QUETE DE LA NOTTVEAUT!^ ET EN PERTE du CONTENTEMENT.
D'uNE mani^re fort polie, apr^s le souper, Mme. Arnold fit offre d'une couple de laquais pour apporter les bagages de mon fils ; politesse qu'il ne voulut pas d'abord accepter. Mais I'ofi're ayant ete renouvelee par cette dame, il fut force de lui avouer qu'un baton et une valise composaient toute sa fortune mobi- liaire ! " Quoi, mon fils/' m'ecriai-je ; " pauvre tu m'as quitte et pauvre je te retrouve. Je suis certain pourtant que tu as fait ample connaissance avec le monde." '^ Oui, mon p^re," repli- qua-t-il ; " courir apr^s la fortune n'est pas le plus str moyen de la joindre. Yraiment depuis long-temps en ai-je abandonne la
20
230 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
sisted (777) from the pursuit."— '^ fancy (52,900), sir," cried (55) Mrs. Arnold, ^' that the account of your adventures would be (39) amusing; the first part of them I have often heard (56) from my niece ; but could the company prevail for the rest, it would be an additional obligation.'^ — '' Madam/' replied my son, '' I promise you (855) the pleasure you have (59) in hearing (1177) will not be (727) half (806) so great as my vanity in repeating them; and yet in the whole narrative I can (52) scarcely promise (1176) you one adventure, as my account is rather of what I saw (56) than what I did (727). The first misfortune of my life, which you all know (375, 52, 606, 1074), was great (55, 556) ; but though it distressed (57), it could not sink me. No person ever had (52, 1008) a better knack at hoping than I. The less kind I found fortune at one time, the more (839) I expected from her at another; and being now (52) at the bottom of her wheel, every revolution might lift (72, 1176) but could not (925, 1176) depress (623) me. I proceeded (623, 55), therefore, towards London in a fine morning, no way uneasy about to-morrow, but cheerful as the birds that carolled (54) by the road, and comforted myself (265 bis) with reflecting that London was (54) the mart where abilities of every kind were sure (54, 679, 557) of meeting distinction and reward.
'^ Upon my arrival in town (825), sir (1184), my first care was (55) to deliver (1178) your letter of recommendation to our cousin, who was (54) himself in little better circumstances than I. My first scheme, you know, sir, was (54) to be (623, 1154) usher at an academy, and I asked (55) his advice on the affair. Our cousin received (55) the proposal with a true sardonic grin. 'Ay,' cried he (55), 'this is (665), indeed, a very pretty career that has been chalked out (56) for you. I have been (56) an usher at a boarding-school myself; and may I die (665, 623, 52) by an anodyne necklace, but I had rather be (39, 1176) an under- turnkey in Newgate ! I was up (855) early and late ; I was (484) brow-beat by the master, hated (149) for my ugly face by the mistress, worried (484) by the boys within, and never per- mitted to stir out (1176) to meet civility abroad. But are you sure
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 231
poursuite." ^' Je suppose^ monsieur," s'ecria Madame Arnold, '' que le recit de vos aventures serait tr^s-int^ressant a entendre. Souvent ma niece nous en a raconte la premiere partie ; mais si les personnes presentes peuvent vous decider k nous en dire la suite, ce sera pour nous une nouvelle preuve d'obligeance de votre part." '^ Madame," repondit mon fils, " le plaisir que vous aurez a les entendre ne sera pas aussi grand que celui que ressentira le cdnteur. Dans tout le recit, neanmoins, je ne peux vous promettre une seule aventure qui me soit personnelle ; parce qu'il consiste principalement en ce que j'ai vu et non en ce que j'ai fait. Le premier malheur de ma vie vous le savez tons fut accablant. J'en fas desespere; mais je ne perdis pas courage. Personne au monde comme moi n'est doue de la faculte de se faire de belles idees. Si la for- tune me boude h une epoque, c'est alors que je compte le plus sur elle pour un terme procbain. Et comme je suis actuelle- ment au point le plus bas de sa roue, cliacune de ses nou- velles revolutions doit m'elever sans pauvoir m'abaisser davan- tage. Pendant une belle matinee je m'acbeminai vers Londres, ne songeant aucunement au lendemain, gai comme les oiseaux qui gazouillaient sur le bord de la route, fortifie par la pens^e que cette ville etait la seule ou les talents, quels qu'ils fussent, ^taient siirs d'y trouver des positions ou des recompenses.
" Des mon arrivee en ville, cber pere, mon premier soin fut de delivrer k mon cousin la lettre que vous m'aviez remise pour lui. Sa position alors n'etait pas de beaucoup meilleure que la mienne. Comme vous savez que mon premier projet etait de me faire maitre-d' etude, je le consultai a ce sujet, Des m'en- tendre un sourire sardonique ecbappa h mon cousin. ^Yrai- ment,' s'ecria-t-il, ' on vous a trace \h une fort brillante carri^re. J'ai ete moi-meme maitre-d'etude dans un pensionnat ; mais qu'on me pende mieux vaudrait etre sous-guichetier k New- gate ! Se lever de bonne-heure et se coucber fort tard ; rudoye par le maitre, et k cause de ma laideur etre execre de la maitresse ; peste par les ^coliers au-dedans, ou sans conge pour sortir et trouver un accueil poll au-debors. Mais etes-vous bien stir
232 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(52) you are fit (727) for a school? Let me examine you a little. Have you been bred apprentice to tbe business ?' — 'No/ ' Then you won't do for a school. Can you dress (52) the boys' hair (304, 1185) ?'—' No.'— 'Then you won't do (727) for a school. Have you had (57) the small-pox?' — 'No.'—- 'Then you won't do for a school. Can you lie (727, 1176, 1168) three in a bed?'— 'No (486).'— 'Then you will (423,59,166) never do for a school. Have you (52, 443) got a good (556) stomach ?' — ^ Yes.' — 'Then you will (52, 623) by no means do for a school. No, sir: if you are (52) for a genteel, easy profession, bind your- self (40, 41) seven years as an apprentice to turn (1176) a cut- ler's wheel (304), but avoid (40) a school by any means. Yet, come (40),' continued he, ' I see (41, 52) you are (1176) a lad of spirit and some (537) learning: what do you think (39, 179, 164) of commencing author like me ? You have read (56, 405) in books, no doubt, of men of genius starving at the trade; at present I'll show (39, 162 bis, 1176) you forty very dull fellows about town, that live by it (52, 1122) in opulence, — all honest jog-trot men (533), who go on smoothly and duly, and write (52, 1026) history and politics, and are praised; men (535), sir, who, had they been bred (740, 749) cobblers, would all their lives have only (39, 777) mended shoes, but never made them.'
" Finding that there was (769, 54) no great degree of gentility affixed to the character of an usher, I resolved (55) to accept (1178) his proposal ; and having (767, 54) the highest respect for literature, hailed (676, 55) the Antiqua Mater of Grub Street with reverence. I thought it my glory to pursue (769, 1177) a track which Dryden and Otway trod (58, 785) before me. I con- sidered (54, 125) the goddess of this region as the parent of ex- cellence; and, however an intercourse with the world might give us good sense, the poverty she entailed (54, 679) I supposed (727, 900) to be the nurse of genius. Big (556) with these re- flections, I sat down (623, 55, 1157), and, finding that the best things remained to be said (1177) on the wrong (556) side, I resolved (55, 216) to write (763, 541, 1185) a book that should be (39, 405) wholly new. I therefore dressed up (55, 69) some para-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 233'
de votre vocation scholaire ? Yoyons ; que je vous examine un pen. D'abord, avez-vous fait un apprentissage du metier V ' Non/ ' Dans ce cas vous ne valez rien pour une ecole/ ^ Pouvez-vous peigner les enfants?' ^Non/ 'Vous ne valez rien pour une ecole.' ' Avez-vous eu la petite-verole V 'Non/ 'Yous ne pouvez pour lors entrer dans une ecole. Pouvez-vous coucher trois dans un lit V ' Non/ ' Dame ! vous ne serez jamais bon pour une ecole/ ' Avez-vous bon appetit?' ' Oui/ ' Croyez-m'en, vous n'^tes pas qualifie pour une ecole. Non, mon ami, si vous cherchez une position de- cente et facile h, exercer, contractez un apprentissage de sept ans pour tourner la roue d'un coutelier, mais coute que coute gardez- vous bien d'entrer dans une ecole. Cependant voyons/ ajouta- t-il, 'vous me paraissez avoir bon courage et posseder de I'instruction : pourquoi ne vous feriez-vous pas auteur comme moi? Yous avez probablement lu dans des livres que des hommes de genie sent morts de faim h> ce metier; cependant je pourrais vous montrer, en ville, une quarantaine de niais qui nagent dans I'opulence en ecrivant, vrais trotte-menu allant cabin-caha, faisant uniment soporifiquement de I'histoire et de la politique, et recevant les eloges du public. Hommes, croyez- m'en, qui s'ils fussent nes savetiers auraient rapiece des souliers toute leur vie sans jamais savoir en faire/
" M'apercevant que peu d'honneur s'attacbait h> la position de maitre-d'^tude, je me decidai a accepter sa proposition. Comme je nourrissais le plus grand respect pour la litterature, je saluai avec veneration Vantiqua mater de Grrub-street ; ne trouvant que gloire a suivre le sentier que Dryden et Otway avaient par- couru avant moi. Je regardai la patrone de ces regions comme la mere par excellence ; et quoique la connaissance du monde dut former notre jugement, je m'imaginais que la pauvrete que eette bonne mere transmettait a ses enfants etait la nourrice de leur genie. Plein de ces reflexions je me mis a r€euvre. M'apercevant que sur le mauvais cote des questions le meilleur n'avait pas encore ^te dit, je me decidai ^ faire un livre dont le sujet serait enti^rement neuf. Avec un peu d'invention je pr6-
20*
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doxes with some ingenuity. They were (54, 679) false (336), in- deed, but they were (727, 556) new. The jewels of truth have been (56) so often imported (777) by others, that nothing was left (54) for me to import (855), but some (537) splendid things that at a distance looked (54, 679) every bit as well. Witness (933), you powers, what fancied importance sat perched (54) upon my quill (287) while I was writing (727, 26) ! The whole learned world, I made no doubt (54), would rise (737,751) to oppose (1176) my systems ; but then I was (54, 776, 918) prepared to oppose (1030) the whole learned world. Like (556) the porcu- pine, I sat self-collected, with a quill (556) pointed against every opposer.'^
"Well said (486,447), my boy," cried I (55); "and what sub- ject did you (54) treat upon? I hope (893, 52) you did not pass over (59, 623, 722) the importance of monogamy. But I interrupt (52, 623, 438) : go on (40, 445). You published (55) your paradoxes (171); well, and what did the learned world say (836 bis, 52, 535) to your paradoxes ?"
" Sir," replied (55, 1184) my son, "the learned world said nothing (55,166) to my paradoxes; nothing at all, sir (925). Every man of them was employed (58,776) in (1177,1030) praising his friends and himself (381), or condemning (1177, 757) his enemies ; and unfortunately, as I had (54) neither (166), I suffered (55) the cruellest (407) mortification, — neglect (535).
"As I was meditating (54) one day, in a coffee-house, on the fate of my paradoxes, a little man (1191), happening (55) to enter the room, placed himself (93, 732) in the box before me (826 bis), and after some (537) preliminary discourse, finding me (769) to be (54) a scholar, drew out (55) a bundle of proposals, beg^ng me (769) to subscribe (1178) to a new edition he was going to give (54, 1076, 706) to the world of Propertius (709, 711), with notes. This demand necessarily produced (55, 405) a reply, that I had (54) no money; and that coneession led him (535,55, 1039) to inquire (1176) into the nature of my expectations. Finding (769) that my expectations were (54, 679) just as great as my purse — 'I see (623,906),' cried he (55), 'you are unac-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 235
parai deux ou trois paradoxes. lis ne contenaient pas un mot de vrai ; mais n'importe ils etaient nouveaux. On nous a si souvent importe les joyaux de la verite qu'il ne restait plus rien pour moi que quelques morceaux de clinquant qui de loin fai- saient assez bonne apparence. Pouvoirs createurs ! representez- vous I'importance qui perchait sur ma plume pendant que j'ecri- vais ? Je ne doutais pas que tout le monde-savant ne s'elevat pour s'opposer h, mes systemes ; mais j'etais pret a faire face k tout ce monde. Tel qu'un porc-^pic, concentre en moi-meme, je pr^sentais k mes adversaires la pointe ac6ree d'une plume-d'oie/'
" Tr^s-bien, mon fils/^ m'^criai-je; "et quel ^tait le sujet de ton cboix ? L'importance de la monogamie, j'esp^re, sans doute ne t'aura pas echapp^. Mais je t'interromps ; va ton train. Tu publias tes paradoxes, n'est-ce pas? mais qu'en dit alors le mon de-savant ?"
" Le monde-savant/' repliqua mon fils, " ne prit pas garde k mes paradoxes. Pas un mot de sa part. lis Etaient tons occu- p^s k faire I'eloge de leurs amis, le leur, oil k condamner leura ennemis; et comme je manquais des uns et des autres j'essuyai la plus cruelle mortification — Foubli.^'
"Un jour, pendant que je meditais dans un caf^ sur le sort de mes paradoxes, un petit-homme que le hasard y amena se plaga dans un cabinet vis-a-vis du mien. Apres avoir ^change quel- ques paroles, s'apercevant a ma conversation que j'etais instruit il exhiba un paquet de prospectus, me priant de souscrire k une nouvelle edition de Properce, annotee, qu'il etait sur le point de publier. Cette demande produisit naturellement la reponse que je n'avais pas d'argent; concession qui lui fit demander ce que je me proposais de faire. S'apercevant que mes esperances etaient aussi vides que ma bourse, ' Je le vols,' s'4cria-t-il, ^vous ne connaissez pas la ville; mais je vous en
236 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
quainted (727, 1073) with the town. I'll teach (59, 623, 1074) you a part of it. Look (40, 706) at these proposals ; upon these very proposals I have subsisted (726, 86) very comfortably for twelve years. The moment a nobleman returns (52, 1015) from his travels, a Creolian arrives (52, 623, 1077) from Jamaica, or a dowager (954) from (855, 1185) her country-seat, I strike (52, 1095) for a subscription. I first besiege (52) their hearts (1183) with flattery (772), and then pour in (52) my proposals at the breach. If they subscribe (52, 679) readily the first (362) time, I renew (727, 679) my request to beg (623, 52, 1039) a dedica- tion fee; if they let me (484) have that, I smite them (727, 623) once more for engraving (1039, 764) their coat-of-arms at the top. Thus,' continued he, ' I live (52) by vanity and laugh at it (772). But, between ourselves, I am now (52, 826) too well known (776); I should be glad (621, 39) to borrow (1178) your face a bit; a nobleman of distinction has just (52,1077) returned (1178) from Italy; my face is (52) familiar (556) to his porter; but if you bring (40, 623) this copy of verses, my life for it you succeed (484), abd we divide (59, 706) the spoil.' "
'^ Bless us, George," cried I (55), ''and is this (167,432) the employment of poets now (441,405)?- Do men of their exalted talents thus stoop (52) to beggary ? Can they (727) so far dis- grace their calling as to make a vile traffic of praise for bread V
"Oh, no, sir (1184)," returned he; '^a true poet can (52, 166) never be so base ; for wherever there is (52, 623) genius there is pride. The creatures I now describe (657, 52) are (52, 679) only beggars in rhyme. The real poet, as he braves every hardship for fame, so is he (52) equally a coward to contempt ; and none but those who are (52, 679) unworthy protection con- descend (727, 706) to solicit it.
'^ Having a mind (769) too proud to stoop (1176) to such in- dignities, and yet a fortune too humble to hazard (49) a second attempt for fame, I was (55) now obliged (776) to take (55) a middle course, and write (855, 709) for bread. But I was un- qualified (54) for a profession where mere industry alone was (54) to insure success. I could not (54) suppress (1176) my
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 237
montrerai un c6t^. Examinez ces prospectus. Depuis douze ans je vis tres-confortablement sur leur produit. D^s qu*un gentilhomme est de retour de ses voyages ; qu'un riche Creole nous arrive de la Jamaique, ou qu'une douaiere nous vient de son cli£tteau, aussitot j'ouvre une souscription. J'assiege leur coeur en les flattant et comble la brecbe avec mes prospectus. S'ils souscrivent facilement du premier coup, je renouvelle mes propositions et me fais payer le montant d'une dedicace. Ce point accorde je les exploite encore, promettant de faire graver leur ecusson sur la premiere page de mon livre. C'est ainsi/ ajouta-t-il, ' que je vis de la vanite tout en riant d'elle. Mais entre nous soit dit je suis aujourd'hui trop connu; aussi serais- je cliarme d'emprunter votre physionomie pour un instant. Un gentilhomme de distinction vient de retourner d'ltalie. Comme mon visage est tres-connu de son portier presentez-lui vous- m§me cette piece de vers ; stir du succ^s, h nous deux nous par- tagerons le butin.^ "
'^ Que Dieu nous benisse, G-eorges," m'ecriai-je, " est-ce 1^ Toccupation des poMes de nos jours? Faut-il que des bommes de genie s'abaissent k Fetat de mendiants, et pour un morceau de pain peut-on ainsi ravaler cette honorable profession ?"
" Oh, mon pere/' repliqua-t-il, '^ un vrai po^te n'a jamais I'esprit aussi bas. Partout ou se trouve le genie \h aussi est I'amour-propre, Les hommes dont je parle sont les besaciers de la rime. Bravant toutes les mis^res pour arriver h la reputation, le vrai poete affronte hardiment le m^pris. II n'y a que ceux indigne de toute protection qui sollicitent de la sorte.
^' Ayant le coeur trop haut place pour m^abaisser h de telles manoeuvres ; trop humble aussi pour liasarder un nouveau pas vers la reputation, pour me procurer du pain je pris I'entre- deux de la route. Je ne possedais, neanmoins, aucune des qualites requises pour un etat dont le succes dependait de Tassi- duit6. Je ne pouvais contenir cette soif secrete pour les applau-
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lurking passion for applause, but usually consumed (727) that time in efforts after excellence which takes (52) up but little room, when it should have been (39, 777) more advantageously employed in the diffusive productions of fruitful mediocrity. My little piece would therefore come forth (54, 679) in the midst of periodical publications (556), unnoticed and unknown (557). The public (698, 54) were more importantly employed (400) than to observe (1178) the easy simplicity of my style, or the harmony of my periods. Sheet after sheet (1233) was (55, 679) thrown off (69) to (824) oblivion. My essays were (57, 776) buried among (826 bis) the essays upon (802,535) liberty, Eastern tales (550), and cures for the bite of a mad dog ; while Philautos, Philalethes, Phileleutheros, and Philanthropes, all wrote (54) better, because they wrote (727, 769) faster (390) than I.
"Now, therefore, I began (54, 878) to associate (1177) with none (815) but disappointed authors like myself, who praised (54,93), deplored (727,676), and despised (54) each other (675). The satisfaction we found (727) in every celebrated writer's attempts (304) was (54) inversely as their merits. I found (55) that no genius in another could please me (54,1176, 623). My unfortunate paradoxes had (58, 777) entirely dried up that source of comfort. I could neither read (54) nor (837, 838) write (706,535) with satisfaction; for excellence in another was (727, 623) my aversion, and writing was (727) my trade.
^' In the midst of these gloomy reflections, as I was one day sitting (1230) on a bench in St. James's Park (304), a young gen- tleman of distinction, who had been (855) my intimate acquaint- ance at the university, approached me (57). We saluted (55, 679) each other with some hesitation — he almost ashamed (336) of being known (1178, 1185) to one who made so shabby an ap- pearance, and I afraid (769) of a repulse. But my suspicions soon vanished (57, 776) ; for Ned Thornhill was (54) at the bottom a very good-natured fellow (1185)."
" What did you say (385, 726), George ?" interrupted I (1030) ; " Thornhill ! was (727) not that his name ? It can certainly be
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 239
dissements. Aussi pour atteindre h la perfection qui s'obtient toujours en pen de mots, consumai-je peniblement mon temps en vains efforts, que j'aurais dti diriger vers les productions mediocres goutees et appreciees de tout le monde. Inaper§us et inconnus mes fragments a cause de cela paraissaient au milieu de productions periodiques. Le public avait mieux a faire que de remarquer I'aisance, la facilit6.de mon style ou rbarmonie de mes periodes. Page-a-page ils tomberent dans Toubli. Mes essais furent enterres cote-h^-cote avec ceux faits sur la liberte, avec les mille-et-une nuit, et les recettes sur la guerison de Fhydropliobie. Tandis que Philautos, Pbilalethes, Pbileleutberos et Pbilanthropos, ecrivaient tous mieux que moi par cela seul qu'ils ecrivaient plus vite.
" Je*commen§ai maintenant a ne m'associer qu'avec des 6cri- vains comme moi de§us dans leurs esperances ; qui se louaient, . se meprisaient, et se decriaient les uns les autres. Le plaisir que nous trouvions dans les ecrits des bons auteurs etait tou- jours en raison inverse de leur merite. Je m'aper§us que le genie dans un autre n'avait pas d'attraits pour moi : mes mal- heureux paradoxes avaient tari la source de mes jouissances. Je ne lisais ni n'ecrivais plus avec gout; et parceque j'etais auteur par metier, le talent cbez les autres m'etait chose insupportable.
'^ Un jour, assis sur un banc dans le parc-St.-James en proie k ces tristes reflexions, je fus accoste par un jeune homme de distinction ancien ami intime d'universite. Ce fut avec hesita- tion que nous nous abordames, — lui tout honteux d'avoir pour connaissance un etre aussi deguenille que moi, et moi redoutant un mauvais accueil de sa part. Mes doutes bientot furent pourtant dissipes ; car dans le fond Edouard Thornhill etait un assez bon gar§on."
*^Que dis-tu, Georges?'^ fis-je en Tinterrompant, " n'as-tu pas dit Thornhill? pour lors ce ne pent etre que notre propri^taire.'^
240 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(52, 648) no other than my landlord."—" Bless me (849) !" cried Mrs. Arnold; ^4s Mr. Thornliill so near a neighbor of yours? He has long been (726, 1189) a friend in our family (592), and we expect a visit from him (52, 679) shortly."
" My friend's first care (304)," continued my son, " was (54) to alter (1178,1141) my appearance by a very fine (337) suit of his own clothes, and then I was admitted (623) to his table upon the footing of half-friend, half-underling. My business was (54) to attend him (623, 1178) at auctions, to put him (1178) in spirits when he sat (54, 1097) for his picture, to take (1178, 623) the left hand in his chariot (824, 844) when not filled (776) by another, and to assist (1178,705, 623) at tattering (1060 bis) a kip, as the phrase was (711), when he had (34) a mind for a frolic. Besides this, I had (54) twenty (583) other little em- ployments in the family. I was to do (54, 105) many small things without bidding (925) ; to carry (1176) the cork-screw (533); to stand (49,1015) god-father to all the butler's children (304); to sing (49) when I was bid (54,438); to be never out of humor; always to be humble (49, 405) ; and, if I could (54, 623), to be very happy.
" In this honorable post, however, I was not without a rival. A captain of marines, who was (58) formed for the place by na- ture, opposed me (623,55, 1084, 1177) in my patron's affections. His (367) mother had been (58) laundress to a man of quality, and thus he early acquired (55) a taste for pimping (1036) and pedigree. As this gentleman made it (58) the study of his life to be acquainted with lords, though he was dismissed (855, 484) from several for his stupidity, yet he found many of them, who were as (806) dull as himself, that permitted (55, 679) his assi- duities. As flattery was (54, 679) his trade, he practised it (415, 54) with the easiest address imaginable; but it came awkward and stiff from me (623, 54, 776), and as every day my patron's desire of flattery increased (54,130), so every hour (1201,12), being better acquainted (54, 623) with (1223) his defects, I be- came (415, 55) more unwilling to give it. Thus I was (54, 1076) once more fairly going to give up the field (1097) to the
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 241
'' Par exemple !" s'ecria Mme. Arnold, '^ serait-il possible que M. Thornliill fut Fun de vos voisins ? C'est un ancien ami de la famille dont nous attendons journellement la visite."
" Le premier soin de mon ami," continua mon fils, '^ fut de changer mon exterieur en me donnant un bel habillement com- plet tire de sa propre garde-robe, puis de m'admettre k sa table 6ur un pied moitie ami moitie valet. Mon emploi ^tait de I'ac- compagner aux eneans; de maintenir sa bonne-bumeur quand il posait pour son portrait ; de m'asseoir a sa gaucbe dans son cha- riot quand la place n'etait pas occupee par d'autres; et, ainsi qu'on le dit, de lui tenir la cbandelle quand il s'agissait de faire une orgie. J'avais en outre vingt autres petits emplois dans la maison. II me fallait sans commandement accomplir une foule de petits devoirs, porter le tire-bouchon, etre parrain de tous les enfants du sommelier, chanter d^s qu'on me Fordonnait, §tre toujours de bonne-humeur et toujours humble, avec tout cela §tre heureux si je le pouvais.
" Dans ce poste honorable je ne fus pourtant pas sans rival. Un capitaine de soldats-de-marine que la nature avait moule pour Temploi, chercha h me supplanter dans la favour de mon patron. Sa m^re avait ete buandiere chez un grand; ce qui de bonne- heure lui donna le gout de faire le complaisant et le gros-dos. Comme ce personnage avait toujours cultive la societe des grands-seigneurs quoique remercie par plusieurs pour sa betise, d'autres non moins imbeciles pourtant Fadmirent dans leur societe. Comme la flatterie etait son fort il en usait avec une grande habilete. Quant a moi son usage m'etait inconnu. Or, comme mon patron devenait tous les jours plus avide de louanges, j'en devins moi plus parcimonieux en proportion; parce que chaque instant me decouvrait chez lui de nouveaux defauts, Un jour, j'allais laisser le champ-libre au capitaine
21
242 , THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
(316) captain, when (844, 958 bis) my friend found (55) occasion for my assistance. This was (411, 64, 103) nothing less than to fight (93, 1198) a duel for him with a gentleman whose (662) sister it was pretended he had used ill (58, 777). I readily com- plied with his request, and though I see (743) you are (706) dis- pleased at my conduct, yet, as it was (855, 54) a debt indispensably due to friendship, I could not (163, 55) refuse (623, 1176). I un- dertook the affair (55, 1074), disarmed (732) my antagonist, and soon after had (727) the pleasure of finding (1230) that the lady was only (54, 815) a woman of the town, and the fellow (885, 367) her bully and a sharper. This piece of service was repaid (623, 57) with the warmest professions of gratitude j but as my friend was to leave (54, 1176) town in a few days, he knew (55) no other method of serving (1230) me but by recommending me to his uncle. Sir William Thornhill, and another nobleman of great distinction, who enjoyed a post under government. When he was gone (57, 155), my first care was (55, 154) to carry (1178) his recommendatory letter to his uncle, a man whose (657) cha- racter for every virtue was (728) universal, yet just. I was re- ceived (57) by his servants with the most (405) hospitable smiles ; for the looks of the domestics ever transmit (52) their master's benevolence (304). Being shown (855, 484) into a grand apart- ment, where Sir William soon came (55, 1078) to me, I delivered (727) my message and letter, which he read (732), and after pausing some minutes — 'Pray, sir/ cried he (55), ^inform me what you have done for my kinsman, to deserve (623, 800) this warm recommendation ? But I suppose, sir, I guess your merits; you have fought for him (93, 56, 262), and so you would expect (39, 735) a reward (736, 751) from me for being the instrument of his vices ? I wish, sincerely wish (52), that my present re- fusal may be (736) some punishment for your guilt, but still more that it may be (855) some inducement to your repentance.' The severity of this rebuke I bore patiently (55, 1046 bis), be- cause I knew (54, 776) it was just. My whole expectations now, therefore, lay (52, 197) in my letter to the great man. As the doors of the nobility are (52, 679) almost ever beset (776) with
LE YICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 243
quand mon ami eut occasion de mes services. II ne fallait rien nioins que se battre en duel, k sa place, contre un monsieur duquel il avait, dit-on, insulte la soeur. Je me rendis sur-le- ctiamp a son^ desir; et, quoique j^apergoive le mecontentement que vous cause ma conduite, comme dette de Famitie je ne pus n^anmoins lui refuser. J^allai done sur le terrain; je desarmai mon adversaire, et bientot eus-je la satisfaction de savoir que la dame n'etait qu'une fille perdue; tandis que le pretendu mon- sieur n'etait rien moins qu'un bravaclie et qu'un filou. Ce service etrange me fut paye par la promesse d'une reconnais- sance sans bornes. Comme sous peu de jours pourtant mon ami devait quitter la ville, il ne lui resta plus qu'un moyen de s'acquitter envers moi de cette obligation. Ce fut de me re- commander a son oncle le baronnet William Tbornhill, et h un autre gentilbomme tenant une haute position dans le gouverne- ment. Des qu'il fut parti, mon premier soin fut de porter la lettre de recommandation a son oncle; homme dont k. juste titre la reputation de probity est universelle. Je fus done honorablement regu par les gens de sa maison; car le bon accueil du valet est toujours un symptom e de la bienveillance du maitre. Introduit dans une salle ou le baronnet me joignit peu d'instants apres, je lui presentai la lettre qu'il lut aussit6t. ' Pardon/ fit-il, apres ua moment de reflexion des qu'il eut aclieve sa lecture, ' Quel est done le service que vous avez rendu k mon parent pour vous valoir une aussi bonne recommandation ? Toutefois, monsieur, je gage deviner ce qui vous I'a value : vous vous etes battu k sa place ! Yous seriez-vous flatte, jeune homme, que je vous recompensasse pour avoir ainsi ete I'instru- ment de ses mauvaises passions ? Je souhaite, oui, je le souhaite ardemment que mon refus en cette circonstance soit pour vous une expiation de votre faute et la cause de votre repentir.' Je pris en bonne part la severite du reproche parcequ'elle dtait bien meritee. Toute mon esperance git alors dans la recom- mandation pour le grand seigneur. Comme la demeure des grands est toujours assiegee par F indigence prete a y glisser ses
244 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
beggars, all ready to thrust (556, 1177) in some sly petition, 1 found (55, 847) it no easy matter to gain admittance (1001). However, after bribing (1112) the servants with half my worldly fortune, I was (665, 623, 55) at last shown into a spacious apart- ment, my letter being previously sent up (155, 776) for his lord- ship's inspection (304). During (846) this anxious interval, I had (55) full time to look (1178) around me. Every thing was
(54) grand and of happy contrivance ; the paintings, the furni- ture, the gildings (941), petrified me (769, 1129) with awe, and raised (52,679) my idea of the owner. ^AhT thought I (55) to myself (415), 'how very great must (105) the possessor of all these things be, who carries (52) in his (592) head the business of the state, and whose (657) house displays half the wealth of a kingdom ! sure his genius must be (105) unfathomable V During these awful reflections, I heard (55, 623) a step come (54, 679) heavily forward. 'Ah, this is the great man himself V No, it was (648, 55) only a chambermaid. Another foot was heard
(55) soon after. ' This must be he (105) !' No, it was (54, 640, 163) only the great man's valet-de-chambre. At last his lord- ship actually made his appearance (55,1041). ^Are you (52, 443)/ cried he, 'the bearer of this here (365 bis) letter?' I answered (55, 706) with a bow. ' I learn (52, 861) by this/ continued he, 'as how that — ' But ju^t at that instant a servant delivered (55) him a card ; and, without taking (925) further notice, he went out (55, 69) of the room and left me (732) to digest (1176) my own happiness at leisure. I saw no more of him (54, 623) till told (732) by a footman that his lordship was going (54, 1176) to his coach at the door. Down I immediately followed (623, 769), and joined (55, 1176) my voice to that of three or four (865) more, who came like me (54, 679) to peti- tion for favors. His lordship, however, went (54) too fast for us, and was (769) gaining his chariot-door with large strides. when I hallooed (55, 1178) out to know (438, 54, 1076, 1176) if I was to have (318, 623) any reply. He was by this time (55) got in, and muttered (55, 732) an answer, half of which I only heard, and the other half was lost (57, 776) in the rattling of
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 245
placets, je \is que pour avoir acces aupres d'eux n'etait pas aussi facile que je me I'etais d'abord imagine. Cependant, apr^s avoir graisse-Ia-patte aux domestiques par la moitie de mon avoir, on me conduisit dans un immense salon de reception : ma lettre au prealable ayant ete portee k sa grandeur par un laquais. Pen- dant cet infcervalle d'incertitude j'eus amplement le temps d'exa- miner les objets qui m'environnaient. Tout etait grand et dans le plus bel ordre. Les tableaux, Tameublement, les dorures, me frappant d'etonnement grandirent Fidee que je m'etais d'abord faite du proprietaire. ^ Ah/ fis-je en moi-meme, ' combien doit §tre grand le possesseur de ces objets ! Celui qui porte dans sa t^te les aifaires de I'etat et dont la demeure etale la moitie des ricbesses d'un royaume, positivement doit posseder un genie incommensurable !' Pendant que je faisais ces reflexions pro- fondes, un bruit de pas lourds me dit que quelqu'un s'approcbait. * All ! sans doute, c'est le grand personnage qui vient lui-merae V Non, ce ne fut qu'une femme-de-cbambre. Bientot apres un bruit de pas se fit encore entendre. 'Pour le coup ce doit etre lui/ Mais non ; ce n'etait qu'un valet-de-cbambre. Enfin Sa Grran- deur parut. ' Etes-vous,' s'ecria-t-il, ' le porteur de cette lettre- ci ?' Je lui repondis par un salut. ' Elle m'apprend,^ ajouta-
t-il, ' comment ' Juste k cet instant un laquais lui
remit un billet. Sans autre avertissement il quitta Fappartement, me laissant savourer mon bonheur tout h mon aise. Je Fatten- dais encore quand un domestique me dit que son maitre, sur le pas de la porte, s'appretait a monter en voiture. Me precipitant au-bas de Fescalier, je Fatteignis pour joindre ma voix h celle de trois ou quatre autres qui comme moi sollicitaient ses faveurs. Sa Grrandeur pourtant allait d'un trop grand-train pour nous. Se dirigeant k grands pas vers la portiere du carrosse, je fus oblige de lui demander, a haute voix, s'il allait me donner une reponse. Pendant ce temps il entra dans la voiture. Une partie de sa reponse me parvint, Fautre fut couverte par le bruit
21*
246 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
his chariot-wlieels (304). I stood (55) for some time with my neck stretched out (773, 69) in the posture of one that was (39) listening to catch (1176) the glorious (556,336) sounds, till, look- ing (769) round me, I found myself alone (623, 55, 54) at his lordship's gate (304, 709).
" My patience," continued my son (55), "was (405) now quite exhausted (58, 776). Stung (773, 855) with the thousand (588) indignities I had met (58, 777) with, I was willing (54) to cast myself away (1178), and only wanted the gulf to receive me (623,1176). I regarded myself (54,623) as one of those vile things that nature designed (773) should be thrown by into (824) her lumber-room, there to perish in obscurity. I had still (54), however, half (564) a guinea left, and of that I thought (55, 129) fortune (5,35) herself should not deprive me (623,1176); but, in order to be sure of this (1041 bis, 706), I was resolved (55, 216) to go instantly and spend it (1031) while I had it (623, 54), and then trust (92, 1178) to occurrences for the rest. As I was going along (55) with this resolution, it happened that Mr. Crispe's office seemed invitingly open (55, 623) to give ifle a welcome re- ception. In this office Mr. Crispe kindly offers (52, 706) all his majesty's subjects (304) a generous promise of £30 a year (505 bis), for which promise all they give in return is their liberty for life, and permission (535) to let him transport them (623,1178) to America as slaves (511). I was (55) happy at finding (1193, 1178) a place where I could lose my fears (740, 751) in despera- tion (824), and entered. (55, 622) this cell, for it had the appear- ance of one, with the devotion of a monastic (711). Here (417) I found (438, 397, 55) a number of poor creatures all (657) in circumstances like myself, expecting (769) the arrival of Mr. Crispe, presenting (771) a true epitome of English impatience. Each untractabl'e soul, at variance with Fortune (427), wreaked (679, 93, 54) her injuries on their own hearts (601) ; but Mr. Crispe at last came (55) down, and all our murmurs were hushed (55, 450). He deigned (55) to regard me (1177, 108) with an air (866) of peculiar approbation ; and indeed he was (640, 54) the first man (657) who for a month past (57, 777) talked to me
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 247
des roues. Pendant quelque temps je restai la, le con tendu, tel qu'un homme qui voudrait saisir au vol des paroles precieuses. Puis, jetant un coup-d'oeil autour de moi, je m'aper§us que j'etais seul sur la porte du puissant-seigneur.
• '^ Ma patience/^ ajouta mon fils, ^^etait k bout. Blesse des indignites qu'on m'avait prodiguees, sans esperances, je ne sou- haitais rien taut que de rencontrer un gouffre pour m'y en- gloutir ; me considerant aussi comme un de ces etres vils, rebuts de la nature faits ppur toujours croupir dans Tobscurite. Une demi-guinee pourtant me restait encore que je crus ne pouvoir m'etre enlevee par la fortune. Pour la mettre h Fabri de toute chance je resolus d'en faire usage pendant que je la possedais; puis de me confier a ma bonne etoile pour Favenir. Apr^s avoir forme cette resolution je continual de marcher; mais, comme un leurre qui m'etait tendu, le bureau de M. Crispe s'ouvrit devant moi pour me faire bon accueil. Dans ce bureau M. Crispe fait, cbaritablement, a tons les sujets de sa Majeste la promesse flat- teuse de trente livres sterling par an. 11 obtient en retour leur liberte avec faculte de les transporter comme esclaves en Ame- rique. Je m'estimai lieureux de rencontrer un endroit ou je pusse noyer mes apprehensions dans le desespoir ; aussi, entrai-je avec toute Fabnegation d'un moine dans ce bureau qu'on eut pu prendre pour une cellule. La, attendant Farrivee de M. Crispe, j'y rencontrai des hommes dont la position ressemblait en tout h la mienne; presentant dans leur ensemble un vrai epitome d'im- patience britannique. Ces victimes intraitables de la fortune s'accusaient elles-memes de ses rigueurs. Mais, des que M. Crispe descendit ces murmures s'arret^rent sur-le-champ. II coudescendit a jeter sur moi un regard qui annonyait Fapproba- tion; et le dirai-je, depuis un mois c'^tait le seul homme qui
248 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(623) witli smiles. After a few questions, he found (55) I was fit (1019) for every thing in the world. He paused (771) a while upon the properest means of providing (1178) for me, and slapping (769) his forehead, as if he had found it (57, 777), as- sured me (55) that there was (§2,1228) at that time an embassy talked of from the Synod of Pennsylvania to the Chickasaw In- dians, and that he would use (59, 734) his interest to get me made (1039,1123,957) secretary. I knew (58) in my own heart the fellow lied (54), and yet his promise gave me (55,732) pleasure, there was something so magnificent in the sound. I fairly, therefore, divided (55) my half-guinea (565, 566), one- half of which went (55) to be added (1176) to his thirty thou- sand pounds, and with the other half I resolved (55) to go (856) to the next tavern, to be there (773, 938,1178) more happy than he.
^'As I was going out (771) with that resolution, I was met (55, 776) at the door by the captain of a ship, with whom (1185) I had (55) formerly some little acquaintance, and he agreed (657, 55) to be (1177, 1046 bis) my companion over a bowl of punch. As I never chose (56) to make a secret (1030) of my circum- stances, he assured me (55) that I was (39, 679) on the very point of ruin, in listening (54) to the office-keeper's promises; for that he only designed to sell me (623, 1178) to the planta- tions. ' But,' continued he (55,445), ' I fancy (855) you might (39) by a much shorter voyage be very easily put (623, 1176) into a genteel way of bread. Take (40, 623) my advice. My ship sails (52) to-morrow for Amsterdam : what if you go (39) in her as a passenger ? The moment you land (484, 413), all you have to do (59, 679, 1177) is to teach (727,1178) the Dutchmen English, and I warrant (52) you'll (59, 178, 869) get pupils and money enough. I suppose (52, 620) you understand Eng- lish (727,535,1107),' added he (55), 'by this time, or the deuce (1185) is in it (39, 623).' I confidently assured (55) him of that, but expressed a doubt (54) whether the Dutch would be wiUing (54, 963) to learn (1176, 363) English. He affirmed (55, 772, 1092), with an oath, that they were fond of it (54) to distraction ; and
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 249
m'eut accTieilli le sourire sur les levies. Apres m'avoir fait quelques questions il me trouva homme propre k tout, E-efle- cliissant un moment sur les moyens de me pourvoirj se frappant le front comme s'il eut trouve ce qu'il chercliait dans sa tete, il ajouta: ^Le synode de Pennsylvanie en ce moment songe k envoyer une ambassade aux indi6ns Chickasaws; j'emploirai mon influence pour vous faire nommer secretaire.' J'etais in- timement persuade que ce gaillard mentait ; mais sa promesse sonna si harmonieusement a mon oreille que le plaisir que j'en eprouvai fut tres-sensible. Je lui donnai done la demie de ma demi-guinee qui alia grossir ses trente mille livres. Avec le restant j'allai moi h I'auberge voisine resolu d'y etre plus heu- reux que lui.
" Sortant avec cette resolution je fus arrete h la porte par un capitaine de navire^ ancienne connaissance, qui topa k prendre un bol de punch avec moi. Comme je n'ai jamais fait petite- boucbe de mes affaires je lui fis part de ma position. II affirma que ma perte serait certaine si j'ecoutais les promesses du bura- liste ; attendu que ce fesse-matbieu n'avait autre chose en vue que de me vendre a un planteur. ^ Mais/ ajouta- t-il, ^par une traversee plus courte vous pourriez aisement vous assurer votre pain. Croyez-m'en, demain mon navire appareille pour Amster- dam : pourquoi n'y prendriez-jz-ous pas place comme passages ? Tout ce qui vous restera a faire, apres le debarquement, ce sera d'enseigner aux Bataves k parler anglais. Argent ni eleves, je vous le garantis, ne vous feront pas defaut. Je suppose k I'heure qu'il est que vous comprenez I'anglais, ou le diable s'en melerait/ J'affirmai resolument que je le savais, mais que j'igno- rais si les Hollandais desiraient etudier cette langue. A cela il repondit en jurant qu'ils avaient une fureur pour I'anglais.
250 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
upon that affirmation I agreed (769) with his proposal, and em- barked (55) next day to teach (54, 1076, 1176) the Dutch Eng- lish in Holland. The wind was (769, 776) fair, our voyage short (55), and, after having paid (155, 769) my passage with half my movables, I found (55) myself, fallen as (485, 776) from the skies (297), a stranger in one of the principal streets of Amsterdam. In this situation I was (55) unwilling to let (1176) any time pass unemployed (49, 1158) in teaching. I addressed (623, 55) myself, therefore, to two or three (865) of those I met (732), whose appearance seemed (54, 679) most promising ; but it was (55) impossible to make ourselves (623, 764) mutually under- stood. It was not (640, 55) till this very moment I recollected (55) that in order to teach (1178) Dutchmen English, it was necessary (54, 738 bis) that they should (751) first teach me Dutch. How I came (103, 623) to overlook (55) so obvious an objection, is (52, 640) to me amazing; but certain it is (623,55) I overlooked it.
'' This scheme thus blown up (769), I had (55) some thoughts of fairly shipping (1178) back to England again; but, falling (769) into company with an Irish student, who was returning from (881) Louvain, our conversation turned (732) upon topics of literature (for, by the way, it may be observed (910,772) that I always forgot (54, 679, 1176, 1030) the meanness of my cir- cumstances when I could converse on such subjects); from him I learned (55) that there were (103, 623) not two men in his whole university who understood (751) Greek. This (365 bis) amazed me (484) ; I instantly resolved (55) to travel to Louvain (1178), and there live (938,1176) by teaching (772) Greek; and in this design I was heartened (55) by my brother-student, who threw out (623,55,1176,706) some hints that a fortune might be got by it.
"I set boldly forward (55) the next morning. Every day lessened (54) the burden of my movables (861), like j^sop and his basket of bread ; for I paid them (769) for my lodgings to the Dutch as I travelled on. When I came (358, 368) to Lou- vam, I was resolved (418) not to go (1178, 1030) sneaking to
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 251
Acceptant son offre, sur cette affirmation le jour suivant nous cinglames vers la Hollande, ou j'allais enseigner Fanglais h ses habitants. Le vent ^tant bon notre traversee fut rapide. Apr^s avoir solde mon passage par la remise de la moitie de mes effets, comme tombe des nues je me trouvai dans une des principales rues d' Amsterdam. Dans une pareille situation je ne voulus pas perdre un instant sans donner le§on. Je m'adressai pour cela a deux ou trois personnes que je rencontrai dont la mine promettait beaucoup ; mais il fut impossible entre nous de nous comprendre. Alors seulement, decouvris-je, qu'afin d'enseigner Tanglais aux HoUandais il fallait d'abord qu'ils m'apprissent eux-memes leur langue. Comment se fit-il que j'oubliai un point aussi essentiel ? C'est ce dont je suis encore ^tonne; mais je Foubliai pourtant.
" Mon projet se trouvant ainsi renvers^ je songeai serieuse- ment k retourner en Angleterre, quand, rencontrant un etudiant irlandais de retour de Louvain, notre entretien tomba sur la litterature; disant, en passant, que quand de pareils sujets se presentaient dans la conversation ils me faisaient oublier les mis^res de ma penurie. Par cet etudiant je sus que parmi les membres de I'universite il n'y en avait pas deux qui comprissent le grec. Etonne de cela, sur-le-champ resolus-je de m'ache- miner vers Louvain pour y gagner ma vie en y enseignant cette langue ; et comme mon camarade fit entrevoir la possibility de faire fortune au moyen de cet enseignement, cela fortifia plus encore ma resolution.
^' Je partis done bravement le lendemain matin. Comme la paneti^re d'Esope j'allegeais tous les jours le poids de mon paquet, payant mes frais-de-voyage avec mes bardes. Au lieu d'aller faire des courbettes aux professeurs subalternes, d^s mon
252 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
the lower professors, but openly tendered (55, 1076, 1176, 895) my talents to the principal himself. I went (52, 438), had ad- mittance, and offered him (726, 623) my service as a master of the Grreek language, which I had been told (1217) was a deside- ratum in his university. The principal seemed (55,405) at first to doubt (1176) of my abilities; but of these I offered (55,438) to convince him (1176, 623) by turning (1041 bis, 1178) a part of any Glreek author he should fix upon (39, 623, 1178) into Latin. Finding me (623, 769) perfectly earnest in my proposal, he addressed me thus (55) : ' You see me (556, 623, 52), young man : I never learned (56) Greek, and don't find (52, 166) that I have ever missed it (623, 56, 777, 1030). I have had (56) a doctor's cap and gown without Grreek; I have (769) ten thousand (588) florins a year (505 bis) without Grreek ; I eat (107, 21) heartily without Grreek; and, in short,' continued he (55), ^as I don't know Greek (52,1074), I don't believe (727,163) there is any good in it.' §
" I was (855) now too far from home (1016) to think (1176, 1128) of returning (315) : so I resolved (55) to go (1178, 418) forward. I had (769,537) some knowledge of music, with a (541, 556) tolerable voice ; and I now turned (55) what was once (54, 815) my amusement into a present means of subsistence. I passed (380,55,727) among the harmless peasants of Flanders, and among such of the French as were (854) poor enough to be (1176, 556) very merry; for I ever found them (769) sprightly in proportion to their wants. Whenever I approached (54) a peasant's house (304) towards nightfall, I played (54, 706) one of my most merry tunes, and that procured me (54, 623) not only a lodging, but subsistence for the next day. I once or twice attempted to play (55, 1178) for people of fashion ; but they always thought (55, 1176, 623) my performance odious, and never rewarded (769) me even with a trifle. This (379, 623) was to me (55) the more extraordinary, as whenever I used in better days to play (54, 1176) for company, when playing (854, 856) was my amusement, my music never failed (54, 166) to throw (1178) them into raptures, and the ladies (1187 bis) especially;
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 253
arrivee h Louvain j'allai droit offrir mes talents au Principal. J' arrive done chez lui. Apres admission en sa presence je m'offre comme professeur de grec, desideratum manquant, m'avait-on dit, dans Funiversite. Le principal sembla d'abord douter de ma capacite. Pour Ten convaincre j'offris de lui tra- duire^ en latin, tout morceau grec qu'il lui plairait de m'indi- quer. Me voyant sur de mon fait ce fut ainsi qu'il me parla : * Jeune-homme, tel que vous me voyez je n'ai jamais appris le grec, et jamais ne me suis-je aper§u qu'il m'ait fait faute. De meme ai-je obtenu le bonnet et la robe de docteur tout en igno- rant le grec, palpant annuellement mille florins sans en aueune fagon connaitre un mot de cette langue. Sans grec aussi ai-je un excellent appetitj en un mot, ne sacbant pas le grec moi- meme je ne le crois pas utile k grand chose.'
^' Trop loin de mon pays pour songer actuellement au retour je resolus d'aller de I'avant. Connaissant un peu de musique et possedant un voix passable, je transformai en moyen d'existence ce qui jusqu'a present n'avait ete pour moi qu'agrement. Ce fut ainsi que je visitai les paysans flamands, et ceux d'entre les frangais assez pauvres pour etre gais; ayant remarque que la gaiete de ces derniers se maintient toujours au niveau de leur mis^re. Sur le soir, quand j'approcbais la chaumi^re d'un paysan, je jouais sur mon instrument Fair le plus gai de mon repertoire; ce qui me valait ma coucbee et mes repas jusqu'au lendemain. -line ou deux fois j'essayai de jouer pour des gens riches, mais ils parurent s'indigner de ma musique, ne m'offrant pas meme une obole. Cela me parut d'autant plus extraordinaire, que dans le temps quand je jouais pour amuser la compagnie je ne manquais jamais d'enchanter tout le monde, les dames princi-
22
264 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
"but, as it was (379, 54) now my only means (1185), it was re- ceived (666, 54) with contempt, a proof how ready the world is (52) to underrate those talents by which a man is (52,679,1030) supported.
^' In this manner I proceeded (55) to Paris, with no design but just to look (1178) about me, and then to go (1176, 418) forward. The people of Paris are much fonder (52, 679) of strangers that have (657, 52) money than of those that have (727) wit. As I could (54, 1019) not boast much of either, I was (57, 776) no great favorite. After walking about the town for four or five days (865), and seeing (769, 155) the outsides of the best houses, I was preparing (54, 918) to leave (1177, 1088) this retreat of venal hospitality; when, passing (855) through one of the principal streets, whom should I meet (55, 769) but our cousin, to whom (662, 384) you first recommended (58,777) me? This meeting was (861,484) very agreeable to me, and, I believe, not displeasing (55, 1207) to him. He in- quired (623, 769, 155) into the nature of my journey to Paris, and informed me (52) of his own business there, which was (642, 54) to collect (1178, 938) pictures, medals, intaglios (523, 550), and antiques of all kinds, for a gentleman in London, who had just stepped into taste (54, 1077, 1178) and a large fortune (556). I was the more surprised (55, 776) at seeing (1178) our cousin pitched upon for this office, as he himself had often as- sured me (155, 623) he knew (54) nothing of the matter. Upon asking (623,769) how he had been taught (58,777) the art of cognoscento so very suddenly, he assured me (55) that nothing was (54) more (407) easy. The whole secret (606) consisted (771) in a strict adherence to two rules : the one, always to ob- serve (1178, 910) that the pictures might have (39, 679) been better if the painter had taken (58, 777) more pains; and the other, to praise (1178) the works of Pietro Perugino (1186). 'But,' says he (55), 'as I once taught you (55,623) to be an author in London, I'll now undertake (59) to instruct you (1178) in the art of picture-buying in Paris.'
"With this proposal I very readily closed (55), as it was living
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 256
palement. Maintenant que c'etait mon gagne-pain on trouvait mon jeu meprisable; ce qui prouve que le monde est toujours porte k deprecier les talents qui nous font vivre.
" J'avancai de cette maniere jusqu'^ Paris, sans autre projet en vue que de voir ce qui se passait autour de moi et pousser ma pointe en-avant. Les Parisiens preferent les etrangers ayant les poches farcies d'argent h ceux qui n'ont que de Tesprit; et comme j'etais court des deux je fus peu choye. Apres quatre ou cinq jours de perambulations dans la ville, n'ayant vu que* I'exterieur des plus belles maisons, j'etais pret a quitter cette retraite d'hospitalite venale, quand, a ma grande surprise, je rencontrai dans une des rues principales le cousin auquel dans le temps vous m'aviez recommande. Tres-agreable de mon cote cette rencontre inattendue ne le fut pas moins pour lui. M'a'- yant demande la cause de mon voyage a Paris, il me dit que ce qui I'amenait dans cette capitale c'etait d'y faire emplette — pour un jeune homme de Londres qui venait d'acquerir du gout en heritant d'une immense fortune — d'une collection de tableaux, de medailles, et d'antiques de tout genre. Je fus d'autant plus etonne de trouver mon cousin exer§ant cette profession, que je me rappelais parfaitement lui avoir entendu dire, dans le temps, qu'il ne se connaissait pas en beaux-arts. Lui ayant demande comment il avait acquis la partie de cognoscento d'une maniere si rapide, il m'assura que rien n'etait plus aise ; tout le secret consistant a suivre strictement ces deux regies : la premiere de faire remarquer que les toiles seraient meilleures le peintre eut-il pris plus de peine h son travail; la seconde k louer les ou- vrages du Perugin. ^ Mais de meme,' ajouta-t-il, ' que je vous enseignai k Londres I'etat d'ecrivain, entreprendrai-je aujour- d'liui, k Paris, de vous enseigner le brocantage des tableaux.'
" Ce fut sans hesiter que j'acceptai sa proposition, vu qu'en ce
256 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(775) ; and now all my ambition was (54, 1177) to live. I went (55, 895), therefore, to his lodgings, improving my dress by liis assistance, and, after some time, accompanied him (623, 1176) to auctions of pictures where the English gentry were expected to be purchasers (1178). I was not (55) a little surprised (776) at his intimacy with people of the best fashion, who (662, 623, 54) referred themselves to his judgment upon every picture or medal, as an unerring standard of taste. He made (54) very good use of my assistance upon these occasions; for, when asked ''(665, 54) his opinion, he would gravely (623, 769) take me (1176) aside and ask (54, 405) mine (950), shrug, look wise,' return (771), and assure (54, 679) the company that he could (31, 821 bis, 623) give no opinion upon an afiair of so much im- portance. Yet there was sometimes an occasion for a more sup- ported assurance (1185). I remember (52, 73,921) to have seen him (64, 706, 155), after giving his opinion that the coloring of a picture was (54) not mellow enough, very deliberately take (769, 541) a brush with brown varnish that was (58, 1042) accidentally by, and rub it over (769, 155) the piece with great composure before all the company, and then ask (1176) if he had not improved (623, 54, 776) the tints.
*' When he had finished (55, 777) his commission in Paris, he left me (55, 1088) strongly recommended to several men of dis- tinction, as a person very proper for a travelling tutor; and, after some time, I was employed (56, 776) in that capacity by a gen- tleman who brought (58, 777) his ward to Paris, in order to set him forward on his tour through Europe. I was (54, 621) to be (1176) the young gentleman's governor (304,330,344), but with a proviso that he should always (623,1178,356) be permitted to govern himself. My pupil, in fact, understood (54) the art of guiding in (1178, 69) money concerns much better than I (847). He was (854) heir to a fortune of about (826) two hundred (584) thousand (588) pounds, left him by an uncle (58,777) in the West Indies; and his guardians, to qualify him for the management of it, had bound him apprentice (987) to an attorney. Thus avarice was (54, 622) his prevailing passion :
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moment je ne chercliais qu'^ gagner mon pain. J'allai done h son logement. La, il m'aida a raffraichir un pen ma toilette pour Faccompagner, plus tard, aux encans de tableaux ou la noblesse anglaise avait cotitume d'acheter. Je ne fus pas peu ^tonne de le voir en connaissance de gens de la plus haute dis- tinction, lesquels pour leurs acbats de tableaux, de medailles, etc., le consideraient infaillible dans ses jugements. Dans ces occasions il tirait un excellent parti de ma presence. Lui demandait-on son opinion, me tirant k Fecart il paraissait grave- ment me consulter. Haussant les epaules, reflecbissantj retour- "nant ensuite vers la compagnie, il declarait ne pouvoir se pro- noncer sur un point d'une aussi haute importance. II mon trait quelquefois plus de toupet. Ayant un jour donne son o^ijnion sur le moelleux du coloris d'un tableau, saisissant brusquement un pinceau charge de vernis que le hasard avait mis a portee de sa main, d'un air assure apres en avoir frotte la peinture, je me souviens de lui avoir entendu demander k ceux presents si lea teintes n'en etaient pas ameliorees.
'^ Quand il eut termine ses affaires k Paris il m'y quitta forte- ment recommande; m' ayant represente k ses amis comme une personne propre k accompagner, k titre de gouverneur, des jeunes-gens de distinction. Ce fut en cette qualite, bientdt apres, que je fus employe par un monsieur qui avait amene son pupille k Paris pour y commencer son tour d'Europe. Je devais done remplir les fonctions de gouverneur aupres de ce jeune- homme, avee la condition pourtant de le laisser libre de ses actions, Mon pupille, a vrai dire, entendait mieux que moi la maniere de disposer de son argent. Maitre d'une fortune de deux cent mille livres que lui avait quitte un oncle dans les colo- nies d'Amerique, pour lui enseigner a en disposer convenable- ment son tuteur Tavait d'abord place chez un procureur ; aussi Tavarice 4tait-elle sa passion dominante. Toutes ses questions
22*
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all his questions on the road were (54^ 414, 776), how much money might be saved; which was the least expensive course of travel; whether any thing could be bought (39,679) that would (727) turn (938, 1176) to account when disposed of again in London. Such curiosities on the way as could be seen (54, 679, 1177) for nothing he was ready enough to look at (861); but if the sight of them was to be paid for, he usually asserted that he had been told (54, 665) that they were not worth seeing. He never paid a bill (55) that he would not observe (925, 1176), how amazingly expensive travelling was (54, 679, 556) ; and all this, though he was not yet (1178, 988) twenty-one (449). When arrived at Leghorn, as we took a walk to look at the port and shipping, he inquired (623, 55) the expense of the passage by sea home to England. This, he was (55, 623, 665) informed (54), was but a trifle compared to his returning by land : he was there- fore unable to withstand (1178, 706) the temptation; so, paying (769, 623) me the small part of my salary that was (623, 54) due, he took leave, and embarked (732),with only one attendant, forLondon. "I now, therefore, was (55, 776) left once more upon the world at large; but then it was (54, 1154) a thing I was used to. However, my skill in music could avail (54) me nothing in a country where every peasant was (397, 54) a better musician than I (847); but by this time I had acquired (58) another talent, which answered (54) my purpose as well, and this was (54, 640) a skill in disputation. In all (606) the foreign uni- versities and convents there are (1223,103), upon certain days, philosophical theses maintained against every adventitious dis- putant; for which, if the champion opposes with any dexterity, he can claim (52, 679) a gratuity in money, a dinner, and a bed for one night. In this manner, therefore, I fought (55) my way towards England; walked along (769, 1165, 1233) from city to city; examined (769, 69) mankind more nearly; and, if I may so express (52,212,623,1176) it, saw (769) both sides of the picture. My remarks, however, are (52, 679) but few; I found (55) that monarchy was (52) the best (408) government for the poor to live in (855), and commonwealths for the rich. I found
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dans le voyage ^taient de s'informer d'economies et du peu de frais, ou quels seraient les objets qu'il pourrait apporter h Londres pour y vendre avec benefice. II etait toujours assez dispose, en route, h, visiter les curiosites qui no coutaient rien k voir; mais il pretendait d' ordinaire qu'on lui avait dit ne pas valoir la peine d'etre vues quand il fallait payer pour les voir. II ne soldait jamais un compte sans faire la remarque combien ^taient dispendieux les voyages, et cela meme avant d'avoir vingt et un an. Arrives h Livourne, nous promenant sur le port, il s'y informa du prix du passage par mer en Angleterre ; et, comme on lui dit que ce n'etait qu'une bagatelle, il ne put resister k la tentation de retourner par cette voie. Me payant le peu qu'il me devait de mes appointements, prenant cong^ de moi, il s'embarqua pour Londres ne gardant aupr^s de lui qu'une seule personne k son service.
'^De nouveau fus-je abandonn^ du monde; mais je m'^tais fait k cela. Mon talent pour la musique dans ce pays ne pou- vait alors m'etre d'une grande ressource, vu que le moindre paysan y etait plus babile que moi; toutefois k cette epoque avais-je acquis un talent qui ne m' etait pas moins profitable : c'etait celui de la controverse. Dans toutes les universites et dans les convents du continent, centre quiconque se presente il est des jours designes pour y soutenir des theses; et si les cham- pions les maintiennent avec une certaine habilete ils obtiennent une petite gratification, le diner, et le coucher pour une nuit. Ce fut ainsi que je fis mon retour en Angleterre, allant de ville en ville, examinant le monde de pr^s; et si je puis me servir de cette expression voyant les deux cotes du tableau. Mes remarques pourtant sent peu nombreuses. Je trouvai que la monarchic est le meilleur gouvernement des pauvres et les r^publiques celui des riches. Je m'aper§us partout que lea
260 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(55) that riclies in general were (52, 679) in every country another name for freedom; and that no man is so fond of liberty himself, as not to be desirous of subjecting (1177) the will of some individuals- in society to his own.
^^ Upon my arrival in England, I resolved (55) to pay (623, 1112, 1176) my respects first to you, and then to enlist (623, 1178) as a volunteer in the first expedition that was going forward; but on my journey down, my resolutions were (56, 776) changed (1141) by meeting an old acquaintance (1185), who I found be- longed (767) to a company of comedians that were (696) going to make (1176) a summer campaign in the country (875). The company seemed (55) not much to disapprove (813, 679) of me for an associate. They all, however, apprized me (623, 55) of the importance of the task at which I aimed; that the public was (54) a many-headed monster, and that only such as had (854, 535) very good heads could (54,1176) please it; that acting (313, 535) was not to be learned (54) in a day ; and that without some traditional shrugs, which had been (54, 679, 706) on ^e stage, and only on the stage, these hundred (583) years, I could never (39) pretend (405,1176) to please (760). The next diffi- culty was (55) in fitting me (1178) with parts, as almost every character was in keeping. I was driven (57) for some time from one character to another; till (828) at last Horatio was fixed upon (55), which the presence of the present company has hap- pily hindered (623, 56, 777) me from acting.^'
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ricliesses tiennent lieu de la liberty ; et que I'homme n'^tait pas assez attaclie h cette derniere pour ne point chercher k sou- mettre les autres membres de la societe.
" Des mon retour en Angleterre je resolus de vous faire une visite,pour m'engager plus tard comme volontaire dans la plus procbaine expedition. Mais ayant rencontre, sur la route, un ancien camarade faisant partie d'une troupe de comediens allant faire un tour dans la campagne je cbangeai de resolution. Tous m'avertirent de la difficulte de Fentreprise, et parurent tr^s-dis- poses a m'avoir pour associe. lis me dirent que le public etait un bydre a plusieurs tetes que le talent seul pouvait satisfaire ; que I'art de la scene ne s'acquerait pas en un jour; et que, sans quelques contractions traditionnelles qui depuis plusieurs si^cles etaient sur la scene, et la seulement, je ne pourrais ja- mais pretendre a Fart de plaire. La difficulte apres cela fut de me trouver un role; car il n'y en avait pas de disponible. Pendant quelque temps je fus ballotte d'un role h Fautre, jus- qu'a ce qu'enfin celui d'Horace me fut assigne. C'est la com- pagnie a laquelle je m'adresse en ce moment qui m'a emp§cli6 de remplir ce role.''
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CHAPTER XXL
THE SHORT CONTINUANCE (318, 556) OF FRIENDSHIP AMONG THE VICIOUS, WHICH IS COEVAL ONLY WITH MUTUAL SATISFACTION.
My son's account (861, 304, 54) was too long to be delivered (49,776) at once; the first part (556) of it was begun (55,776) that night, and he was concluding (623, 54) the rest after dinn*er the next day, when the appearance of Mr. Thornhill's equipage (304,769,1185) at the door seemed (55) to make a pause in the general satisfaction. The butler, who (769,484) was now become (776) my friend in the family, informed me (55), in a whisper, that the squire had already made (777) some overtures to Miss Wilmot, and that her aunt and (592) uncle seemed (679) highly to approve (54, 556, 801) the match. Upon Mr. Thornhill's entering, he seemed (55, 773), at seeing my son and me, to start back; but I readily imputed (55) that to surprise, and not (606) displeasure. However, upon our advancing (79, 776) to salute him (623, 1176), he returned (55) our greeting with the most (548) apparent candor, and after a short time his (367) presence seemed (732) only to increase (1176) the general good humor.
After tea (1047) he called me (623, 55, 1046 bis) aside, to in- quire after (623,1176,1112) my daughter; but upon my inform- ing him (771) that my inquiry was (58, 679) unsuccessful, he seemed (55) greatly surprised (773), adding (769) that he had been (58) since frequently at my house, in order to comfort the rest of the family (1176), whom (657) he left (58,777) perfectly well. He then asked (732) if I had communicated (58, 777) her misfortune to Miss Wilmot or (833) my son ; and, upon my reply- ing that I had not told them as yet, he greatly approved (769) my prudence and (609) precaution, desiring me (623, 55) by all means to keep it (415,1178) a secret; ''for at best," cried he
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CHAPITRE XXI.
rNE COURTE AMITIE PARMI LES VICIEUX NE DURE JAMAIS PLUS QUE LE PLAISIR QU'eLLE procure.
Pour etre delivr^ en une seance le recit de mon fils etait trop long. La premiere partie en fut racontee le soir meme ; il le terminait dans Fapres-diner du jour suivant a Finstant, ou, s'ar- retant devant la maison, F equipage de M. Thornhill parut mettre fin au contentement general. Devenu actuellement mon ami le sommelier me glissa, a Foreille, que M. Thornhill avait dejk fait des propositions de mariage a Mile. Wilmot ; et que Foncle et la tante de cette demoiselle etaient enchantes de ces propositions. M. Thornhill d^s son entree parut etonne de me rencontrer ici avec mon fils; mais j'attribuai son embarras a la surprise et non a tout autre motif. Neanmoins, apres nous etre avances pour le saluer, avec un grand semblant de sincerite il nous rendit cette politesse ; au point que sa presence peu apres parut etre le guide de la bonne-humeur generale.
II me prit a part apres le the pour me demander des nou- velles de ma fille. Lui ayant dit que mes recherches avaient ete infructueuses il en parut tout etonne; ajoutant qu'il s'etait presente plusieurs fois, chez-nous, pour consoler la famille qu'il avait quittee en bonne sante. II me demanda alors si j 'avals communique notre malheur k Mile. Wilmot ou h mon fils. Lui ayant repondu que non, me louant beaucoup de ma prudence et de ma discretion, il me conseilla coute que coute d'en garder le secret. '^ Car apr^s tout," dit-il, ^' ce ne serait que divulguer
264 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
(55), ^'it is (640,39) but divulging one's own infamy; and per- haps Miss Livy may not (39) be (163, 806) so guilty as we all imagine (623, 52)/' We were (57, 776) bere interrupted by a servant, who (657) came (55) to ask (1176) the squire in to stand up (1178) at country-dances ; so that he left me (623, 55) quite pleased (773,447) with the interest he seemed (54) to take (1176) in my concerns. His (367) addresses, however, to Miss Wilmot were (54, 679) too obvious to be mistaken ; and yet she seemed (54) not perfectly pleased (556), but bore (769) them rather in compliance to the will of her aunt, than from real in- clination. I had (55) even (603) the satisfaction to see (1178) her lavish (1176, 764) some kind looks (556) upon my unfortu- nate son, which the other could (732) neither extort (1176) by his fortune nor assiduity. Mr. Thornhiirs seeming composure (304), however, not a little surprised me (623,55); we had now continued here (55, 861) a week at the pressing instances of Mr. Arnold; but each (1201) day, the more tenderness Miss Wilmot showed (54, 706) my son, Mr. ThornhilFs friendship (304, 535) seemed (54) proportion ably to increase (1176) for him.
He had formerly made us (58) the most (548) kind assurances of using his interest to serve the family, but now his generosity was not (54) confined to promises alone. The morning I de- signed (773) for my departure, Mr. Thornhill came to me. (55), with looks of real pleasure, to inform me (623, 1031) of a piece of service he had done (58, 777) for his friend Greorge. This was (54; 640) nothing less than (411) his having (49, 155) pro- cured (800) him an ensign's commission in one of the regiments that were going (54, 937) to the West Indies, for which (662) he had (54, 780) promised but one hundred (583) pounds, his interest having been sufficient to get an abatement of the other two. "As for this trifling piece of service," continued (55) the young gentleman, "I desire (163, 52) no other reward but the pleasure of having (49, 155) served my friend; and as for the hundred pounds to be paid, if you are unable (52, .821 bis) to raise it yourselves, I will advance it (415, 59, 1028), and you shall repay me (623, 727) at your leisure." This (861) was a favor we
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 265
la honte de la famille ; et Mile. Livie ponrrait bien n'etre pas aussi coupable qu'elle nous le parait.'' Nous fumes interrompus en ce moment par un laquais qui vint apporter au baronnet rinvitation de figurer dans une contredanse. L'interet qu'il semblait prendre a mes affaires fit que je le quittai tres-satisfait. Ses bommages a Mile. Wilmot etaient de nature pourtant a no pas occasionner de meprise. Toutefois elle n'en paraissait pas satisfaite ; supportant ses attentions comme marques d'obeissance h la volonte de sa tante plus que comme signe d'un veritable attachement. J'eus meme la satisfaction de lui voir jeter plu- sieurs tendres regards sur mon fils; ce que Tautre avec toute sa fortune et son empressement ne put obtenir d'elle. Toute- fois la tranquillite apparente de M. Tbornbill fut pour moi une cause de surprise. N'ayant pu register aux instances pressantes de M. Arnold, nous passames ici une semaine entiere. Et de meme que la tendresse que Mile. Wilmot temoignait a mon fils augmentait journellement; de m§me aussi Famitie de M. Thorn- bill pour lui paraissait s'accroitre dans la meme proportion.
Tres-souvent avait-il fait a la famille les pins grandes profes- sions d^amitie ; mais sa generosite aujourd'bui ne se bornait plus a de simples promesses. Pendant la matinee fixee pour mon depart, tout rayonnant de joie, 31. Tbornbill vint me faire part d'un petit service qu'il avait rendu a Greorges. Ce n'etait rien moins que de lui avoir procure une cbarge d'enseigne dans un des regiments qui allaient aux colonies d'Amerique, pour laquelle- il n'avait offert que cent livres; son influence ayant ete telle qu'il n'avait pas ete question des deux cents autres qu'elle valait. '- Quant a cette misere," ajouta le jeune gentilhomme, " je ne veux d'autre recompense que celle d'avoir oblige mon ami. Pour ce qui a rapport au paiement des cent livres, si vous ne pouvez vous-meme vous en procurer le montant j'en ferai I'avance, et vous me rembourserez quand vous le pourrez." Pour exprimer
23
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wanted words to express (1176) our sense of: I readily, there- fore, gave (55) my bond for tlie money, and testified (771) as much gratitude as if I never intended (749, 751) to j)ay (623, 1176).
Greorge was (54) to depart (1176) for town the next day, to secure (397,49) his commission, in pursuance of his generous patron's directions, who judged it (54) highly expedient to use (1178, 568) despatch, lest in the mean time another should step in (1178) with more advantageous proposals. The next morning, therefore, our young soldier was early prepared (773, 918) for his departure (1177), and seemed the only person amongst us that was not afiected (163, 55, 776) by it. Neither the fatigues and dangers he was going (679, 54, 1176) to encounter, nor the friends and mistress — for Miss Wilmot actually loved him (54) — he was leaving (54, 727) behind, any way damped (925, 55, 1039, 764) his spirits. After he had taken leave (769, 1^5) of the rest of the company, I gave him (55, 623) all (606) that I had (54) — ^my blessing: "And now, my boy,'^ cried I (55), "thou art (52,26, 187) going to fight (1066) for thy country, remember (40, 623,921) how thy brave grandfather (299) fought (56) for his sacred king, when loyalty among Britons was (54) a virtue. Gro (40), my boy, and imitate (727) him in all but his misfortunes ; if it was (726, 212) a misfortune to die (847, 1178) with Lord Falkland. Go (40, 119 bis), my boy, and if you fall (772), though distant (743,776,484), exposed (776, 855), and unwept by those that love you, the most precious (548) tears (288) are those with which Heaven bedews (52, 706) the unburied head of a soldier.'^
The next morning I took leave (55, 1046 bis) of the good family (556) that had been (623, 54,405) kind enough to enter- tain (777) me so long, not without several expressions of grati- tude to Mr. Thornhill for his late bounty. I left them (55, 623) in the enjoyment of all (606) that happiness which affluence and good breeding procure (679), and returned (771) towards home, despairing of ever finding my daughter more, but sending (769) a sigh to Heaven (297) to spare and forgive her (736, 749). I
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convenablement cette faveur les paroles me manqu^rent; sur- le-champ lui donnai-je mon billet pour cette somme, lui te- moignant autant de reconnaissance que si je n'eusse du jamais la lui rembourser.
D'apres I'avis de M. Thornbill son patron, qui croyait urgent d'aller vite en besogne, G-eorges le lendemain devait aller k Londres pour s'y assurer de son emploi, et empecber tout autre de faire des conditions plus avantageuses. Par conse- quent le jour d'apr^s, pr§t h partir d^s le matin, notre soldat fut le seul parmi nous qui ne fut point affecte par I'approcbe de ce depart. Ni les dangers ni les fatigues qu'il allait ren- contrer, pas m^me sa maitresse, — car Mile. Wilmot en ce moment avait un grand attachement pour lui, — rien ne put faire flechir sa fermete. Apr^s avoir pris conge de tout le monde, je lui donnai ce dont je pouvais encore disposer — ma benediction. " Maintenant, mon fils/' m'ecriai-je, "tu vas porter les armes pour ton pays, rappelle-toi que ton valeureux aieul a jadis verse son sang pour son roi. La loyaute pour lors etait une vertu chez les Anglais ! Va^ mon enfant, imite- le en tout si ce n'est dans ses malbeurs ! Mais puis-je appeler malheur que de tombe'r aux cotes de Lord Falkland ? Ya ! te dis-je; quoique eloigne de nous, expose au danger et prive des pleurs de ta famillef; rappelle-toi, en succombant, que les plus douces larmes sont celles que le ciel r^pand sur la tete du guerrier prive de sepulture.^'
Je pris conge le jour d'apr^s de la bonne famille qui nous avait si long-temps h^berges; mais non sans temoigner a M. Tbornbill mille remerciments pour sa dernier e obligation. Je les quittai au sein des jouissances que procurent Fopulence et une bonne education; retournant cbez-moi sans esperance de retrouver jamais ma jQlle, poussant vers le ciel un soupir pour qu'il I'epargnat et la pardonnat en meme temps. Je n'etais
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was now come (54) within about (826) twenty (583) miles (589) of home (1016), having hired (155, 769, 1118) a horse to carry me, as I was yet hut weak, and comforted (1154) myself with the hopes of soon seeing (1230) all (606) I held (54) dearest upon earth. But, the night coming on (55,1056), I put up at a little public house by the road-side, and asked (732) for (69) the landlord's company (304) over a pint of wine. We sat (55, 93) beside his kitchen-fire, which (657) was (54) the best (408) room in the house, and chatted (55, 767, 1137 bis) on politics and the news of the country. We happened (55, 1077), among other topics, to talk (1177) of young Squire Thornhill, who (657), the host assured me, was hated (54, 149, 806) as much as his uncle, Sir William, who sometimes came down (665, 54, 883) to the country, was beloved (938, 727). He went on (55,910) to ob- serve, that he made it (623, 54) his whole study to betray (1178) the daughters of such as received him (54,679) to their houses, and after a fortnight or three weeks' possession (304), turned them out (54, 623, 69) unrewarded and abandoned (773) to the world. As we continued (54, 679) our discourse in this manner, his (367) wife, who had been (54) out to get change (623, 1176, 1185), returned, and perceiving that her husband (367) was enjoy- ing (54) a pleasure in which (662) she was (727, 166) not a sharer, she asked him (55), in an angry tone (1158), what he did (54, 390) there; to which he only replied (55) in an ironical way, by drinking her (367) health. <'Mr. Symonds," cried she (55), "you use me (52) very ill, and Til bear it (727, 405, 1176) no longer. . Here (380, 52) three parts of the business is left (679) for me to do, and the fourth left unfinished, while you do nothing but soak (1176) with the guests all day long ; whereas, if a spoonful of liquor were to cure me of a fever (54,1176), I never touch (39, 103, 623, 1176) a drop/' I now found (405, 55) what she would be at (54, 415, 1176, 1077), and immediately poured her out (55, 69) a glass, which (657) she received (55) with a courtesy, and drinking (73^) towards my good health — " Sir,'^ continued she, " it is not so much for the value of the liquor I am angry, but one cannot help it when the house is going out of
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a present qu'h environ vingt milles de chez-moi, ayant lou^ un cheval pour cause de ma debilite, et m'etant fait dejk une joie de revoir tout ce que j'avais de plus cher au monde. Mais comme la nuit me prit ici, je m'arretai a une petite auberge sur la route. Je priai Faubergiste de m' aider h vider une cbo- pinette de vin. Nous nous assimes aupres de la cheminee de sa cuisine qui etait la meilleure piece de I'auberge, causant politique et des nouvelles de la contree. Pendant cette causerie nous en vinmes h parler du baronnet Tliornhill, qui au dire de notre bote etait aussi deteste que son oncle le baron William Tbornhill, qu'on voyait de loin en loin dans le pays, y etait generalement aime de tout le monde. II fit meme Fobserva- tion que ce jeune gentilbomme se faisait une loi de tromper les filles de tous ceux qui le recevaient chez-eux ; et qu'igno- minieusement ils les cbassait ensuite apres les avoir gardees aupres de lui pendant deux semaines ou trois au'plus. Tandis que nous nous entretenions ainsi, la femme de -Fhote qui etait sortie pour aller se procurer de la monnaie, s'aper9ut en ren- trant au logis que son mari jouissait d'un plaisir auquel elle ne participait pas. Lui ayant demande d'un air colere ce qu'il faisait Ih. ^' Parbleu ! je bois a ta sante/' fit-il d'un ton iro- nique. '^ M. Symonds/^ s'^cria-t-elle, "^ vous me traitez d'une mani^re indigne que je ne saurais tolerer plus longtemps. C'est a moi que vont echoir les trois quarts de la besogne, et quand vous ne faites rien vous-meme c'est encore sur moi que retombe une partie de F autre quart. Yraiment ! vous ne faites rien de tout le jour si ce n'est de vous gorger de boisson avec les habitues du cabaret ; mais si une cueilleree de quoi-que- ce-soit devait me guerir de la fievre, il faudrait surement m'en passer." A Finstant je compris ou elle en voulait venir. Je lui versai aussitot un verre de vin qu'elle accepta avec une re- verence et qu'elle but k ma sante. '^ Monsieur/' ajouta-t-elle, *' ma colore n'a rien k demeler avec la boisson ; mais que faire
23*
27(r THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
the windows. If the customers or guests are (103, 1176) to be dunned (757,484), all the burden lies upon my back; he'd as lief (39,679) eat that glass (1176,358) as budge (623,1178) after them himself. There now above-stairs we have (52, 679) a young woman who has come (56, 777) to take up (541) her lodgings here, and I don't believe she has (52, 163) got any money,by her over-civility. I am (52, 556, 605 bis) certain she is (380, 52) very slow of payment (1185), and I wish (54) she were put in mind (665, 623, 55, 1176) of it." — '' What signifies minding her?" cried the host (55); '^if she be slow (55,556), she is sure (163, 59)."—" I don't know (380, 52) that," replied the wife, '^ but I know (52, 380) that I am (556) sure she has been here (642) a fortnight, and we have not yet seen (49, 155) the cross of her money." — " I suppose (52), my dear," cried he (55), "we shall have it (59, 155) all in a lump (812)."— "In a lump (951) !" cried (55,438) the other; "1 hope (52,893) we may get it (59, 776) any way; and that I am resolved (52, 556, 357) we will (623, 1177) this very night, or out she tramps (59), bag and baggage (1046 bis)." — "Consider (40,623), my dear," cried the husband, "she is a gentlewoman (52,380, 541), and deserves (657,727) more respect."— "As for the matter (433,845) of that," returned the hostess (55), " gentle or simple, out she shall pack (59,1177) with a sassarara. G-entry (535) may be (52, 1016, 1176) good things where they take (432,705, 679); but for my part I never saw (726, 679) much good of them at the sign of the Harrow." Thus saying (769), she ran up (55, 69) a narrow flight of stairs that went (54) from the kitchen to a room overhead, and I soon perceived (55), by the loudness of her voice, and the bitterness of her (367) reproaches, that no money (1185) was (438) to be had (54, 103) from her lodger (511). I could hear (54,405) her remonstrances very distinctly. "Out (40,445), I say (52,621,443), pack out this moment! tramp (40,333), thou infamous strumpet, or I'll give (59,162 bis) thee a mark thou won't Jdc (727) the better for these three months. What ! you trumpery, to come and take up (59, 897) an honest house, without cross or coin to bless yourself with !
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quand la maison va par morceaux? S'il faut demander de I'argent aux pratiques c'est toujours moi qui suis chargee de les harceler. Quant k lui, il songerait plutot a ayaler ce verre que de se deranger le moins du monde. Nous avons en ce moment la-liaut une jeune femme qui nous a loue une cliambre, et qui n^a pas un sou en poche si j'en juge par son extreme poli- tesse. C'est de Fargent long que son argent, j'en suis certaine, et j'aimerais qu'on Ten fit souvenir/^- '^A quoi bon ce\k?" reprit rhote; "si elle est longue a la detente elle ne ratera pas du moins !" " C'est 1^ ce que j'ignore/' repliqua la femme ; '^tout ce dont je suis Men sure c'est que nous Tavocs ici depuis quinze jours, sans avoir encore vu la couleur de son argent/' '^ Ma cbere,'' s'ecria-t-il, " je suppose que nous serons payes tout-a-la-fois/' ^^ Tout-a-la-fois/^ cria I'autre, "j'espere que nous serons payes n'importe comment, et je suis decidee k Fetre ce soir; sinon elle decampera avec son sac et ses quilles." ^' Mais songes-y, ma chere,'' dit le mari, " c'est une femme de qualite qui merite plus de respect." " Quant a §a," reprit Fhotesse, " noble ou roturiere elle aura a faire son paquet; la noblesse ou elle va loger pent etre une excellente chose ; mais ici k Fenseigne de la Fl^cbe nous ne voyons pas beaucoup de ce gibier.'^ Disant ces mots elle enjamba un escalier etroit qui conduisait de la cuisine k la chambre au- dessus. Bientot, ses eclats de voix et Famertume de ses re- proches, me dirent clairement qu'il n'y avait pas d' argent k obtenir de sa pensionnaire. J^entendais distinctement tous ses reproches. '^ Va-t'en, te dis-je; va a Finstant ! Decampe, infame catin, ou je te ferai une marque dont tu ressentiras pen- dant plus de trois mois. Ah, malheureuse, je te ferai venir dans ^une maison-honnete sans avoir un sou en poche pour t^y
272 THE VICAR OP WAKEriELD.
come along (40), I say (52)/' — " Oh, dear madam," cried (55) the stranger, " pity me (40, 1046), pity (706) a poor abandoned creature (709), for one night, and death will soon do the rest/' I instantly knew (55, 405) the voice of my poor ruined child (511) Olivia. I flew (55, 1140) to her rescue, while the woman was dragging her (623, 54) along by the hair (1185), and I caught (55, 629) the dear forlorn wretch in my arms. " Wel- come (736 bis), any way' welcome, my dearest lost one, my trea- sure, to your poor old father's bosom (304) ! Though the vicious forsake thee (743,484, 776), there is (52, 103,747) yet one in the world* that will never forsake thee (59, 162 bis, 623) ; though thouhadst(736, 751) ten thousand (588) crimes to answer for (69), he will forgive (52, 918) them all."— ^' Oh, my own dear—" for minutes she could say no more (57) — '^my own dearest (407) good papa! Could (39,179 ter) angels (1176) be (408,556) kinder? How do I deserve (52, 621) so much ? The villain, I hate (52, 1031) him and myself, to be a reproach to such goodness. You can't forgive me (52, 623,1176); I know (727, 375,164) you cannot.''—" Yes (486, 368), my child, from my heart I do forgive (52,623, 1224) thee: only repent (97,623, 41), and we both shall yet (59) be happy. We shall see (727, 59) many pleasant days yet, my Olivia." — " Ah (849) ! never, sir (1184, 486), never. The rest of my wretched life must be (726) infamy abroad, and shame at home. But, alas ! papa, you look much paler than (411) you used to do. Could such a thing (39, 735) as I am (21) give you so much uneasiness ? Surely you have (52) too much wisdom to take (1176) the miseries of my guilt upon yourself?'' — " Our wisdom (633), young woman — " replied I (55) — ^' Ah, why so cold a name, papa ?" cried she. "• This is the first time you ever called (58, 777) me by so cold a name." — "I ask pardon, my darling," returned I (55,181); " but I was going (54, 1076) to observe (910), that wisdom makes (52) but a slow defence against trouble, though at last a sure one (743, 556, 484, 747).'^
The landlady now returned (55, 126), to know (1176) if we did not choose (54, 125) a more genteel apartment (1183) ; to
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 273
faire bien accueillir! Decampe, te dis-je I" '' Ma clifere dame/' s'ecria Tetrangere, '^ prenez pitie pour une nuit d'une malheu- reuse abaudonnee dont la mort va achever les tourments/' Je reconnus instantanement la voix de ma mallieureuse enfant perdue. Je volai a son secours, et pendant que cette megere la trainait par les cheveux, je saisis Finfortunee dans mes bras. '' Sois la bienvenue ! quoi qu'il arrive sois la bienvenue au coeur de ton pere toi mon tresor ! Quoique abandonne d'un scelerat couvert de vices, il est encore un etre au monde qui ne te delais- sera pas. II est pret a te pardonner fusses-tu coupable de plus de mille crimes." " Cher pere I" Pendant quelques instants ce fut la tout ce qu'elle put dire. " Mon tres-cber pere ! Les anges pourraient-ils etre meilleurs? Suis-je digne de tant de bonte ? ' Oh que le miserable me fait liorreur ! Pour moi votre tendresse est un cruel reprocbe; vous ne pouvez me pardonner, je le sais vous ne le pouvez pas." '' Oui, mon enfant, de tout mon coeur je te pardonne; repens-toi et nous serous encore beureux. Oui, mon Olivie, encore gouterons-nous plus d'un beau jour V *' Jamais, belas ! mon pere; I'infamie dans le monde et la bonte dans I'interieur de la maisou sont aujourd'hui ce qui mereste. Mais, mon pere, vous me paraissez beaucoup plus pale que de coutume. Se pourrait-il qu'un §tre tel que moi put vous causer tant de cbagrin ? Non, vous possedez trop de sagesse pour vous rendre malbeureux a cause de ma faute I" "Ma sagesse, jeune femme !'' repliquai-je. "■ Ob ! combien ce nom est froid, papa," s'ecria-t-elle, "jamais vous ne m'aviez ainsi appelee." "Par- donne-moi, ma cherie," repliquai-je. "j'allais simplement faire laremarque, que, quoique triomphante de tons les obstacles, la sagesse d'abord n'oflfre au malheur qu'une tr^s-faible resistance."
L'hotesse retourna maintenant pour nous demander si nous ne voulions pas un appartement plus convenable. Ayant accepts sa
274 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
whicli assenting (769, 155), we were shown (55) to a room where we could (727, 432) converse (1176) more freely. After we had talked ourselves (57) into some degree of tranquillity, I could not (55) avoid desiring (1176, 764) some account of the" gradations that led (58, 1081 bis) to her present wretched situa- tion. "That (364) villain, sir,^^ said she, ''from the first day of our meeting, made me (623, 55) honorable, though private, proposals."
"Villain indeed," cried I (55); "and yet it in some measure surprises me (52, 93, 96) how a person of Mr. Burchell's good sense (304, 974) and seeming honor could be (56, 155) guilty of such deliberate baseness, and thus step (1176) into a family to undo it."
"My dear papa," returned (55) my daughter, "you labor (52) under a strange mistake (556). Mr. Burchell never attempted (56,166)to deceive me (623, 1178, 1161). Instead of that, he took (54) every opportunity of privately admonishing me (628,1178) against the artifices of Mr. Thornhill, who (657), I now find (52, 623), was even (726, 987) worse than he represented him (58, 623, 777)."—" Mr. Thornhill !" interrupted I (52, 180, 623, 772), " can it be (170, 951) ?"— " Yes, sir (1184)," returned she, " it was (640, 52, 728) Mr. Thornhill who seduced me (438, 56, 777) ; who employed (55) the two ladies, as he called them (744,93, 751), but who (657), in fact, were (54, 679) abandoned women of the town, without breeding or pity (839), to decoy us up (1176) to London. Their artifices, you may remember (52,444, 623, 943), would have certainly succeeded (39, 780) but for Mr. Burchell's letter (304), who (663) directed (54,679) those re- proaches at them (74) which we all applied (55) to ourselves. How he came (52,438) to have (55, 706)* so much influence as to defeat (1177) their intentions, still remains (853,861) a secret to me ; but I am convinced (52, 776, 85) he was (55) ever our warmest, sincerest friend."
"You amaze me (52,623), my dear,'^ cried I (55); "but now I find (52,679) my first (360,362) suspicions of Mr. ThornhilFs baseness (304) were (54, 679) too well grounded (776) : but he
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 275
proposition, elle nous indiqua une cliambre ou nous pouvions causer plus librement. Aussitot que la conversation eut pris un tour plus regulier, je voulus connaitre toutes les circonstances qui avaient amene ma fille dans sa deplorable position. '' Mon p^re/' me dit-elle^ " des le premier jour ce scelerat me fit des propositions bonorables quoique secr^tes.^'
"Scelerat vraiment/' m'ecriai-je; '^je m'etonne n^anmoins comment un homme de bon-sens et de sentiments bonorables comme M. Burcbell, ait pu de propos deliber^ commettre une telle bassesse, et introduire le desbonneur dans une famille.'^
" Cber pere," repliqua ma fille, '' vous etes dans une grande erreur. M. Burcbell n'a jamais emaje de me tromper. Loin de cela, il recbercbait» toutes les occasions de m'avertir secrete- ment des ruses de M. Thornbill, qui, je le vois k present, est bien pis qu'il ne me I'avait represente.'^ " M. Thornbill !" dis-je, en Finterrompant ; "est-ce possible?" " Oui, mon pere," reprit-elle, " c'est M. Thornbill qui m'a seduite, lui qui employa ces deux dames, ainsi qu'il se plut a les appeler; mais qui, dans le fait, n'etaient que des femmes-publiques sans naissance et sans pitie, qui voulaient nous attirer a Londres. Leurs maneges, vous devez vous le rappeler, auraient certainement reussi sans la lettre de M. Burcbell, dont les reproches ^taient pour elles mais que nous applicames a nous-m^mes. J'ignore encore par quelle influence secrete il parvint a bouleverser leur projet; mais je n'en suis pas moins convaincue que ce fut notre meilleur ami."
*' Tu m'etonnes, ma chere," m'ecriai-je. ^' Je reconnais h> present, seulement, que mes premiers soupgons sur la bassesse de M. Thornbill n'etaient que trop bien fond^s. Mais il pent
276 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
can (52) triumpli (105) in security; for lie is (52, 856) rich, and we are poor. But tell me (40, 623), my child ; sure it was (55) no small temptation that could thus obliterate (1176) all the im- pressions of such an education, and so virtuous a disposition, as thine ?''
^^ Indeed, sir (1184)," replied she (55), ^^he owes all his triumph to the desire I had of making him, and not myself, happy. I knew (54, 1074) that the ceremony of our marriage, which was privately performed (405, 776) by a popish priest, was (54) no way binding, and that I had (935) nothing to trust (727) to but his honor I"—" What (422) V interrupted I (55), *' and were you (55) indeed married (776) by a priest in orders?" — "Indeed, sir, we were," replied she (55), " though we were both sworn (55,1092) to conceal (1178,1175) his name."— "Why, then, my child (368), come (40) to my arms again ; and now you are (397, 59) a thousand times more welcome (193, 776) than before ; for you are (52) his (367) wife to all intents and pur- poses; nor can (52, 769) all the laws of man, though written (751, 776, 747) upon tables of adamant, lessen (1176) the force of that sacred connection (861,484)."
"Alas ! papa," replied she (55), "you are (52,405) but little acquainted (828, 727) with his villanies : he has been married (623, 56,405,1137 bis) already, by the same priest, to six (865) or eight wives more, whom, like me, he has deceived (773) and abandoned."
" Has he so (39)?" cried I (55); " then we must (105) hang (1039) the priest, and you shall inform (59) against him to-mor- row."— " But, sir," returned she (55), " will that be right (59), when I am sworn (56) to secrecy (1178, 706) ?"— "My dear," I replied (55), "if you have made (58) such a promise, I cannot (52, 212), nor will I (727), tempt you (623, 1176) to break it (1177). Even though it may benefit the public, you must not (52, 163) inform (1176) against him. In all human institutions (535,556), a smaller evil is allowed (665, 52) to procure (1176) a greater good; 'as in politics, a province may be given (606,52) away to secure (1176) a kingdom; in medicine, a limb may be
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 277
triompter tout k son aise. II est riclie^ lui ; et nous, mon enfant, nous sommes pauvres ! Avoue-le-moi, ma fille, pour obliterer les impressions que tu avais re§ues par ton education ou faire taire tes dispositions a la vertu, il a fallu que la tentation fut terrible ?"
^' Mon Dieu," repliqua-t-elle, " heureuse dans son triomphe, j"ai sacrifie tout mon bonheur au sien. Celebre par un pretre catholique-romain, je savais que ce mariage clandestin n'avait aucune valeur en lui-meme, et que tout dependait de son honneur !'' '' Quoi T' m'ecriai-je en I'interrompant; '^ futes- vous reellement maries par un pretre ?" " Oui, vraiment," repliqua-t-elle ', '^ mais nous jurames Fun et 1' autre de taire son nom/' " Pour lors, mon enfant, retourne dans mes bras et tu y seras mieux accueillie qu'auparavant, car tu es sa femme legi- time quoi qu'il en dise ; et les lois humaines fussent-elles ecrites sur des tables de diamant ne peuvent briser cette alliance/'
" Helas ! papa," repliqua-t-elle,/' ignorez-vous encore jusqu'oi^ va sa sceleratesse ? Dej h ce meme pretre Ta marie k six ou huit autres femmes, comme moi trompees et abandonnees."
'' Serait-ce vrai ?'' m'ecriai-je. " Pour lors il faut faire pendre le pretre ; demain tu deposeras centre lui I" "■ Mais sera-ce juste, mon pere/' repliqua-t-elle, "quand j'ai jure de garder le secret ?'' "Ma cbere," repondis-je, *' je ne puis ni ne veux t'obliger a rompre cette promesse puisque tu la lui as faite. En vue meme du bien public tu ne peux deposer contre lui. Dans toutes les institutions humaines Ton tolere un petit mal pour procurer un plus grand bien. En politique Ton separe une pro- vince pour sauver le restant du royaume. En medecine Ton
24
278 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(52, 679) lopped off (69) to preserve (1176) the body. But in religion the law is written (556), and inflexible, never to do evil (59, 166, 547). And this law (363), my child, is right (556) ; for otherwise, if we commit (57, 105, 706) a smaller evil to pro- cure a greater good, certain guilt would be (39, 155) thus in- curred (776), in expectation of contingent advantage. And though the advantage should certainly follow (743, 751, 623, 1176), yet the interval between commission and advantage, which is allowed to be guilty, may be (52, 1176, 1016) that in which we are called (556, 484, 485) away to answer (1176, 1097) for the things we have done, 2lnd the volume of human actions is closed (776, 222) forever. But I interrupt (623, 52) you, my deai^: go on (40). ''
^'The very next morning," continued she (55), "I found (55) what little expectation I was (54) to have (1176) from his sin- cerity. That very morning he introduced me (55, 623) to two unhappy women more, whom, like me, he had (58, 777) deceived, but who lived (54, 679) in contented prostitution. I loved him (623, 54) too tenderly to bear (49) such rivals in his affections, and strove (55, 621) to forget (1176) my infamy in a tumult of pleasures. With this view, I danced (55), dressed (732), and talked (727,628), but still (54,405) was unhappy. The gen- tlemen who visited (54) there told me (623, 54, 679) every moment of the power of my charms, and this only contributed to increase my melancholy, as I had thrown (58, 777) all their power quite away. Thus each day (1201) I grew (769) more pensive, and he (854, 855) more insolent, till at last the monster had the assurance (55, 1185) to offer me (1178) to a young baronet of his acquaintance (367, 1185). Need I (52,992) de- scribe (1178), sir, how his ingratitude (368) stung me (55)? My answer to this proposal was (55, 1060 bis) almost madness. I desired (55) to part (1088). I was going, he offered me (55) a purse (541, 1185), but I flung it at him (55, 623) with indig- nation, and burst from him in a rage, that for a while kept me (55) insensible of the miseries of my situation. But I soon looked (771) around me, and saw (55) myself a vile, abject,
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coupe un membre pour conserver le corps. Mais en religion la loi est formelle. II est ecrit : ' Tu ne feras jamais de mal.^ Et cette loi, ma fille, est juste. Car fut-il permis de faire un petit mal en vue d'un plus grand bien, le crime se commettrait en anticipation d^un avantage hypotbetique. Et cet avantage dut-il n6cessairement se produire, comme Tintervalle entre la mauvaise action et le bien qu'elle doit procurer est un intervalle criminel; il pent aussi etre le dernier donne pour rendre compte de nous- memes. Dans ce cas le regitre des actions bumaines est clos pour toujours. Mais je t'interromps ; ma cbere, poursuis done."
"La matinee suivante," ajouta-t-elle, "je vis que je devais compter bien peu sur sa sincerite. Pendant cette meme matinee il me presenta a deux autres malbeureuses femmes qu'il avait trompees comme moi, mais qui vivaient contentes dans un etat de prostitution. Pour tolerer de pareilles rivales je I'aimais avec trop de tendresse; aussi pour m'etourdir sur mon infamie me plongeai-je dans une foule de plaisirs. Pour arriver a ce resul- tat je dansai, je fis toilette, et parlai beaucoup. Helas ! j'etais toujours malbeureuse. Les messieurs qui frequentaient cet endroit a cbaque instant m'avertissaient de la force irresistible de mes cbarmes; mais peu m'importait j 'avals fait Tabandon de leur pouvoir. Devenant de jour-en-jour plus pensive lui de son cote devint plus insolent. Pour comble, le monstre eul'' Fimpu- dence de m'ofFrir a un jeune baronnet de ses amis. Je n'ai pas besoin de vous decrire quelle fut alors mon indignation. Ma reponse k cette proposition tint de la folie. Je voulus le quitter. Sur le point du depart il m'offrit une bourse que je lui rejetai avec mepris; tombant dans un acc^s de rage qui absorba tout sentiment de mon malbeur. Bient6t, regardant autour de moi, je me considerai comme un objet vil et coupable sans amis aux- quels je pusse m'adresser. En ce moment une voiture publique
280 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
guilty thing, without (925) one friend in the world to apply to (740, 751, 623, 1176). Just at that interval, a stage-coach hap- pening (55,706,1077) to pass by, I took (55,938) a place, it being (771, 706) my only aim to be driven (623, 1176) at a dis- tance from a wretch I despised (773) and detested (727). I was set down here (55, 1137 bis) ; where (814, 857), since my arrival, my own anxiety and this woman's unkindness (304, 56) have been my only companions. The hours (1185) of pleasure that I have passed (56, 781) with my mamma and (609) sister now grow painful (52,623,679) to me. Their sorrows (594) are much ; but mine are greater than theirs ; for mine are mixed (52, 623) with guilt and infamy."
" Have (40, 487, 1046 bis) patience, my child,'' cried I (55, 623,181), "and I hope (52,893) things will yet be (59,623) better. Take some repose (40, 623) to-night, and to-morrow Til carry you (59, 623, 679) home (1016) to your mother and the rest of the family, from whom (384) you will receive (727) a kind reception. Poor woman (1191) ! this has gone (56) to her (592) heart; but she loves (52,623) you still, Olivia, and will (21, 52, 1176, 706) forget it."
CHAPTER XXII
OFFENCES (665, 52) ARE EASILY PARDONED (86) WHERE THERE IS LOVE AT
UOTTOM.
The next morning I took (769) my daughter behind me (1046 bis), and set out (55, 709.) on my return home. As we travelled along, I strove (55), by every persuasion, to calm (1176, 592) her sorrows and fears, and to arm her (1176, 623) with re- Bolution to bear (1176) the presence of her offended mother. I took every opportunity, from the prospect of a fine country, through which we passed (54, 125), to observe (727, 623, 910)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 281
vint h passer. J'y pris place, mon but 4taiit de m'eloigner d'un miserable meprise et abborre. C'est ici que je m'arretai. Ici, ou depuis mon arrivee je n'ai eu pour compagne que ma detresse et que la mecbancete de cette femme. Les moments de plaisir que j'*ai passe avec ma mere et ma soeur m'accablent d'un affreux souvenir. Leur malbeur est grand j'en conviens; mais le mien est plus grand encore, — la bonte et Finfamie le composent I"
"Patience, mon enfant," m'^criai-je, "j'espere que tout s'ar- rangera. Repose-toi cette nuit. Demain nous irons cbez-nous, a ta mere, retrouver toute la famille de qui tu seras bien accueil- lie. Pauvre femme ! ceci lui a meurtri le coeur. Elle t'aime encore, Olivie, et tu peux compter sur son pardon."
CHAPITEE XXII.
ON PARDONNE AISEMEXT A CEITS Qtr'ON AIME.
Prenant ma fille en croupe la matinee d'apr^s je me dirigeai vers la maison. J'employai pendant la route tons mes moyens de persuasion pour calmer le cbagrin et les craintes de mon enfant, ou Farmer de cette resolution necessaire pour aborder une mere offensee. A cbaque opportunite que m'offrait le pays que nous traversions, je lui faisais remarquer que le ciel est
24*
282 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
how much kinder Heaven was (52, 728) to us th^n we to each other; and that the misfortunes of nature's making (304)- were (52, 679, 728) but very few. I assured her (623, 54) that she should never (39) perceive (166) any change in my affections, and that during (887) my life, which yet might be (54, 93, 1176) long, she might depend (727, 1176) upon a guardian and an in- structor. I armed her (55, 623) against the censure of the world, showed her (771) that books were (726) sweet unreproach- ing companions to the miserable, and that if they could not bring us (1039) to enjoy life, they would (623,52) at least teach us to endure it (1177).
The hired horse (304) that we rode (740, 1121) was to be put up (54) that night at an inn by the way, within about (826) five miles (971, 589) from my house; and as I was willing (54) to prepare (1176) my family for my daughter's reception (304), I determined (55) to leave her (623,1178) that night at the inn, and to return (1178, 706) for her, accompanied (855) by my daughter Sophia, early the next morning. It was night (103, 54) before we reached (55) our appointed stage : however, after see- ing her provided (155, 709) with a decent apartment (1183), and having ordered (854) the hostess to prepare (1178) proper refreshments, I kissed her (55), and proceeded (623, 732) to- wards home. And now my heart caught (54) new sensations of pleasure, the nearer (839 bis) I approached that peaceful man- sion. As a bird that had been frightened (56, 777) from its nest, my affections outwent (769) my haste, and hovered round (54) my little fireside with all the rapture of expectation. I called up (54, 69) the many fond things I had to say (54, 1177), and anticipated (771, 657) the welcome I was to receive (623, 54). I already felt (54) my wife's tender embrace, and smiled (727) at the joy of my little ones. As I walked (767) but slowly, the night waned apace (55,623,1056); the laborers of the day were (514,58) all retired (1168) to rest; the lights were out (269 679, 773) in every cottage (1201) ; no sounds were heard (54) but of the shrilling cock (971), and the deep-mouthed watch-dog (304), at hollow distance. I approached (54) my little abode of
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. * 283
toujoijrs meilleur envers nous que nous ne le sommes nous- memes les uns envers les autres ; et que les miseres dependantes de la nature sont peu nombreuses. Je Tassurais qu'elle ne trou- verait jamais en moi de I'mconstance dans mon affection; et que pendant toute ma vie, qui pouvait encore bien se prolonger, elle devait me considerer comme un protecteur et un guide. Je la fortifiai centre le blame du monde, lui demontrant que pour les malbeureux les livres sont les plus indulgents amis ; et que s'ils ne peuvent nous faire jouir de Fexistence ils nous apprennent au-moins k savoir la supporter.
Le cbeval de louage que nous mentions devait §tre remis, ce soir meme, k une auberge sur la route distante environ de cinq milles de cbez-nous. Comme je voulais preparer la famille pour la re- ception de ma fille, je conclus de la laisser passer cette nuit h I'auberge et de revenir le lendemain avec Sopbie pour la re- prendre. II etait deja nuit quand nous atteignimes la station designee. Toutefois, apr^s avoir retenu pour elle un apparte- ment convenable et commande a I'botesse de lui preparer ce dont elle avait besoin^ je I'embrassai et me dirigeai vers la maison. En route, plus je me rapprocbais de ma paisible demeure, plus mon coeur se sentait assailli d'une douce ivresse. De m^me qu'un oiseau que Ton a epouvante de son nid, devan§ant mes pas dans toutes les joies de I'attente, impatient mon amour voltigeait autour de mon bumble foyer. Je repassais dans mon esprit les bonnes choses que j'avais a dire, anticipant sur Tagreable recep- tion qui m'y attendait. Je ressentais deja la tendre embrasse de ma femme, et souriais de la joie que ressentiraient les deux petits bambins. Avangant lentement la nuit me devanga. Tons les gens de travail s'etaient dej^ coucbes, — les lumieres eteintes dans les cbaumi^res tout etait dans un morne silence. On n'entendait plus rien que le cbant aigu du coq, ou que le grave aboiement du cbien de garde qui resonnait dans la vallee lointaine. J'approcbais de ma tranquille enceinte de bonbeur,
284 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
pleasure, and before I was within a furlong of the place, our honest mastiff (1185) came (55) running to welcome me (1176, 623).
It was (54, 103) now near midnight (1185) that I came to knock (55,1115) at my door: all was (54) still and silent; my heart dilated (54,776) with unutterable happiness, — when, to my amazement, I saw the house (55) bursting out (54, 935, 1015) into a blaze of fire, and every aperture (600) red with conflagra- tion ! I gave (55) a loud convulsive outcry, and fell (55) upon the pavement insensible (709). This alarmed my son, who had, till this, been asleep (58,716).; and he, perceiving (769) the' flames, instantly awaked (726) my wife and daughter, and all running out, naked (562, 564), and wild with apprehension, recalled me (623, 52) to life with their anguish. But it was only to objects of new terror; for the flames had by this time caught the roof of our dwelling, part after part continuing to fall in, while the family stood with silent agony looking on (769), as if they enjoyed the blaze. I gazed upon them (55) and upon it by turns, and then looked (771) around me for my two little ones; but they were not to be seen (623,58, 777). '^Oh, misery! where,'' cried I (55), ''where are my little ones?" — "They are (52,679) burnt to death (858) in the flames," says my wife, calmly (55), " and I will die (59) with them." That moment I heard (55) the cry of the babes within (802), who were just (54, 1077) awaked (1178) by the fire, and nothing could have stopped me (925,55,623,1176). "Where, where are (52, 679) my children?" cried I (55), rushing (769) through the flames, and bursting (769) the door of the chamber (304) in which they were (54) confined. " Where are (432, 52) my little ones ?"— " Here (417), dear papa, here we are (52) !" cried they together (55), while the flames were just catching the bed where they lay. I caught (55) them both in my arms, and conveyed them through the fire as fast as possible, while, just as I was going out (57), the roof sunk in. "Now," cried I (55), holding up my children, " now let the flames burn on (736, 41, 880, 69), and all my possessions perish (606, 727) ; here they are (52, 679, 829)— I have saved
LE VICAIRE BE WAKEFIELD. 285
quand, k un mille de la, notre fidele mUtin vint a mon devant pour me complimenter sur mon retour.
II ^tait pr^s de minuit qiiand je teurtai a ma porte. Tout dtait calme, silencieux. Mon coeur etait gonfle d'une joie indis- cible, lorsque k ma grande surprise je m'apergns que la maison etait en feu : cliaque croisee resplendissait de T eclat de Fin- cendie ! Je poussai un grand cri convulsif et tombai insensible sur le pave. Ma chute alarma mon fils qui jusqu'alors avait dormi. Yoyant les flammes k la hate il eveille ma femme et ma fille. A demi-nuds et morts de frayeur tous s'echappent en courant. Leurs angoisses me rappellent a la vie ; mais ce ne fut que pour envisager une scene encore plus dechirante. La toiture de la maison en ce moment tombait piece-k-piece. En silence, stupefaite de terreur, la famille contemplait Fincendie comme si elle eut assiste a un spectacle. Quant k moi, tantot portai-je les yeux sur eux et tantSt sur rincendie, jetant un regard autour de moi pour y apercevoir mes petits. Personne ne les. avait vus. ^^ Quel malheur P' m'ecriai-je, "mais ou sont done les petits enfants ?'' '' lis sont morts dans les flammes/' ditma femme d'un ton impassible, " et je veux mourir avec eux/' Au meme instant j'entendis leurs cris. Le feu venait de les reveiller. Kien alors ne put me retenir. ^' Ou sont mes en- fants V m'ecriai-je en me precipitant au milieu des flammes et enfon9ant la porte de la chambre ou ils se trouvaient. " Oti sont mes cheris V '' Ici, cher papa, c'est ici que nous sommes !" s'^cri^rent-ils tout d'une voix au moment ou le feu allait enve- lopper le lit qui les contenait. Je les saisis tous les deux d'une seule etreinte; et passant a tr avers les flammes k peine fus-je arrive dehors qu^aussitot le toit s'eflbndra. ^' Maintenant/' m'ecriai-je, pressant mes enfants centre ma poitrine, " que les flammes consument tout et que tous mes biens perissent : ils sont
286 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(56) my treasure : here, my dearest, here are our treasures, and we shall (59) yet be happy/^ We kissed (55) our little darlings a thousand (586) times ; they clasped (769) us round the neck, and seemed to share (54, 679, 1176) our transports, while their mother laughed (727) and wept by turns.
I now stood (55) a calm spectator of the flames, and, after some time, began (55, 678) to perceive (732,777) that my arm to the shoulder was (58,776) scorched in a terrible manner. It was (54), therefore, out of my power to give (1178) my son any assistance, either in attempting to save (1177) our goods, or (930) preventing (1176) the flames spreading (1178) to our corn. By this time the neighbors were (54, 698) alarmed, and came running (54) to our assistance; but all they could do was (54, 679, 860) to stand (815, 1177), like us, spectators (933) of the calamity. My goods, among which were the notes I had reserved (58, 777) for my daughters' fortunes (304), were entirely con- sumed, except (55,163) a box with some (537) papers, that stood in the kitchen (54), and two or three things more (865), of little consequence (578), which my son brought away (58,777) in the beginning. The neighbors contributed (55), however, what they could (54) to lighten (1176) our distress. They brought us (55, 623) clothes, and furnished (732) one of our out-houses with kitchen-utensils (304) ; so that by daylight (1185) we had another, though a wretched, dwelling, to retire to (1176). My honest next-neighbor and his children were (55, 680) not the least assiduous in providing us with every thing necessary, and off'ering (623, 1177) whatever consolation untutored benevolence could suggest (484, 743, 751, 776).
When the fears of my family had subsided (57, 776, 679), curiosity (535) to know the cause of my long stay (55, 1176, 434) began to take place. Having (71,709), therefore, informed them of every particular, I proceeded (55, 878) to prepare them (623,1177) for the reception of our lost one; and though we had nothing (740, 751) but wretchedness now to impart (1177), I was willing (54) to procure her (55, 665, 623) a welcome to what we had ; this task would have been (163, 57) more difficult
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 287
Ik I J'ai sauy4 mes tresors ! Oui, ma ch^re, 1^ sont nos tresors, et nous serons encore heureux I" Nous embrassames mille fois les petits anges. Nous enla§ant tendrement de leurs bras au- tour du cou ils partageaient aussi nos transports; tandis que leur bonne m^re riait et pleurait tour-k-tour.
Je jetai maintenant un ceil plus calme sur I'incendie; mais bientot m'aperyus-je que du bras a Fepaule j 'avals ete endom- mage par le feu. II m'etait d^s lors impossible d'assister mon fils soit h sauver notre mobilier, soit h empecher les flammes d'atteindre a notre ble. Tout le voisinage en alarme courait k cette lieure h notre secours ; mais comme nous ils ne pouvaient qu'etre temoins de ce desastre. Dans mon avoir devore par les flammes se trouvaient les billets que j 'avals reserves pour la dot de mes filles. II n'y eut de sauve que quelques papiers sans importance dans une boite qui etait dans la cuisine, et deux ou trois objets de peu de valeur que mon fils avait enleves d^s le commencement de I'lncendie. Les volsins nous procur^rent pourtant tout ce qui pouvalt alleger notre detresse. Ils nous port^rent des vetements, et meubl^rent un de nos hangards d'us- tensiles de cuisine. De telle sorte qu'au point du jour, tout miserable qu'il put ^tre, nous avions neanmoins un toit pour nous couvrlr. Mon plus procbe voisin, le brave homme ! fut des premiers avec toute sa famille a nous procurer le necessaire, et k nous offrir toutes les consolations que leur suggerait un coeur compatissant quoique depourvu d'education.
Quand Feffroi se fut calm6 la famille voulut connaitre la cause de ma longue absence. Leur ayant raconte tout ce qui y avait rapport, je commengai k les preparer pour la reception de notre brebis perdue ; car, quoiqu'il ne nous restat plus a partager que la mls^re, je voulais neanmoins qu'on la regut de notre mleux.
288 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
but (925) for our reeent calamity, wliicli liad humbled (679) my wife's pride, and blunted it (623, 54) by more poignant afflictions. Being unable to go (769, 1176) for my poor child myself, as my arm grew (54, 679) very painful, I sent (55) my son and (609) daughter, who soon returned (55, 679), supporting (772) the wretched delinquent (330,556), who had not the courage to look up (1176) at her mother, whom no instructions of mine could persuade (54, 1176) to a perfect reconciliation ; for women have (52, 679) a much stronger sense of female error than men. ''Ah, madam !'^ cried her mother, "this is but a poor place you are come to (52) after so much finery. My daughter Sophy and I can (679) afibrd but little entertainment to persons who have kept company only with people of distinction : yes, Miss Livy, your poor father and I have (56, 680) sufi'ered (780) very much of late, but I hope (52, 893, 535) Heaven will forgive you (623, 59)." During (846) this reception, the unhappy victim stood (54) pale and trembling, unable to weep (1178, 876) or to reply (1178, 833); but I could not (163,55) continue (1176) a silent spectator of her distress; wherefore, assuming (769) a degree of severity in my voice and manner which was (665, 54, 1178) ever followed with instant submission — '^ 1 entreat (623, 52), woman, that my words may be (736, 776) now marked once for all : I have (56) here brought you back a poor deluded wan- derer : her return to duty demands (52, 679) the revival of our tenderness : the real hardships of life are now coming fast upon us; let us not (623,40), therefore, increase them by dissensions among each ether: if we live (52) harmoniously together, we may yet be (727) contented, as there are enough of us to shut out (1060 bis) the censuring world and keep (1026) each other in countenance. The kindness of Heaven (427) is promised (776) to the penite.nt, and let ours be directed (40, 623, 1176) by the example (512). Heaven, we are assured (666, 727), is much more pleased (103) to view a repentant sinner, than ninety-nine (page 189) persons who have supported a course of undeviafcing rectitude; and this is right (52,679,379); for that single effort
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 289
La chose n'eut pas ete facile sans notre nouveau desastre, qui, humiliant Tamour-propre de ma femme^ ne la rendait sensible qu'aux afflictions les plus poignantes, Ne pouvant avec men mal au bras dont la douleur croissait toujours aller cbercber moi-m^me la pauvrette; j'y envoyai mon fils et ma fille, qui, bientot, retournerent accompagnes de la malheureuse coupable. Elle n^osait pas jeter les yeux sur sa mere, et rien n'avait pu amener celle-ci a une parfaite reconciliation ; car, quand il s^agit de juger quelqu'un de leur sexe qui a manque h ses devoirs, les femmes sont toujours plus severes que les hommes. '^Ab, madame !" s'ecria la m^re, '' vous tombez dans un endroit bien miserable apres tant de luxe. Ma fille Sophie et moi sommes de bien tristes compagnes pour ceux qui ont bante le grand-monde. Oui, Mile. Olivie, votre pere et moi avons beaucoup souffert depuis quelque temps; mais, le ciel vous pardonnera, je Fes- pere." Pale, tremblante, pendant cette reception la pauvre victime incapable de pleurer ou de repondre restait comme aneantie. Je ne pus, toutefois, contempler plus longtemps en silence cette douloureuse agonie : aussi, prenant un ton de voix severe qu'on ne manquait jamais de respecter, " Femme ! je t'en supplie : et que mes paroles soient entendues pour une bonne fois. Je t'ai ramene une pauvre avanturiere aveuglee par son illusion. Son retour a la vertu reclame le renouvelle- ment de notre tendresse. Les miseres reelles de 1' existence s'accumulent rapidement sur nos tStes ; ne les augmentons pas par un manque d'union parmi nous. Nous pouvons encore vivre beureux si Fbarmonie regne dans la famille ; vu que nous sommes assez nombreux pour tenir loin de nous la censure du monde, et faire bonne contenance. La clemence celeste est promise au pecbeur repentant; laissons-nous guider par cet exemple. II y a plus de joie dans le ciel, sommes-nous dits, pour un seul peebeur repentant que pour quatre-vingt-dix-neuf justes qui jamais n^ont devi6 de la droite voie. Cela est
25
290 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
by whicli we stop (740) short in the down-hill path to perdition is (52) of itself a greater exertion of virtue than a hundred (583) acts of justice."
* CHAPTER XXIII.
NONE BUT (103, 815) THE GITILTY CAN BE (738 bis) LONG AND COMPLETELY
HISERABLE.
Some assiduity was (54, 103) now required to make (1176) our present abode as convenient as possible, and we were (622, 55) soon again qualified to enjoy our former serenity. Being disabled (484,876) myself from assisting (865 bis) my son in our usual occupations, I read (54) to my family from the few books that were saved (58, 777), and particularly from such as, by amusing (767, 679) the imagination, contributed to ease (772) the heart. Our good neighbors, too, came (54) every day with the kindest condolence, and fixed (55, 898) a time in which they were all to assist (623, 865 bis, 706) in repairing my former dwell- ing. Honest Farmer Williams was not (55) last among these visitors, but heartily ofi'ered (732) his friendship. He would even have (39) renewed his addresses to my daughter; but she rejected (55) them in such a manner as totally repressed (740, 751) his future solicitations. Her grief seemed (54) formed for continuing, and she was (55) the only person in our little (556) society that a week did not restore (163, 57) to cheerfulness. She now lost (58) that unblushing innocence which once taught her (58, 679) to respect herself, and to seek pleasure by pleasing. Anxiety (535) had now taken (623,55) strong possession of her mind; her beauty began (55,93) to be impaired with her consti- tution, and neglect still more contributed (55, 706) to diminish it (623, 1243). Every tender epithet bestowed (600, 773) on her sister brought (54) a pang to her heart, and a tear (288) to
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 291
equitable aussi; car, le moindre essai que nous fassions pour nous retenir sur la pente qui nous porte h, notre perte, est un plus grand effort de vertu que cent actes de justice."
CHAPITRE XXIII.
IL N*Y A QUE LE COXJPABLE QUI PUISSE fiTRE LONGTEMPS MALHEUREUX.
Il ne nous fallait maintenant qu'un peu d'assiduit^ pour rendre convenable notre residence actuelle ; aussi recouvrames- nous bientot notre ancienne tranquillite. Incapable d'aider k mon fils dans nos occupations journali^res, d'entre le peu de livres que nous avions sauve du feu, je lisais k ma famille ceux qui amusaient Tesprit tout en soulageant le coeur. Nos bons voisins de leur cote nous offraient leurs condoleances. lis fixerent un jour pour nous aider h restorer notre ancienne habitation. L'boDnete fernrier Williams ne figura pas parmi les dernierS; et ce fut de bien grand coeur qu'il nous offrit son amitie. II aurait meme recommence sa cour k ma fille, si elle n'eut rejete ses offres de maniere k ce qu'il ne les renouvelat pas une autre fois. Le chagrin de la pauvrette paraissait incu- rable; et ce fut la seule, dans notre societe, qui n'eut pas regagne sa serenite au bout de huit jours. Elle avait actuelle- ment perdu cette innocence naive qui ne sait pas rougir, de laquelle elle avait appris le respect d'elle-meme et Fart de plaire. L'inquietude s'empara fortement de cette ame faible, sa beauts se ressentit de Taffaiblissement de sa constitution, et la negli- gence plus que le reste en diminua les effets. Chaque nom d'amitie 4ccord4 a sa soeur, pour elle etait comme un charbon
292 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
her (1183) eye ; and as one vice, though cured (773), ever plants (801) others where it has been, so her (358) former guilt, though driven out (484, 747, 69) by repentance (535), left jealousy (550) and envy behind. I strove (55) a thousand (588) ways to lessen (1178) her (367) care, and even forgot (732, 55) my own pain in a concern for hers (381), collecting (769) such amusing passages of history as a strong memory and some reading (556, 1185) could suggest (54). ^' Our happiness, my dear," I would say (855), '^is (52, 776, 824) in the power of One who can bring it (52, 405) about by a thousand (586) unforeseen ways, that mock our foresight. If example (535, 512) be necessary to prove this (623, 1176), ril give you a story, my child (511), told us (484, 801) by a grave, though sometimes a romancing (1134), historian : —
" Matilda was married (54, 776) very young to a Neapolitan nobleman of the first quality, and found herself (54, 328) a widow and a mother at the age of fifteen (505 bis, 361). As she stood one day caressing (769) her infant son in the open (773, 801) window of an apartment which hung over (767, 771, 1134) the river Volturna, the child, with a sudden spring, leaped (769/73, 709) from her arms into the flood below, and disappeared (52, 726) in a moment. The mother, struck (55, 776,484) with instant surprise, and making an effort to save him (623,1176), plunge^ in (726) after; but, far from being able (1178,938) to assist the infant, she herself with great difficulty escaped (55, 1113) to the opposite shore, just when some (537) French soldiers were plundering (54, 679, 86) the country on that side, who immediately made her (55, 776) their prisoner.
"As the war was (54) then carried on between the French and (550) Italians with the utmost inhumanity, they were going (54,918) at once to>perpeti*ate (93,1177) those two extremes suggested (52, 679) by appetite and cruelty (535, 550). This base resolution, however, was opposed (57, 776) by a young officer, who, though his retreat required the utmost expedition, placed her behind him (1046 bis, 55, 367), and brought her (55, 653) in safety to his (618, 367) native city. Her beauty at first caught (57,776) his eye; her (592) merit, soon after, his heart. They
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ardent dans son coeur ou des larmes dans ses yeux. Or, comme un vice quoique gueri est toujours rem place par nn autre, de meme quoique purifiee par le repentir sa faute avait-elle fait place k la jalousie et a Tenvie. J'essayai par tous les moyens de dimi- nuer ses soucis. J'oubliai mes afflictions personnelles pour ne m'occuper que des siennes; recueillant tous les morceaux d'his- toire qui pouvaient Finteresser, et que me suggeraient la lecture et ma bonne memoire. " Notre destinee, ma cli^re, est plac^e dans les mains d'un etre qui, se jouant de nos previsions, par une foule de moyens imprevus neanmoins pent amener notre bonlieur. S'il faut des exemples pour te le prouver, mon enfant, je te raconterai une histoire que nous a transmise un grave historien, quoique parfois donnant dans le roman.
" ' Mathilde, tres-jeune, etait mariee h un Napolitain appar- tenant k la plus haute-noblesse. A Page de quinze ans elle etait veuve et m^re. Un jour, caressant son enfant devant une croissee ouverte donnant sur la riviere du Yolturne, par un mouvement spontan^ s'ecbappant de ses bras le pr^cieux fardeau tombe dans le torrent et disparait. Frappee de stu- peur, dans un effort pour le sauver la mere se jette k I'eau. Loin d'y parvenir ce fut a grand peine qu'elle gagna Fautre c6te du rivage, ou elle fut captur^e par des soldats fran§ais qui pillaient alors le pays.
" ^ Comme la guerre entre les Franpais et les Italieiis en ces temps se faisait d'une maniere fort atroce ; ceux-la etaient prets h se livrer a ces exc^s que sugg^rent la brutalite et la soif du sang. Cette resolution detestable fut oombattue par un jeune officier, qui, malgre la chaleur de la retraite, prit la dame en croupe et I'amena saine-et-sauve dans son pays a lui. II fut d'abord seduit par la beaute de cette dame; plus tard les m^- rites qu'elle possedait gagn^rent son coeur. Maries, 11 obtint
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were married (773, 487) ; he rose (55) to the highest posts (548) ; they lived long together, and were happy. But the felicity of a soldier can (52) never be called (855) permanent; after an interval of several years, the troops which he commanded having met (769, 155) with a repulse, he was obliged (57) to take shelter (1178) in the city where he had lived (58, 781) with his wife. Here they suffered (397, 55) a siege, and the city at length was taken (55, 623, 1178). Few histories (543) can produce (52, 679) more various instances of cruelty than those which the French (535) and Italians at that time exercised upon each other. It was resolved (55) by the victors, upon this occa,sion, to put all the French prisoners to death (1178, 1041 bis) ; but particularly the husband of the unfortunate Matilda, as he was principally instrumental in protracting the siege. Their determinations were, in general, executed (54, 776, 484) almost as soon as re- solved upon (776, 69). The captive soldier was led forth (55), and the executioner, with his sword, stood ready (163, 54), while the spectators, in gloomy silence, awaited (54) the fatal blow, which was only suspended (54, 727) till the general, who pre- sided (767) as judge, should give (54) the signal. It was (55,' 640) in this interval of anguish and expectation, that Matilda came (769) to take (541) the last farewell of her husband and (609) deliverer, deploring her (55, 678) wretched situation, and the cruelty of fate that had saved her (623, 58, 777) from perish- ing by a premature death in the river Yolturna, to be (1176) the spectator (933) of still greater calamities. The general, who was (54) a young man, was struck (55,776) with surprise at her beauty, and pity (833) at her distress, but with still stronger emotions when he heard (55) her mention her former dangers. He was (54) her (367) son, the infant for whom (662) she had encountered (58,777) so much danger: he acknowledged her (55, 1112) at once as his mother, and fell (679) at her feet. The rest may be (665, 59,900) easily supposed; the captive was set free (57, 1041 bis), and all the happiness that love (535), friend- ship (550), and duty could confer (52, 1176) on each, were (55, 666,510) united.'^
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 295
ensuite les postes les plus eminents de Farmee ; goutant long- temps ensemble les delices d'une felicite parfaite. Mais, helas ! le bonheur d^un soldat n'est jamais de longue duree. Les troupes sous son commandement ayant essuye un revers, il fut force de cbercber un refuge dans la ville ou il avait vecu avec sa femme. La, il y soutint un siege ; mais force fut enfin de se rendre. Peu d'histoires fourmillent d^autant d'atrocites que celles de cette epoque entre Frangais et Italiens. Les vainqueurs en cette circonstance resolurent de mettre k mort tous les prison- niers fran§ais, mais surtout le mari de Mathilde comme le prin- cipal agent de la prolongation du siege. Ces decisions d' ordi- naire etaient aussitot executees que resolues. Le soldat captif fut amene. Suspendu sur la tete de la victime le glaive du bourreau, pour tomber, n'attendait plus que le signal que devait donner le general siegeant comme juge. Ce fut dans ce moment d'une douloureuse attente, que, faisant un dernier adieu a sou mari et son liberateur, Mathilde deplora la cruelle destinee qui Favait arrachee a une mort prematuree dans le Volturne, pour gtre temoin plus tard d'une plus terrible catastrophe. Le general qui etait jeune fut surpris de sa beaute et de son mal- heur ; mais le fut bien plus encore des qu'il apprit son ancienne infortune. II etait lui-m§me son filsj cet enfant pour lequel elle avait affronte un aussi grand danger. Se precipitant a ses pieds il la reconnut aussitot pour sa mere. On imaginera facile- merit le reste. Le captif fut mis en liberte, et Fon vit reuni dans ce couple tout le bonheur que Famour, Famitie et le devoir peuvent accorder en ce monde.' "
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In this manner I would attempt (54) to amuse (1178) my daughter ; but she listened (623, 54) with divided attention ; for her own misfortunes engrossed (769, 155) all the pity she once had for those of another, and nothing gave her ease (54,623, 1176). In company she dreaded (54) contempt; and in solitude she only found (54, 1015) anxiety. Such was (679) the color of her wretchedness, when we received (55, 605 bis) certain in- formation that Mr. Thornhill was going (1076, 1137 bis) to be married (706) to Miss Wilmot, for whom (662) I always suspected (58) he had (777) a real passion, though he took (54) every opportunity before me to express his contempt both of her person and (833) fortune (451). This news served only (55) to increase ([1176) poor Olivia's affliction, for such a flagrant breach of fidelity was (54) more than her (367) courage could (54) support (49, 799). I was resolved (55), however, to get (1178) more certain information, and to defeat (1176, 1178), if possible, the comple- tion of his designs, by sending (772) my son to old Wilmot's, with instructions to know (49) the truth of the report, and to deliver (769, 71) Miss Wilmot a letter, intimating Mr. Thorn- hilFs conduct (304) in my family. My son went (55), in pursu- ance of my directions, and in three days returned (55), assuring us (769, 709) of the truth of the account ; but that he had found it impossible (623, 58) to deliver (1178, 1191) the letter, which he was (58) therefore obliged (777) to leave, as Mr. Thornhill and Miss Wilmot were visiting (767, 1028) round the country. They were (54, 1000) to be married, he said (55), in a few days (543), having appeared (58) together at church, the Sunday be- fore he was there, in great splendor (711) ; the bride attended by six young ladies (776, 1187 bis), and he by as many gentle- men. Their approaching nuptials (1137 bis) filled (54) the whole country with rejoicing, and they usually rode out (54, 69) together in the grandest equipage (1185) that had been seen (1216) in the country for many years. All (606) the friends of both families, he said, were there (54, 679), particularly the squire's uncle (304), Sir William, who bore (54) so good a cha- racter. He added (55) that nothing but mirth and feasting were
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C'est ainsi que je tachais d'amuser ma fille ; mais elle m'ecou- tait sans attention. Son malheur ayant absorbe la sensibilite qu'elle possedait autrefois pour les maux d'autrui rien ne pou- vait la souiager. En compagnie elle redoutait le mepris; seule elle etait melancolique. Tels etaient les caract^res de son etat d' affliction, quand de source certaine on nous apprit que M. Thornhill allait epouser Mile. Wilmot, pour laquelle — malgre le mepris qu'il affectait devant moi de sa personne et de sa fortune — je lui avals toujours suppose de Tattacliement. Cette circon- stance ne fit qu'augmenter le chagrin de I'infortunee Olivie 3 une infidelite aussi flagrante etait plus qu'elle ne pouvait en endurer. Je resolus neanmoins d'obtenir des renseignements plus surs, et, si possible, essay er de rompre ce projet en envoy ant mon fils au vieux M. Wilmot pour s'assurer de lui de la veracite du rap- port; le cbargeant en outre d'une lettre pour cette demoiselle, devoilant Finfame conduite qu'avait tenue M. Tbornbill dans ma famille. Mon fils partit avec ces injonctions et fut de retour en trois jours; nous confirmant dans tons ses points la veracite du rapport. II lui avait ete pourtant impossible de remettre la lettre en mains propres; M. Thornhill et Mile. Wilmot faisant un tour dans le pays, il I'avait laissee pour e.tre remise h cette demoiselle. La noce devait avoir lieu sous peu de jours. II nous rapporta que le dimanche precedent, h I'eglise, ils avaient fait un acte splendide de presence ; la pretendue s'y etant rendue accom- pagnee de six demoiselles et le pretendu par autant de messieurs. L'approche des epousailles remplissait de joie la contree, ou ils paradaient dans le plus bel equipage qu'on y eut vu depuis long nombre d'annees. Les amis des deux families etaient aussi sur les lieux; en particulier Foncle du baronnet,le chevalier William dont le nom etait si avantageusement connu. II ajouta, que,
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(679,835) going forward; tliat all tlie country praised (54,1118, 1102) the young bride's (304) beauty, and tbe bridegroom's (1185) fine person, and that they were (54,679) immensely fond of each other (674) ; concluding (55, 127) that he could not help (765, 54, 1176) thinking (1178, 764) Mr. Thornhill one of the most (548, 556) happy men in the world (1185).
'^ Why, let him (52, 738 bis, 736) if he can," returned I (55); " but, my son, observe (52, 910) this bed of straw and unshel- tering roof; those mouldering walls and humid floor; my wretched body, thus disabled (773, 484) by fire, and my children weeping (767) round me for bread : you have come (829, 52) home, my child, to all this ; yet here, even here (417), you see (52) a man that would not (39) for a thousand (588) worlds ex- change (1144) situations. Oh, my children, if you could (21, 621) but learn (1176) to commune (1177, 706) with your own hearts, and know what noble company you can make them, you would little regard (39) the elegance and splendor of the worthless. Almost all men have been taught (56, 77, 86) to call (1177) life a pass- age, and themselves the travellers. The similitude still may be im- proved, when we observe (59) that the good are joyful and serene, like travellers that are going (52, 767) towards home, the wicked but by intervals happy, like travellers that are going (52, 767) into exile.'*
My compassion for my poor daughter, overpowered (484, 776) by this new disaster, interrupted (55) what I had further to ob- serve. I bade her (55) mother support (1178, 623) her, and after a short time she recovered (55, 732). She appeared from that time more calm, and I imagined (55) had gained (58, 655) a new degree of resolution ; but appearances deceived me (57) ; for her tranquillity was the languor of overwrought resentment. A supply of provisions, charitably sent us (55) by my kind parishioners, seemed (55) to diffuse (1176) new cheerfulness among the rest of my family, nor was I displeased (380, 55) at seeing them (623, 1178) once more sprightly (556) and at ease. It would have been (57) unjust to damp (1178) their satisfaction merely to condole (49) with resolute melancholy, or to burden them (623, 1176) with a sadness they did not feel (64, 679).
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 299
partout, on n'entendait parler que de noces et que festins ; que le pays en masse chantait la louange de la jeune beaute et 1' ele- gance du pretenduj qu'ils etaienfc eperdument epris Tun de Tautre ; enfin, il termina, disant qu'il ne pouvait s'empeclier de considerer M. Thornliill comme Tun des heureux de ce monde.
*^ Eh bien, s'il le peut qu'il soit heureux !" repliquai-je. ^' Mon fils, tu vols ce grabat et cette toiture ouverte h toutes les intemperies des saisons. Ces murs crevasses, decrepits, et ce pave humide. Ce corps use rendu infirme par le feu, et ces enfants pleurant pour avoir du pain. Voila ce que tu trouves ici k ton retour ! Ici, meme, neanmoins tu vois en moi un homme, qui, pour mille mondes, avec lui n'echangerait pas de positions. Oh, mes enfants, puissiez-vous apprendre h converser avec votre coeur ! que de nobles associations vous y trouve- riez ! Yous regretteriez peu alors Felegance et la splendeur sans merite. Tons les hommes ont appris k comparer la vie a un voyage, et a se regarder eux-m^mes comme des voyageurs. Si nous considerons que, toujours joyeux et satisfaits, les bons sont heureux comme des pelerins retournant dans leur patrie ; quand au contraire tels que ceux qui vont en exil les mechants ne sont heureux que par moments, pour lors la comparaison deviendra encore plus frappante.^'
Accable par ce nouveau d^sastre la pitie pour ma fille m'em- p^cha d'etendre mes remarques. J'ordonnai a sa m^re de la soutenir, et en peu d'instants elle recouvra connaissance. A partir de ce jour elle me parut plus calme : mais je fus trompe par une faussc apparence, sa tranquillite n'etait que le resultat d*un ressentiment surexcite. Un nouvel envoi de provisions que nous firent nos bons paroissiens, parut ramener la gaiete parmi les autres membres de la faraille ; ce fut un vrai plaisir pour moi de les revoir gais et contents. Pour satisfaire une melancolie incurable il eut ete injuste de les surcharger d'une
V
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Thus, once more the tale went round (550) and tlie song was demanded (55, 679), and cheerfulness condescended (55) to hover round our little habitation.
CHAPTER XXIY.
FRESH (556) CALAMITIES.
The next morning the sun arose (623,55,1168) with peculiar warmth for the season, so that we agreed (55) to breakfast to- gether on the honeysuckle bank; where, while we sat, my youngest daughter, at my request, joined (732, 55) her (367) voice to the concert on the trees about us. It was (380, 54) in this place my poor Olivia first met (58) her seducer, and every object served (54) to recall her sadness. But that melancholy which (86) is excited (52,77) by objects of pleasure, or inspired (727, 764, 855) by sounds of harmony, soothes the heart instead of corroding it (1178). Her mother, too, upon this occasion, felt (55) a pleasing distress, and wept (55), and loved (727) her daughter as before. " Do, my pretty Olivia," cried she (55), " let us have (623, 40) that little melancholy air your papa was (52, 728) so fond of; your sister Sophy has already obliged us (56,777). Do (40,135), child; it will please (59) your old father.'' She complied in a manner so exquisitely pathetic as moved me (55) : —
" When lorely woman stoops to folly, And finds, too late, that men betray, What charm can soothe her melancholy ? What art can wash her guilt away ?
*' The only art her guilt to cover,
To hide her shame from every eye, To give repentance to her lover. And wring his bosom, is — to die."
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tristesse qu'ils n'eprouvaient pas eux-memes. Encore de noii- veau le conte et la chanson firent le tour de la table; et la joie comme autrefois voltigea aupres de nous.
CHAPITEE XXiy.
NOUYEAUX MALHEURS.
Ce fut avec un degre de chaleur, peu ordinaire pour I'epoque, que la matinee suivante le soleil se montra sur I'liorizon ; aussi fumes-nous tons d'avis de dejeuner ensemble sous le berceau de cbevre-feuille. La, sous cet ombrage, ma fille cadette joignit sa voix a celle des cbantres du feuillage qui nous abritait. C'etait le meme endroit ou pour la premiere fois Oliiyie avait vu son seducteur ; tout en elle aussi renouvelait sa melancolie. Mais cette tristesse qu' excite le plaisir ou qu' inspire la musique, calme le coeur au lieu de. I'ulcerer. Sa mere egalement en cette occasion eprouva une douce langueur ; elle pleura et caressa sa fille comme autrefois. "Je t'en prie, ma gentille Olivie/' s'ecria-t-elle, " cbante-nous cet air melancolique dont raffole ton pere ! deja ta soeur nous a chante quelque chose. Allons, mon enfant, commence ! cela fera plaisir a ton bon p^re." Son exe- cution fut si touchante que j^en fus emu.
Quand femme belle, li61as ! s'abaisse a la folie
Et decouvre trop tard que I'liomme est ne trompeur;
Quel charme peut agir sur sa melancolie ? — Quel art laver son dlshonneur ?
Un seul d'un voile epais peut recouvrir son crime, Cacher a tous les yeux la honte qu'il imprime, Au coeur de I'infidele eveiller le remord, Lui dSchirer le sein . . . . et cet art — c'est la mort ! 26
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As she was concluding (58, 777) the last stanza, to which an interruption in her voice from sorrow gave (773, 1137 bis) pecu- liar softness (943,482), the appearance of Mr. ThornhilFs equip- age (1185) at a distance alarmed us all (57, 776), but particularly increased the uneasiness of my eldest daughter, who, desirous of shunning (769,155) her betrayer, returned (55) to the house with her sister. In a few minutes he was alighted (57, 776) from his chariot, and, making up (769) to the place where I was sitting (54, 1170), inquired (55) after my health (1012) with his usual air (866) of familiarity. '^Sir,^' replied I (55), ''your pre- sent assurance only serves (52) to aggravate (1176) the baseness of your character; and there was a time when I would have chas- tised your insolence, for presuming (1176) thus to appear (1176, 764) before me. But now you are (52, 607) safe; for age (535) has cooled (56) my passions, and my calling restrains them (52, 709).^' - "I vow (52), my dear sir," returned he, ^'I am amazed (77, 62) at all this; nor can I (52,212) understand (383,1075) what it means ! — I hope (52, 735) you do not think your daughter's late excursion with me had any thing criminal in it?"
" Go (40, 623)," cried I (55), "thou art a wretch, a poor piti- ful wretch, and every way a liar; but your meanness secures (52, 1041 bis) you from my anger I Yet, sir, I am descended (52, 86) from (706) a family that would not have borne (58, 777) this ! And so, thou vile thing, to gratify (49) a momentary pas- sion, thou hast made one poor creature wretched for life (56), and polluted a family (727, 854) that had nothing (54, 166) but honor for their portion." ..
''If she or you," returned he (55), "are (684,68,777) re- solved to be miserable, I cannot help it (640, 52). But you may (39, 174) still be (1176) happy (556); and, whatever opinion you may have formed (743, 155, 56, 777) of me, you shall ever find me (59, 162 bis) ready to contribute to it (1177, 918). We can (52,174,633) marry her (366, 1176) to another in a short time; and, what is more, she may keep (59, 1176) her lover besides; for, I protest (52), I shall ever continue (59) to have (1177) a true regard for her."
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A peine avait-elle acheve ce dernier couplet, — r^ellement rendu attendrissant par une interruption causee par son angoisse^ — que nous fumes tons alarmes par la vue de Fequipage de M. Thorn- hill qui apparut roulant dans le lointain. Ma fille ainee^ surtout, voulant eviter une rencontre avec ce traitre rentra dans la maison avec sa soeur. En peu d' instants il fut descendu de voiture. Se rapprochant de Fendroit ou j'etais assis, de cet air familier qui lui est ordinaire, il me demanda comment je me portals. ^' Monsieur/^ repliquai-je, " votre impudence ne sert qu'k agraver la bassesse de votre caractere. II fut un temps oii je vous aurais ch^tie pour oser ainsi vous presenter devant moi. Mais, vous pouvez vous tout permettre, maintenant que I'S-ge a calme mes passions et que mon etat m' oblige a la patience.''
'^ J'avoue, mon cher monsieur," repliqua-t-il, " que tout cela m'^tonne au point meme de ne pas comprendre ou vous voulez en venir. Penseriez-vous que la derni^re excursion qu'a faite votre fille avec moi ait quelque chose de coupable V
" Retire-toi," m'ecriai-je, "miserable vaurien et impudent menteur ! ta bassesse te met h couvert de mon ressentiment. Neanmoins, monsieur, je descends d'une famille qui n'aurait pas supporte pareille insulte ! mais toi, etre vil, pour satisfaire la passion d'un moment tu as rendu une faible creature malheu- reuse pour la vie, et souille une famille qui n'avait pour tout bien que I'honneur."
*' Si elle ou vous," repliqua-t-il, " avez resolu d'etre mise- rable ce n'est nullement de ma faute. L'un et I'autre pourtant vous pourriez encore etre heureux. Car, quelle que soit Fopi nion que vous ayez formee sur mon compte, vous me trouverez toujours pret a contribuer a votre bonheur. En peu de temps nous pouvons marier votre fille a un autre; bien mieux que ga, elle pourra aussi conserver son amant. Oui, je Favoue, toujours continuerai-je k Faimer."
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I found all my passions alarmed (55) at tliis new degrading proposal; for though the mind may (743) often (736) be (1176) calm under great injuries, little villany can (52, 174) at any time get within the soul and sting it into rage (623, 1039, 1051). ''Avoid (40, 1084) my sight, thou reptile," cried I (55), " nor continue (40, 623) to insult me (904) with thy presence. Were (52) my brave son at home (815), he would not suffer (39) this; but I am (52) old and disabled (854), and every way undone (765, 771).^^
'' I find," cried he, ''you are bent (727, 623, 1176) upon oblig- ing me to talk (1177,764, 1046 bis) in a harsher manner than I intended (59, 155). But, as I have (270, 155) shown you what may (59) be hoped (1176) from my friendship, it may not be (59) improper to represent (736) what may be (59) the conse- quence of my resentment. My attorney, to whom (657) your late bond has been transferred (56, 86), threatens hard ; nor do I know (52, 1224) how to prevent (1178) the course of justice, except (774) by paying (769) the money myself; which, as I have been at some expenses lately previous to my intended (556) marriage, is not (52) so easy to be done (1177). And then my steward (450) talks (52, 1102) of driving for the rent (276); it is (103) certain (605 bis) he knows (49,1074) his duty; for I never trouble myself (52, 1156) with affairs of that nature. Yet still r could wish (39) to serve you (1008), and even to have ygu and your daughter (751) present at my marriage, which is shortly to be solemnized (59,776), with Miss Wilmot; it is even (603) the request of my charming (556) Arabella herself, whom, I hope (52, 893), you will not (59) refuse."
"Mr. Thornhill," replied I (55), "hear me once for all (40, 987). As to (845) your marriage with any (655) but my daugh- ter, that I never will consent (59, 734) to ; and though your friendship could raise (749,1176) me to a throne, or your resent- ment sink me (1176) to the grave, yet would I despise both. Thou hast (56) once woefully, irreparably deceived (777, 623) me. I reposed (54) my heart upon thine honor, and I have found (56) its baseness. Never more, therefore, expect (52, 736) friend-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 305
Entendant cette proposition degradante mes passions se revol- t^rent. Quoique le coeur puisse conserver son calme en presence d'insultes profondes; neanmoins, quand aiguillonne a tout bout- de-champ la canaille pent aussi le faire emporter. " Ote-toi de ma vue vil reptile/' m'ecriai-je; '^ ne m'insulte pas plus long- temps par ta presence. Que mon brave fils n'est-il ici, il ne souffrirait pas cette nouvelle insulte ! mais je suis vieux, infirm e, et manquant de tons moyens de defense !"
^' Je m'aper§ois/' s'ecria-t-il, '^ que vous voulez m'obliger k prendre un ton plus dur que je ne I'aurais voulu. Mais de meme apres vous avoir montre ce que vous vaudra mon amitie, sera-t-il bon aussi que vous sacbi^z ce que pent vcJus couter mon ressentiment. Mon avoue, auquel j'ai remis votre billet echu, menace d'un protet, Je ne vois d' autre moyen d'arreter le cours de la loi qu'en fournissant moi-m§me I'argent ; ce qui^ en ce moment de depenses occasionnees par mon procbain mariage, n'est pas cbose facile h trouver. Pour loyer de la ferme Fhomme d'affaires parle d'une saisie de bestiaux. II doit savoir ce qu'il fait, je suppose; car je ne me mele jamais d'affaires de cette nature. Je voudrais pourtant vous etre utile, et que vous et votre fille fussiez presents a mon mariage avec Mile. Wilmot qui sera solennise sous peu. Cela meme est le desir de ma charmante Arabelle, et j'espere que vous ne lui refuserez pas cette faveur."
" Monsieur Tbornbill/' repondis-je, '^ ecoutcz-moi une fois pour toutes. Quant a votre mariage avec qui que ce soit autre que ma fille je n'y consentirai jamais. Et quoique votre amitie put faire de moi un monarque, ou votre ressentiment me plonger dans la tombe, T'un ou I'autre peu m'importe. Tu m'as dejk trompe de propos delibere, c'est une affaire sans retour. Je me confiais en ton honneur, mais je n'ai trouv^ en toi que bassesse. Jamais, non, jamais n'esp^re que je sois ton ami. Ya, jouis de
26*
806 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
ship from me. Go (40), and possess what fortune (535) has given thee (623), — beauty (535, 550), riches, health, and plea- sure (552). Go, and leave me (52) to want, infamy, disease, and sorrow. Yet, humbled (773) as I am (52), shall my heart still vindicate (59) its dignity (367) ; and though thou hast (743) my forgiveness, thou shalt ever have (59, 776) my contempt.^'
"If so,'' returned he, ^'depend (40,135) upon it, you shall feel (59) the effects of this insolence, and we shall shortly see (59, 679) which is (727) the fittest object of scorn, you or me (684).'' Upon which he departed (55) abruptly.
My wife and (609) son, who were (679) present (538) at this interview, seemed (679) terrified (776, 1136) with (1193) ap- prehension. My daughters, also, finding (769) that he was gone (86, 861), came out (55) to be informed (1176, 1074) of the re- sult of our conference; which (789), when known, alarmed them not less (57, 776) than the rest. But as to (845) myself, I dis- regarded (54, 1030) the utmost stretch of his malevolence : he had already (769) struck (1066) the blow, and I now stood pre- pared (58, 918) to repel (1177, 1060 bis) every new effort,— like one of those instruments used (773) in the art of war, which, however thrown (418), still presents (52, 679) a point to receive the enemy (530).
"We soon, however, found (55, 621) that he had not threatened (54,556) in vain; for the very next morning his steward came (531, 55) to demand (623, 1176) my annual rent, which, by the train of accidents already related, I was (54, 1015, 824) unable to pay (1178). The consequence of my incapacity was (57, 776) his driving off (69, 288) my cattle that evening, and their being appraised and sold the next day for less than half (565) their value. My wife and (609) children now, therefore, entreated (55) me to comply (1178) upon any terms, rather than incur (91, 1178) certain (605 bis) destruction. They even (603) begged (732) of me to admit (1178) his visits once more, and used (732, 1042) all (606) their little eloquence to paint (241) the calamities I was going to endure (1076,1176), — the terrors of a prison in so rigorous a season as the present (556), with the danger that threatened
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 307
ce que t'accorde la fortune, — beaute, sante, richesses, plaisirs. Va, delaisse-moi au besoin, a rinfamiej aux maladies, a I'afflic- tion. Humilie au dernier point, ainsi que je le suis, mon coeur revendiquera toujours sa dignite; et, quoiquetu aies mon pardon, mon mepris te sera toujours acquis."
'^ S'il en est ainsi/' repliqua-t-il, '^ soyez siir que vous eprou- verez les effets de cette insolence. Nous verrons bientot qui de vous ou de moi serons un objet de mepris." Disant cela, il partit a la hate.
Presents a cette entrevue ma femme et mon fils en furent atter- r^s de crainte. Le sacbant parti, mes filles sortirent de la maison pour savoir ce qui s'etait passe. Apres le leur avoir appris elles en furent aussi epou van tees que les autres. Quant k moi je faisais fi de sa colere. Ayant lui-meme porte le premier coup j^etais pret a lui tenir t^te, — je ressemblais k ces cbevaux-de-frise, qui, pousses en-avant, pr^sentent toujours une pointe k Tennemi.
Bientot nous apergumes-nous que ces menaces n'^taient pas vaines. Des le lendemain matin son homme-d'affaires vint me reclamer le montant du fermage ; lequel par le train qu'allaient les choses j'etais dans Fimpossibilite d'acquitter. Le non-paie- ment fut suivi le soir meme de la saisie de mes cabeaux, qui se vendirent le lendemain k la criee pour la moitie de leur valeur. Plutot que de courir le risque d'une destruction certaine, ma femme et mes enfants me supplierent d'accepter des conditions. lis me conseillerent meme de lui accorder ses visites, et mirent toute leur eloquence a me decrire les malheurs qui allaient suivre — rhorreur d'une prison par une saison aussi rigoureuse qu'elle r^tait en ce moment ; et les dangers qui mena§aient ma sant6 par
308 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(54, 679) my health (288) from the late accident that happened by the fire. But I continued (55) inflexible.
"Why, my treasures/^ cried I (55), "why will you thus attempt (39, 623, 1176) to persuade me (764, 1177) to the thing that is not (52) right ? — My duty has taught me (56, 777) to forgive him (623, 1177), but my conscience will not permit me (52, 728) to approve. Would you have me (39, 737) applaud (751) to the world what my heart must (52) internally condemn (1185) ? Would you have me (727,39) tamely sit down and flatter (1176) our infamous betrayer, and, to avoid (1176, 737) a prison, con- tinually suffer (751) the more galling bonds of mental confine- ment? No, never (403, 486). If we are (52, 103) to be taken (1216) from this abode, only let us hold (40) to the right, and, wherever (604, 743) we are thrown (666, 52), we can (397) still retire (59) to a charming apartment, where we can (727) look round (1176) our own hearts with intrepidity and with pleasure.^'
In this manner (363) we spent (55, 1104) that evening. Early the next morning, as the snow had fallen (54, 105) in great abundance in the night, my son was employed (54, 929, 86) in clearing (706) it away, and opening (1177) a passage before the door. He had not been (58, 777) thus engaged long, when he came (55) running in (1176), with looks all pale, to tell us (1176,623) that two strangers, whom he knew (54) to be officers of justice, were making (54, 727) towards the house.
Just as he spoke (54, 679), they came in (55), and, approach- ing the bed where (432) I lay (54, 79), after previously inform- ing me (1039) of their employment and business, made me (623, 55) their prisoner, bidding me (771, 73) prepare to go (1178) with them to the county-jail, which was eleven (313) miles off (589).
"My friends (514)," said I (55), "this is (52,103,1026) severe weather in which you have come (1176, 764) to take me (1176,623) to a prison; and it is particularly unfortunate at this time, as one of my arms has lately been burnt (432,592,317) in a terrible manner, and it has thrown me (52) into a slight fever, and I want (52, 991) clothes to cover (49) me, and I am (52)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 809
suite de la brulure re§ue dans Tincendie, — rien ne put ^branler ma fermete.
'^Quoi! mes tresors/^ m^ecriai-je ; ^^pourquoi voudriez-vous m'amener a faire ce que je ne crois pas juste ? Mon devoir m'a appris a lui pardonner; mais ma conscience lui refuse mon approbation. Voudriez-vous que j'applaudisse devant le monde ce que je condamne dans le fond de mon cceur? Youdriez-vous que je m'abaissasse a flatter un lacbe corrupteur? Que, pour ^viter la prison, j'acceptasse le plus abrutissant de tous les escla- vages, celui de mon independance morale ? Non, jamais ! S'il faut qu'on nous arrache de cette residence mettons le bon droit de notre cote ! Alors, quel que soit Fendroit ou Ton nous jette, nous y trouverons toujours une charmante retraite ou nous pour- rons examiner nos coeurs non-seulement avec joie mais avec plaisir."
C^est ainsi que nous passames la soiree. Le lendemain de bonne heure comme la neige etait tombee abondamment pendant la nuit, mon fils s'occupait a ouvrir un passage devant la porte de la maison. A peine avait-il commence ce travail, quand, le visage pale, nous le vimes rentrer pour nous dire que deux strangers, qu'il reconnaissait pour des officiers de justice se diri- geaient vers la maison.
Comme il achevait de parler ils entr^rent. S'etant approcb^s du lit sur lequel j'etais coucbe, apres m'avoir fait connaitre leur mandat ils me dirent que j'etais leur prisonnier; m'enjoignant de les suivre a la prison du comte qui etait h onze milles de distance.
'^Braves gens," leur dis-je, "il fait un temps bien rigoureux pour venir ainsi me conduire en prison ; en ce moment, surtout, oti une brulure au bras m'occasionne un peu de fievre. Je manque aussi de v§tements pour me couvrir; de plus je suis
SIO THE VICAR OP WAKEriELD.
now too weak and old to walk (1165) far in sucli deep snow ; but if it must (103) be so—''
I then turned (769) to my wife and children, and directed them (623, 55) to get (1178) together what few things were left us (54,963), and to prepare (623, 1178) immediately for leaving (1177, 1139) this place. I entreated them (55, 1178) to be ex- peditious, and desired my son (771) to assist. (1178) his eldest sister ; who, from a consciousness that she was (1019) the cause (358, 606) of all our calamities, was fallen (799, 58), and had lost (535, 824, 833) anguish in insensibility. I encouraged my wife (55, 107), who (662), pale and trembling, clasped (54) our affrighted little ones in her arms, that clung (54, 711) to her bosom in silence, dreading (727) to look round (405, 1176) at the strangers. In the mean time, my youngest daughter prepared (54,1030) for our departure, and as she received (1216,623) several hints to use (665,38, 1134, 1178, 556) despatch, in about (826, 541) an hour we were ready (55, 918, 706) to depart.
CHAPTER XXy.
NO SITUATION, HOWEVER (604, 743) WRETCHED (556) IT SEEMS (748), BUT HAS SOME SORT OF COMFORT ATTENDING IT (747).
We set (769) forward from this peaceful neighborhood, and walked on (55, 69) slowly : my eldest daughter being enfeebled (54, 776, 484) by a slow fever, which had begun (54) for some days to undermine her constitution, one of the officers, who had a horse, kindly took (55, 776) her behind him (1046 bis) ; for even these men cannot (52, 405) entirely divest (93, 1176) them- selves of humanity. My son led (54, 1081 bis) one of the little ones by the hand, and my wife the other (54, 706) ; while I leaned (845, 54, 317, 1025 bis) upon my youngest girl, whose (663, 535) tears fell (55) not for her own, but (834) my distresses.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 311
bien faible et. vieux pour une aussi longue course dans la neige ; mais, s'il le faut . . , ."
Me touruant alors vers ma femme et mes enfants, je leur ordonnai d'empaqueter le peu de liardes qui encore nous restaient et de se preparer h vider les lieux. Je leur recommandai de faire hate; enjoignant a mon fils d'une maniere speciale de porter toute son attention sur sa soeur ainee, qui, sensible d'etre cause de tous nos malbeurs, en avait perdu le sentiment dans un ^tat d'insensibilite et d'angoisse. J'encourageai ma femme, laquelle, pale, tremblante, etreignait sur son sein les deux petits gargons, qui, a peine, osaient lever les yeux sur les records. Ma fille cadette pendant ce temps faisait les preparatifs du depart ; et comme on lui avait fait comprendre qu'il fallait §tre expeditifs, dans une heure environ nous fumes pr§ts k nous mettre en route.
CHAPITRE XXY.
QUELQTTE MALHEUREUSE QUE NOUS PARAISSE NOTRE POSITION, ELLE A TOUJOURS SON BON COTE.
QuiTTANT ce paisible voisinage nous avanyames k petits-pas. Affaiblie par une fi^vre lente qui depuis quelques joiirs minait sa constitution, ma iBlle ainee fut prise en croupe par Fun des records. Malgre leurs dures fonctions, ces hommes ne peuvent entierement se depouiller de tout sentiment humain. Mon fils cadet conduisait un des bambins et ma femme menait Tautre. Quant k moi j'etais au bras de ma fille cadette, dont les larmei coulaient pour moi et non pour elle.
312 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
We were (54) now got from (826) my late dwelling about two miles (588), when we saw (55) a crowd (277) running and shout- ing (696, 766) behind us, consisting (697) of about (865) fifty of my poorest parishioners. These, with (1193) dreadful impre- cations, soon seized upon (55, 69) the two officers of justice, and, swearing (768) they would never see (39, 665) their minister go to a jail, Y/hile they had (623,39) a drop of blood to shed in his (367) defence, were going to use them (1177) with great severity. The consequences might have been (39, 776) fatal (556, 251), had I not immediately interposed, and with some difficulty rescued (55) the officers from the hands of the enraged multitude. My children, who looked upon (54) my delivery now as certain, ap- peared (727, 679) transported (773) with (1193) joy, and were (679,64,415) incapable of containing (1176) their raptures. But they were (55) soon undeceived, upon hearing (55) me ad- dress (1176) the poor deluded people (514), who came (52), as they imagined (54, 679, 900), to do me (1176,623) service.
"What! my friends," cried I (55), "and is this the way (167) you love me ? is this the manner (52,695) you obey the instructions I have (56, 777) given you from the pulpit ? — thus to fly in the face of justice (1176,706) and bring down (1176) ruin on yourselves and me ? Which is (40, 623) your ringleader ? Show me (371) the man that has thus seduced you (56, 777). As sure as he lives, he shall feel (52, 1176) my resentment. Alas I my dear deluded flock, return (860, 40) back to the duty you owe (52) to God, to your country, and to me. I shall yet, perhaps, one day see you (59) in greater felicity here, and (727) contribute to make your lives more happy. But let it (742) at least be my comfort, when I pen (59) my fold for immortality, that not one here shall (938, 764) be wanting (290)."
They now seemed (55) all repentance (766, 556), and, melting (771) into tears, came, one after the other, to bid me (1176, 594) farewell. I shook (55) each tenderly by the hand, and leaving them (769, 69) my blessing, proceeded (732) forward with- out meeting (925) any further interruption. Some hours before night we reached (55) the town, or rather (561) village; for it
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD 313
Nous n'etions encore qu'a deux milles de notre derni^re resi- dence, quand, derriere nous, nous aperyumes une foule d'hommes courants et criants composee d' environ cinquante de mes plus pauvres paroissiens. Au milieu d'imprecations effroyables ils s'emparerent aussitot de mes records; jurant qu'on n'amenerait jamais leur rainistre en prison tant qu'il leur resterait une goutte de sang pour le defendre. lis commen§aient m§me a les traiter dru. Les consequences de leur effervescence seraient devenues fatales a ces mandataires de la justice sans mon immediate inter- vention; et ce ne fut pas sans difi&culte que je delivrai mes records des mains de cette bande de furieux. Mes enfants qui consideraient ma liberation comme certaine, transportes de joie ne pouvaient en dissimuler les marques ; mais ils reconnurent bien vite leur erreur, quand ils m'entendirent parler de la sorte h ces bonnes-gens qui s'imaginaient etre venus pour me rendre service.
" Quoi ! m«s 'amis," m'ecriai-je ; "est-ce ainsi que vous me temoignez votre attacbement ? Sont-ce la les instructions qae vous avez recues de moi dans la cbaire pour intervenir ainsi avec le cours de la justice, et nous perdre vous et moi ? Mon- trez-moi votre cbef, celui qui vous a seduits ! II pent compter sur ma reprobation. Helas ! cber troupeau egare, retournez aux devoirs que vous devez a votre Dieu, a votre pays, et a votre pasteur. Peut-etre vous reverrai-je un jour sur cette terre plus heureux que je ne le suis maintenant, et serai a meme de contri- buer au soulagement de vos mis^res. Mais, que ce soit au moins ma consolation, quand je formerai mon bercail dans Tautre monde d'y retrouver toutes mes brebis V
Tons alors parurent repentants ; fondant en larmes Tun apres I'autre ils me firent leurs adieux. Je leur serrai a tous la main, et leur donnant ma benediction nous continuames notre route sans rencontrer d'autres obstacles. Nous atteignimes la ville, ou pour mieux dire le village quelques heures avant la nuit. Com-
27
314 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
consisted (773, 683) but of a few mean houses, having lost all its (367) former opulence, and containing (54, 679) no marks of its ancient superiority but the jail. .
Upon entering, we put up (55) at an inn, where we had (727, 629) such refreshments as could most readily be procured (665, 55, 623, 1176), and I supped (55, 882) with my family with my usual cheerfulness. After seeing them (155, 777) properly ac- commodated for that night, 1 next attended the sheriff's officers (304) to the prison, which (662) had formerly been built (58, 776) for the purposes of war, and consisted (54) of one large apart- ment, strongly grated (773, 484) and paved with stone, common to both felons and debtors at certain (605 bis) hours in the four- and-twenty (534 bis, 583). Besides this, every prisoner had (54) a separate cell (556), where he (54, 665, 1041 bis) was locked in for the night.
I expected (852, 861,54) upon my entrance to find nothing (815, 1176) but lamentations (555, 547) and various sounds of misery; but it was (57, 776) very difi'erent. The prisoners seemed (54, 679) all employed (1176, 815) in one common design, — that of forgetting (1178, 1230) thought in merriment or clamor, I was apprized (665, 55, 1176) of the usual perquisite required upon these occasions, and immediately complied (55) with the demand, though (743) the little money (703,1185) I had (751) was very near being all exhausted (623, 740, 1087). This was (57) immediately sent away for liquor, and the whole (606) prison was soon filled (52, 86) with riot, laughter (535, 550), and pro- faneness.
" How," cried I (55) to myself, ''■ shall men so very wicked be (39) cheerful (556), and shall I be (39) melancholy? I feel only the same confinement with them, and I think (52) I have (855) more reason to be (1178) happy."
With such reflections I labored (54) to become (1178) cheer- ful ; but cheerfulness was never yet produced (52, 728) by effort, which is itself painful. As I was sitting (58), therefore, in a corner of the jail, in a pensive posture, one of my fellow-prisoners came up, and, sitting (769,69) by me, entered (55) inta conversa-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 315
pos6 de quelques mauvaises maisons, il ne lui restait plus que la prison pour temoigner de son ancienne importance.
Arrives, nous fimes halte h une auberge ou il fallut s'accom- moder de ce qu'on put nous servir sur-le-cliamp ; soupant en famille avee ma gaiete ordinaire. Apres les avoir pourvus con- venablement pour la niiit je suivis I'officier de justice a la prison, laquelle, batie dans les temps feodaux, consistait en une grande piece solidement grillee et pavee de dalles. La, malfaiteurs et debiteurs grouillaient ensemble pendant certaines heures du jour. Outre cette piece commune, cbaque prisonnier avait un cabanon k lui oil on le mettait sous-clef pour la nuit.
D^s mon arriv^e dans la prison je ne m'attendais qu'a trouver lamentations et oris de souffrances; mais en cela mon attente fut trompee. Cbacun des prisonniers ne paraissait avoir qu'un but, celui de noyer sa pensee dans le bruit ou dans le vacarme. On me fit savoir que j 'avals a payer un bejaune; et, quoique j'eusse a-peu-pres epuise tout Fargent qui me restait, sur-le- cbamp j'obtemperai a leur reclamation. De suite la monnaie fut envoyee pour ne rentrer que sous la forme de boisson; et la geole retentit bientot du vacarme des querelles, du rire, et d'bor- rible jurements.
"Comment," me dis-je en moi-meme; "ces mecbants pour- raient-ils etre contents quand je serais moi melancolique ? Avee eux il est vrai je partage la m§me prison ; mais j'ai plus de motifs qu'eux d'etre satisfait.^^
Plonge dans ces reflexions je m'effor§ais de ratrapper ma bonne-bumeur. J'aurais du savoir, pourtant, que le contente- ment n'est jamais le produit d'un effort quelconque. Pendant que j'etais assis en un coin de la prison dans une posture pen- sive, un de mes compagnons d'infortune, prenant place pr^s de
316 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
tioD. It was (57) my constant rule in life never to avoid (1176, 166) the conversation of any man who seemed (55^ 740) to de- sire it (751,623,1176); for if good, I might profit (163,54, 815, 367) by his instructions; if bad, he might be (54) assisted by mine. I found (55) this to be (54, 679) a knowing man, of strong unlettered sense, but a thorough knowledge of the world, as it is called (665), or, more properly speaking (769,405), of human nature on the wrong side. He asked me (55, 623) if I had taken care (58, 992) to provide (623, 1178) myself with (1193) a bed, which was a circumstance I had never once (58, 166^ attended to.
" That's (380) unfortunate," cried he (55), "as you are allowed (52, 665, 623) here nothing but straw, and your apartment is very large and (813) cold. However, you seem to be (679, 709) something of a gentleman, and, as I have been (56) one myself in my time, part of my bedclothes are (700) heartily at your service."
I thanked him (769, 623), professing (55) my surprise at find- ing (1178) such humanity in a jail, in misfortunes (711); adding (769), to let him see (1176) that I was (54) a scholar, that the sage ancient seemed (728) to understand (1176) the value of company in affliction, when he said (844, 52), ton hosmon aire^ eidos ton etairon; and, in fact," continued I (55), ^' what is the (52) world if it afifords (438, 52) only solitude ?"
"You talk of the world (52), sir," returned (55) my fellow- prisoner : " the world is (52) in its dotage, and yet the cos- mogony, or creation of the world, has (56) puzzled the philoso- phers of every age. What a medley of opinions have they not broached upon the creation of the world ! Sanchoniathon, Manetho, Berosus, and Ocellus Lucanus, have all attempted it in vain. The latter has these words : Anarchon ara kai atelu^
taion to pan, which implies ■" " I ask pardon (52, 987), sir,"
cried I (55), "for interrupting so much learning (1230,806); but I think (52) I have heard (1176) all this before. Have I not had (58) the pleasure of once seeing you (623, 49) at Wel- bridge fair, and is not your name (52) Ephraim Jenkinson ?"
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 317
moi entama la conversation. Toujours ai-je eu pour principe, dans le monde, de ne pas refuser la parole a qui que ce fat qui desirat de me parler. En effet, si Findividu etait convenable je n'avais qu'a gagner h sa conversation ; s'il ne I'etait pas la mienne au contraire pouvait alors lui profiter. Quoique illettre, je m'apergus que celui-ci etait un homme d'un tres-grand sens, sachant tres-bien son monde ; ou, comme on le dit, connaissant parfaitement le mauvais c6te de la nature humaine. II me demanda si j 'avals eu soin de me procurer un lit, objet auquel je n'avais aucunement songe.
"C'est faclieux," me dit-il, "parce qu'on n'accorde ici qu'un peu de paille ; et [comme votre appartement est tres-vaste, il est aussi par consequent bien froid. Me paraissant neanmoins un iLomme comme il faut, partie de ma litterie, monsieur, est k votre service."
Le remerciant de son offre je lui t^moignai ma surprise de trouver, dans une prison, autant de sympatbie pour le malbeur ; ajoutant, pour lui montrer que j'etais bomme de savoir, ce frag- ment d'un ancien sage qui parait avoir bien compris ce que vaut Famitie dans I'affliction quand il dit : Ton kosmon aire, ei dos ton etairon? "En effet,'' continuai-je, "qu'est le monde s'il n'est qu'une solitude pour nous?"
*' Vous me parlez du monde, monsieur/' repliqua mon com- pagnon de prison; '' mais le monde retombe dans I'enfance. Neanmoins la cosmogonie ou sa creation a embarrasse les pbilo- sopbes de toutes les epoques. Quel tas d'opinions n'ont-ils pas emises sur cette creation ? Sancboniaton, Berose, Ocellus- Lucain, s'y sent tons essayes k pure perte. A ce dernier appar- tiennent ces mots : Anarclion ara kai atelutaion to pan, qui signifient . . . ." '' Je vous demande pardon," m'ecriai-je, "pour interrompre tant de science; mais je crois reconnaitre ce morceau. jS: 'ai-je pas eu dans le temps le plaisir de vous ren- contrer a la foire de Welbridge, et votre nom- n'est-il pas Epbraim Jenkinson ?" II ne repondit a cette question que par
27* •
818 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
At this demand, lie only siglied (55, 815). " I suppose (52) you must recollect (52, 921)," resumed I (55), " one Doctor Prim- rose, from whom you bought (732, 55) a horse?"
He now at once recollected me (623, 55); for the gloominess of the place and the approaching (54, 623) night had prevented (58, 777) his distinguishing (1178) my features before. " Yes, sir," returned (55) Mr. Jenkinson, " I remember (52, 921) you perfectly well; I bought (55) a horse, but I forgot (732) to pay for him (623, 1178). Your neighbor Flamborough is (52) the only prosecutor I am any way afraid (52) of at the next assizes; for he intends (52, 992) to swear (938, 1092) positively against me as a coiner. I am heartily sorry (52, 434, 1158), sir, I ever deceived you (769, 155, 1178), or indeed any man; for you see (52)," continued he (55), pointing to his shackles, " what my tricks have (56, 777) brought me to."
"Well, sir," replied I (55), '^your kindness in offering me assistance, when you could expect no return (1177), shall be re- paid (59) with my endeavors to soften (1177,930) or (432) totally suppress (833, 1177) Mr. Flamborough's evidence (304), and I will send (59, 188) my son to him for that purpose the first opportunity ; nor do I in the least doubt (163, 52, 1177) but he will comply (52, 726, 817 bis) with my request ; and as to my own evidence (845), you need be (52) under no uneasiness about that."
" Well, sir," cried he (55), " all the return I can (52) make shall be (727) yours. You^ shall have (59) more than half my bedclothes to-night, and Fll take care (727) to stand (855,366) your friend in the prison, where I think (52, 1176) I have some (537) influence."
I thanked him (55), and could not avoid (925, 764, 1175) being surprised at the present youthful change in his aspect; for at the time I had seen him (854, 556) before, he appeared (55, 988, 505 bis) at least sixty. " Sir," answered he (55), "you are little acquainted (52) with the world (1193) ! I had (54) at that time false hair, and have learned (56, 777) the art of counterfeiting (1178) every age (434) from seventeen (448) to
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 319
un gemissement. ''Je suppose," ajoutai-jej "que vous vous res- souvenez de moi : le Dr. Primrose de qui vous achetates un clieval ?"
Alors il me reconnut parfaitement. L'obscurite de I'endroit et la nuit qui s'approcliait lui avaient empeclie jusqu' alors de me reconnaitre h mes traits. " Oui, monsieur," repliqua Jenkinson, ^' je me rappelle parfaitement votre visage. Je vous aclietai un clieval que j'oubliai de vous payer. Aux procliaines assises votre voisin Flamborougli est le seul dont je redoute les pour- suites; car son intention est d'y affirmer, sous serment, que je suis un faux-monnayeur. Je suis facbe, monsieur, de vous avoir trompe vous ou tout autre. Mais," ajouta-t-il, me montrant ses nienottes, '^ vous voyez ou m'ont conduit mes fredaines !"
"Tres-bien, monsieur," repliquai-je, "votre obligeance k m'offrir vos services quand vous n'avez rien a esperer de moi, vous sera repayee par mes efforts soit a diminuer ou a neutra- liser, entierement, le temoignage de mon voisin Flamborough.. A cet effet par premiere occasion je lui enverrai mon fils; et je n'besite pas k croire qu'il obtempere k ma demande. Quant k ma deposition k moi ne vous en inquietez nullement !"
" Pour lors," s^ecria-t-il, " tout ce dont je dispose est a vous. Vous aurez cette nuit plus de la moitie de mes couvertures. Je serai, en outre, votre ami dans la prison, oil je crois posseder quelque peu d' influence."
Je le remerciai, non sans pouvoir lui taire mon ^tonnement de la grande jeunesse que je remarquais en lui; car, a notre der- ni^re rencontre, il me parut au moins avoir soixante ans. " Monsieur," me dit-il, "vous connaissez bien peu le monde; a cette epoque j^avais une perruque, et j'ai acquis la science de contrefaire tous les ages, du jeune adolescent de dix-sept ans
320 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
seventy. All ! sir, hadi (184, 621, 751) but bestowed half the pains in learning (1177) a trade that I have (56, 799) in learn- ing to be (1177) a scoundrel, I might have been (39) a rich man at this day (747). But, rogue as I am (935), still I may be your friend (59, 623), and that perhaps when you least expect it."
We were (55, 776) now prevented from further conversation by the arrival of the jailer's servants, who came (54, 679) to call over (1176, 1028) the prisoners' names (304) and lock up (49, 960, 1041 bis) for the night. A fellow also with a bundle of straw (1185) for my bed attended, who led me (55) along a dark, narrow passage into a room paved (556) like the common prison, and in one corner of this I spread (55) my bed, and the clothes given me (773, 484) by my fellow-prisoner ; which done, my conductor, who (657) was (54) civil enough, bade (55) me a good-night. After my usual meditations, and having praised (769) my heavenly Corrector (427), I laid myself down (55, 1168), and slept (1158) with the utmost tranquillity till morning.
CHAPTER XXVI.
ATIEFORMATION IN THE JAIL— TO MAKE LAWS COMPLETE (556), THEY SHOULD (39) REWARD AS WELL AS PUNISH.
The next morning early, I was awakened (57, 776) by my family, whom I found (55, 607) in tears at my bedside. The gloomy appearance of every thing about us, it seems (52), had daunted (58) them. I gently rebuked (55) their sorrow, as- suring them (769) I had never slept (58, 777) with greater tran- quillity, and next inquired (623, 55) after my eldest daughter, who was not (55) among (826 bis) them. They informed me (55,623) that yesterday's uneasiness (304) and (535,550) fatigue had increased (155, 679, 777) her fever (367), and it was (665) judged (58) proper to leave her (1178, 623) behind. My next
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 321
jusqu'aii vieillard septuagenaire. Ah, monsieur, eusse-je pris autant de peine k apprendre un metier honorable que j'en ai mis h devenir fripon, en ce moment je serais riche. Mais, tout fripon que je suis, je n'en serai pas moins votre ami au moment oil vous I'espererez le moins.'^
Notre conversation fut ici interrompue par les guiclietierS; qui veuaient faire Fappel des prisonniers et les mettre sous-clef pour la nuit. lis etaient aussi accompagnes d'un individu por- tant une botte-de-paille pour mon lit j lequel h travers un long corridor obscur me conduisit dans une cliambre pavee comme la prison commune. L^, dans un coin, je deployai mon lit et les objets pretes par mon camarade de prison. Cela fait, mon con- ducteur qui avait des notions de politesse me souhaita une bonne nuit. Ayant prie Celui qui nous inflige des cbatiments ici bas, apr^s ma meditation accoutumee, je me coucbai pour dormir d'un profond somme jusqu'au lendemain matin.
CHAPITKE XXYI.
REFORME PENITENCIERE — POTJR i^TRE C0MPL:&TES LES LOIS DETRAIENT AVOIR LETJRS RECOMPENSES COMME ELLES ONT LECTRS PEINES.
De bonne-heure, la matinee suivante, je fus ^veille par la famille que je trouvai tout en larmes pres de mon lit. L'aspect sombre des objets qui nous environnaient a ce qu'il parait avait abattu leur resolution. Je leur reprocliai leur chagrin, les assurant que de ma vie je n' avals jamais aussi bien dormi. Je demandai ensuite des nouvelles de ma fille ainee que je n'aper9us pas parmi eux. L'inquietude et la fatigue de la veille, me dirent-ils, ayant augmente sa fievre on avait juge a propos de ne pas Famener. Pour loger la famille, apr^s cela j'envoyai
822 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
care was to send (55) my son to procure a room or (865) two to lodge (1176, 592) my family in, as near the prison as could conveniently be found. He obeyed (623, 52), but could (55) only find (415, 49) one apartment (1183), wbicb was hired (55, 1118) at a small expense for his (367) mother and (609) sisters, the jailer with humanity consenting (771, 155) to let him (740, 751) and his two little brothers lie in the prison with me.* A bed was (665, 55) therefore prepared (86) for them in a corner of the room, which (662) I thought answered (55) very conve- niently. I was willing (732,405), however, previously to know (1176,1074) whether my little children chose to lie (39,679) in a place (1183) which seemed (54) to fright them (623,1176) upon entrance.
" Well," cried I (55), " my good boys, how do you like (52, 167) your bed ? I hope (52, 893) you are (59) not (992) afraid to lie (1178) in this room, dark (606,556) as it appears (935, 736, 52) r
^^No, papa," says (55) Dick, "I am not (52) afraid to lie (1178) anywhere where you (727) are."
"And I," says Bill (55, 732), who was yet (54,405) but four years old (988), "love (677,1177) every place best that my papa is in (52).'^
After this, I allotted (55) to each of the family what they were (855) to do (1177). My daughter was particularly directed (55) to watch (1178) her declining (766) sister's (304) health; my wife was (54) to attend me (623, 1176) ; my little boys were (54,623, 1176) to read to me; "And as for you (845), my son," continued I (55), " it is by the labor (380, 52) of your hands we must all hope (52) to be supported (897). Your wages (1185,288) as a day-laborer will be (52) fully sufficient (623), with proper frugality, to maintain (1176) us all (606), and com- fortably too. Thou art now sixteen years old (52, 1183), and hast (727) strength, and it was (380, 52, 163) given thee (623, 676), my son, for very useful purposes; for it must save (52, 756) from famine your helpless parents (869) and family. Pre- pare (40), then, this evening to look out for work against to-mor-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 323
mon fils h la recherclie de deux chambres, qu'il devait se procurer le plus pres possible de la prison. II m'obeit ; mais il ne put en trouver qu'une, qu'il loua a un tres-bas prix pour Tusage de sa mere et de ses soeurs; le geolier, homme plein d'bumanite, ayant consent! qu'il couchat dans la prison lui et ses petits freres. On prepara done un lit dans I'un des coins de la chambre, lequel me parut parfaitement remplir I'objet en vue. Je voulus pourtantj auparavant, savoir si les petits marmots coucheraient volontiers dans un endroit dont la seule entree leur inspirait de la frayeur.
"Tr^-bien!" m'^criai-je. ^' Mes bons petits-gargons comment trouvez-vous votre lit? J'esp^re que vous n'aurez pas peur de couclier dans cette chambre toute noire qu'elle vous parait."
'' Non, papa/' repondit le petit Ricbard; '^jamais je n'ai peur de coucher ou mon papa coucbe."
^' Et moi," ajouta Gruillaume^ qui avait tout juste quatre ans, " j'aime a §tre partout ou est papa."
J'assignai apres cela a un cbacun de la famille la t^cbe qu'il avait a remplir. A ma fille je recommandai de veiller attentive- ment sur la sante cbancelante de sa soeur. Ma femme devait me soigner, et les bambins devaient me faire la lecture. " Quant k toi, mon fils," ajoutai-je, " c'est le travail de tes mains qui doit nous faire vivre; ton salaire comme journalier, si Ton en fait un bon emploi, doit nous supporter tous d'une maniere convenable. Actuellement tu as seize ans et tu es vigoureux. Ce n'est pas sans motifs que cette vigueur t'est donnee; car c'est elle qui doit sauver de la faim ta famille sans ressources. Cbercbe done
824 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
rowj and bring (727, 40) home every niglit wliat you earn for our support."
Having thus instructed him, and settled (55, 1041 bis) the rest, I walked (55) down (859) to the common prison, where I could enjoy (1176, 938) more air (1048) and room. But I was not long there (54, 621, 1183), when the execrations, lewdness, and (550) brutality that invaded me (54) on every side drove me back (55, 776) to my apartment (1183) again. Here (417) I sat (55) for some time, pondering (764, 1177) upon the strange infatuation of wretches, who (657), finding all mankind in open arms against them, were laboring (54, 106) to make themselves (1177,93) a future and more tremendous enemy.
Their insensibility excited (769) my highest (407) compas- sion, and blotted (55) my own uneasiness from my mind. It even appeared (55) a duty incumbent upon (58, 777) me to at- tempt (1178, 764, 1178) to reclaim them. I resolved (55), there- fore, once more to return, and, in spite of their contempt, to give them my advice, and conquer (1178) them by perseverance. Going (771), therefore, among them again, I informed Mr. Jen- kinson of my design ; at which he laughed (52) heartily (1156), but communicated it (55, 623) to the rest. The proposal was received (57, 776) with the greatest good humor (556), as it promised (54) to afibrd a new fund of entertainment to persons (514) who had (657) now no other resource for mirth but what could be derived (54, 679) from ridicule or debauchery.
I therefore read them (55,1178, 878) a portion of the service with a loud unaffected voice, and found (55, 1041 bis) my audi- ence perfectly merry upon the occasion. Lewd whispers (556), groans (535) of contrition burlesqued, winking and (550) cough- ing, alternately excited (54) laughter. However, I continued (769) with my natural solemnity to read on, sensible that what I did might (39) amend (1176) some, but could itself receive (39, 405) no contamination from any.
After reading, I entered (55) upon my exhortation, which was rather calculated (55) at first to amuse than to reprove (712). I previously observed (55, 1176, 910) that no other motive but
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 325
de I'ouvrage ce soir pour faire face aux besoins de demain, et apporte-nous tous les jours le produit de ton travail/'
Lui ayant donne mes instructions et mis tout en ordre, pour trouver plus d'air et plus de place je descendis dans la prison- commune. A peine etais-je arrive dans cet endroit, que les blasphemes, la depravation, et la brutalite qui en debordaient aussitot me refoulerent dans ma chambre. La, dans cet aparte- ment, je restai longtemps a reflechir sur Taveuglement de mal- beureux, qui, en pleine revolte avec I'humanite, s'eflforgaient a se creer dans Favenir un ennemi plus redoutable encore.
Reveillant toutes mes sympathies leur insensibility me rendit indifferent h mes malheurs. Je considerai comme un devoir imp^rieux qui m'etait devolu, d'essayer d'arracber de leur coeur ces semences de perdition. Je resolus par consequent de retour- ner vers eux encore une fois ; et, offrant mes conseils, malgre leur mepris tacber de les gagner k force de perseverance. De retour parmi eux j'informai M. Jenkinson de mon dessein. II en rit a gorge-deployee, mais il le leur communiqua pourtant. Comme la proposition leur offrait une perspective d' amusement, ce fut avec une grande demonstration d'hilarite que la re§urent ces gens dont les seuls delassements etaient le ridicule ou la debaucbe.
Mu par ces considerations d'un ton grave et baut je commen- 9ai de leur lire une partie du service, ce qui mit toute la cbam- br^e de bonne bumeur. Des paroles obscenes dites k voix basse, des coup-d'ceils goguenards et des tons affectes alterna- tivement excitaient le rire de mon auditoire. Grardant mon serieux je continuai neanmoins ma lecture, persuade qu'elle pourrait etre utile a certains d'entre eux, et qu'ils ne la souil- leraient jamais de leurs impuretes grossieres.
La lecture acbevee je commensal mon exhortation, que je leur pr^sentai d'abord plus sous la forme d'amusement que sous celle de reprimande. Je leur fis observer en premier lieu -que je
28
326 THE VICAR OF WAKEEIELD.
their welfare could (54) induce me to this ; that I was (769) their fellow-prisoner, and now got nothing by preaching. I was sorry (54,776), I said (55), to hear (1178,806) them so very profane, because they got (54) nothing (925) by it, and might (54) lose a great deal (1176, 938): '^For be assured (52), my friends," cried I (55), " (for you are (52) my friends, however the world may (743, 484) disclaim your friendship), though you swore (39) twelve thousand (588) oaths in a day, it would not put (727) one penny in your purse. Then what signifies calling (1176) every moment upon the devil (1185), and courting (1176) his friendship, since you find (52) how scurvily he uses you (727) ? He has given (52) you nothing here, you find (52), but a mouthful of oaths and an empty belly; and, by the best ac- counts I have (52) of him, he will give you nothing (59) that's good hereafter.
" If used ill (861) in our dealings with one man, we naturally go (52) elsewhere. Were it not worth your while, then, just to try (39,1178) how you may like the usage of another master, who gives you (52, 1026) fair promises, at least, to come (744) to him? Surely, my friends, of all stupidity in the world, his must be (52, 103, 163) the greatest who, after robbing a house, runs (52, 1176, 1041 bis) to the thief-takers for protection. And yet how are you (52, 667 bis) more wise ? You are all (52,606) seeking comfort from one that has already betrayed you (52, 726), applying to a more malicious being (556) than any thief-taker of them all ; for they only decoy (52, 870 bis) and then hang you (727) ; but he decoys (52) and hangs, and, what is (52) worst (412) of all, will not (726) let you loose after the hang- man has done."
When I had concluded (57, 777), I received (57) the compli- ments of my audience, some (537) of whom came (55, 1077) and shook (1176) me by the hand, swearing (769) that I was a very honest fellow (1185), and that they desired (54) my further acquaintance. I therefore promised (55) to repeat (1178) my lecture (1185) next day, and actually conceived (769) some j^ hopes of making (1178,1230) a reformation here; for it had
LE VICAIRE Di: WAKEFIELD. 327
n'avais autre chose en vue que leur avantage, ^tant prisonnier comme eux et remplissant gratuitement mes fonctions. J'etais peine, leur dis-je, de trouver tant d'impiete parmi eux; par cela seul qu'ils n^avaient rien a y gagner, quand^ au contraire, ils pou- vaient beaucoup y perdre. "■ Car, mes amis, croyez-m'en, — oui," m'ecriai-je, "quoique rejetes du monde vous n'en etes pas moins mes amis — jureriez-vous un million de fois par jour, vous n^au- riez pas pour cela un sou de plus dans votre poche. A quoi bon, pour lors, evoquer le diable quand il est si ladre en vers vous ? II ne vous donne rien en ce monde, vous le voyez, si ce n'est une boucbee de jurons et un ventre creux. Et si ce que Ton me dit sur son compte est vrai, vous ne serez pas mieux traite par lui dans le procbain.
" Dans ses rapports avec nous quand un liomme use de four- berie nous nous adressons h un autre. Ne serait-il pas conve- nable, ce me semble, d'essayer d'un autre maitre qui nous fait de belles promesses pourvu que nous alliens a lui ? A-coup-sur, mes amiS; il n'est pas d'homme plus stupide sur la terre, que celui qui apres avoir pille une maison va se placer sous la sauve- garde d'un gendarme. Mais en quoi, s'il vous plait, ^tes-vous plus sages ? Vous etes tons dans I'attente de recevoir du sou- lagement d'un etre malin qui vous trompe ; et qui, a lui seul, reunit plus de malice que tous les pourvoyeurs de potence mis ensemble. Ceux-ci vous attrapent et vous pendent; celui-lk. attrape et pend egalement; mais ce qu'il y a de pis en lui c'est qu'il ne lacbe jamais prise; pas m§me quand la besogne du bourreau est achevee.'^
Quand j'eus termine je fus complimente par I'audience. Quelques-uns meme vinrent me toucher la main, affirmant, le juron a la boucbe, que j'etais un bon-diable avec lequel ils desi- raient faire une plus ample connaissance. Yu cela je leur promis de recommencer le lendemain, entrevoyant une lueur d'esperance d'operer une reforme dans ce vrai pandemonium.
328 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
ever been (56) my opinion, that no man was past (52, 728) the hour of amendment, every heart lying (163, 52, 166) open to the shafts of reproof, if the archer could but take (52, 1178) the proper aim. When I had thus satisfied (769,484) my mind, I went back (55) to my apartment (1183), where my wife pre- pared (54) a frugal (556, 351) meal, while Mr. Jenkinson begged (55) leave to add (1178) his dinner to ours, and partake (1178, 1046 bis) of the pleasure, as he was kind enough (55, 910) to express it, of my conversation (709). He had not yet seen (54) my family; for as they came (79, 54) to my apartment by a door in (771, 1134) the narrow passage already described (56,405), by this means they avoided (771) the common prison. Jenkin- son at the first interview, therefore, seemed not (57) a little struck (776) with the beauty of my youngest (407) daughter, which her pensive air (866) contributed (773) to heighten, and my little ones did not pass (55, 773) unnoticed.
'^Alas! doctor,^^ cried he (55), "these children are (52, 679) too handsome, and too good, for such a place as this I"
^'Why, Mr. Jenkinson,^' replied I (55), ^' thank Heaven, my children are (52) pretty tolerable in morals, and if they be good, it matters little for the rest."
"I fancy, sir," returned my fellow-prisoner, '^that it must give (52, 1176) you a great comfort to have (1178) this little family about you.''
"A comfort, Mr. Jenkinson!" replied I; "yes, it is indeed a comfort, and I would not be (54) without them for all the world ; for they can make (52) a dungeon seem a palace. There is (52, 103) but one way in this life of wounding (39, 623, 1176) my happiness, and that is (380,39,1178) by injuring (1031) them."
"I am afraid (52), then, sir," cried he, "that I am (855,1178) in some measure culpable; for I think (52) I see (1176) here" (looking at my son Moses) "one that I have injured (56), and by whom (662, 384) I wish (52) to be forgiven."
My son immediately recollected (55) his voice and features, though he had before seen him (57) in disguise, and, taking him (769, 623) by the hand, with a smile, forgave him (55). " Yet,"
, LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 329
Mon opinion a toujours ete qu'aucun homme n'est a I'albri de la componction, et^ comme tous les coeurs sont exposes aux traits du repentir, il ne s'agit que de lancer ces traits avec precision. Entierement satisfait sur ce point, je retournai dans mon apparte- ment oil ma femme preparait un repas modeste. Comme faveur M. Jenkinson demanda d'ajouter son diner au notre; pour avoir le plaisir, ainsi qu'il en fit la remarque flatteuse, de prendre part a ma conversation. II ne connaissait pas encore ma famille, dont les membres etaient introduits dans ma chambre par une porte donnant sur le corridor dont j'ai parle ; evitant ainsi de traverser la prison-commune. D^s la premiere entrevue, Jen- kinson ne fut pas peu frappe de la beaute de ma fille cadette re- haussee encore par son air pensif. Mes bambins non plus ne resterent pas inaper§us.
" Helas ! docteur," s'ecria-t-il ; " ces enfants sont trop beaux et trop bons pour un lieu pareil a celui-ci."
" Mais mon Dieu ! M. Jenkinson," repondis-je, " grace au ciel, mes enfants sont passablement bons. S'ils ont de bonnes moeurs le reste peu m'importe."
" Je suppose," me dit mon compagnon de geole, " que ce doit §tre une grande consolation pour vous que d^avoir votre famille a votre entour ?"
'^ Une consolation, M. Jenkinson," repliquai-je. '' Oui, vrai- ment, une tres-grande. Pour rien au monde je ne voudrais en etre separe. Avec eux ma prison devient un palais. Une chose ici-bas pourrait me faire de la peine, ce serait de voir quelqu'un leur faire tort."
" Je crains pour lors, monsieur," s'ecria-t-il, " d'etre en cela plus ou moins coupable; car je crois voir ici un individu que j'ai trompe et duquel je sollicite mon pardon." Disant ces mots ses yeux etaient portes sur mon fils Moise.
Mon fils, aussitot, se ressouvint et de sa voix et de ses traits ; quoiqu'il ne Feut vu que deguis6. Le sourire sur les l^vres, le prenant par la main il I'assura de son pardon. "Dites-moi
28*
830 THE VICAR OF WAKEriELD.
continued he (55), ''1 can't help (40,623) wondering (52,623) at what you could see (21, 39) in my face to think me (1134) a proper mark for deception.''
'^My dear sir/' returned (55) the other, "it was not (54,380) your face, but your white stockings and the black riband in your hair (1185), that allured me (55, 1134, 1185). But, no dis- paragement to your parts, I have deceived (56, 799, 1161) wiser men than you in my time; and yet, with all my tricks, the block- heads have been (56) too many for me at last."
*' 1 suppose," cried my son (52, 55), '^ that the narrative of such a life as yours must be (52, 1176) extremely instructive and amusing (766, 556)."
" Not much of either," returned (55) Mr. Jenkinson. " Those relations which describe (855) the tricks and vices only of man- kind, by increasing (769) our suspicion in life (52,1176), retard our success. The traveller that distrusts every person he meets (52), and turns back (623, 52) upon the appearance of every man that looks like (52, 771) a robber, seldom arrives (52) in time at his journey's end.
" Indeed, I think (52), from my own experience, that the knowing one (52) is the silliest fellow under the sun. I was thought (666, 54) cunning from my very childhood ; when but seven (1183) years old, the ladies would say (54, 679) that I was a perfect little man ; at fourteen (1183) I knew (54) the world (1185), cocked (54) my hat, and loved (54, 628) the ladies; at twenty, though I was (854) perfectly honest, yet every one thought me (54, 623) so cunning that no one would trust me (54,988). Thus I was at last obliged (57) to turn (1177) sharper in my own defence, and have (771) lived ever since, my head throbbing with schemes to deceive, and my heart palpi- tating (56) with fears of detection. I used (54, 1224) often to laugh at your honest simple neighbor Flamborough, and, one way or another (883), generally cheated him once -a year (54, 1177, 505 bis). Yet (231) still the honest man went forward (52, 79) without suspicion, and grew rich, while I continued (52) tricksy and cunning, and was poor (727, 728) without the conso-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 331
pourtant, car je m'en etonne encore; ce qui dans mon visage vous dit que je donnerais dans le panneau/'
"Mais, monsieur," repliqua I'autre, " ce n'etait pas votre visage. C'etait vos bas blancs, mais surtout ce ruban noir place dans vos cbeveux qui m'engagea a tenter le tour. Sans depre- cier toutefois votre merite, dans mon temps j'en ai dupe de bien plus madres que vous. Avec tout cela^ pourtant, les niais ont fini par avoir I'avantage sur moi."
" II faut croire," s'ecria mon fils, '^ que le recit d'une vie comme la v6tre, doit etre instructif et amusant en meme temps.*'
" Ni Tun ni I'autre," repliqua M. Jenkinson. '^ Les recits des friponneries et des vices de Fhumanite, augmentant notre mefiance, ne font que retarder nos succes dans le monde. Le voyageur qui redoute ceux qu'il rencontre, et qui s'en retourne cbaque fois qu'il apergoit quelqu'un ressemblant k un voleur, arrive rarement au terme du voyage.
" A vrai dire, prenant pour guide ma propre experience, je crois que le plus fin en ce monde n'est apres tout que le plus sot. D^s mon bas-age Ton me considerait comme un enfant tres-ruse; et les dames me regardaient a sept ans comme le diminutif d'un homme parfait. A quatorze je connaissais le monde, retroussais les cornes de mon cbapeau et faisais Tamour aux dames. Quoique entierement honnete a vingt ans. Ton me croyait tellement roue que personne n'avait confiance en moi : aussi fus-je force a devenir filou par profession. Yivant de ce metier jusqu'k ce jour, ma tete n'a ete pleine que de projets de roueries, et mon coeur n'a palpite que de la crainte d'etre decouvert. Souvent riais-je aux depens de votre honnete mais par trop simple voisin Flambo- rough, que d'un biais ou d'un autre je reussissais a duper regu- lierement une fois par an. Et pourtant/^ fit-il, "■ sans etre soup- gonneux ce brave bomme n'en est pas moins devenu riclie ; tandis qu'avec mes tours et ma ruse je suis pauvre, sans meme avoir la
332 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
lation of being honest. However/' continued he (55), " let me know (40; 623) your case, and what (642) has brought you (56) here ; perhaps, though I have not (163, 743) the skill to avoid (1176) a jail myself, I may extricate (59,897,764) my friends/'
In compliance with his curiosity, I informed him (55) of the whole train of accidents and follies that had plunged me (58, 777) into my present troubles, and my utter inability (54, 1176) to get free.
After hearing (844, 55) my story, and pausing (769) some (537) minutes, he slapped his forehead (769, 592), as if he had hit upon something material, and took (55) his leave, saying (772) he would try (59, 734) what could be done (103, 1223).
CHAPTER XXVII.
THE SAME (556) SUBJECT CONTINUED.
The next morning I communicated (55) to my wife and (609) children (289) the scheme I had planned (58, 777) of reforming (1178, 1230) the prisoners, which they received (55) with uni- versal disapprobation, alleging (769) the impossibility and im- propriety of it; adding (769) that my endeavors would no way contribute (764, 706) to their amendment, but might probably (39, 679) disgrace (1176) my calling.
'* Excuse (623, 40) me," returned I (55) ; ^' these people, how- ever fallen (52, 935), are still (727) men, and that is (727, 640) a very good title to my affections. Good counsel (555, 556) re- jected (773) returns (55) to enrich the giver's (304) bosom; and though the instruction I communicate (39, 1178, 847) may not mend them (1207), yet it will assuredly mend (59) myself If these wretches, my children (54,679,535), were princes, there would be thousands (665,59,588) ready (556,918) to offer (1177) their ministry; but, in my opinion, the heart that is
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 333
consolation d'etre estime. Neanmoins," fit-il, '' faites-moi eon- naitre votre affaire et ce qui vous a mis ici. Quoique je n'aie pu moi-meme eviter la prison, peut-^tre trouverai-je moyen d'en faire sortir mes amis/'
Me rendant a son desir je lui racontai toute la suite des folies^ et des accidents qui nous' avaient plonges dans la mise- rable position d'oii nous ne pouvions sortir.
Quand il eut entendu mon recit, reflechissant quelques mi- nutes et se frappant le front comme un homme dont Fesprit s'arr^te sur une bonne pensee, il prit cong6 de nous en disant : " J'essaierai ce qu'il y a a faire.*'
CHAPITKE XXVII.
SUITE DU MEME SUJET.
La matinee d'apres je communiquai a ma femme et k mes enfants le plan que j'avais con§u de reformer les prisonniers; projet qu'ils regurent avec un blame universel, alleguant son impossibilite pour ne pas dire meme son inconvenance ; ajou- tant que sans pouvoir contHbuer k leur avantage, mes efforts pourraient tourner au prejudice de mon ministere.
"Bab!" fis-je; "toutdecbus que sont ces gens ils n'en sont pas pour cela moins bommes ; et c'est en eux un titre qui reclame mon affection. Bon conseil rejete enrichit celui qui le donne; et quoique I'instruction que j'essaierai de leur communiquer ne tourne point a leur profit, a-coup-sur elle me rendra meilleur. Mes enfants, si ces miserables etaient des princes on trouverait des milliers d'individus prets a leur offrir leur ministere. A mon avis, pourtant^ le coeur qu'ensevelit un donjon n'est pas
334 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
"buried (52) in a dungeon is (52, 821 bis) as precious as that seated (52) upon a throne. Yes, my treasures, if I can mend them (740,876), I will (59,1178,623); perhaps (1016) they will not (59) all despise (537) me : perhaps I may catch (39, 623) up even one (318) from the gulf, and that will be (39) great gain: for is there (103, 52) upon earth a gem so precious as the human soul (952) ?"
Thus saying (769), I left them (55, 623) and descended (55, 629, 858) to the common prison, where I found (55) the prison- ,ers very (447) merry, expecting (769) my arrival, and each prepared (54, 679) with some jail-trick (304) to play (1177, 706) upon the doctor. Thus, as I was (55, 622, 918) going to begin, one turned (55) my wig awry, as if by accident, and then asked (55,987) my pardon. A second (927), who stood (773) at some distance, had a knack (769) of spitting (1178) through (826) his (592) teeth, which fell in showers (54) upon my book. A third would cry (54) ^' Amen I" in such an affected (773) tone as gave the rest great delight. A fourth had (55) slyly picked my pocket of my spectacles (288, 1185). But there was (623, 55) one whose trick gave (55) more universal (556) pleasure than all the rest; for, observing (769) the manner in which I had disposed (58, 777) my books on (802) the table before me, he very dexterously displaced (55) one of them, and put (55) an obscene jest-book of his own in the place. However, I took (55) no notice of all this mischievous group of little beings could do (54, 679, 1176), but went on (55, 895), perfectly sen- sible that what was (54) ridiculous in my attempt would excite mirth only the first or second time, while what was serious would be (39,727) permanent. My design succeeded (55), and in less (400) than six days some (536) were (54, 679) penitent, and all (606, 54) attentive.
It was now that I applauded (54) my perseverance and ad- dress (609), at thus giving (270, 155) sensibility to wretches divested (54, 776) of every moral feeling, and now began (55) to think of doing them temporal services also, by rendering (772) their situation somewhat more comfortable. Their time had
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 835
moins precieux que celui que rehausse un trone. Oui, mes tresors, qu'ils soient capables de guerison et j'essaierai de les guerir. Qui salt ! peut-etre quelques-uns d'entre eux se laisse- ront-ils persuader; et n'en arracherais-je qu'un au gouflfre celui- Ik seul serait un tres-grand gain. Parmi les ricliesses de la terre il n'est certes pas de plus precieux joyaux que rUme humaine V
Disant cela je les quittai et descendis en bas, ou je trouvai les prisonniers dans la jubilation. Attendant mon arrivee ils avaient tons, en poche, un tour a pratiquer sur le pauvre rat-d'eglise. j A peine fus-je pret a commencer que Fun d'eux comme par accident tournant ma perruque, il me fit apres cela des excuses. Assez eloigne de moi, un deuxieme ayant le tic de lancer sa salive entre les dents en seringuait ainsi mon livre. Un troi- si^me ejaculait J.me7i d'un ton si affects que les autres en avaient des convulsions. Un quatrieme filouta mes besides de ma poche. Mais il en fut un parmi eux dont la plaisanterie fut plus goutee que celles des autres. Ayant remarque la maniere dont j'avais dispose de mes livres sur la table devant moi, il en deplaga un fort adroitement qu'il rempla§a par un recueil d'obscenites. Je ne fis aucunement attention h, ce que ce groupe de pygmees pou- vaient faire. J'allai done mon train : persuade que ce qui en moi serait ridicule ne serait tel qu'au premier ou qu'au second essai; tandis que les cboses serieuses feraient une impression durable. Mon plan eut une reussite parfaite. En moins de six jours quelques-uns etaient repentants, — tons sans exception pre- taient Toreille k mes paroles.
Je m'applaudissais maintenant de ma perseverance et de mon habilete d'avoir su amener au sens moral des etres qui en etaient totalement dives tis. Adoucissant un peu leur position je songeai k leur amelioration temporelle. Leur temps jusqu'^ pre-
S36 .THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
hitherto been divided (54, 623) between famine and excess, tumultuous (556) riot and bitter repining. Their only employ- ment was (694, 861) quarrelling among each other, playing at cribbage, and cutting (1177) tobacco-stoppers. From this last •mode of idle industry I took (55) the hint of setting (897, 764) such as chose to work, at cutting pegs for tobacconists (957) and shoemakers, the proper wood being bought (1230, 776) by a general subscription, and, when manufactured (773, 861), sold (54) by my appointment : so that each earned (54) something (516) every day (1201), — a trifle indeed, but sufficient to main- tain him.
I did not stop (55) here, but instituted (55, 1185) fines for the punishment of immorality, and rewards (535) for peculiar in- dustry. Thus, in less than (409) a fortnight, I had formed them (58,777, 1207) into something social and humane, and had (55) the pleasure of regarding (1178, 1230) myself as a legislator, who had brought (771, 780) men from their native ferocity into friendship and obedience.
And it were (39,405) highly to be wished (1177) that legis- lative power (556) would thus direct the law (736, 751) rather to reformation than severity; that it would be convinced (751) that the work of eradicating (1176, 535) crimes is not (52,380) by making (772) punishments familiar, but formidable. Then, instead of our present prisons, which find (52, 679) or make (727) men guilty, which enclose (52^ 79, 776) wretches for the commission of one crime, and return (855) them, if returned alive (52, 918), fitted for the perpetration of thousands (588) — it were (39) to be wished (1177) we had (736, 741), as in other parts of Europe, places of penitence and solitude, where the ac- cused might be attended (666, 751, 749) by such as could give them repentance if guilty, or new motives to virtue if innocent. And this (379, 610), but not the increasing punishments, is (52) the way to mend (1176,541) a state. Nor can I (212,52) avoid even questioning (1177,1178,1041 bis) the validity of that right which social combinations have assumed (784, 52), of capitally punishing (1178, 706) ofiences of a slight nature. In cases of
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEriELD. 337
sent s'etait divise entre la famine et les exces, en rixes bruyantes et en regrets amers. Leurs seules occupations c'etait les que- relles, les cartes, ou a faire des refouloirs-de-pipe. De cette Industrie improductive pour ceux qui s'y livraient, me vint I'idee de faire tailler h ceux de bonne volonte des chevilles pour les fabricants-de-tabac et pour les cordonniers. Ackete a frais communs, apr^s etre manufacture le bois etait vendu pour compte des associes ; a tel point qu'un cbacun gagnait quelque chose par jour. Cette chose etait peu, sans doute, mais ce peu neanmoins suffisait a leur entretien.
Je ne m'arretai pas la. J'instituai aussi des amendes et des punitions pour I'immoralite; plus des recompenses pour encou- rager I'industrie particuliere. Ainsi, en moins de quinze jours ayant fait d'eux quelque chose de social, d'humain, j'eus le plaisir de me considerer comme un legislateur ayant transforme des hommes d'une nature feroce en §t^ is bons et obeissants.
i
En faisant les lois, il serait grandement a desirer que le pou- voir legislatif leur donnat une tendance de reforme et non de chatiment; qu'il comprit que pour diminuer le crime ce n'est pas en rendant la punition frequente mais terrible. Au lieu de nos prisons, alors, qui regoivent les coupables ou qui rendent tels ceux qui y entrent, depots ou sont detenus poiir un seul crime des malheureux prets a en commettre mille s'ils ont la chance d'en sortir en vie, — il serait bon, comme en d'autres par- ties de TEurope, que nous eussions des lieux de solitude et de chatiment pour I'accuse, si coupable ; ou Ton inspirat la vertu k I'innocent et le repentir au criminel. Cela et non I'accroissement des peines pent seul renover un etat. Je ne peux meme m'em- p§cher de mettre en question le droit que se sont arroges certains etats, de punir de petites offenses par la peine-capitale. En cas
29
338 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
murder, their (74, 366) right is (52) obvious, as it is the duty of us all, from the law of self-defence, to cut off (1176) that man who has shown (56, 1176) a disregard for the life of another. Against such, all nature rises (623, 52) in arms; but it is not (103,52) so against him who (657) steals (52,706,1174) my property. Natural law gives me (52, 623, 598) no right to take away (855, 413) his life, as (841) by that the horse (293) he steals (52, 623, 1140) is as much his property as mine (381). If, then, I have any right (52, 992), it must be (380, 105) from a compact made (855, 827) between us, that he who deprives (52, 706) the other of his horse (59, 1150) shall die. But this (379, 610) is (52) a false compact; because no man has (672, 52, 535) a right to barter (1178, 1144) his life, any more than to take it (1178, 799) away, as it is not his own. And, besides, the compact is (163, 52, 351) inadequate, and would be (79, 622, 39, 776) set aside even in a court of modern equity, as there is (775, 535) a great penalty for a trifling inconvenience, since it is far better (52, 484) that two men should live (1176, 764) than that one man should ride (623, 1178, 1165). But a compact that is false between two men (52, 727) is equally so between a hundred (583) or a hundred thousand; for as ten millions of circles (591) can (679) never make (405, 1176) a square, so the united voice of myriads cannot lend (52, 1176) the smallest foundation to falsehood. It is (829) thus that reason (535) speaks (52); and untutored nature (535, 974) says (727, 623, 52) the same thing. Savages (535), that are directed by natural law (556, 535) alone, are very tender of the lives of each other; they seldom shed (52, 679) blood but to retaliate (49, 799) former cruelty.
Our Saxon ancestors, fierce as they were (55, 935, 607) in war, had but few (665, 54) executions in times of peace ; and in all commencing governments, that have (52) the print of nature still strong upon them, scarcely any crime is held (52, 447) capital- It is among the citizens of a refined community that penal laws, which (814, 855) are in the hands of the rich, are laid (52, 679, 548) upon the poor. Government (535), while it grows older, seems (665,54) to acquire (1176, 914) the moroseness of
/LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 339
de meurtre leur droit est positif. Mus par la loi de propre defense nous devons tranclier la vie de celui qui n'a pas su res- pecter celle d'un autre. Contre un tel homme toute la nature se souleve. Mais il n'en est pas de meme avec celui qui s'empare de mon bien. La loi naturelle ne me donne aucun droit sur sa vie ; parce que, d'apres ce droit, le cheval qu'il me vole est aussi bien k lui qu'a moi. Si j'ai un droit pour lors ce ne peut ^tre qu^en vertu d^un contrat entre nous, par lequel celui qui prive I'autre de son bien encourra la peine de mort. Mais cela est un faux contrat; personne n'ayant le droit d'echanger sa vie pour quelque chose ou d'en disposer. Le marcbe en outre n'est pas 4gal ', aussi pour cette cause serait-il casse devant les cours de justice moderne, vu que la peine est formidable et disproportion- nee au delit. Mieux vaut, en effet, laisser vivre deux bommes que d'en avoir un a cheval. Or, un contrat invaiide entre deux bommes Test egalement avec cent ou avec cent mille; et de m^me que dix millions de cercles ne peuvent former un carre, de meme, aussi, Fassentiment de myriades ne peut donner le moindre poids k une erreur. Yoila ce que dit la raison et ce que nous confirme le gros-bon-sens. N'ayant d'autre guide que la loi natu- relle, les sauvages sont tres-avares de la vie de leurs semblables. Rarement versent-ils le sang si ce n'est pour en laver un autre.
Tout belliqueux que furent nos ancetres les Saxons, en temps de paix I'on voyait tr^s-peu d'executions parmi eux ; et, dans les gouvernements nouveaux encore empreints de la loi naturelle, la peine-capitale est tres-rare.
C'est dans les societes les plus avancees, qu'entre les mains des riches, les lois-penales pesent le plus lourdement sur la classe pauvre. A mesure qu'un gouvernement vieillit on dirait qu'il participe a la morosite de la vieillesse. Et comme si les richesses
840 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
age; and, as if our property were become (54, 679) dearer in proportion as it increased, — as if the more enormous our wealth the more extensive our fears, — all our possessions are (52, 622) paled up (776) with new edicts every day, and hung round (776, 69) with gibbets, to scare (1176) every invader.
I cannot tell (163, 39,1176,1074) whether it is (52) from the number of our penal laws, or the licentiousness of our people, that this country should show (52) more convicts in a year than half the dominions of Europe united. Perhaps it is owing (169, 52,958) to both; for they mutually produce (52, 679, 674) each other. When by indiscriminate penal laws a nation beholds the same punishment affixed to dissimilar degrees of guilt, from perceiving no distinction in the penalty, the people are (698, 701) led to lose (1177) all sense of distinction in the crime; and this distinction is (52) the bulwark of all morality: thus the multitude of laws produce (52, 698) new vices, and new vices call for (679, 727) fresh restraints.
It were (39) to be wished (855, 86), then, that power, instead of contriving (1178, 1230) new laws to punish (1176) vice, in- stead of drawing hard (1178, 1230) the cords of society till a convulsion come (744) to burst them, instead of cutting away wretches as useless before we have tried (155, 777) their utility, instead of converting (1230,1178) correction into vengeance, — ^it were (39) to be wished (1176) that we tried the restrictive arts of government, and made law the protector, but not the tyrant, of the people. We should then find (93, 39) that creatures whose souls (1183, 52, 629) are held as dross only (56) wanted the hand of a refiner ; we should then find (39) that wretches, now stuck (55) up for long tortures, lest luxury should feel (896) a momentary pang, might (39,727), if properly treated, serve to sinew the state in times of danger; that as their faces are (484, 52) like ours, their hearts are (52, 623, 727) so too ; that few minds are so base as that perseverance cannot amend; that a man may see (105, 736) his last crime without dying for it, and that very little blood will serve (736) to cement our security (951).
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 841
devenaient plus precieuses par leur accumulation, plus aussi la crainte de se les voir ravir semble augmenter, h tel point que celle-ci augmente toujours en proportion des autres; la pro- priete aussi se trouve-t-elle environnee d'edits journaliers, et complantee de gibets pour epouvanter les envahisseurs.
Je ne saurais dire si c'est le nombre de nos lois-penales ou I'immoralite de notre nation, qui, en un an, produit plus de con- damnations que toute FEurope reunie. Peut-etre est-ce attri- buable a ces deux causes, car elles s'engendrent mutuellement. Gouvernce par des lois-penales n'etablissant pas de distinction suffisante entre la peine et le delit, une nation est apte a con- fondre les degres de criminalite : cette ' distinction pourtant est le palladium de toute morale publique. Ainsi la multiplicite des lois produit de nouveaux vices, et ceux-ci necessitent de nou- velles lois.
II serait desirable, pour lors, qu'au lieu de nouveaux edits pour sevir contre le crime; de tendre les ressorts de la societe jusqu^k ce qu'ils rompent; de detruire des miserables avant d' avoir eprouve leur utilite, ou de transformer la punition en vengeance ; mieux vaudrait essay er les raoyens restrictifs de I'etat, de maniere a ce que la loi deyint le protecteur du peuple et non le tyran. Alors nous apercevrions-nous que les malheureux dont r§,nie est consideree comme une lie grossiere n'ont manque que du precede de I'epuration • que, soumis a une longue torture pour epargner aux riches un court malaise, dans le danger ces m§mes miserables seraient la force de I'etat les eut-on eleves convenablement ; que, semblables a nous par les traits physiques, ils le sent encore par le coeur ; que peu sent capables d'une per- version defiant la perseverance; puisse enfin, un jour, le criminel §tre temoin de son dernier crime sans I'expier de sa vie, ot que notre s^curite soit cimentee par peu de sang-humain.
29*
0 ^42 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTEH XXYIII.
HAPPINESS (535) AND MISERY (550) RATHER (805) THE RESULT OP PRUDENCH THAN OP VIRTUE IN THIS LIFE J TEMPORAL EVILS OR FELICITIES BEING RE- GARDED (484, 776, 1231) by heaven (427) as things merely in them- selves TRIFLING, AND UNWORTHY ITS CARE IN THE DISTRIBUTION (885).
I HAD now been confined (54,103, 86) more tlian a fortnight, but bad not (54) since my arrival been visited (58, 777) by my dear Olivia, and I greatly longed (54, 679) to see (1178, 623) her. Having communicated (769, 155) my wishes to my wife, the next morning the poor girl (511) entered (55) my (706,824) apartment, leaning (155, 464) on her sister's (304) arm. The change which I saw (55) in her countenance (727, 1115) struck me. The numberless graces that once resided (54, 679) there were now fled (58, 781), and the hand of death seemed (54) to have (155, 669) moulded every feature to alarm me. Her tem- ples were (54, 776) sunk, her (367) forehead was (54) tense, and a fatal paleness sat (727, 679) upon her cheek.
^'I am glad (52,79) to see thee, my dear,'' cried I (55); "but why this (363) dejection, Livy? I hope (52,893), my love, you have (727) too great a regard for me to permit (49) disap- pointment thus to undermine (52) a life which I prize (52, 623) as my own. Be (40, 776) cheerful (556), my child, and we may yet (59) see happier days.''
" You have (56) ever, sir (1184)," replied she (55), " been kind to me; and it adds (52) to my pain, that I shall (59) never have an opportunity of sharing (1230, 1178) that happiness you promise (52, 623). Happiness (547), I fear (52), is no longer reserved for me here, and I long (52, 1087) to be (1178) rid of a place where I have only found (56,777) distress. Indeed, sir (1184), I wish (52) you would make (736, 751) a proper sub-
LE VICAIRB DE WAKEFIELD. 343
CHAP IT EE XXYIIL
LE BONHEUR ET LE MALHEUR EN CE MONDE SONT PLTJTSt LE RESULTAT DB LA PRUDENCE QUE DE LA VERTU — AUX YEUX DE LA PROVIDENCE LES JOUISSANCES TEMPORELLES, COMPTEES POUR PEU DE CHOSE, LUI SEMBLENT INDIGNE d'uNE REPARTITION EGALE.
Il y avait plus de quinze jours que j'etais en prison, et depuis cette epoque je n'avais pas encore vu mon Olivie; aussi me tar- dait-il beaucoup de la voir. Ayant communique mon desir a ma femme, penchee sur le bras de sa soeur la pauvre enfant entra dans ma prison. Le cliangement que j'apergus en elle me frappa. Les graces, qui, autrefois, embellissaient sa personne avaient completement disparu ; et la main de la mort avait im- prime sur chacun de ses traits un caractere qui m'alarma. Ses tempos etaient caves et son front rigidement tendu, — une paleur cadavereuse couvrait ses traits.
^' Ma cbere, je suis heureux de ta visite," m'ecriai-je; " mais h quoi bon ce decouragement, mon Olivie ? Je pense, ma bien- aimee, que tu m^es trop attacbee pour souffrir que tes espe- rances degues minent une sante qui ne m'est pas moins pre- cieuse que la mienne. Sois gaie, mon enfant, et nous serons encore beureux I"
"Mon pere,^' repliqua-t-elle, "toujours vous avez ete bon envers moi. Mon seul chagrin c'est que je n'aurai jamais Toccasion de gouter le bonbeur que vous me promettez. Je le crains, il n'est plus pour moi de bonbeur sur la terre ; aussi me tarde-t-il de quitter un endroit ou je n'ai rencontre que malbeur. A dire vrai, mon pere, mon desir est que vous fassiez une con-
344 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
mission to Mr. Thornliill : it may (379, 610, 59), in some mea- sure, induce him (1176) to pity you, and it will give me (1176) relief in dying."
''Never (403, 486), child," replied I (55, 181), ''never will I be brought (59) to acknowledge (1177) my daughter a prostitute ; for though the world may look upon your offence (52) with scorn, let it be mine (736, 857) to regard it (1178, 419) as a mark of credulity, not of guilt. My dear, I am (52) no way miserable in this place, however dismal it may seem (623, 727, 935) ', and be assured (135, 776) that while you continue (59) to bless me (1178, 623) by living (764), he shall never have (59,166) my consent to make you (1176,434) more wretched (556) by marrying (415, 1178) another."
After the departure of my daughter, my fellow-prisoner, who was by (58, 777) at this interview, sensibly enough expostulated (55) upon my obstinacy, in refusing (764) a submission which promised (54, 1176) to give me freedom. He observed (623, 55, 910) that the rest of my family were not to be (54, 1176) sacrificed to the peace of one child alone, and she the only one who had offended me (57,777). " Besides," added he (55), " I don't know (52) if it be just (736) thus to obstruct (1178) the union of man and wife, which you do (52, 231) at present, by refusing (772) to consent to a match which you cannot (855) hinder (1176), but may render (52, 1176) unhappy."
"Sir," replied I (55, 1184), "you are unacquainted with (54, 706) the man that oppresses us (623, 52). I am (598) very sensible that no submission I can make (39) could procure (1176) me liberty even for an hour. I am told (56,1217) that even in this very room a debtor of his (1200 bis), no later than last year, died for want (1253, 991). But, though my submission and ap- probation could (621,751) transfer me hence to the most beauti- ful apartment he is possessed of, yet I would grant (39) neither (690), as something (516) whispers me (52) that it would be (39) giving a sanction (1176, 757) to adultery (535, 318). While (846) my daughter lives, no other marriage of his shall ever be (59, 727) legal in my eye. Were she removed, indeed, I should
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 345
cession convenable a M. Thornliill. Cela pourra lui inspirer de la pitie pour vous, et me consoler dans mes derniers moments."
"Jamais! mon enfant/' repliquai-je; ''je ne consentirai ja- mais a reconnaitre une prostituee en ma fille. Si le monde n'a que du mepris pour ta faute qu'il me soit permis, a moi, de la considerer comme une marque de credulite et non de crime. Tout triste que te parait cet endroit, ma cliere, je ne m'y trouve point malheureux. Sois bien convaincue que tant que j'aurai le bonheur de te voir vivre, jamais il n'aura mon consentement d'en epouser un autre pour accroitre tes regrets."
Mon compagnon de prison, qui avait assiste a cette entrevue, apres le depart de ma fille s'exprima d'une maniere tr^s-sympa- tbique sur la necessite d'une concession dont dependait mon elargissement. II me fit observer, que je ne pouT^ais sacrifier le restant de la famille a la paix du seul enfant qui m'eut offense. "Bien plus," ajouta-t-il, "j'ignore qu'il soit juste d'empecher I'union d'un bomme et d'une femme, ainsi que vous le faites en ce moment par le refus d'un consentement, qui sans empecber cette union peut la rendre malbeureuse."
" Monsieur," repondis-je, '' vous connaissez bien peu Fbomme qui nous opprime. Aucune des soumissions que je pourrais lui faire ne saurait me procurer un moment de liberte. II n'y a pas plus d'un an, que, dans cette meme cbambre, un de ses debi- teurs, m'a-t-on dit, y est mort faute d' aliments. Par ma soumis- sion et mon approbation dusse-je etre transferre dans un de ses beaux appartements, je ne lui accorderais ni I'une ni I'autre; vu que quelque cbose me dit que ce serait sanctionner un adul- t^re. Tout mariage qu'il contractera pendant la vie de ma fille h mes yeux sera illegal. Si, pour satisfaire mon ressentiment, en
346 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
be (39) the basest of men^ from any resentment of my own, to attempt (1176, 54) putting asunder those who wish (706) for a union. No, villain as he is (52, 935), I should then wish (39) him married (751), to prevent (1176, 1041 bis) the consequences of his future debaucheries. But now should I not be (39) the most cruel (548) of all fathers, to sign (54, 1113 bis) an instru- ment which must (52) send (1176) my child to the grave, merely to avoid a prison myself (711), and thus, to escape (623, 1176) one pang, break my child's heart (1176,304) with a thousand (588,619) ?'' He acquiesced (55) in the justice of this answer, but could not avoid (55, 1176) observing (1178, 910) that he feared (54) my daughter's life was already too much wasted to keep (1176, 1060 bis) me long a prisoner. '^However," continued he (55), 'though you refuse (743) to submit (1178,1028) to the nepheW; I hope (893,52) you have (59) no objection to lay- ing (1178) your case before the uncle, who has the first charac- ter in the kingdom for every thing that is just and good. I would advise you (52, 623) to send him (1178) a letter by the post, intimating (1039,764) all his nephew's ill usage, and my life for it that in three days you shall have (59) an answer." I thanked him (623, 55, 706) for the hint, and instantly set about complying (1030, 897) ; but I wanted (54; 991) paper, and un- luckily all our money had been laid out (58, 777) that morning in provisions ; however, he supplied (55, 706) me.
For the three ensuing days I was (855, 861) in a state of anxiety to know (769) what reception my letter might meet (39) with, but in the mean time was frequently solicited (54, 776) by my wife to submit (54, 1177, 1030) to any conditions rather than remain (1178) here, and every hour (1201) received (665, 54) repeated accounts of the decline of my daughter's (304) health. The third day and the fourth arrived (55, 1104), but I received (55) no answer to my letter; the complaints of a stran- ger against a favorite nephew were no way likely (54,992) to suc- ceed; so that these hopes soon vanished (55), like all my former. My mind, however, still supported (93, 54) itself, though con- finement and bad air began to make (736, 751, 743) a visible
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 347
eas de deces de mon enfant je m'opposais h son mariage, je serais le plus vil des hommes. Non, tout scelerat qu'il est, je sou"haite- rais qu'il se mariat pour mettre fin a ses debauches. Mais ne serai-je pas le plus cruel des peres, fei, pour eviter la prison, je signais un contrat qui doit procurer la mort a ma fille; et pour m' eviter un chagrin lui briser le coeur par mille autres ?" II con- vint de la justesse de ma reponse, mais ne put s'empecher de faire remarquer, que la sante d'Olivie etait dans un etat de deperisse- ment tel a ne pas me tenir longtemps en prison. ^' Neanmoins/' aj outa-t-il, " quoique vous refusiez de faire une soumission au neveu, vous ne trouverez pas mauvais, je Fespere, d'exposer votre afiaire a Foncle, bomme connu dans tout le royaume par sa bonte et sa justice. Je vous conseille de lui envoyer, par la poste, une lettre qui lui fasse connaitre les torts de son neveu, et jegagerais ma vie qu'en trois jours vous aurez une reponse.'^ Je le remer- ciai de sa suggestion et fis mes preparatifs pour ecrire ; mais le papier me manquait, et, dans la matinee, tout I'argent avait ete employe pour I'acbat de provisions. II me procura pourtant ce qui me fallait.
Ne sacbant quelle reception aurait ma lettre, je passai les pre- miers trois jours dans un etat de cruelle attente. Pendant cet intervalle j'etais frequemment visite par ma femme, qui me pressait a faire ma soumission plutot que de rester incarcer^. D'beure-en-beure on m'apportait aussi des nouvelles de la sante defaillante de ma fille. Le troisieme et le quatrieme jour se pas- s^rent, mais je ne re9us pas de reponse. Les plain tes d'un etran- ger centre un neveu favori n'avaient pas de chances de reussite ; et cet espoir s'evanouit comme les autres. Neanmoins mon moral se soutenait; quoique la reclusion et le mauvais air affectassent
348 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
alteration in my health, and my arm that had suffered (995) in the fire grew worse (743, 751). My children, however, sat by me (54, 1060 bis), and while I was stretched (58,776) on my straw, read to me (54, 11S5) by turns (669), or listened (54, 727) and wept at my instructions. But, my daughter's (304) health declining faster than mine, every message from her con- tributed (54, 679) to increase (727) my apprehensions and (609) pain. The fifth morning after I had written (155, 777) the letter which was sent Sir William Thornhill, I was alarmed (57, 776) with an account (1178,1163) that she was (58,777,655) speech- less. Now it was (640, 55) that confinement was (55, 732) truly painful to me ', my soul was bursting (54, 786) from its prison, to be (1176, 706) near the pillow of my child, to comfort, to strengthen (630) her, to receive (49) her last wishes, and teach her (1176, 1074) soul the way to heaven (427). Another ac- count came (623, 55) — she was (54) expiring (54, 1019), and yet I was debarred (57, 776) the small comfort of weeping (1178, 1230) by her. My fellow-prisoner, some time after, came (55) with the last account. He bade me (55) be patient — she was dead (54, 776) ! The next morning he returned (55), and found me (732) with my two little ones, now my only companions, who were using (54, 1026) all their innocent efforts to comfort me (623,1176). They entreated (54) to read to me (1176), and bade me (771) not cry (1178, 163), for I was (54) now too old (336) to weep (855). "And is not (52,167) my sister an angel now, papa?" cried the eldest; '^and why then are you (52) sorry for her ? I wish (39, 1176) I were an angel, out of this fright- ful place, if my papa were (744, 751) with me!'^ — ''Yes," added (55) my youngest darling, " heaven, where my sister is (52), is (727) a finer place than this, and there are (1223, 105) none but good people there, and the people here (417) are very bad." Mr. Jenkinson interrupted (55) their harmless prattle, by observing (769, 910) that, now my daughter was (54, 776) no more, I should seriously think (103, 54,1176) of the rest of my family, and attempt (1176,1178,764) to save my own life, which was every day decHning (54,1185) for want (991) of necessaries
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 849
visiblement ma sante, et qiie ma brulure an bras empirat. Mes petits enfants me tenaient toujours compagnie; chacun a son tour me faisait une lecture, ou pleuraient de concert en ecoutant mes instructions pendant que j'etais couche sur mon grabat. Mais comme la ^ante de ma fille declinait plus rapidement que la mienne, toutes les nouvelles que je recevais sur son compte accrois- saient mes craintes et nj^ douleur. Dans la matinee du cinquieme jour apres avoir ecrit-a M. William Thornhill, je fus alarme d'entendre rapporter qu'elle avait perdu la parole. Ce fut alors que mon emprisonnement me devint penible. Mon coeur s'echap- pait de sa prison pour voler au cbevet de mon enfant, pour aller la fortifier, recevoir sa derniere volonte et montrer a son ame le chemin du ciel. II me vint un autre rapport — c'est qu'elle etait a Fagonie. Neanmoins fus-je prive de la consola- tion de pleurer a cote d'elle. Mon compagnon de prison, quel- ques instants apres, retourna pour m'apporter le dernier message. II me recommanda la patience — elle etait morte. II revint me voir le lendemain-matin, et me trouva avec mes deux petits en- fants, mes seuls compagnons, qui faisaient tous leurs efforts pour me consoler. A toute force il^ voulaient me lire quelque cbose, m'ordonnant de ne pas pleurer attendu que j'etais trop vieux. " Papa, ma soeur n'est-elle pas un ange a present V s'ecria I'aine ; *' alors pourquoi la regrettez-vous tant ? Je voudrais moi 6tre un ange, bors de ce vilain endroit, *pourvu que je fusse avec papa.'' "Oui," ajouta le plus jeune de ces cberis, " le ciel oii est ma soeur est un plus bel endroit que celui-ci. La il n'y a que des bons, ici que des mecbants."
M. Jenkinson interrompit leur innocent bavardage. II fit remarquer, que, puisque ma fille etait morte, il me fallait serieuse- ment songer aux autres membres de la famille, et tacber de con- ger ver mes jours qu'un manque de bon air et de necessaire ren-
30
350 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
and wholesome air. He added (55) that it was (54) now incum- bent on me to sacrifice (1178) any pride or resentment of my own to the welfare of those who depended (54) on me for sup- port, and that I was now, both by reason and justice, obliged (54, 679) to try (1178, 1134) to reconcile (706)- my landlord.
" Heaven be praised (79, 736 bis),'^ replied I (55), '' there is no pride left me (1223) now. I should detest (39) my own heart, if I saw either pride or resentment lurking there. On the contrary, as my oppressor has been once my parishioner, I hope (52, 893) one day to present him an unpolluted soul at the eternal tribunal. No, sir, I have (52, 598) no resentment now : and though he has taken from me (736, 777) what I held (54) dearer than all his treasures, though he has wrung my heart, for I am sick (79, 52, 1019) almost to fainting, very sick, my fellow- prisoner, yet that shall never inspire me (59) with vengeance (623,1176). I am now willing (52, 855) to approve his mar- riage, and if this submission can do him (52, 1176) any pleasure, let him know (40, 1176) that if I have done him any injury I am sorry (52,1176) for it." Mr. Jenkinson took (55, 1046 bis) pen and ink (535) and wrote down (55, 732, 69, 1168) my sub- mission nearly as I have expressed it (52, 1178), to which I signed (55, 1113 bis) my name. My son was employed (57, 776) to carry (1178, 1067) the letter to Mr. Thornhill, who was (54) then at his seat in the country. He went (55), and in about six hours returned (1008) with a verbal answer. He had some dijQ6- culty (58), he said, to get a sight (1176) of his landlord, as the servants were (775) insolent and suspicious; but he accidentally saw him (55, 623) as he was going (54) out upon business, pre- paring for his marriage, which was to be (1000) in three days. He continued (55) to inform us, that h^ stepped up (58,776) in the humblest manner, and delivered (727) the letter, which when Mr. Thornhill had read (777), he said (58) that alt submission was (54) now too late and unnecessary; that he had heard (1217,623, 58) of our application to his uncle, which met (58, 776) with the contempt it deserved (54) ; and as for the rest (845), that all future applications should be (39, 676) directed
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 851
daient tr^s-pr^caires. II ajouta que mon devoir m'ordormait, im- perieusement, de sacrifier tout amour-propre ou toute rancune au bonheur de ceux qui dependaient de moi pour leur entretien ; et que la raisou et la justice me commandaient de tenter un rac- commodement avec mon proprietaire.
" Que le ciel en soit loue/^ repliquai-je, " il n'y a plus d'orgueil en moi; et si mon coeur retenait encore lamoindre trace d'amour- propre ou de ressentiment, il ne m'inspirait plus que mepris. Comme mon oppresseur a ete mon paroissien, j'espere un jour au contraire presenter son ^me sans souillure au tribunal de TEternel. Non, monsieur, je n^eprouve aucun mal-vouloir centre lui, et quoiqu'il m'ait ravi un tresor que j'estimais plus que sa fortune; quoiqu'il m'ait brise le coeur ou qu'il 'm'ait reduit a un etat de de£aillance (oui, croyez-le, compagnon d'infortune, je suis bien bas), je ne cberclierai pas a me venger de lui. Main tenant je consens a son mariage, et si ce consentement lui est agreable, faites lui savoir que je suis f^cbe de Tavoir si longtemps differed' Prenant la plume et de I'encrej M. Jenkinson concha mon con- sentement en termes a peu pres semblables h ceux que je viens de rapporter. J'y apposai ma signature ; et mon fils fut charge de porter la lettre a M. Thornhill, qui se trouvait alors a sa resi- dence rurale. Environ six heures apres il fut de retour me rap- portant une reponse verbale. Aborder son proprietaire ne lui avait pas ete facile, vu I'insolence et la mefiance des valets. Ce fut par hasard qu'il le rencontra au moment ou il sortait pour affaires relatives a son mariage, dont la celebration devait avoir lieu dans trois jours. II nous dit s'etre presente d'une mani^re tres-soumise ; qu'il remit la lettre k M. Thornhill, et que celui-ci apres Tavoir lue avait dit que toute concession en ce moment etait tardive et inutile ; qu'on lui avait parle d'une lettre ecrite a son oncle qui avait ete accueillie avec mepris; qu'al'avenir toute
S52 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
to his attorney, not to him. He observed (55), however, that as he had (679) a very good opinion of the discretion of the two young ladies (1187 bis), they mi^ht have been (58, 155) the most agreeable (345) intercessors.
"Well, sir/' said I (55) to my fellow-prisoner, "you now dis- cover (52) the temper of the man who oppresses me (52, 623). He can (52) at once be (1176) facetious and cruel; but let him use me (40, 740) as he will, I shall (59, 1107) soon be free (706), in spite of all his bolts to restrain me (740, 679). I am now draw- ing (52, 26) towards an abode that looks (54) brighter as I ap- proach it (799,637); this expectation cheers my (52) afflictions, and though I leave (52) a helpless family of orphans behind me, yet they will not be utterly forsaken (59,79, 251); some (537) frifend, perhaps, will be found (103, 727) to assist them (727) for the sake of their poor father, and some may charitably relieve them (59, 1077) for the sake (1185) of their Heavenly Father.''
Just as I spoke (54), my wife, whom I had not seeni (58, 777) that day before, appeared with looks of terror (55), and making (769, 538) efforts, but unable, to speak (49). " Why (422), my love," cried I (55), " why will you thus (103, 52) increase (738 bis, 776) my afflictions by your own ? What though no submis- sion can turn (743, 777) our severe master, though^ he has doomed me (743,777) to die (1177) in this place of wretched- ness, and though we have lost (556) a darling child (737) ? yet still you will find (59) comfort in your other children, when I shall be no more." — "We have indeed lost (56, 777)," returned she (55), "a darling child (556)! — My Sophia, my dearest (407), is gone (52, 438), — snatched from us, carried off (727,52) by ruffians !"
" How, madam!" cried my fellow-prisoner (523,55), " Miss Sophia carried off (55, 69) by villains ! Sure it cannot (52, 1176) be !"
She could only answer (55) with a fixed (898) look, and a flood of tears (287). But one of the prisoners' (304) wives, who was (662, 556) present (332), and came in with her, gave us (55) a more distinct account : she informed us (732, 55) that
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 353
reclamation devrait etre adressee h son homme-d'affaires et non a lui. II fit la remarque, pourtant, qu'ayant une tres-bonne opi- nion de la sagacite des deux demoisellesj elles lui auraient ete plus acceptables comme solliciteurs.
" Bien, monsieur/' fis-je a mon compagnon de geSle, "vous voyez maintenant quel est le caractere de mon oppresseur; il sait etre badin et cruel en m§me temps ! Mais qu'il me traite comme il I'entendra^ en depit des verrous qui me retiennent, je me dirige vers une demeure m'apparaissant plus brillante h mesure que je m'en approcbe. Cette attente diminue mon affliction ; et quoique je laisse apres moi une famille sans ressource, ces orpbelins nean- moins ne seront pas entierement delaisses. Peut-etre se trou- vera-t-il quelque ami qui, en memoire de leur p^re, leur tendra une mainsecourable ! ou bien d'autres leur viendront en aide pour Tamour de notre Pere-celeste."
Comme je pronon§ais ces mots, ma femme, que je n'avais vue depuis la veille, les yeux bagards et faisant de vains efforts pour parler se presente devant moi. ^' Eb ! quoi, ma cb^re, faut-il que mon affliction soit encore augmentee par la tienne? Qu'im- porte qu'un dur oppresseur ne puisse etre amolli par notre sou- mission ! quoiqu'il m'ait condamne a mourir dans ce noir cacbot ! malgre meme la perte d'un enfant cberi tu trouveras encore, apres ma mort, des consolations dans tes autres enfants !" — " Oui, il est vrai, nous avons perdu une fille cberie I" ajouta-t- elle; ''ma Sopbie, ma bien-aimee est partie — des scelerats qui nous Font enlevee Font emmenee avec eux V
" Comment, madame/' s'^cria mon compagnon de prison, "■ Mile. Sopbie serait-elle enlevee par des brigands ! Yraiment cela ne pent etre ?"
L'immobilite de son regard et un deluge de larmes furent la seule reponse qu'elle nous donna. Mais la femme d'un prison- nier, laquelle etait presente et qui avait suivi Deborab dans la prison, nous fit un recit plus detaille. Elle nous dit que pendant
30*
354 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
as my wife^ my daughter, and herself (374) were taking a walk together (54, 1165) on the great road (438), a little way out of the village, a post-chaise ('530) and pair drove up (769) to them, and instantly stopped (55, 1028). Upon which a well-dressed (773) man, but not Mr. Thornhill, stepping out (799,155), clasped (58, 779) my daughter round the waist, and, forcing her in (58, 777), hid the postilion (769, 1178) drive on (69), so that they were (55, 776) out of sight in a moment.
^'Now,'^ cried I (55), "the sum of my miseries is made up, nor is (52) it in the power of any thing on earth to give (876) me (1178) another pang. What (422) ! not one left (484) ! not to leave me one (799, 1176) ! the monster ! The'^child that was next my heart ! she had (54) the beauty of an angel, and almost the wisdom of an angel. But support (40) that woman, nor let her fall (52, 1076). Not to leave me one (799, 1176, 583) !"— "Alas, my husband V' said my wife, " you seem (52) to want (727,991) comfort even more than I (21, 855). Our distresses are (52) great; but I could bear (39) this, and more, if I saw you but easy. They may take away (39, 69) my children, and all the world (686), if they leave (744) me but you.''
My son, who was (54) present, endeavored (55, 1178) to moderate our grief; he bade us (52) take (1178) comfort, for he hoped (769) that we might (39) still have reason to be (1178) thankful.— " My child," cried I (55), "look round (40) the world, and see (40, 727, 1228) if there be (1176, 817) any hap- piness left me (52) now. Is not (727) every ray of comfort shut out ? while all our bright prospects only lie (727) beyond the grave." — " My dear father," returned he (55), " I hope (52, 893) there is (103, 59) still something that will give you (727, 59) an interval of satisfaction; for I have (56, 777) a let- ter from my brother George." — "What of him (52), my child?" interrupted I (55) ; " does he know (52, 1074) our misery ? I hope (893, 52) my boy is (52) exempt from any part of what his wretched family suffers (623,736)." — :" Yes, sir," returned he (55), "he is (52) perfectly gay, cheerful, and happy (556). His letter brings nothing (52) but good news; he is (52) the favorite
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 355
que ma femme, ma fille et elle promenaient ensemble sur la grand-route a une petite distance du village, une cliaise-de-poste a deux chevaux allant vers elles fit lialte k Tinstant. Qu'alors un individu bien v§tu autre que M. Thornhill en etant des- cendu, il avait saisi ma fille par la taille et Tavait forcee dans la cliaise-de-poste. Ordonnant au cocher de fouetter lis furent hors de vue en un clin-d'oeil.
" Maintenant/^ m'ecriai-je, " mon malbeur est a son comble. Sur cette terre rien n'est capable de me causer de Taffliction. Helas ! plus de filles ! Ne pas m'en quitter une, le monstre ! L' enfant de ma predilection ! Ange de beaute et de sagesse ! — Soutenez cette femme car elle va tomber. — Ne pas m'en laisser une !" " Helas ! cber mari/' dit ma femme, ^' vous-meme avez besoin de plus de consolations que moi. Nos malbeurs sont grands, je I'avoue; mais si je vous voyais plus tranquille j'en supporterais davantage. Mes enfants, tout le monde pourrait m'etre enleve pourvu que vous seul me restiez/'
Mon fils qui etait present t^cba de moderer notre chagrin. II nous dit de nous tranquilliser, esperant que nous aurions en- core des motifs de remercier le Ciel. " Mon enfant/' m'ecriai-je, '^regarde autour de toi pour voir le bonbeur qui nous reste ; pour nous il n'est plus de rayons d'esperance ici-bas. Notre plus belle perspective n'est-elle pas au-dela de la tombe ?" — "Bon pere," repliqua-t-il, "il y aura encore quelque chose, je I'espere, qui vous donnera une lueur de satisfaction. J'ai re9U une lettre de mon frere G-eorges." — " Que dit-il mon fils V repartis-je. " Connait-il notre detresse ? Le pauvre enfant, je pense, est a I'abri des miseres qui nous assiegent ?" " Oui, mon pere," ajouta-t-il. " II est tout-a-fait gai, content et heureux..
356 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
of his colonel, who promises (623, 56) to procure him the very next lieutenancy that becomes vacant."
"But are you sure (52,556) of all this?" cried my wife; "are you (727, 52) sure that nothing ill has befallen (52, 1127) my boy V — " Nothing (486), indeed, madam (1184)," returned my son ; " you shall see (59) the letter, which will give you (59, 1039) the highest pleasure; and if any thing can (52) procure you (1176, 623) comfort, I am sure that will (59)."— "But are you (52, 738, 605 bis) sure," still repeated she (55), " that the letter is (737) from himself, and that he is (727) really so happy?"— "Yes, madam (1184)," replied he (55), "it is (52) certainly his (1207), and he will (59) one day be the credit and the support of our (592) family."—" Then I thank (52, 145, 535,427) Providence," cried she (55), " that my last (556,653) letter to him has (736 bis, 776) miscarried. Yes, my dear," con- tinued she (55), turning (769) to me, " I will now confess (52), that though the hand of Heaven is (743) sore upon us in other instances, it has been (623, 52) favorable here. By the last let- ter I wrote (55) my son (706), which was (57, 776) in the bit- terness of anger, I desired him (54, 623), upon his mother's (304) blessing, and if he had the heart of a man, to see justice done (1178) his father and (609) sister, and avenge our cause. But, thanks be (736, 776) to Him (427) who directs (52, 372) all things, it has (52, 623, 777) miscarried, and I am (52) at rest." — " Woman," cried I (55), " thou hast (52) done very ill, and at another time my reproaches might have been (58, 777) more severe. Oh (850) ! what a tremendous gulf hast thou escaped (786, 56), that would have (39, 776, 680) buried both thee and him (372) in endless ruin ! Providence, indeed, has here been (56) kinder (408) to us than we to ourselves (706). It has reserved (56) that son to be (757,49) the father and protecto!" of my children when I shall be away (59). How unjustly did I complain (1178, 79) of being stripped of every comfort, when still I hear (52) that he is (727, 52) happy and insensible of our afflictions ; still kept in reserve (52) to support (49) his widowed mother, and to protect (1176) his brothers and
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. . 357
Sa lettre n'apporte que de bonnes nouvelles. C'est le favori du colonel, qui lui a promis la premiere vacance de lieutenant/' " Mais es-tu bien sur de tout cela?" s'ecria ma-femnie ; " es- tu certain en effet que rien de facheux ne soit arrive h ce cher fils ?'^ "Rien, positivement rien ma mere/' repondit Moise ; " vous verrez la lettre qui vous causera la plus grande joie; et si quelque chose peut vous contenter ce sera positive- ment cette lettre." ^' Mais es-tu bien certain que cette lettre vienne de lui," repeta-t-elle encore, ^' et qu'il soit si veritablement heureux ?" " Oui, ma mere," repondit-il ; '^ elle est bien de lui, et vous le verrez un jour Fhonneur et le soutien de la famille." "Pour lors," ajouta-t-elle, "je benis la Providence de ce que ma derniere lettre s'est perdue. Oui, mon cber/' dit-elle, se tournant vers moi; "j'avoue, maintenant, malgre que sa main s'appesantisse sur nous en ce moment, qu'elle nous donne ici une marque evidente de' sa protection. Par ma der- niere lettre a mon fils, qui fut ecrite dans un paroxisme de colere, comme chose dont dependait ma benediction de mere, je lui recommandais de venger son pere, sa sceur, sa famille, et de montrer qu'il avait un coeur d'homme. Mais graces soient rendues a Celui qui dirige tout, cette lettre s'est perdue et je suis tranquille." '' Femme," m'ecriai-je, " tu as eu grand tort. Mes reproches en d'autres circonstances auraient eu un tout autre caractere de severite. Oh ! quel gouffre affreux tu as evite, ou toi et lui eussiez ete engloutis pour eprouver des mis^res sans fin ! La Providence, vraiment, a ete meilleure envers nous que nous n'avons ete bons les uns envers les autres. Pour en faire le pere et le soutien de mes autres enfants, elle a conserve ce fils pour quand je serai sorti de ce monde ! Oh ! que mon injustice est grande de m'etre plaint que tout me man- quait, quand j.'apprends que mon fils est heureux et qu'il ignore nos malheurs; ou lorsqu'il est en reserve pour fournir aux besoins de sa m^re quand elle sera veuve, et proteger ses jeunea
358 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
(609) sisters ! — But what sisters has he left (52) ? he has (727, 377) no sisters now ! they are all gone (56, 781), robbed (777) from me, and I am (52) undone (925) I" — " Father/' interrupted (1030, 772) mj son, " I beg (855) you will give (40, 623) me leave to read (1178) this letter ; I know (52, 135) it will please you (59)/' Upon which, with my permission, he read (55,129) as follows : —
"Honored Sir (1184):
" I have called off (52, 70) my imagination a few moments from the pleasures that surround me (52, 623), to fix it (898, 623) upon objects that are (52) still more pleasing, — the dear little fireside at home. My fancy draws (52) that harmless group as listening (769) to every line of this with great composure. I view (52, 727) those faces with delight (506), which never felt (56, 776) the deforming hand of ambition or distress. But, what- ever (604) your happiness may be (743) at home, I am sure it will be (380,59) some addition to it to hear (1178, 1107) that I am (52) perfectly pleased with my situation, and every way happy here (854).
'* Our regiment is countermanded (56), and is not (163) to leave (59, 1088) the kingdom ; the colonel, who professes (767, 623) himself my friend, takes me (52, 623) with him to all com- panies where he is acquainted (86, 1185), and after my first visit I generally find (79, 52) myself received (776) with increased respect upon repeating it. I danced (56) last night (884) with
Lady Gr , and, could I forget (54, 1178) you know (52) whom,
I might (59) be, perhaps, successful. But it is (52, 103) my fate still to remember (1178,623, 921) others, while I am myself (86, 52) forgotten by most (700) of my absent (556) friends; and in this number (826 bis) I fear (52), sir, that I must consider (738 bis) you, for I have long (56) expected the pleasure of a letter from home to no purpose. Olivia and Sophia, too, promised (58) to write (623, 1178), but seem (54, 679) to have (789) forgotten me. Tell (40, 229) them that they are (727, 679) two arrant little baggages, and that -I am (52) this moment in a most violent
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 359
fr^res et ses sceurs. — Ses soeurs; mais oil sont-elles? II n'en a plus maintenant ; elles ont toutes disparu ! On les a arracliees do mon coeur et je ne suis plus bon a rien 1" " P^re/^ fit mon fils en m'interrompant, " permettez-moi de vous lire cette lettre. Je sais que vous en aurez du plaisir.'^ Lui ay ant accorde cette per- mission il lut ce qui suit :
" Cher et rever:^ pere :
" Rappelant, pour peu d'instants, mon imagination des plai- sirs qui Fenvironnent je la reporte sur des objets plus pr^- cieux : c'est sur le cber et modeste foyer de la famille. Avec joie je me retrace ce groupe inoffensif dans un religieux silence ecoutant la lecture de ces lignes. Avec delices je contemple ces heureux visages, dont les traits n'ont jamais ete rides par I'am- bition ou par le malheur. Mais, quel que soit votre contente- ment h la maison, surement ce sera le grandir que de vous apprendre combien je suis heureux dans mon etat et dans tout ce qui me touche.
"Notre regiment a regu contre-ordre : il ne quittera pas le royaume. Me temoignant beaucoup d'amitie le colonel m'intro- duit dans tous les cercles de sa connaissance, ou apres une premiere visite je suis parfaitement re§u quand je me represente. Hier au soir j'ai danse avec Me. Gr . . . ., et s'il m'etait possible d'oublier la personne que vous savez peut-etre pourrai-je reussir. Mais il est dans ma destinee de me ressouvenir des autres, quand la plu- part de mes amis absents m'oublient. Cber pere, parmi ce nombre il faut que je vous range; car j'ai longtemps, mais en vain, attendu une lettre de vous. Olivie et Sophie egalement avaient promis de m'ecrire, mais il parait qu'elles Font oublie. Dites-leur qu'elles sont de petites friponnes, et qu'en ce moment
860 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
passion with them (1.157) ; yet still, I know (52) not how, though I want to bluster (769, 767) a little, my heart is (52) respondent only to softer emotions. Then tell (40, 623) them, sir, that, after all, I love them (52, 623) affectionately ; and be assured (52) of my ever remaining Your dutiful son."
"In all our miseries," cried I (55), "what thanks have we not (52, 1178 bis) to return (1177) that one at least of our family is exempted from what we suffer (855, 653) ! Heaven be (747, 621) his guard, and keep my boy thus happy, to be (727) the support of his widowed mother, and the father of these two babes, which is all the patrimony I can (727) now bequeath him ! May he (855) keep (1176) their innocence from the temptation of want, and be (757) their conductor in the paths of honor V I had (58) scarcely said these words, when a noise like that of a tumult seemed (54) to proceed (1176) from the prison below (802); it died away (55, 1175) soon after, and a clanking of fetters was heard (55, 665) along the passage that led (771) to my apartment. The keeper of the prison entered (55), hold- ing (769) a man all bloody, wounded (773), and fettered with the heaviest (538) irons. I looked (55) with compassion upon the wretch as he approached me (54, 1171), but with horror when I found (55) it was (54, 640) my own son ! " My G-eorge ! my G-eorge ! and do I behold thee thus (736, 738 bis) ? wounded ! fettered I Is this thy happiness (52, 167) ? Is this the manner you return (736) to me? Oh that this sight would break (736, 769, 364) my heart at once, and let me die (764, 450) !"
" Where, sir, is (52) your fortitude ?" returned my son, with an intrepid voice; "I must (736 bis) suffer (52, 706)'; my life is (938, 55) forfeited, and let them take it (41). It is (52, 1178) my last happiness that I have (56) committed no murder, though I have lost (743) all hopes of pardon."
I tried (55) to restrain (1178) my passion for a few minutdS in silence (709), but I thought I should have died (55,39) with the effort. " Oh, my boy, my heart weeps (52, 1132) to behold thee (623, 1178) thus, and I cannot (103, 52, 538), cannot help
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 361
je suis fort en colore centre elles. Quoique ayant bonne envie de leur montrer de Fhumeur, malgre cela je ne trouve en moi que des sentiments de tendresse. Pour lors, cher p^re, dites- leur que j'ai pour elles une grande amitie, et croyez-moi votre devoue Bis."
" Au milieu de mes miseres/^ m'^criai-je, " que de graces n^avons-nous pas h rendre d^en voir un parmi nous h I'abri de nos souffrances ! Puisse le ciel proteger mon fils dans son bonheur ! Qu'il soit le soutien de sa mere veuve et de ces deux jeunes orphelins, seul patrimoine que je puisse lui leguer. Malgre les tentations du besoin^ puisse-t-il conserver leur innocence et les guider dans le sentier de I'honneur V A peine avais-je prononce ces paroles, que j'entendis un bruit semblable h un tumulte me paraissant venir du bas de la prison. Ce bruit cessa bientot ; il fut remplace par un cliquetis de fers qui resonn^rent dans le couloir attenant a ma chambre. Le geolier entra tenant un bomme tout convert de sang, blesse, et garrotte de lourdes cbaines. Pendant qu'il s'approcbait de moi je jetai un regard de compassion sur ce mallieureux, quand, pour comble d'horreur, je m'aper§us que c'etait mon propre fils I " Georges, cber Georges ! est-ce bieu toi que je vois en cet etat, blesse, encbaiue ? Est-ce la ton bon- heur? Faut-il que je te revoie dans une aussi triste position? Brisant mon cceur puisse cette peinture horrible me faire expirer sur-le-champ I"
"Mon p^re, oil est done votre courage?'' r^pliqua mon fils d'une voix male. " II faut que j'expie ma faute : il y va de ma vie — eh bien, qu'ils la prennent ! Quoique sans espoir de pardon, ma derniere consolation c'est de savoir que je n'ai pas commis de meurtre.''
Pendant quelques minutes je tachai d'etoufi'er mes emotions dans le silence ; mais je crus que cet efibrt serait ma fin. ^' Oh mon fils, le coeur me saigne de te voir ainsi ! II n'est pas de re^ medes a mon affliction ! Te voir dans cet etat, blesse, enchain^, au
362 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
it ! In the moment I thouglit thee (54) blest, and prayed (727, 64, 679) for thy safety, to behold thee thus again, chained, wounded ! And yet the death of the youthful (52) is happy. But I am (52) old, a v6ry old man, and have lived (56, 781) to see (49) this day; to see (1176) my children all untimely falling (1176) about me, while I continue (52) a wretched survivor in the midst of ruin ! May all the curses (736) that ever sunk a soul fall (52) heavy upon the murderer of my children ! May he live (736) like me to see ''
" Hold, sir,'' replied (55) my son, " or I shall blush (59) for thee. How, sir! forgetful (769) of your age, your holy calling, thus to arrogate (784) the justice of Heaven, and fling (769) those curses upward, that must soon descend (59, 679) to crush (49) thy own gray head with destruction ! No, sir, let it be (52, 1128) your care now to fit (1178) me for that vile death I must (59, 405) shortly sufi"er, to arm me (1176) with hope and resolution, to give me (1178, 623, 535) courage to drink (1176) of that bitterness which must (665, 59) shortly be my portion."
''My child, you must not die (59) ! I am (52) sure no offence of thine (1200 bis) can deserve (52, 1176) so vile a punishment. My G-eorge could never b^(52, 1176) guilty of any crime (598, 663, 748, 1177) to make his ancestors (299) ashamed of him."
"Mine (388,653), sir," returned (55) my son, "is (52), I fear (52, 818, 623), an unpardonable (578) one. When I received (57, 777) my mother's (304) letter from home, I immediately came down (55,811,69), determined (773,855) to punish (1178) the betrayer of our honor, and sent (55) him an order to meet me (1185), which he answered (55) not in person, but by de- spatching (772) four of his domestics to seize me (623, 49). I wounded one (55) who first assaulted me (732), and, I fear (52), desperately; but the rest made me (52, 1028) their prisoner. The coward is determined (52, 776) to put (739, 706) the law in execution against me ; the proofs are undeniable (679, 556) ; I have sent (267, 777) a challenge, and, as I am (52) the first (362) transgressor upon the statute, I see no hopes (52) of pardon. But
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 363
moment m^me oil je te croyais si heureux ! Quand je priais pour ta conservation, te revoir, helas ! charge de fers et blesse. La mort de I'adolescent neanmoins est une belle mort! Mais je suis vieux, bien vieux, et j'ai vccu pour voir ce jour. Pour voir mes enfants tomber autour de moi avant leur temps, tandis que je survis au milieu des ruines de ma famille ! Que toutes les maledictions reservees aux mechants ecrasent le meurtrier de mes enfants ! Comme moi puisse-t-il vivre assez pour voir. . . ."
" Arr§tez, mon pere," s'exclame mon fils ; " ou bien vous me feriez rougir. Oubliant votre age et votre saint ministere, pour- quoi vous arroger le droit de divine justice ? lan§ant vers le ciel ces anatbemes d'ou bientot ils redeseendront ecraser cette tete blanchie par les annees. Non, mon pere, ne songez pour le moment qu'a une chose; c'est de me preparer a cette mort ignominieuse qu^il me faudra bientot envisager ; de m'armer de resolution, et de me procurer le courage necessaire pour boire cette coupe d'amertume qu'on ne tardera pas a me presenter."
" Tu ne mourras pas, mon fils ! Je suis certain qu'aucune de tes offenses ne peut te meriter la mort ! Mon fils G-eorges ne peut commettre aucun acte criminel dont ses aieux aient k rougir."
" P^re/' repliqua mon fils, '^ je le crains mon offense est impar- donnable. Des que j'eus regu la lettre de ma mere je partis, sur I'heure, resolu de punir celui qui avait souille notre honneur. Je lui adressai un cartel auquel il repondit en envojant sur le terrain quatre de ses valets pour me prendre. Je blessai le pre- mier qui m'attaqua, et mortellement je le crains; les autres me firent prisonnier. Le poltron est decide a ce que la loi ait son cours. Les preuves contre moi sont incontestables. Ayant envoye un cartel je suis Fagresseur d'apres la 'loi et sans espe- rance de pardon; vu que -je suis le premier transgresseur de cette loi. Mais comme vous m'avez souvent charme par vos
364 THE VIGAR OP WAKEFIELD.
you have (56) often charmed me with your lessons of fortitude ; let me now (623,40), sir, find them (799) in your example.'^
" And (851), my son, you shall find them (59,623). I am (52) now raised (706) above this world, atfd all the pleasures it can produce (52, 1176). From this moment I break (52) from my heart all the ties that held it down (606) to earth, and will prepare (52,918, 1177) to fit us both for eternity. Yes, my son, I will point out (59, 1074) the way, and my soul shall guide yours (727, 1081 bis) in the ascent ; for we will take (727) our flight together. I now see (52) and am convinced (52, 776) you can expect (52, 1177) no pardon here, and I can (727) only exhort you (1176) to seek it at that greater tiiibuDal where we both shall shortly answer. But let us not be (40, 135) niggardly in our exhortations, but let (40, 623) our fellow-prisoners have a share. Grood jailer, let them be (40) permitted to stand (1176) here, while I attempt (59) to improve them (408, 556)." Thus say- ing (769), I made an effort (55, 49) to rise from my straw, but wanted (769) strength, and I was able (55) only (815) to recline (1176) against the wall. The prisoners assembled (55, 679) ac- cording to my directions, for they loved (767) to hear (1177) my counsel; my son and his (367) mother supported (54,679,623) me on either (669) side; I looked (769), and saw that none were wanting (54,776), and then addressed them (623,55) with the following exhortation.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 365
legons de fortitude^ maintenant, mon pere, donnez-m'en Vex- emple."
" Eh bien, mon fils, tu Tauras ! Je plane actuellement sur ce bas monde et m'eleve au-dessus des plaisirs qu'il pent me pro- curer. Des ce moment je detacbe de mon cceur tont lien terrestre, et suis pret a nous preparer Tun et I'autre pour I'eter- nite. Oui^ mon fils, je t'en indiquerai la route, et dans son vol mon ame guidera la tienne ; car nous partirons au memo instant. Je le vois, et j'en suis certain, ici tu n'as point de pardon kesperer; je puis seulement t'exhorter a le cbercber devant un tribunal plus eleve ou toi et moi aliens paraitre. Mais ne soyons pas egoistes dans nos exhortations; donnons-en une part k nos com- pagnons de prison. Bon geolier, faites les done venir? Pendant ce temps j'essaierai de les rendre meilleurs." Disant cela, je fis un effort pour" quitter mon grabat ; mais les forces me manquant je ne pus que rester appuye centre la muraille. Aimant a ecou- ter mes conseils les prisonniers aussitot se rendirent a mon desir : mon fils et sa mere me supportaient chacun de son cote. M^aper- cevant que tons etaient presents je leur fis Texhortation suivante.
31*
366 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTEE XXIX.
THE EQUAIi DEALINGS OF (535) PROTIBENCE DEMONSTRATED (773) WITH BE- GARD TO THE HAPPY AND THE MISERABLE HERE BELOW. THAT, FROM THE NATURE OF PLEASURE AND PAIN, THE WRETCHED MUST BE (52,769) REPAID THE BALANCE OP THEIR SUFFERINGS IN THE LIFE HEREAFTER.
" My friends, my children, and (609) fellow-sufferers, when I reflect (52) on the distribution of good (330) and evil here (417) below, I find (59) that much has been (545) given (52, 776) man to enjoy, yet still more to suffer (1176, 623, 938). Though we should examine (39) the whole world (1185), we shall not find (727, 162 bis) one man so happy as to have (49, 925) nothing left to wish for (1176, 69); but we daily see (845) thousands (588) who (657) by suicide show us (52, 623) they have (54,166) nothing left to hope. In this life (825), then, it appears (103) that we cannot be (739) entirely blest, but yet we may be (103, 938) completely miserable.
" Why (184) man (535) should thus feel (726, 728) pain ; why our wretchedness should be (52) requisite in the formation of universal felicity ; why, when all other systems are (679, 52) made (776) perfect by the perfection of their subordinate parts, the great system (556) should require (54) for its perfection parts that are not only subordinate to others, but imperfect in themselves, — these are questions that never can be (358,855) explained (802), and might be useless (39, 928) if known (54). On this subject (535) Providence has thought fit (56,706) to elude (1178) our curiosity, satisfied with granting us motives to consolation (711).
" In this situation, man has called (52, 726) in the friendly assistance of philosophy (355) ; and Heaven (297, 427), seeing the incapacity (769, 69) of that (365 bis) to console him (110,
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 367
CHAPITRE XXIX.
LA JUSTICE DE LA PROVIDENCE DEMONTREE PAR LES FELICITES ET PAR LES MISERES DE CETTE VIE — LE BIEN ET LE MAL, PAR LEUR NATTTRE, NOUS FONT VOIR QUE LES MALHEUREUX DANS l'AUTRE MONDE RE^OIVENT UNE COMPENSATION POUR LES MAUX QU'lLS ONT ENDURES ICI-BAS.
" Amis, enfants, et compagnons d'infortune ! Si nons consi- derons comment se trouvent r^partls le bien et le mal sur cette terre, nous verrons que bien des jouissances y sont accordees h Thomme, mais qu'un plus grand nombre de maux encore sont en reserve pour I'y assaillir. Examinerions-nous toute la surface du globe, parmi ses nombreux habitants nous ne pourrions trouver un seul bomme assez heureux pour n'avoir rien a d^sirer ; quand, par leur suicide, mille nous disent tous les jours qu'ils etaient sans esperances. II resulte de cela que nous ne pouvons etre parfaitement heureux en cette vie, tandis qu'il est possible d'y etre completement miserable.
*' Pourquoi I'homme se trouve-t-il ainsi assujetti aux souf- frances ? et pourquoi le malheur devient-il necessaire a la felicity du grand nombre ? Quand les autres systemes sont parfaits meme dans leurs parties subordonnees; pourquoi, pour sa perfection, le grand necessiterait-il quelques parties subordonn^es a d'autres, mais en outre imparfaites en elles-m^mes ? Au-dessus de notre intelligence, ces questions ne nous serviraient de rien si nous les comprenions. Se contentant de nous accorder des motifs de con- solation, la Providence, h ce sujet, a cru convenable de ne point satisfaire notre curiosite.
" Ainsi place I'homme appelle la philosophic a son secours : mais connaissant Fimpuissance de celle-ci le ciel envoie la reli-
868 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
535), !ias given him the aid (52, 726) of religion. The consola- tions of philosophy (535) are (52, 679) very amusing (768), but often fallacious. It tells us (52, 623) that life (535) is filled (776) with comforts (506), if we will (52, 764, 815) but enjoy them ; and, on the other hand, that though we unavoidably have (746 bis) miseries here, life (535, 855, 556) is short, and they will soon be (59, 776) over. Thus do these consolations destroy each other (52) ; for if life is (52) a place of comfort, its short- ness must be (52, 1176) misery (303) ; and if it be long (52, 556), our griefs are protracted (712). Thus philosophy is (52) weak; but religion comforts in a higher straim Man (535) is here, it tells us (52,443,621), fitting up his mind (49, 938) and preparing (1176) it for another abode. When the good man (1191) leaves (52, 1088) the body and is (49, 776) all a glorious mind, he will find (52) he has been making himself (56) a heaven of happiness here, while the wretch (330) that has been maimed (556) and contaminated (485) by his vices shrinks (769) from his body with terror, and finds (52) that he has an- ticipated (56, 777) the vengeance of Heaven. To religion, then, we must (52, 1176) hold in every circumstance of life for our truest comfort; for if already we are (727) happy (556, 610), it is (52) a pleasure to think (1178) that we can make (52,1176) that happiness unending ; and if we are (39) miserable, it is (52) very consoling to think (1178) that there is (59, 679) a place of rest. Thus, to the fortunate (330), religion (535) holds out (69, 52) a continuance of bliss; to the wretched (316), a change from pain.
^' But though (535, 667 bis) religion is (743) very kind to all men, it has promised (56, 777) peculiar rewards to the (316) un- happy; the sick, the naked (562), the houseless, the heavy-laden, and the prisoner, have (52) ever most frequent promises in our sacred law (556). The Author (427) of our religion everywhere professes (93, 52, 623) himself the wretch's (304) friend, and, unlike the false ones of this world, bestows (52) all his caresses upon the forlorn. The unthinking (537) have censured (56, 777) this (789) as partiality, as a preference without merit to
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gion k son aide. Quoique amusantes les consolations de la pH- losophie sont souvent trompeuses. Elle nous dit, d'une part, que la vie est pleine de delices et que nous n'avons qu'a savoir jouir de ces dernieres. Elle nous assure de I'autre que, quoique ine- vitables, vu la brievete de la vie ses miseres seront vite passees. De telle sorte que ces consolations s'entre-detruisent. Si la vie est une source de delices sa courte duree est une cause de miseres ; si elle est longue, elle n'est au contraire pour Tliomme qu'une prolongation de souffrances. Telle est la force de la pbilo- sophie. Quant a la religion ses consolations sont d'un autre ordre. L'bomme, nous dit-elle, est place en ce monde pour y per- fectionner son ame et la preparer pour une residence meilleure. Quand, pret a ^tre transforme en glorieux esprit Fbomnie vertu- eux quitte sa depouille mortelle, il s'aper§oit alors qu'il a fait un paradis de la terre ; tandis que corrompu ou mutile par le vice, se detacbant de son corps en fremissant, le miserable reconnait avoir anticipe sur le courroux celeste. Pendant les nombreuses epreuves de la vie, c'est done la religion que nous devons consi- derer comme notre appui le plus ferme. Et, si par elle nous sommes deja beureux, il est consolant pour nous de penser qpfh, jamais nous pouvons perpetuer ce bonbeur. Serions-nous mal- beureux, il nous est satisfaisant de savoir que bientot nos maux auront un terme. Ainsi la religion offre une suite non interrom- pue de bonbeur k I'bomme ricbe ; tandis qu'elle promet au pauvre une cessation de souffrances.
^^ Quoique consolante pour tons la religion n^anmoins promet aux malbeureux des recompenses speciales. Les malades, ceux qui sont nus, les sans-abris, les affliges, et les prison niers, sont Tobjet privilegie de notre sainte loi. Partout le fondateur de notre religion divine se dit Fami du malbeureux ; et contraire- ment h ses faux disciples de nos jours, il prodigue ses caresses h, ceux qui sont delaisses du monde. Appelant cette preference une predilection sans motifs quelques etourdis Fen ont blam6.
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deserve it. But thej never reflect (56, 777) that it is not (64) in tlie power even of Heaven itself to make (1176) the offer of unceasing felicity as great a gift to the happy as to the miserable. To the first, eternity is but a single blessing, since, at most, it but increases what they already possess (54). To the latter, it is (380, 726) a double advantage; for it diminishes (52) their pain here, and rewards them (52, 623) with heavenly bliss hereafter.
" But Providence is (52) in another respect kinder (407) to the poor than to the rich ; for as it thus makes (772) the life after death more desirable, so it smooths (52) the passage there. The wretched have had (52, 782) a long familiarity with every face of terror. The man of sorrow (303) lays himself (52, 782) quietly down, with no (598) possessions to regret, and but few ties to stop his departure ; he feels (52) only nature^s (304) pang in the final separation, and this is (52) no way greater than he has (56, 777) often fainted under before ; for, after a certain degree (605 bis) of pain, every new breach that death opens (52,93,623) in the constitution, nature (535) kindly (52) covers with (1193) insensibility.
^' Thus Providence has given (52) to the wretched two advan- tages over the happy in this life, — greater felicity in dying (772), and in heaven all that superiority of pleasure which arises (765) from contrasted enjoyment. And this (358) superiority, my friends, is no (52) small advantage, and seems (52, 726) to be one of the pleasures of the poor man (330) in the parable ; for though he was already in heaven, and felt all the (597) raptures it could give, yet it was (103, 52) mentioned, as an addition to his happiness, that he had (54, 648) once been wretched (777), and now was (54) comforted; that he had known (648, 54,1178) what it was to be miserable, and now felt (1178, 1015) what it was to be happy.
^' Thus, my friends, you see (52, 622) religion does (1176) what philosophy could never do (793) : it shows (52) the equal deal- ings of Heaven to the happy and the unhappy, and levels (769, 861) all human enjoyments to nearly the same standard. It gives (52) to both rich and poor (329) the same happiness here-
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Mais ils n'ont pas songe, ces raisonneurs, que, -dans sa toute- puissance, le ciel ne pouvait rendre egale la part de bonlieiir eternel accordee aux riclies et aux pauvres. L'eternite pour les premiers est une simple benedictiouj un accroissement de ce qu'ils possedaient deja. Pour les autres c'est un double avan- tage, Yu qu'elle diminue leurs souffrances dans ce monde, et qu'elle leur donne le bonheur celeste dans T autre.
" Mais, sous un autre rapport, la Providence traite mieux le pauvre que le ricbe ; car, rendant la mort plus desirable, elle lui en adoucit ainsi Fapproclie. Des longtemps le pauvre s'est fami- liarise avec toute sorte de terreurs. L^'homme de tribulations paisiblement se resign e a sa destinee ; ne regrettant aucun bien peu de liens I'attaclient a la vie. II n'est sensible qu'aux tirail- lements d'une nature qui se decompose, et les douleurs qu'il eprouve ne depassent pas de beaucoup celles sous lesquelles il a succombe tant de fois. En effet, apres avoir eprouve un certain degre de souffrance, la nature, cette bonne mere, couvre d'insen- sibilite toutes les nouvelles breches que la mort se pratique dans notre constitution.
" C'est ainsi que la Providence accorde aux pauvres deux avantages que les riclies ne peuvent posseder en ce monde — ■ moins de regrets a la mort, et une superiorite de jouissances dans le ciel provenant du contraste de positions. Cette supe- riorite, mes amis, n'est point un petit avantage. C'est en elle que cbnsiste la felicite du pauvre dont nous parle la parabole. Quoique dans le ciel et possesseur de toutes ses joies, il nous est dit que la plus grande source de son bonbeur etait dans le sou- venir des maux qu'il avait endures ici-bas. C'etait d'avoir ete malbeureux et d'etre soulage ; d'avoir connu la souffrance et d'etre actuellement dans la jubilation.
" Ainsi, mes amis, voyons-nous la religion operer ce que n'a pu la pbilosopbie. Reduisant au meme niveau les joies de ce monde, elle nous demontre que le Ciel est juste en vers tous. Kicbes et pauvres sont egaux apres la mort : egaux en jouis- sances ils le sont aussi en aspirations. Et si, pour les ricbes,
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after, and equnl (351) hopes (556) to aspire after it; but if the rich (330) huve the advantage of enjoying (155) pleasure here, the poor have (52, 679) the endless satisfaction (556) of know- ing (1230) what it was (1178, 921) once to be miserable, when crowned (773, 711) with endless felicity hereafter (861) ; and even though this should be (420, 39, 665) called a small advan- tage, yet, being an eternal one (52), it must make up (39, 727), by duration what the temporal happiness of the great may have exceeded (773) by intenseness.
''These (829,52,776) are, therefore, the consolations which the wretched have (52, 679) peculiar to themselves, and in which they are (727) above the rest of mankind; in other respects (419) they are (743, 485) below them. They who (649, 52) would know the miseries of the poor must see (772, 726) life and endure it (799,1176). To declaim'(1176,457) on the tem- poral advantages they enjoy (663, 665, 52) is only (648, 727) repeating (1176) what none (672) either believe (52, 821 bis) or practise (727). The men who have (52) the necessaries of living (330) are (52) not poor ; and they (649) who want them (799, 52) must be (52, 727) miserable. Yes, my friends, we must be (380, 52, 103) miserable. No vain efforts of a refined (556) imagination can soothe (39, 1178) the wants of nature, can give (766, 1176) elastic sweetness to the dank vapor of a dungeon, or ease (52, 1176) to the throbbings of a broken heart. Let the philosopher (773) from his couch (367, 1168) of soft- ness tell us (52, 1178) we can resist (52, 1176) all these. Alas ! the effort by which we resist them (52, 938, 49) is (727) still the -greatest pain (666). Death ^535) is (52) slight, and any man (606) may (935) sustain it ; but torments are (52) dread- ful, and these (300) no" man can (672, 52, 938) endure.
'' To us (74), then, my friends, the promises of happiness in heaven should be (726) peculiarly dear; for if our reward (366) be (825, 54) in this life alone, we are (39), indeed, of all men (606, 548) the most miserable. When I look (40) round these gloomy walls (556, 1185), made (773, 792) to terrify (49, 623) as well as to confine us (49) ; this light (855, 1185), that only
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c'est un avantage que d'avoir possede dans ce monde, dans le ciel apres §tre couronnes de gloire, les pauvres <int Tineffable satisfaction de se rappeler leurs souffrances passees. Or, appel- lerait-on cela un petit avantage, comme il est eternel il compen- serait, par sa duree, les plaisirs qu^ont goiites en anticipation les heureux de la terre.
'' Voila les consolations tenues en reserve pour les infortun^s, et qui donnent k ces derniers un avantage sur leurs semblables, quoique sous d'autres rapports leurs inferieurs. Ceux qui veulent connaitre les miseres du pauvre, voyant ce qu^est la vie doivent en endurer les peines. Parler dedaigneusement des biens dont on jouit c^est redire ce que personne ne croit, et ce que personne ne pratique. Ubomme qui a le necessaire n'est pas pauvre; mais celui qui en manque est r^ellement malbeu- reux. L^imagination la plus subtile vainement tenterait de satis- faire aux besoins exigeants de la nature. Impuissante a purifier Tair putride et pesant d'un cacbot, elle ne pent non plus soula- ger le coeur meurtri par la douleur. Etendu mollement sur sa couche il est facile au pbilosopbe d'affirmer que Ton pent sup- porter tous les maux. Helas ! le seul efibrt fait pour j resister est plus souffrant que le mal que Ton evite. La mort est peu de chose et tout bomme pent Fendurer ; mais les tourments sont si afireux que personne n'y resiste.
^' A nous done, mes amis, les promesses celestes sont d'un prix inestimable ; car, si notre recompense etait en ce monde, nous serious veritablement les plus malheureux des mortels. Jetons les yeux sur ces tristes murailles, faites pour nous epou- vanter autant que pour nous retenir. Voyez ce jour sombre qui
32
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serves (52) to show (1039) tlie horrors of the place; those shackles (288) that tyranny has imposed (777, 56) or crime made (485^ 777, 56) necessary, — when I survey (52) these emaci- ated (556) looks and hear those groans, — oh, my friends (850), what a glorious exchange (1144) would heaven be (39) for these ! To fly (1176, 1140) through regions unconfined as air — to bask (1176) in the sunshine of eternal bliss — to carol (1176) over endless hymns (556, 515) of praise — to have (1176, 855) no master to threaten or insult us, but the form of goodness him- self fbrever in our eyes (298) : when I think (52) of these things, death (535,427) becomes (52,76) the messenger of very glad tidings; when I think (52,1128) of these things, his (367) sharpest arrow becomes (727) the staff of my support; when I think of these things (844), what is there in life- worth (52,215) having? when I think of these things, what is (52) there that should not be spurned away (623,52)! Kings (535) in their palaces (39, 679) should groan for such advantages (824) ; but we, humbled as we are (855), should yearn for them.
^' And shall (38) these things be (59) ours ? Ours they will certainly be, if we but try (744, 110 bis) for them ; and, what is (52, 1176) a comfort, we are (642, 52) shut out from many temptations that would retard (39) our pursuit. Only let us try (40) for them, and they will certainly be ours (623, 59), and,^ what is (52) still a comfort, shortly too ; for if we look back on (69, 52) a past life, it appears (374, 623, 59) but a very short span, and, whatever (604,779) we may think (623,743,1176) of the rest of life, it will yet be found (59) of less duration : as we grow older (52), the days (1185) seem to grow (93, 1176) shorter, and our intimacy with time ever lessens (52) the perception of his (367) stay. Then let us take (623, 40) comfort now, for we shall soon be (59, 405, 776) at our journey's end (1175); we shall soon lay down (59, 776) the heavy burden laid by Heaven upon us; and though (851, 666 bis) death, the only friend of the wretched, for a little while mocks (623, 769) the weary traveller with the view, and like his horizon still flies (79, 52,776) before him, yet the time will certainly and shortly come (59) when
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ne sert qu^^ nous faire distinguer les horreurs qui nous envi- ronnent ! ces fers qu'a forges la tyrannie ou que le crime a rendus necessaires ! Quand je contemple ces visages decharnes et que j'entends ces gemissements, oh ! mes amis, pour nous le ciel serait un echange desirable ! Parcourir des espaces incom- mensurables ; etre aussi libres que Fair — se rechauffer aux rayons vivifiants des joies eternelles — chanter des hymnes de louange sans fin — pas de maitres la menace ou I'insulte k la bouche — et contempler face-a-face I'abondante source de toute misericorde; quand je songe h toutes ces choses pour moi la mort est desi- rable, et son dard le plus acere devient mon ancre de salut ! Qu'est la vie si nous la comparons a ces objets ! Le monde entier n'est qu'une meprisable poussiere ! Dans Tattente de ces avantages dans leurs palais les rois devraient gemir; mais nous, pauvres malheureux, comment exprimer convenablement le delire de nos desirs !
'' Mais possederons-nous ces felicites ? Oui, sans doute, pourvu que nous Tessayions. Ce qui pour nous doit etre un sujet de consolation, c'est, que plusieurs tentations qui nous empeche- raient d'atteindre h un but aussi desirable sont prevenues par notre emprisonnement. Essayons done et nous les possederons ; car heureusement pour nous la vie est courte. Si nous jetons, en effet, un regard retrograde sur la partie qui en est ecoul^e, sa brievete nous frappera d'etonnement ; et quel qu'en puisse etre le reste ce roste nous semblera plus court encore. A mesure que nous vieillissons les jours semblent se raccourcir; et notre intimite avec le temps nous rend insensibles a sa duree. Rejouis- sons-nous done de toucher au terme du voyage, et bientot serous- nous delivres du lourd fardeau dont nous a charges la nature. Eh ! quoique ami du malheureux pour quelque temps la mort se joue de nous, s'eloignant comme un horison qui est remplace par un autre ; pour mettre un terme a nos fatigues son temps nean-
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we stall cease (405) from our toil; when tlie luxuriant great ones of the world shall no more tread us (59, 776) to the earth ; when we shall think (59, 727) with pleasure of our sufferings below ; when we shall be surrounded (727, 79, 713) with all our friends, or such as deserved our friendship ; when our bliss shall be (59, 727) unutterable, and still, to crown all, unending."
CHAPTER XXX.
HAPPIER (407) PROSPECTS BEGIN (679) TO APPEAR. LET US BE INFLEXIBLE (40), AND FORTUNE (536) WILL AT LAST CHANGE (59) IN OUR FAVOR.
When (844) I had (155,1231) thus finished, and my audience was retired (93,55,776), the jailer, who was (854) one of the most humane of his profession (367), hoped (52) I would not be displeased (1178, 1046 bis), as what he did was (54) but his duty; observing (623, 910, 55) that he must be obliged (58) to remove (1178) my son into a stronger (407) cell, but he should be per- mitted (39, 86) to visit me (623, 1178) every morning. I thanked him (623, 55) for his clemency, and, grasping (769) my boy's (304) hand, bade him (49) farewell (486), and be mind- ful (55) of the great duty that was (54) before him.
I again therefore laid me down (55, 1168), and one of my little ones sat (773) by my bedside reading (623, 54, 1027, 1185), when Mr. Jenkinson, entering (55), informed me (623, 49) that there was (666, 54, 1107) news of my daughter, for that she was seen (58, 777, 86) by a person (826) about two hours before in a strange gentleman's company (304), and that they had (54, 782) stopped (776) at a neighboring village for refreshment, and seemed (54, 679) as if returning (1176) to town. He had scarce (952) de- livered (58, 183) this news (1000), when the jailer came (55), with looks of haste and pleasure, to inform me (49,623) that my daughter was found (64, 776) ! Moses came (55, 772) running
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moins viendra promptement et suremenfc. Nous ne serons plus alors foules par les grands-de-la-terre^ et nous nous souviendrons avec joie des peines que nous avons endurees autrefois. Alors nous serons environnes d'amis, ou du moins d^etres meritant ce titre. Notre bonheur enfin sera ineffable et comble par I'eter- nite/'
CHAPITRE XXX.
ANNON^CE d'uN MEILLETJR AVENIR — TENONS FERME ET LA FORTUNE FINIRA PAR SE T0T7RNER DEVERS NOUS.
Apres avoir termini de la sorte, des que I'audience se fut retiree, mon geolier Fun des plus bumains de son metier, me dit de prendre en bonne part ce que lui imposait sa consigne. II me fit observer qu'il etait force de deposer mon fils dans un cacliot plus solide, mais qu'il lui permettrait neanmoins de me visiter tous les matins. Je le remerciai de sa bonte, et saissis- sant mon fils par la main pour lui dire adieu, je recommandai a^'ce dernier de ne point perdre de vue Facte solennel qu'il avait k accomplir.
Je m'alitai encore. Pendant qu'assis pr^s de mon lit Fun de mes petits garyons me faisait une lecture, M. Jenkinson entra pour me dire que Fon avait des nouvelles de ma fiUe; qu'il y avait a peine une beure qu'une personne Favait vue en com- pagnie d'un monsieur stranger; qu'ils s'etaient arretes quel- ques instants pour se rafraicbir k Fauberge d'un village voisin, et qu'ils paraissaient retourner en ville. A peine m'avait-il com- munique cette nouvelle, que, tout transports de joie, le geolier .vint m'informer que ma fille etait retrouvSe. Moise, un instant
32*
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in a moment after, crying (765) out (69) that his (367) sister Sophy was below, and coming up (663) with our old friend Mr. Burchell.
Just (887) as he delivered (621, 54) this news, my dearest girl entered, and, with looks almost wild with pleasure, ran (55, 706) to kiss me (49) in a transport of affection (711). Her mother's (304) tears and silence also showed (54, 365 bis) her pleasure.
" H6re (417), papa," cried (55, 93) the charming girl (511, 556), '' here is the brave (330) man to whom (662) I owe (52) my delivery; to this (380) gentleman's intrepidity I am indebted (79, 680) for my happiness and safety." A kiss from Mr. Bur- chell, whose pleasure seemed (54) even (407) greater than hers, interrupted (55) what she was going to add (855).
"Ah, Mr. Burchell," cried I (55), "this is but a wretched habitation you find us in, and we are now very different from what you last saw us. You were (56) ever our friend : we have (56) long discovered our errors with regard to you, and repented (93, 5^; 783) of our ingratitude. After the vile usage you then received (55) at my hands, I am almost ashamed (52) to behold (1176, 855) your face ; yet I hope (52, 893) you'll forgive me (59, 623), as I was (775, 54) deceived (1008) by a base, un- generous wretch, who, under the mask of friendship, has (623, 56) undone me."
"It is impossible (623,39)," replied Mr. Burchell (55), "that I should forgive you (623, 1178), as you never deserved (774, 56, 405) my resentment. I partly saw (55, 129) your delusion then, and, as it was (55) out of my power to restrain, I could only (623) pity it (55, 1178)."
i'lt was ever my conjecture (54, 786)," cried I (55), "that your mind was (54) noble ; but now I find (52) it so. But tell me (52,229), my dear child (511), how hast thou been relieved (52, 776), or who were (662, 54) the ruffians that carried (58, 777) thee away ?"
"Indeed, sir (1184)," replied she (55), "as to the viUainwho carried (69) me off, I am yet ignorant (52). For as my mamma
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apr^s monta en courant, criant que sa soeur Sophie etait au rez- de-chaussee, d'ou elle allait monter avec notre ancienne connaiS" sance M. Burchell.
Pendant qu'il me disait cela, folle de joie et dans un transport d'amour, entrant dans la cliambre, ma fille courut vers ma couclie pour m'embrasser. Les pleurs et le silence de sa mere indi- quaient assez ce que celle-ci eprouvait.
'^ Ici, papa," s'ecria la charmante enfant, 'Wous voyez le brave h qui je suis redevable de ma delivrance. YoilS le mon- sieur auquel je dois ma liberte; c'est aussi a sa bravoure que sont dus mon bonheur et mon salut." Non moins beureux qu^elle M. Burchell Finterrompit par un baiser.
"Ah, M. Burchell/' m'ecriai-je, '^ ceci est une fort triste resi- dence ; notre position actuelle est bien differente d'autrefois. Vous avez toujours ^te notre ami. Depuis longtemps nous avons re- connu notre erreur, et nous nous sommes repentis de notre in- gratitude envers vous. Apres le traitement indigne que je vous infligeai j'ose a peine vous regarder en face. J'espere neanmoins que vous me pardonnerez; vu que j'etais dupe a cette epoque d'un scelerat depourvu de tout sentiment genereux, qui m'a detruit tout en m' appelant son ami.''
" II me serait bien difficile de vous pardonner/' repliqua M. Burchell, '' attendu que vous ne m'avez jamais offense. Je m'aperyus alors en partie de votre erreur, et comme je ne pus I'empecher je me contentai de la plain dre."
" Je m'etais toujours doute," m'ecriai-je, "que vous aviez le coeur haut-place : je n'en doute plus maintenant. Mais raconte- nous, ma chere, comment s'est opere ta delivrance, et dis-nous quels ^taient les brisrands qui t'avaient ainsi enlevee."
" A vrai dire, mon pere," repliqua-t-elle, "j 'ignore encore quel est leur nom. Pendant que maman et moi promenions, Tun d'eux
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and I (680, 1204) were walking out (54, 1165), he came (55) behind us, and, almost before I could call (1178, 764) for help, forced me (769) into the post-chaise, and in an instant the horses drove away (57,1045). I met (55) several on the road to whom (662) I cried out (55) for assistance ; but they (598, 1059) dis- regarded my entreaties. In the mean time the ruffian himself used (54, 1224) every art to hinder me (623, 764, 1178) from crying out : he flattered (767) and threatened by turns, and swore (55, 1092) that if I continued but silent (751, 744) he intended (39, 1032) no (598) harm. In the mean time I had broken (155,484,777) the canvas that he had drawn up (58, 777), and whom should I perceive (55) at some distance but your old friend (556) Mr. Burchell, walking (765, 1165) along with his usual swiftness, with the great stick for which (657) we used (54, 1224) so much to ridicule (58, 792) him ! As soon as we came (55, 1025) within hearing, I called out (55) to him by name, and entreated (607, 772) his help. I repeated (55) my exclama- tions several times, upon which, with a very loud voice, he bid (55, 987) the postilion stop (93,1178); but the boy took (55) no notice, but drove on (732, 55) with still greater speed. I now thought (55) he could never (39) overtake us (623, 1176), when in less than a minute I saw (771) Mr. Burchell come running up by the side of the horses, and with one blow knocked the postilion (52, 726) to the ground. The horses, when he was fallen, soon stopped of themselves, and the ruffian stepping out (771), with oaths and menaces, drew his sword (769) and ordered him (678, 55) at his peril to retire (736, 751, 1168) -, but Mr. Burchell, running up (52,726), shivered (727) his (368) sword to pieces, and then pursued him (52) for near (823) a quarter of a mile (589) ; but he made his escape (786, 55,623). I was at this time (54, 1078, 1178) come out myself, willing (783) to assist (1178,865 bis) my deliverer; but he soon returned to me in triumph. The postilion, who was recovered (773, 484), was going to make (1046 bis) his escape too (861); but Mr. Burchell ordered him (623,55) at his peril to mount (1178, 93, 1165) again, and drive back (1178, 1081 bis) to town. Finding it im-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 381
se glissa furtivement derriere nous ; me forgant dans la cliaise- de-poste, avant de pouvoir crier au secours sur-le-champ les clie- vaux eurent pris le grand galop. Nous rencontrS,mes sur la route plusieurs personnes auxquelles je criai au secours. Aucune ne prit garde a moi ni a mes cris de detresse. Le scelerat pen- dant ce temps faisait tout en son pouvoir pour m'empecher de crier; flattant, menagant tour-a-tour, il jura qu'il ne me ferait aucun mal pourvu que je restasse tranquille. Ayant reussi, de mon c6te, h dechirer le rideau qu'il avait tire sur le panneau, a une courte distance j'aper§us — qui, croiriez-vous ? Yotre an- cien ami M. Burcliell, selon sa coutume cheminant d'un pas pre- cipite, arm^ du long baton qui autrefois nous avait tant fait rire sur son compte. Des qu'il fut a portee de la voix je Tappelai par son nom tout en reclamant son secours. Plusieurs fois je renouvelai mes cris; et ce ne fut qu'alors qu'avec une voix de stentor il cria au postilion de s'arreter. Loin d'obeir celui-ci n'en galopa que de plus belle. Je crus alors qu'il ne pourrait pas nous attraper, quand en moins d'une minute arrivant k cote des cbevaux, d'un coup du long baton M. Burchell envoie le postilion a terre. Sa cbute fit arreter les betes. Descendant de voiture, jurant, menayant et degainant, mon ravisseur ordonna que M. Burchell se retirat. Loin de cela M. Burcbell court droit au brigand, brise Tepee que celui-ci tenait a la main, et court apres lui pres d'un quart de mille. Neanmoins il s'ecbappa. Je venais en ce moment de descendre de voiture, resolue h aider a mon liberateur, quand tout triompbant M. Burchell fut de retour. Becouvre du coup que lui avait assene M. Burchell, le postilion allait aussi prendre-les-champs ; lorsqu'il regut Tordre au peril de sa vie de se remettre en selle et de nous ramener en
S82 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
possible (765, 1176) to resist, lie reluctantly complied (52), though the wound he had received (777) seemed (54) to me, at least (845), to be dangerous. He continued (55, 1178) to com- plain (763) of the pain as we drove along, so that he at last ex- cited (757) Mr. Burchell's (304) compassion ; who, at my re- quest, exchanged him (55, 1144) for another at an inn where we called (55, 1137) on our return.'^
''Welcome, then,'^ cried I (55, 573), "my child, and thou, her gallant deliverer, a thousand (52, 588) welcomes ! Though (667 bis) our cheer is (743) but wretched, yet our hearts are ready (52, 918) to receive you (1177). And now, Mr. Burchell, as you have delivered my girl, if you think her (52) a recom- pense, shells (52) yours; if you can stoop to an alliance with a family so poor as mine, take her (52, 623), obtain her consent (727, 367), as I know (52, 727) you have (855) her heart, and you have (727) mine. And let me tell you (41, 736), sir, that I give you (623, 52) no small treasure ; she has been celebrated (56, 777) for beauty, it is true, but that is not (648, 52) my meaning : I give you (52, 623) a treasure in her mind."
"■ But I suppose (52), sir," cried Mr. Burchell, " that you are apprized (52, 1074, 86) of my circumstances, and of my incapa- city to support her (1177) as she deserves ?"
"If your present objection," replied I (55), "be meant (736, 1176) as an evasion of my offer, I desist (40,623, 1178) ; but I know no man (52) so worthy to deserve her (885) as you; and if I could give her (39, 1178) thousands (588), and thousands sought her (57, 776) from me, yet my honest brave Burchell should be (39) my dearest choice."
To all this his silence seemed (54, 1176) to give a mortifying refusal; and without the least reply to my offer, he demanded (55) if we could not be furnished (39, 1176) with refreshments from the next inn ; to which being answered (769) in the affirmative, he ordered them (55) to send in the best dinner that could be provided (665, 1176) upon such short notice. He bespoke (55, 732), also, a dozen of their best wine (412 bis), and some cordials for me; adding (772), with a smile, that he would stretch (39,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 383
ville. Ne pouvant refuser il obeit d'une mani^re tres-d^sobli- geante ; d'autant plus que sa blessure, quant a moi, me paraissait fort dangereuse. En route il continua de se plaindre au point d'exciter la compassion de M. Burchell, qui, a ma priere, cbangea pour un autre a une auberge ou nous descendlmes h notre retour."
'^ Mon enfant, sois la bienvenue," m'ecriai-je; ^' et vous, son brave lib^rateur, vous §tes aussi mille fois le bienvenu. Quoique notre position soit miserable nos coeurs sont prgts k vous faire un bon accueil. A propos, M. Burcbell, h titre de liberateur de ma.fille, si vous la croyez une digne recompense pour vos ser- vices e]le est h vous, Admettant que vous condescendiez a vous allier a une famille aussi pauvre qu'est la notre, obtenez son consentement et epousez-la car vous avez son coeur et le mien. Et qu'il me soit permis do dire, monsieur, que le don que je vous en fais n'est pas de peu de valeur. Elle a et^ remarquee par sa beaute, mais ce n'est pas \h ce que je veux dire — son coeur est un veritable tresor I"
^' Je suppose, monsieur,'^ ajouta M. Burcbell, '^ que vous savez quelle est ma position de fortune ; et que vous connaissez aussi mon impuissance a lui procurer le rang qu'elle merite d'occuper,"
^' Si cette objection doit se prendre pour un refus," r^pliquai-je, '' permettez-moi, monsieur, de retirer mon offre. Personne nean- moins plus que vous n'est digne d'elle; et serais-je a m§me de lui donner une grande dot, vous bonnete M. Burcbell, vous seriez I'bomme de mon cboix fut-elle recberchee par mille pr^ten- dants/^
Son silence, malgr^ cela, sembla donner un dementi humi- liant a mes paroles. Sans me repondre, il demanda si nous ne pourrions pas nous procurer quelques comestibles h I'auberge voisine. Sur mon affirmative, il ordonna pour etre apporte ici le meilleur diner qu'on put servir a bref delai. II commanda du meme coup une douzaine de bouteilles de leurs vins de cboix, plus quelques liqueurs pour mon usage particulier; ajoutant
384 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
1034) a little for once; and, thougli (484,747) in a prison, asserted (769) he was never more disposed to be merry. The waiter soon made (55) his appearance, with preparations for din- ner; a table was lent us (623,55, 86) by the jailer, who seemed (55) remarkably assiduous; the wine was disposed (57) in order, and two very well-dressed (773,484) dishes were (55,776,69) brought in.
My daughter had not yet heard (54) of her poor brother's (304) melancholy situation, and we all seemed unwilling to damp her cheerfulness by the relation. But it was (55) in vain that I attempted (55) to appear (1178,434) cheerful; the circumstances of my unfortunate son broke (55) through all (606) efforts to dissemble; so that I was (55) at last obliged (776) to damp (1178, 1041 bis) our mirth by relating (772) his misfortunes, and wishing he might be permitted (666, 751) to share (1178) with us in this little interval of satisfaction. After my guests were recovered (56, 776) from the consternation my account had produced (58, 777), I requested (732) also that Mr. Jenkinson, a fellow-prisoner, might be admitted (665, 751), and the jailer granted (93, 55, 1160 bis) my request with an air' of unusual submission. The clanking of my son's (304) irons was no sooner heard (665, 55, 1176) along the passage, than his (367) sister ran (55, 129) impatiently to meet him ; while Mr. Burchell, in the mean time, asked me (55, 623) if my son's (304) name was (54) Greorge ; to which replying in the affirmative, he still con- tinued (55) silent. As soon as my boy entered (55, 706) the room, I could perceive (732) he regarded (727) Mr. Burchell with a look of astonishment and reverence. '^ Come on (40)," cried I (55), "my son; though we are (743,484) fallen very low, yet Providence has been pleased (52, 855) to grant us some small relaxation from pain. Thy sister is restored to us (52, 776), and there is her (367) deliverer; to that brave man it is (648,52) that I am indebted (52) for yet having (1178) a daughter; give him (52), my boy, the hand of friendship : he deserves (52) our warmest gratitude."
My son seemed (861, 769) all this while regardless of what I
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 385
en souriant, que, pour une fois, il ferait large- courroie de son argent, ne s'etant jamais senti de meilleure humeur quoique entre les quatre-murs d'une prison. Le gar§on d'auberge arriva bientot pour faire les preparatifs du service. Le geolier, qui nous pr^ta une table, nous parut tr^s-complaisant dans ses manieres. Le vin fut mis en ordre et deux plats bien prepares furent servis.
Ma fille ignorait encore le triste sort de son malheureux frere ; nul d'entre nous n'ayant eu assez de resolution pour lui commu- niquer une nouvelle qui devait changer sa joie en deuil. Mais ce fut vainement que j'essayai de paraitre gai. Malgr^ tons mes efforts k la cacber, la position de mon enfeint Temporta sur toute autre consideration. II me fallut done mettre fin a notre joie et faire le recit de son malheur j demandant qu'on lui permit de partager avec nous ce court intervalle de bonbeur. Quand la compagnie presente fut revenue de F^motion douloureuse que mon recit avait produite, comme faveur je demandai qu'on m'ac- cordat la presence de M. Jenkinson mon camarade d'infortune. Le geolier se preta a mon desir d'un air plus complaisant que de coutume. A peine entendit-on resonner dans le passage les fers dont mon fils etait charge, qu'impatiente sa soeur s'elange a son approche. M. Burchell, pendant ce temps, me demanda si mon fils ne s'appelait pas Greorges. Lui ayant dit que oui il garda le silence, Des que mon fils fit son entree, je m'apergus qu'il porta sur M. Burchell un regard d'etonnement et de res- pect. '^Approche, mon enfant," m'ecriai-je; "quoique tombes bien bas, la Providence, neanmoins, nous accorde encore un petit soulagement. Ta soeur est retrouvee et voici son libe- rateur. C'est a ce brave que je dois d'avoir une fille j mon fils, tends-lui une main amie — il est digne de notre plus vive recon- naissance."
Paraissant indifferent a ce que je disais, mon fils pendant ce
33
386 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
said (54, 229), and still contiimed (54, 709) fixed at a respectful distance. '^ My dear brother," cried his sister (367, 55), " why don't you thank (52, 952) my good deliverer ? the brave should ever love (52, 93, 1176) each other (674)."
He still continued his (55, 592) silence and astonishment, till our guest (828) at last perceived (769) himself to be known (54, 776), and, assuming all his native dignity, desired my son to come forward (93, 1178). Never before had I seen (58, 777) any thing so truly majestic as the air (866) he assumed upon this occasion. The greatest object in the universe, says (605 bis) a certain philosopher, is a good man struggling (771) with adversity; yet there is (103, 52) still a greater, which is the good man (648, 52) that comes (52, 1176) to relieve it. After he had regarded (155, 769) my son for some time with a superior air, ^' I again find (52)," said he (727), ^'unthinking boy, that the same
crime " But here he was interrupted (57) by one of the
jailer's (304) servants, who came (55, 1176) to inform us that a person of distinction, who had driven into town with a chariot and several attendants, sent (54) his respects to the gentleman that was (54, 727) with us, and begged (727) to know (1176) when he should think (39) proper to be waited upon. '' Bid the fellow (52) wait," cried our guest (55), " till I shall have (736,744) leisure to receive him (1178);" and then turning (93, 679) to my son, '^I again find (52), sir," proceeded he (55), '^ that you are guilty of the same ofi'ence for which you once had (55, 800) my reproof, and for which (662) the law is now pre- paring (52, 26) its justest punishment. You imagine (39, 735, 900), perhaps (1016), that a contempt of your own life gives (52, 623) you a right to take (1178) that of another ; but where, sir, is (727,52) the difference between a duellist, who hazards (52,821 bis) a life of no value, and the murderer, who acts with greater security? Is it any diminution (52,1176) of the gamester's fraud, when he alleges that he has staked (52) a counter V
"Alas, sir," cried I (55), "whoever you are (655, 135, 736), pity (40,1046 bis) the poor misguided creature; for what he has done (792, 56) was (56, 727) in obedience to a deluded (368)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 387
temps se tenait h une respectueuse distance. " Clier fr^re," s'^cria sa soeur ; '^ pourquoi ne remercie-tu pas mon liberateur 't deux braves doivent s'estimer Fun Fautre."
II resta plonge dans le silence et dans I'etonnement. Enfin, s'apercevant qu'il ^tait reconnu, d'un ton majestueux notre liote ordonna h mon fils de se rapprocher. Non, jamais je n'avais vu d'air plus sublime que celui qu'il prit en cette occasion. Le plus noble objet de la nature, d'apr^s un certain pbilosophej c'est Tlion- nete bomme luttant contre Fadversit^ ; n^anmoins il en est un plus noble encore, c'est celui de Fhomme vertueux venant secourir le malheur. Ayant regarde mon fils pendant quelque temps d'un air de superiorite il lui dit : " Etourdi, je vous retrouve encore coupable de ce meme crime ?" II fut interrompu ici par Fun des valets du geolier, qui vint nous annoncer qu'un grand per- sonnage en carrosse, accompagne d'une nombreuse suite venant d'arriver en ville, envoyait ses compliments au monsieur qui ^tait avec nous. II desirait savoir aussi le moment ou ce mon- sieur serait visible. '' Dites a ce gaillard d'attendre jusqu'k ce que je sois pret a le recevoir/' s'ecria notre bote; puis se retour- nant vers mon fils il ajouta": " je vous retrouve encore coupable, monsieur, de la meme faute qui dans le temps vous valut ma reprobation, et pour laquelle la loi vous reserve un juste cbati- ment. Parce que vous n'appreeiez pas votre existence vous imagineriez-vous, peut-etre, qu'il vous soit permis de prendre celle des autres ? Mais ou est done la difi"erence entre Fassassin et le duelliste qui n'exposent qu'une vie sans valeur ? lequel des deux agit-il le plus surement ? Faut-il excuser un escroc parce- qu'il a un semblant de mise sur table ?"
^' Helas ! monsieur," m'^criai-je, " qui que vous soyez, prenez pitie d'un malheureux enfant egare. Ce qu'il a fait n'a ete que pour ob^ir a son aveugle m^re, qui, dans un mouvement de ven-
388 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
mother, who, in the bitterness of her resentment, required him (56, 623), upon her blessing, to avenge (1137 bis) her quarrel. Here, sir, is the letter, which will serve to convince (772) you of her (368) imprudence, and diminish (52, 592) his guilt.''^
He took (769) the letter, and hastily read it (623, 55, 69) over. ^' This," says he, " though not a perfect excuse, is^ such a pallia- tion of his fault as induces me to forgive (1039) him. And now, sir," continued he (55), kindly taking (769) my son by the hand, "I see (52) you are (52, 727) surprised (86,623) at find- ing (1178, 1230) me here ; but I have often visited (56, 777) prisons upon occasions less interesting. I am now come (52, 86) to see (736, 744) justice done (776) a worthy man, for whom I have the most sincere esteem. I have long been (52, 485) a disguised spectator (933) of thy father's (304) benevolence. I have (861) at his little dwelling enjoyed (56) respect uncontami- nated by flattery, and have received (854) that happiness that courts could not give (665, 52)-, from the amusing simplicity round his fireside (711). My nephew has been apprized (86, 66) of my intentions of coming (54,1176) here, and I find (52, 1176) he is arrived; it would be (39) wronging him and you to condemn him (1176,623) without examination; if there be (1223) injury, there shall be (59,727) redress; and this I may say (52,1176) without boasting, that none (673) have ever (404) taxed the injustice of Sir William Thornhill."
We now found (55) that the personage whom' we had (58) so long entertained as a harmless, amusing companion was no other (54) than the celebrated Sir William Thornhill, to whose virtues and singularities scarce any were (54) strangers. The poor Mr. Burchell was (727, 54) in reality a man of large fortune and great interest, to whom senates listened (665, 54) with applause, and whom party heard (727) with conviction ; who was (54, 679) the friend of his country, but loyal (556) to his king. My poor wife, recollecting (921, 769) her former familiarity, seemed (55, 1176) to shrink with apprehension; but Sophia, who, a few moments before, thought him (54) her own, now, perceiving
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 389
geance, et menace de lui refuser sa benediction, I'a forc^ a epou- ser sa querelle. En vous convainquant de Timprudence de ma femme, cette lettre que voici diminuera la culpabilite de mon fils."
Prenant la lettre et la lisant rapidement il ajouta, que, sans §tre une bonne excuse^ elle palliait la faute a tel point de lui faire pardonner au coupable. Saisissant la main de mon fils d'un ton debonnaire il lui dit : " Ma presence ici vous etonne ; bien des fois, neanmoins, ai-je visite des prisons pour des causes moins importantes. Je viens actuellement pour que justice soit faite a un digne-bomme en pleine possession de mon estime. Depuis longtemps, mais inconnu, je suis temoin oculaire de la bienveillance de votre p^re. Pur de toute flatterie dans son bumble residence j'ai trouve le veritable respect; et pr^s de son atre modeste goute un bonbeur qu'on ne rencontre jamais dans les palais des rois. Mon neveu a sans doute appris que je devaia me rendre ici, aussi le voyons-nous arriver. Le condamner sans Tentendre serait non moins prejudiciable h vous qu'k lui. S'il y a injustice reparation en sera faite. C'est sans vanite que je puis dire, que personne n'a jamais taxe le baron William Tborn- hill d'injustice."
Cefutalors que nous apprimes que le personnage que nous avions si longtemps regu cbez-nous comme un gai compagnon, n'^tait autre que le baron William Tborubill, dont tout le monde connaissait les vertus et la singularity. Ce pauvre M. Burcbell, apres-tout, se trouvait un homme d'une immense fortune et d'une tr^s-grande influence. Un bomme que Ton ecoutait dans les assemblees et en qui les partis avaient foi. En un mot, un bomme ami de son pays et loyal envers son roi. Se rappelant son ancienne familiarite ma femme parut se rapetisser de ctainte. Sopbie, qui peu d'instants auparavant le considerait comme une
33*
390 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(769) the immense distance to wliicli he was removed (54) by fortune, was unable (55, 1178) to conceal her tears.
''Ah, sir/' cried (55) my wife, with a piteous aspect, '^how is it (59) possible that I can ever have (855) your forgiveness? the slights you received (55, 706) from me the last time I had the honor of seeing you (413,358,556) at our house, and the jokes which I audaciously threw out, — these, sir, I fear (52, 1176), can never (1178, 706) be forgiven.^'
''My dear good lady (368)/' returned he (55), with a smile, " if you had your joke (56) I had (56) my answer. I'll leave it (52) to all the company if mine were not as good as yours. To say the truth (1177), I know (52) nobody whom I am dis- posed (773) to be angry with at present, but the fellow who so frightened (56, 1028) my little girl here ! I had not (56) even time to examine (1176) the rascal's person (304), so as to de- scribe him (1178, 799) in an advertisement. Can you tell me (52,623,1176), Sophia, my dear, whether you should know him (39, 623, 1176) again?''
" Indeed, sir," replied she (55), " I cannot (52, 605 bis) be positive; yet now I recollect (921, 1176) he had a large mark (155, 777, 623) over one of his eyebrows." — " I ask pardon, madam," interrupted Jenkinson (55), who was by (54, 776), " but be so good as to inform me (1178) if the fellow wore (54) his own red hair (1185)."—" Yes, I think so (52)," cried (55) Sophia. " And did your honor," continued he (55), turning (769) to Sir William, "observe (56,910) the length of his legs?" — "I can't be sure (605 bis, 556) of their length/' cried (55) the baronet, " but I am (52, 727) convinced of their swift- ness ; for he outran me (56, 872), which is what I thought few men in the kingdom could have done (876,701)." — "Please your honor (736, 737)," cried (55) Jenkinson, "I know the man, it is certainly (52, 640) the same ; the best (407, 408) runner in England — he has beaten (56) Pinwire of Newcastle ; Timothy Baxter is his name (93,52): I know him (1073,623,52) per- fectly, and the very place of his retreat this moment. If your honor will bid Mr. Jailer (52, 1184) let (1178) two of his men go
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD.. 391
conquete certaine, voyant I'enorme distance qui les s^parait ne put s'empeclier de pleurer.
^' All ! monsieur/^ s'ecria ma femme d'un air piteux, ^' vous ne me pardonnerez jamais les grossieretes que je vous fis k votre derniere visite chez nous. L' impudence de mes quolibets, mon- sieur, me fait craindre de ne jamais avoir votre pardon."
'^ Ma ch^re dame/' repliqua-t-il avec sourire, "si vous avez fait I'attaque j'ai use de la riposte; que la compagnie decide qui de nous deux eut Tavantage. A vrai dire je ne me sens indis- pose envers personne, si ce n'est centre le luron qui a fait peur a ma petite mie que voici. Je n'ai pu meme examiner sa per- sonne au point d'en donner le signalemeut. Ne pourriez-vous, chere Sophie, le reconnaitre V
''Vraiment, monsieur," r^pliqua-t-elle, "je ne suis certaine de rien. Je crois, pourtant, me rappeler lui avoir vu sur Tun des sourcils une profonde cicatrice." "Mademoiselle, pardonnez mon interruption," dit Jenkinson qui etait present; "ayez seulement la bonte de me dire s'il avait les cheveux rouges." " Je crois que oui, monsieur," s'ecria Sophie. " Mais," ajouta- t-il, se tournant vers M. William Thornhill, " Monsieur le baron a-t-il remarque quelle 6tait la longueur deses jambes?" " Je ne suis pas certain de leur longueur," dit le baron, " mais je peux temoigner de leur agilite; car il m'a laisse en-arri^re, ce dont pen sent capables dans le pays." "JSf'en deplaise k sa grandeur," s'ecria Jenkinson, "je connais Fiudividu ! c'est celui auquel je songe, le meilleur coureur de I'Angleterre. II a battu Pinwire de Newcastle et s'appelle Timothee Baxter. Si votre grandeur or- donne au geolier de me fournir deux de ces gens, je m'engage k
392 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
with me (706, 1176), Til engage (52,726, 623) to produce him to you (1176,623) in an hour at farthest." Upon this the jailer was called (413, 861), who instantly appearing (55), Sir William demanded (1231) if he knew him (54, 623). ^' Yes, please your honor," replied (55) the jailer, '^ I know (486,405) Sir William Thornhill well; and everybody that knows any thing of him (52) will desire (79, 52) to know (1178, 1074) more of him." — "Well, then," said (55) the baronet, " my request is (40), that you will permit (1224) this man and two of your servants to go (1178, 764) upon a message by my authority, and, as I am (54, 767) in the commission of the peace, I undertake (39,1015) to secure you." — " Your promise is sufficient," replied (55) the other, '^and you may (52), at a minute's warning, send them over (623, 1178) England whenever your honor thinks (59) fit."
In pursuance of the jailer's (304) compliance, Jenkinson was despatched (57) in pursuit of Timothy Baxter, while we were amused (55) with the assiduity of our youngest boy, Bill, who had just come in (54, 1178, 1077), and climbed up (55) to Sir William's neck (304), in order (1136) to kiss him (623). His (367) mother was immediately going (54, 1076, 623) to chastise his familiarity, but the worthy man (885) prevented her (69, 769), and taking (55) the child, all ragged as he was (606, 55, 935), upon his knee — " What, Bill, you chubby rogue !" cried he (55,1185), ''do you remember (52,921) your old friend Burchell? And Dick, too, my honest veteran, are you here (417) ? you shall find (40, 59) I have not (56) forgot you." So saying (769), he gave each (55, 389) a large piece of ginger- bread, which the poor fellows (1185) ate (55) very heartily, as they had got (58, 1039) that morning but a very scanty break- fast.
We now sat down (55, 1156) to dinner, which was (54) almost cold; but previously, my arm still continuing painful (995, 773), Sir William wrote a prescription, for he had made (93,54) the study of physic his amusement, and was more than mode- rately skilled in the profession : this being sent (57, 776) to an
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 893
vous I'amener ici dans une lieure au plus." Le geolier d^s I'ap- peler se presenta. Le baron William Thornhill lui ayant demande s'il le connaissait, ^' Certainement oui/' repliqua I'employe, '^ et tous ceux qui connaissent le baron William Thornbill sent char- m^s d'avoir a faire a lui." " Tres-bien," dit le baron; " per- mettez k cet bpmme, suivi de deux records, sur mon autorisation d'aller remplir un mandat-d'amener. Faisant partie du comite de la justice-de-paix je serai votre caution." " Yotre parole me suffit/' repliqua I'autre ; ^' sa G-randeur est libre de les envoyer, n'im- porte ou, des qu'elle m'en temoignera le desir."
D'apr^s I'autorisation du ge61ier, Jenkinson fut envoy^ en poursuite de Timothee Baxter. L'assiduite aupr^s de M. Bur- chellj de Guillaume mon plus jeune enfant qui venait d'entrer, fut alors pour nous tous un passe-temps. II sauta au cou de M. Burcliell pour Tembrasser. Sur-le-cbamp sa mere allait le cha- tier de son trop de familiarite ; mais Ten empecbant, tout degue- nille que fut le petit, ce digne gentilhomme le prit amicalement sur ses genoux. "■ Eb bien Gruillaume, petit moutard, te ressouviens-tu de ton ancien ami Burcbell ? Et toi Bicbard, mon vieux, te voila aussi ! Allons, vous verrez que je ne vous ai pas oublies.^' Disant cela il donna h cbacun d'eux un gros [morceau de pain- d'epiceSj et les pauvres-diables qui le matin avaient fait un triste dejeuner le devorerent aussitot avidement.
Quand nous nous mimes a table le diner etait presque froid. Me sentant avant cela tourmente par mon mal au bras, le baron William, qui s'etait fait un amusement de la m^decine et qui ne manquait pas d'babilete dans cette partie, ecrivit une ordonnance
394 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
apothecary, who lived in the place (1183), my arm was dressed (55, 776), and I found (55, 812) almost instantaneous relief. We were waited upon (57) by the jailer himself, who was willing (54) to do (1176, 1028) our guest all the honor in his power. But before we had well dined (736, 744, 751), another message (927) was brought (55, 129) from his nephew, desiring permis- sion to appear (1178, 93) in order (1029) to vindicate (1177) his innocence and (609) honor ; with which request the baronet complied (55), and desired (769, 69, 706) Mr. Thornhill (665, 55, 1029) to be introduced.
/ CHAPTER XXXL
FORMER BENEVOLENCE NOW REPAID (773) WITH UNEXPECTED INTEREST.
Mr. Thornhill made (769) his entrance with a smile, which he seldom wanted, and was going to embrace his uncle (57, 895, 49), which the other repulsed (55, 866) with an air of disdain. *'No fawning, sir, at present,^' cried (55) the baronet, with a look of severity; "the only way to my heart is (666,52) by the road of honor; but here I only see (52) complicated (815) instances of falsehood, cowardice, and oppression. How is it (54, 1154), sir, that this poor man (1191), for whom (662) I know you pro- fessed (54,806) a friendship, is used (738 bis) thus hardly? his daughter (367) vilely seduced (155, 776) as a recompense for his hospitality, and he (857) himself thrown (776, 484) into a prison, perhaps but for resenting (1231) the insult — his son, too, whom (662) you feared (56) to face (1176) as a man (821 bis) "
" Is it (39, 735) possible, sir," interrupted (55, 592) his nephew, " that my uncle could object (738 bis, 751) that as a crime, which his repeated instructions alone have persuaded me (56, 1178) to avoid V
"Your rebuke," cried (55) Sir William, ''is (52) just; you
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 395
qui fut envoy^e chez un pliarmacien de Fendroit. Mon bras pans^ je me trouvai soulage tout-a-coup. A table nous fumes servis par le geolier lui-meme, qui de tout son pouvoir voulait faire bonneur h notre bote. Mais avant que nous eussions acbeve un second messager du neveu se presenta; il yenait dire que ce monsieur desirait qu'on lui permit d'etre introduit pour revendiquer son bonneur et son innocence. A cela le baron consentit, donnant ordre qu'on fit entrer M. Tbornbill.
CHAPITRE XXXI.
BIENVEILLANCE K^COMPENSEE AVEC tTSURE.
Selon son babitude entrant le sourire sur les l^vres M. Tbornbill alia droit pour erabrasser son oncle. D'un air indign^ celui-ci le repoussa. "■ Pour le moment pas de calineries, mon- sieur/' s'ecria le baron d'un ton severe; '^ce n'est qu'avec I'bonneur que Ton parvient h> gagner mon afiection. Mais^je ne trouve ici que combinaisons de mensonges, que lacbete, et qu'op- pression. Comment se fait-il, monsieur, que ce digne bomme pour lequel vous professiez tant d'amitie soit traite d'une mani^re aussi inbumaine ? qu'en recompense de son bospitalit^ sa fille soit basseraent seduite ? et que lui, peut-etre, n'est jete en prison que pour avoir ressenti cette insulte ? Son fils avec lequel vous n'avez pas ose vous mesurer subit aussi le m§me sort."
" Serait-il possible," interrompit le neveu, ^' que mon oncle qualifiat du nom de crime ce qu'il m'a tant recommande d'^vi- ter r
" Voire observation est juste/' s'ecria le baron William; " en
396 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
have acted (56) in this (825) instance prudently and well, though not quite as your father would have done (847, 789, 57) : my
brother, indeed, was (54) the soul of honor, but thou yes,
you have acted (56) in this instance perfectly right, and it has (52) my warmest (368) approbation. '^
<' And I hope (52, 893)," said (55) the nephew, '^that the rest of my conduct (59) will not be found to deserve censure. I ap- peared (79, 776, 52), sir, with this gentleman^s (304) daughter at some places of public amusement ; thus, what was levity (54), scandal called (56) by a harsher name, and it was reported (54. 86, 1121) that I had debauched (58) her. I waited on (55, 895) her father in person, willing to clear the thing to his satisfaction, and he received me (623, 55) only with insult and abuse. As for (845) the rest, with regard to his being here (855), my at- torney and steward (530) can best (59, 1176) inform you, as I commit the management of my business entirely to them. If he has contracted (56, 777) debts, and is (737) unwilling or even unable (727) to pay (1176) them, it is (380,857,52) their busi- ness to proceed (1178) in this manner, and I see no hardship (52) or injustice in pursuing the most legal (1091) means of redress."
''If this," cried (55) Sir William, "be (52,679) as you have stated it (623, 52), there is nothing (52) unpardonable (925, 578) in your offences, and, though your conduct might have been (751, 49) more generous, in not suffering this gentleman to be oppressed by subordinate tyranny, yet it has been at least equi- table (103, 105, 57)."
" He cannot (52) contradict (1176, 105) a single particular," replied (55) the squire; " I defy him (623, 52) to do so (799), and several of my servants are ready to attest what I say (52, 799). Thus, sir," continued he (55,769), finding that I was silent, for in fact I could not (54) contradict him (1176, 623), — • "thus, sir, my own innocence is (52,782) vindicated; but, though at your entreaty I am ready (52, 918) to forgive (1177) this gen- tleman every other offence, yet his attempts to lessen (1177) me in your esteem excite (52, 824, 358) a resentment that I cannot
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 397
cette circonstance vous avez agi tr^s-prudemment, qiioique autre- ment que ne Feut fait votre pere. Mon frere a moi etait le vrai miroir de Fhoniieur ! Mais toi . . . . Oui, en effet, vous avez tr^s-bien agi et vous en avez mon approbation/^
" J'esp^re," dit le neveu, " que le restant de ma conduite ne meritera pas non plus votre blame. Je me suis montre, il est vrai, dans plusieurs lieux d'amusements publics avec la fille de ce monsieur; mais ce qui n'etait que legerete d'autres scanda- leusement Font appele d'un autre nom. Le bruit ne courait-il pas que j 'avals debauche sa fille? J^allai cbez le p6re pour lui proposer un arrangement qui le satisfit; mais il me regut la menace et Finsulte h la bouchc. Mon avoue et mon bomme- d'affaireS; quant au reste, pourront vous donner des details sur son emprisonnement; car, pour tout ce qui toucbe aux affaires c'est a eux que je m'en rapporte. Si monsieur a contracte des dettes qu'il ne veuille ou ne puisse payer, c'est leur affaire k eux de le traiter comme ils Font fait. Rien n'est dur ni injuste quand on va la loi a la main."
" Si les cboses sont telles que vous me les representez," r^pon- dit le baron, " je ne vois rien d'impardonnable dans votre offense; et, quoique en ce qui concerne Femprisonnement de ce monsieur votre conduite put etre plus genereuse, je n'aper§ois neanmoins rien de tyrannique ni d'injuste dans ce qui est legal. II eut 6t6 plus genereux, pourtant, de ne pas le laisser opprimer par vos agents subalternes.^'
^' II ne pent contredire une seule de mes paroles, je Fen defie," ajouta le baronnet; *^pour cela je m^en rapporte a mes gens. Ainsi done, monsieur," fit-il, me voyant garder le silence — car au fait je ne pouvais le contredire, — " ainsi mon innocence se trouve-t-elle vengee. Mais, quoique pret a pardonner h ce mon- sieur en consideration de ce que vous me dites, sa tentative h, diminuer Festime que vous avez pour moi allume neanmoins dans mon cceur un sentiment de colere que je ne saurais reprimer,
84
398 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
(39) govern (1176); and tbis^ too, at a time when his son was (727,1084) actually preparing to take away (1177) my life; this, I say (52), was (727) such guilt, that I am determined (52) to let (1107,41,736) the law take its course. I have (52) here the challenge that was sent me (56, 777), and two witnesses (933) to prove it (52, 679); one of my servants has been wounded (728) dangerously; and even though my uncle himself should dissuade me (39, 1176), which I know he will not (59,52, 799), yet I will see public justice done (59, 738 bis), and he shall suffer (706) for it." - "Thou monster," cried (55) my wife, "hast thou not had (56, 84, 257) vengeance enough already, but must my poor boy feel (59, 738 bis) thy cruelty ? I hope (893, 52) that good Sir Wil- liam will protect us (59, 623), for my son is (52) as innocent as a child (572); I am sure (623,776, 727, 605 bis) he is, and never did (56, 777, 673) harm to man."
'^TMadam," replied (55) the good man, '^your wishes for his safety are not greater than mine; but I am (52,648) sorry to find (1178) his guilt too plain; and if my nephew persists (52)
" But the appearance of Jenkinson and the jailer's (304)
two servants now called off (679, 55, 69) our attention, who en- tered (55,727) hauling in (772) a tall man (1191), very gen- teelly dressed (405), and answering (771) the description already given (855, 777) of the ruffian who (657) had carried off (58, 777) my daughter. " Here," cried (55) Jenkinson, pulling (772) him in, "here we have him; and if ever there was (403, 56, 777) a candidate for Tyburn, this is (829) one."
The moment Mr. Thornhill perceived (57, 777) the prisoner, and Jenkinson who had him (855, 776, 484) in custody, he seemed (751) to shrink back with terror. His face became (55) pale with conscious guilt, and he would have withdrawn (57, 776), but Jenkinson, who perceived (657, 55, 706) his design, stopped him (732, 706). "What, squire!" cried he (55), "are you (39, 735) ashamed of your two old acquaintances (1185) Jenkinson and Baxter ? But this is (640, 52) the way great men forget (52, 679) their friends, though I am resolved (419,
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 899
eurtout quand son propre fils clierclie a m'arraclier la vie. Ce crime est si noir que j'entends que la loi ait son cours. J'ai pour preuve le cartel qu'il m'a envoye, plus deux temoins qui confirment le fait. Un de mes gens est blesse dangereusement ; et lors meme que mon oncle voudrait me dissuader de poursuivre, ce qu^il ne fera pas j'en suis certain, il faudra que le coupable expie sa faute."
"Monstre!" s'^cria ma femme, " n'as-tu pas dejk 6t6 assez venge ? faudra -t-il que mon pauvre fils soit encore victime de ta cruaute ? Ce bon baron William, esperons-le, nous prendra sous sa protection ; car mon fils est aussi innocent que Fenfant nouveau- ne ! Oui, j'en suis sure, il n'a jamais fait de mal a personne."
^'Madame," ajouta le digne-bomme, "votre desir k sauver votre fils ne pent etre plus grand que le mien. Ce qui me peine c'est de voir Fevidence de sa faute ; et si mon neveu persiste. . ." Le retour de Jenkinson avec les deux records en ce moment attira notre attention. lis entrerent en poussant devant eux un homme de liaute stature, decemment vetu, et repondant au si- gnalement du scelerat qui avait enlev6 ma fille. '^ Yoioi/' s'ecria Jenkinson, le poussant pour le faire avancer, "■ voici notre bomme. Si jamais on a vu un candidat pour Tyburn, le voilk V
Des <|u'il eut aper§u le prisonnier amene par Jenkinson, Fefi'roi parut gagner M. Tbornbill. Son visage se couvrit d'une grande paleur, et, se sentant coupable il se fut volontiers retire, si Jenkinson qui s'aper§ut de son dessin ne se fut oppose a sa sortie. "Comment baronnet,^^ s'ecria-t-il, '^ renieriez-vous Jen- kinson et Baxter vos deux anciennes connaissances ? C'est ainsi que les grands delaissent leurs amis ; mais nous ne vous oublie-
400 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
163j 623) we will not forget (59) you (857). Our prisoner, please (737) your honor/' continued he (55, 679), turning to Sir William, " has already confessed (56, 777) all. This is (52) the gentleman reported (665, 58,777) to be (155) so dangerously wounded; he declares (52) that it was (52,640,728) Mr. Thorn- hill who first put him upon this affair ; that he gave him (56, 727) the clothes he now wears (52, 1066), to appear (49, 1036) like a gentleman (826 bis), and furnished him (56, 623) with a post-chaise. The plan was laid (58, 105,438) between them (826 bis) that he should carry off (39, 69) the young lady to a place of safety, and that there he should threaten (727, 623) and ter- rify her; but Mr. Thornhill was to come in (54, 1176, 706), in the mean time, as if by accident, to her rescue, and that they should fight a while, and then he was (618, 54, 1176) to run off (1046 bis), by which Mr. Thornhill would have (55) the better opportunity of gaining her (1230, 592) affections himself, under the character of her defender."
Sir William remembered (55, 921) the coat to have been fre- quently worn (773,1066) by his nephew, and all the rest the prisoner himself confirmed (55) by a more circumstantial ac- count, concluding (709) that Mr. Thornhill had often declared to him (623, 58, 777) that he was (54, 79, 556) in love with both sisters at the same time.
'^ Heavens!" cried (55) Sir William, "what a viper have I (56) been fostering in my bosom ! And so fond of public justice, too, as he seemed to be ! But he shall have it. Secure him (40, 665), Mr. Jailer — yet hold (40), I fear there is no legal evidence to detain him (726,1176).''
Upon this (769), Mr. Thornhill, with the utmost humility, entreated (55) that two such abandoned wretches might not be (665, 751, 1068) admitted as evidence against him, but that his servants should be examined. " Your servants (514) !" replied (55) Sir William; " wretch, call them (52) yours no longer; but come, let us hear (40) what those fellows have to say (59, 679) ; let his butler (665, 736, 706) be called."
When the butler was introduced (764), he soon perceived (55)
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 401
rons paS; nous. N'en deplaise a votre seigneurie," ajouta-t-il, se tournant vers le baron William, " notre prisonnier nous a dejji, tout avoue. Lui-meme est le personnage qu'on nous avait dit avoir ^te blesse si grievement. II declare que c'est M. Thornhill qui le premier a mis en train cette affaire ', que c'est lui en outre qui lui a procure les habits et la cbaise-de-poste pour jouer le grand seigneur. Entre eux il avait ete decide qu'il enleverait la demoiselle pour la conduire en un lieu de surete, et que la il I'epouvanterait par des menaces. Sur ces entrefaites, comme par accident, M. Thornbill devait arriver h son secours ; et, apres un petit combat simule lui Baxter devait prendre la fuite, pour qvJk titre de liberateur M. Thornbill eut occasion de. gagner le coeur de la jeune beauts."
Le baron William se rappela parfaitement avoir vu souvent ce meme habit port^ par son neveu. Dans un recit plus detaille le prisonnier corrobora toutes les autres circonstances ; ajoutant que M. Tbornbill, maintesfois, lui avait declare qu'il etait amoureux des deux soeurs tout-a-la-fois.
" Juste ciel !" s'ecria le baron William, '^ quel vil reptile ai-je ainsi rechauffe sur mon sein ? lui qui me paraissait si partisan de la justice ! Mais justice lui sera rendue. — Geolier, qu'on s'empare de lui — mais non, attendez ; Fevidence de sa faute, je le crains, n'est pas encore suffisante pour autoriser son arrestation.''
Entendant cela, d'un air tout humilie M. Thornhill supplia qu'on recusat le temoignage porte contre lui par deux miserables^ et reclama en sa favour celui de ses gens. '^ Vos gens," repliqua le baron William, " malheureux, vous n'avez plus de gens ! Yoyons neanmoins ce qu'auront a dire ces droles. Qu'on appelle le sommelier."
D^s son apparition, le regard de son ancien maitre lui dit que
34*
402 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
by his former master's looks (304) that all his power (653, 54, 79) was now over. " Tell me (40, 623)/' cried (55) Sir William, sternly, " have you (56, 403) ever seen your master, and that fellow dressed up (1066) in his clothes, in company together (711)?'' — "Yes, please your honor," cried (55) the butler, "a thousand (588) times; he was (380,54) the man that always brought him his ladies." — " How !" interrupted young Mr. Thorn- hill, "this to my face?" — "Yes," replied (55) the butler, "or to any man's (304) face. To tell you (1177) a truth. Master Thorn- hill, I never either loved you (56) or liked you (727), and I don't care (52) if I tell you (738 bis) now a piece of my mind." — "Now, then," cried (55) Jenkinson, "tell his honor whether you know (52, 1073) any thing of me."— "I can't say (59,49)," replied (55) the butler, "that I know much good of you (1074). The night that gentleman's (304) daughter was deluded (55, 79, 776) to our house, you was (54,1031) one of them." — "So, then," cried (55) Sir William, " I find you have brought (52) a very fine witness (933) to prove (727) your innocence; thou stain to humanity! to associate (1176, 623) with such wretches ! But," continuing (769,366) his examination, "you tell me (623, 52), Mr. Butler, that this was (52,728) the person who brought (55) him this old gentleman's daughter.'^ — " No, please your honor," replied (55) the butler, " he did not bring her (55, 1081 bis), for the squire himself (856) undertook (58, 776) tliat busi- ness; but he brought (52, 732) the priest that pretended to marry (1030) them."— "It is (380,52,821 bis) but too true," cried (55) Jenkinson, " I cannot deny it (39,1176); that was the employment (380,54,365 bis) assigned to me (665,58,777); and I confess it (52, 623) to my confusion."
" Grood Heavens!" exclaimed (55) the baronet, "how every new discovery of his villany alarms me (52, 623) ! All his guilt is now (52) too plain, and I find his prosecution was dic- tated by tyranny, cowardice, and revenge : at my request, Mr. Jailer, set this young officer, now your prisoner, free, and trust to me (52) for the consequences. I'll make it (52, 623) my business to set the affair (1178) in a proper light to my friend the magistrate
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 403
ce maitre etait dechu de tout pouvoir. '' Dites-moi/' s'ecria le baron William d'un ton grave, "avez-vous jamais vu votre maitre en compagnie de ce drole ? et avez-vous vu celui-ci porter les habits de I'autre ?" '' Oui, monseigneur/^ repondit le som- melier, ^Hres-souvent, — c'etait son pourvoyeur de dames." — ^' Comment !" fit le jeune Tbornhill, " cela meme en ma presence?" '^ Oui/' repliqua le sommelier, '^et devant,qui que ce soit. A vous dire ma fa§on de penser, M. Thornhill, je ne vous ai jamais aime ni estime; aussi peu m'importe-t-il que vous sacbiez mon opinion." " Maintenant," fit Jenkinson, ^' dites k Monsieur le baron si vous savez qui je suis." '^ Sur votre compte," repliqua le sommelier^ " je n'aurai pas grand bien k dire. Le soir, quand la pauvre fille de ce monsieur fut amenee k la maison, vous fai- siez partie de ce nombre." ^' Dans ce cas," dit le baron, " vous produisez la un temoin qui prouve parfaitement votre innocence ! bonte de la famille, t'associer ainsi avec de pareils miserables ! Mais," ajouta-t-il, continuant son enquete, ^Wous me dites, M. le sommelier, que c'est la I'individu qui amena la demoiselle." *' Non," repliqua le sommelier, '^ ce ne fut pas lui qui Famenaj car le baronnet lui-meme s'etait cbarge de cette afiaire. C'est lui qui amena le pretre qui devait faire le pretendu mariage." " Ce n'est que trop vrai," s'ecria Jenkinson, " et je ne saurais le nier. C'etait Ik I'emploi qu'on m'avait assigne, ce que je confesse k ma honte."
" G-rand Dieu I" s'ecria le baron, ^' la sceleratesse de ce vau- rien m'epouvante k mesure que je la decouvre ! Son crime n'est plus douteux. La tyrannic, la lachete, et la vengeance ont ete ses seuls mobiles dans cette malheureuse afiaire. Ge61ier, a ma requete, liberez ce jeune officier; c'estmoi qui vous en reponds. Je me charge, aupr^s de mon ami le magistrat qui I'a mis en
404 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
who has committed him (711, 1041 bis). But where is (52) the unfortunate young lady herself? let her appear (665,736,40) to confront this (623,49) wretch; I long (52,1087) to know (1178, 1073) by what arts he has seduced (56, 79, 776) her. Entreat her (40, 623) to come in (1178). Where is she (405, 52, 181) V
"Ah ! sir," said I (55), "that question stings me (52, 623) to the heart ; I was (54) once indeed happy in a daughter, but her
miseries (367) " Another interruption here prevented me
(57, 21) ; for who should make (39) her appearance but Miss Arabella Wilmot, who was (54) the next day to have been mar- ried to Mr. Thornhill (1137 bis) ? Nothing could equal (55, 1176) her surprise at seeing (706) Sir William and his nephew here before her, for her arrival was (54, 815) quite accidental. It happened that she and the old gentleman, her father, were passing (771) through the town, on their way to her aunt's, who had (58, 777) insisted that her nuptials (1137 bis) with Mr. Thornhill should be consummated (736 bis, 1062^ at her house; but, stopping (55) for refreshment, they put up (1137 bis) at an inn at the other end of the town. It was there, from the win- dow, that the young lady happened (55) to observe one of my little boys playing (771) in the street, and, instantly sending (732) a footman to bring (736, 751) the child to her, she learned (55) from him some account of our misfortunes, but was still kept igno- rant (1176) of young Mr. Thornhill's (304) being the cause. Though her father made several remonstrances on the impro- priety of her going (1178) to a prison to visit us, yet they were ineffectual; she desired (55) the child to conduct her (1176, 623,443), which he did; and it was (52, 642) thus she surprised us (52,623) at a juncture so (556) unexpected.
Nor can I go on (52, 105) without a reflection on those acci- dental meetings, which, though they happen (773) every day (1201), seldpm excite (52, 679) our surprise but upon some ex- traordinary occasion. To what a fortuitous (556) concurrence do we not owe (52) every pleasure and (550) convenience of our lives I How many seeming accidents must unite (52) before we
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 405
accusation, de lui presenter I'afFaire sous son veritable jour. Mais oil est la pauvre victime ? Qu'on me Tamene pour la con- - fronter avec son seducteur; il me tarde de savoir par quels moyens elle a ete seduite par ce miserable. Suppliez-la de venir : ou done est-elle ?"
"Helas! monsieur/' m'ecriai-je, ^'pour moi cette question est poignante: oui, j 'avals une fille qui faisait mes delices, mais ses chagrins me Tout ravie." Ici je fus interrompu — par qui croi- riez-vous ? par Mile. Wilmot elle-meme, qui le lendemain devait 6pouser M. Thornbill. Voyant ici le baron William et son neveu riex^e put egaler son etonnement; car sa presence en ce moment n'etait que I'effet du basard. Passant avec son p^re le vieux M. Wilmot au-travers du village en route pour la resi- dence de sa tante, qui avait tenu a ce que son mariage avec M. Thornbill se celebrat chez elle, ils s'arret^rent pour se rafraicbir h une auberge situee h Fautre extremite de Tendroit. S'etant mise a la croisee elle apergut un de nos bambins jouant dans la rue. Elle envoya aussitot un laquais pour qu'il lui amenat I'en- fant, et ce fut de ce dernier qu'elle apprit notre detresse, sans pourtant connaitre que M. Thornbill en etait cause. Malgr6 les remarques de son pere sur Finconvenance de nous visiter dans une prison, elle s'y fit conduire par le petit ; ce qui nous explique sa presence inattendue en ce moment.
Avant de continuer mon recit, je dois faire une remarque sur ces rencontres fortuites, qui, renouvelees tous les jours, ne nous causent de Fetonnement qu'en de certaines occasions remar- quables. A quel encbainement de circonstances ne sommes- nous pas redevables pour les plaisirs ou pour les commodites de la vie ! Que de combinaisons, que de petits incidents ont lieu pour
406 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
can (757) be clotlied or fed! The peasant must be disposed (738 bis) to labor (712), the shower must fall (727,484), the wind fill (727) the merchant's (304) sail, or numbers must want (39, 163) the usual supply.
We all continued (55) silent for some moments, while my charming pupil, which was (52, 648) the name I generally gave this young lady (54), united in her looks (773) compassion and astonishment, which gave (55) new finishings to her beauty. ^' Indeed, my dear Mr, Thornhill," cried she (55) to the squire, who she supposed (54, 1231) was come here to succor, and not to oppress us (623, 1176), ^' I take it (52, 79) a little unkindly that you should come (39) here without me, or neve^inform me (1178) of the situation of a family so dear (556) to us both; you know (735) I should take (39) as much pleasure in contri- buting (1230) to the relief of my reverend old master here, whom I shall ever esteem, as you can. But I find (52, 623) that, like your uncle, you take pleasure (52, 727) in doing (1230) good in secret."
"He find (1176, 1046 bis) pleasure in doing good!" cried (55) Sir William, interrupting her (772); "no, my dear, his pleasures are (679, 556) as base as he is. You see (52) in him, madam, as complete a villain as ever disgraced (556) humanity. A wretch, who, after having deluded (155) this poor man's daughter (304, 1191), after plotting against the innocence of her (367) sister, has thrown (769) the father into prison, and the eldest son into fetters (52, 1030) because he had (56) the courage to face (1176) his betrayer (592) ! and give me leave (736, 776), madam, now to congratulate you (1178,623) upon an escape (1231,780, 786) from the embraces of such a monster."
" Oh, goodness," cried (55) the lovely girl (556), "how have I been deceived (56, 777) ! Mr. Thornhill informed me (58, 74, 1134), for certain (605 bis), that this gentleman's eldest son (304), Captain (1184) Primrose, was gone (54,776) off to America with his new-married lady (1078)."
" My sweetest miss (407)," cried (55) my wife, " he has told you (56, 1102) nothing but (815) falsehoods. My son George
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 407
nous procurer le vetement ou la nourriture ! II faut d'abord que le paysan soit dispose a travailler, que la pluie arrose la terre, et que le vent enfle la voile du navire. Sans cela le grand nombre ne pourrait satisfaire a ses besoins.
Pendant quelques instants nous gardames tons le silence, et ma cbarmante pupille (car c'est le nom que je donnais generale- ment k cette jeune-personne), emue de compassion et de surprise, nous presenta Fimage de la beaute la plus suave. "Vraiment, cber M. Tbornhill," dit-elle, s'adressant au baronnet qu'elle croyait etre venu a notre aide et non pour nous opprimer, "je suis tentee de me facber quand je vous trouve ici sans m'en avoir prevenue ; ou de ne m' avoir pas dit mot d'une famille qui ne m'est pas moins cbere qu'a vous. Yous n'ignorez pas le plaisir que j'aurais eu a soulager mon ancien precepteur, lui qui possede mon estime autant qu'il possede la votre. Mais, sem- blable k votre oncle, je decouvre que vous vous plaisez a faire le bien en secret."
" Lui prendre plaisir a faire le bien V s'ecria le baron William en rinterrompant ; " non, ma cbere ses plaisirs sont vils comme lui. Mademoiselle, en sa personne vous voyez le plus grand sc^lerat de la terre ; un miserable qui apres avoir seduit la fille de ce malbeureux pere, a complote contre I'innocence de la soeur de sa victime. Emprisonnant le pere, il fait charger le fils de fers parcequ'il a ete assez brave pour regarder en face le destructeur de sa famille ! Et maintenant, mademoiselle, qu'il me soit per- mis de vous complimenter d' avoir ecbapp6 aux embrassements d'un pareil monstre."
" Misericorde I" s'ecria la bonne fille, '' combien ai-je ^t^ trom- p«5e ! M. Tbornhill m'avait donn4 pour certain que le fils de monsieur, le capitaine Primrose, etait parti pour TAmerique avec la femme qu'il venait d'epouser."
'^Ma cb^re demoiselle," s'ecria ma femme, '^il ne vous a chante-lk qu'un tas de mensonges. Mon fils, Greorges, n'a jamais
408 THE VICAR or WAKEFIELD.
never left the kingdom (727, 1041 bis), nor ever was (732) mar- ried. Though you have forsaken him (743, 667 bis), he has always loved you (780) too well to think (1176) of anybody else; and I have heard him (56, 1176) say he would die (39) a bachelor for your sake.'' She then proceeded (55, 129) to ex- patiate upon the sincerity of her son's (304) passion; she set (55) his duel with Mr. Thornhill in a proper light, thence she made (769) a rapid digression to the squire's (304) debaucheries, his pretended (556) marriages, and ended (732, 55) with a most insulting picture of his (367) cowardice.
'^Good Heavens !" cried (55) Miss Wilmot, "how very near have I been (56) to the brink (358, 918, 1085) of ruin ! but how great is my pleasure (93, 52) to have escaped (780) it! Ten thousand (588) falsehoods has this gentleman told me (56) ! He had at last (55) art enough to persuade me (49, 623) that my promise to the only man I esteemed (740, 751) was no longer binding (54), since (774) he had been (54) unfaithful. By his falsehoods I was taught (55, 1039, 1176) to detest one equally brave and generous.'^
But by this time my son was freed (57) from the incumbrances of justice, as the person supposed (86) to be wounded (665,54) was detected (1176) to be an impostor. Mr. Jenkinson also, who had acted (623, 54) as his valet-de-chambre, had dressed up (155, 1231) his hair (1185), and furnished him (55) with what- ever was necessary to make (1148) a genteel appearance. He now, therefore (55, 1041), entered, handsomely dressed in his regimentals ; and without vanity, for I am above it (771), he ap- peared (68) as handsome a fellow as ever wore a military dress. As he entered (772), he made (55) Miss Wilmot a modest and distant (556) bow, for he was not as yet acquainted (769) with the change which the eloquence of his (367) mother had wrought (777, 58) in his favor. But no decorums could restrain the im- patience of his blushing mistress to be forgiven (1177, 1039). Her tears (288), her looks (367), all contributed (54, 686) to discover (727) the real sensations of her (367) heart, for having forgotten her former promise, and having suffered herself to be
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 409
mis le pied hors du royaume et non plus n'est pas marie. Quoi- que vous I'ayez oublie il ne vous a pas moins aimee sans jamais songer k d'autres : souvent lui ai-je entendu dire qu'il mourait g&rgon pour Tamour de vous." EUe discourut ensuite longue- ment sur la sincerite de la passion de son enfant ; sur le duel qu'il avait propose h M. Thornhill et qu^elle nous representa sous le jour le plus favorable ; passant de la rapidement aux debauches de M. Thornhill et sur ses pretendus mariages^ elle conclut par una description sarcastique du courage de ce gentilhomme.
" Grrand Dieu !" s'ecria Mile. Wilmot, " combien ai-je et^ pr^s de ma ruine, et que je me rejouis d'avoir echappe h> ce danger. Quel tas de mensonges ce M. Tbornbill ne m'a-t-il pas dit ! II finit enfin par me persuader que la promesse faite au seul homme qui possedat mon estime, n'etait plus un engagement pour moi attendu qu'il etait infidele. Ses mensonges me firent detester un homme brave et genereux tout-k-la-fois."
Pendant ce temps mon fils fut debarrasse des entraves de la justice; vu que Findividu que Ton pretendait blesse se trou- vait etre un imposteur. Apres lui avoir arrange les cheveux, M. Jenkinson, qui s'etait fait son valet-de-chambre, lui fournit les objets necessaires pour se presenter decemment. II fit done son entree en uniforme ; et j'ajoute sans vanite, ^tant au-dessus de ce faible, qu^avant lui personne n' avait mieux porte I'accoutre- ment militaire. En entrant il fit un salut respectueux k Mile. Wilmot, ignorant encore le changement que F eloquence de sa m^re avait produit en sa faveur. Mais I'impatience qu'eprouvait sa maitresse a se faire pardonner ne put etre restreinte par aucune regie d'etiquette. Ses pleurs, ses regards, tout en elle montrait le trouble qu'eprouvait son coeur en envisageant Fim- posture doAt elle avait ete dupe. S'etonnant de sa condescen-
35
410 THE VICAR OE WAKEFIELD,
deluded by an impostor. My son appeared amazed (55) at her condescension, and could scarcely believe it (55) real. ^' Sure, madam (1184)/' cried he (732), ^^ this is (52, 821 bis) but delu- sion ! I can (52) never have merited (641) this I To be blessed thus is to be (52) too happy I" — " No, sir,'' replied she (55), " I have been deceived, basely deceived (56, 776) ; else nothing could have (751) ever made me unjust to my promise. You (52, 1074, 657) know my friendship, you have long known it (1073, 883) j but forget (40) what I have done (780), and as you once had (777) my warmest vows of constancy, you shall now have (726) them repeated, and be assured (40, 799), that if your Arabella cannot be yours (52, 623, 1016), she shall never be (59) another's (304).'^—'^ And no other's you shall be (598, 727)," cried (55) Sir William, " if I have (39) any influence with your father (1184)."
This hint was (555) sufficient for my son Moses, who imme- diately flew (55, 1140) to the inn where the old gentleman was (54, 1137 bis), to inform him (623, 1176) of every circumstance that had happened (58, 1160 bis). But in the mean time, the squire, perceiving (769, 665) that he was (54) on every side undone (418), now finding (769) that no hopes were left from flattery or dissimulation, concluded (52, 1178) that his wisest (407) way would be (39, 1178) to turn and fac« (987) his pursuers. Thus, laying aside (769) all shame, he appeared (55, 93) the open and hardy villain. ^^I find, then (52)," cried he (55), "that I am to expect (52,547) no justice here; but I am resolved it shall be done (59,777) me. You shall know (845), sir," turning (769) to Sir William, " I am no longer (52) a poor dependant upon your favors. I scorn them (52, 727, 623). Nothing can keep (52, 105) Miss Wilmot's fortune from me, which, I thank her father's assiduity (304), is (52) pretty large. The articles and a bond for her fortune are (679) signed (776), and safe in my possession. It was (648, 54) her fortune, not her person, that induced me (54) to wish for this match ; and possessed of the one, let who will take (52, 623, 854) the other."
This was (640, 54) an alarming blow; Sir William was sensi-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 411
*
dance mon fils en soup^onna la sinc^rit^. " Certainement, mademoiselle, ceci est un reve et je suis indigne de tant de faveurs ! — tant de bonlieur c'est trop pour moi I" " Non, mon- sieur," repliqua-t-elle, "j'ai ete trompee, bassement trompee, sans cela j'eusse ete fidele a ma promesse. Yous savez quelle est mon amitie et vous la connaissez de longue-main. Oubliez done ce que j'ai fait; car, aujourd'bui, je yous renouvelle ces voeux sinceres de Constance que je vous avals faits dans le temps. Oui, soyez-en convaincu, si elle ne pent §tre k vous votre Ara- belle certainement ne sera jamais a un autre." " Et nul autre ne vous possedera/' s'ecria le baron William, '^ ou je n'aurai aucune influence sur monsieur votre pere."
A bonne oreille bonne entente. Mon fils Moise, k ces mots, sur-le-cbamp courut h I'auberge ou le vieux M. Wilmot ^tait descendu afin de lui faire part de ce qui s'etait passe. S'aper- cevant qu'on le battait de tout c6te, et ne comptant plus sur la flatterie ni sur la ruse, le baronnet conclut de faire volte-face contre ses adversaires. Mettant toute bonte de c6te resolument il se presenta comme un vrai vaurien ebonte. " Je m'aper- 9ois," s'ecria-t-il, ^'qu'ici il n'est point de justice pour moi. Mais justice me sera faite, c'est du moins ce que j'entends. Quant a vous, monsieur," s'adressant au baron William, " appre- nez que je ne suis plus le pauvre mendiant dependant de vos faveurs que je meprise. Rien ne pent me depouiller de la for- tune de Mile. Wilmot, qui est assez considerable grace aux eco- nomies de son pere. Tout signes le contrat et I'obligation pour la somme sont en surete dans ma pocbe. C'etait a la fortune que j'en voulais mais a elle aucunement! Tel etait le but de mon mariage avec cette personne; possesseur de la dot pent la prendre qui voudra — peu m'importe I"
C'etait \k un coup terrible. Le baron William n'ignorait pas
412 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
%
ble (54, 86) of the justness of his (367) claims, for he had been (1231) instrumental in drawing up the marriage articles himself. Miss Wilmot, therefore, perceiving (765, 861) that her fortune was (54) irretrievably lost, turning (769) to my son, she asked (55, 623) if the loss of fortune could lessen (54) her value to him. "Though fortune (535),'^ said she (55), "is out (52) of my power, at least I have (52) my hand (1177) to give."
"And that (363), madam," cried her real lover (55), "was indeed (54) all that you ever had (727) to give ; at least all that I ever thought worth (52, 959) the acceptance. And I now protest (52), my Arabella, by all (855) that's happy, your want of fortune this moment increases (727) my pleasure, as it serves (52, 250) to convince (52, 250) my sweet girl of my sincerity."
Mr. Wilmot now entering (55,1041), he seemed not a little pleased (55,727) at the danger his (367) daughter had just escaped (777, 786), and readily consented (55) to a dissolution of the match. But finding (732) that her fortune, which was secured (773) to Mr. Thornhill by bond, would not be given up (54, 1176), nothing could exceed (55) his disappointment. He now saw (55) that his money must all go (54, 1076, 1176) to enrich one who had no fortune of his own. He could bear (861, 84) his being (55) a rascal, but to want (93, 49) an equivalent to his daughter's fortune was (54, 648, 1176) wormwood. He sat (55), therefore, for some minutes employed (773,706) in the most (535) mortifying (556) speculations, till Sir William at- tempted (55) to lessen (1178) his anxiety. "I must (52, 105) confess, sir," cried he (55), 'Hhat your present disappointment does not entirely displease me (623,52). Your immoderate pas- sion (556) for wealth is now justly punished (55). But though the young lady cannot be (1014 bis) rich, she has still (727) a com- petence sufficient to give (49) content. Here (417) you see (52) an honest (551) young soldier, who is willing (59, 799) to take her without fortune; they have long loved (726, 674) each other, and, for the friendship I bear (726, 847) his father, my interest shall not be wanting (59, 1177, 764) in his promotion. Leave (40), then, that ambition which disappoints (93, 1154)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 413
quelle etait la valeur du titre, ayant lui-m^me coopere k la redaction du contrat-de-mariage. Voyant qu'elle avait irrevo- eablement perdu sa fortune, se tournant vers mon fils Mile. Wilmot lui demanda si cette perte la rendait moins ch^re a ses yeux? " Quoique la fortune m'ecliappe," ajouta-t-elle, ^'j'ai encore ma main a donner/'
" Et cette main/' s'ecria son veritable adorateur, " etait vrai- ment tout ce que vous aviez h accorder. C'est la du moins le seul objet de mes desirs. J'avoue, mon Arabelle, que pour moi votre d^faut de fortune en ce moment est une^nouvelle cause de bon- heur. 11 convainc ma douce amie de la sinc^rite de mon attache- ment pour elle."
En ce moment M. Wilmot fit son entree. II parut tr^s-satis- fait que sa fille eut ecbappe a ce danger, et consentit de bon coeur a la rupture du mariage. Mais des qu'il apprit que la dot garantie par obligation h, M. Thornbill allait tomber dans les mains de ce dernier, le mecompte du pauvre-homme fut k son comble. Tout son argent allait passer dans les mains d'un stranger sans le sou. Peu importait sans doute h M. Wilmot que cet etranger fut un fripon ; mais se voir ainsi enlever la for- tune de sa fille etait plus que ne pouvait en endurer son coeur d'avare. Pendant quelque temps il demeura plough dans des reflexions fort accablantes, d'ou le baron William essaya de le tirer. " Je dois vous avouer, monsieur, que, loin de me d^plaire ce contretemps me procure une sorte de satisfaction : il vous punit justement de votre amour immodere pour les rich esses. Toutefois, si votre fille n'est pas ricbe, il lui reste encore assez pour avoir ce necessaire qui procure le vrai bonbeur. Vous avez Ik, un jeune et brave soldat qui s'en accommodera sans for- tune. L'un et Fautre s'aiment depuis longtemps. En conside- ration de I'estime que j'eprouve pour le p^re, j'emploierai mon influence h faire avancer le fils. Quittez done cette ambition
.^5*
414 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD. •
you, and for once admit (40) that happiness which courts (52) your acceptance/^
" Sir William," replied (55) the old gentleman, '^ be assured I never yet forced (56) her inclinations, nor will I (59,231) now. If she still continues (52, 1177) to love this young gentleman, let her have him (41, 743, 1046 bis), with all my heart. There is (52, 103) still, thank Heaven, some fortune left, and your promise will make it (52, 103) something more. Only let (736) my old friend here," meaning me (54,1075), "give me a promise (740, 1178) of settling six thousand (588) pounds upon my girl, if ever he should come (59, 734) to his fortune, and I am ready (52,79, 918, 776) this night to be the first (1177) to join them together (726)."
As it now remained (54, 821 bis) with me to make the young couple (510) happy, I readily gave (55) a promise of making (1231) the settlement he required ; which, to one who had such little expectations as I (775), was (54) no great favor. We had now (55j 434), therefore, the satisfaction of seeing them (1231) fly (1176, 1140) into each other's arms in a transport. '^ After all my misfortunes," cried (55) my son George, " to be thus re- warded (1176) ! Sure this is more than I could ever (54,1176) have presumed to hope for. — To be possessed of all that's (1176, 806) good, and after such an interval of pain ! my warmest (405) wishes could never rise (54) so high !" — " Yes, my George," returned (55) his lovely bride, " now let the wretch (736) take (744, 747) my fortune : since you are (52, 750) happy without (906) it, so am I (52,871,639). Oh, what an exchange have I made (52, 1144), from the basest of men to the dearest (407,408), best! Let him enjoy (736,747,41) our fortune; I now can be (52,847) happy even (431) in indigence." — "And I promise (52,623) you," cried (55) the squire, with a malicious grin, "that I shall be (59) very happy with what you despise (52)." — "Hold, hold (40), sir," cried (55) Jenkinson ; "there are (829, 1223) two words to that bargain. As for (845) that lady's for- tune, sir, you shall never touch (59, 415) a single stiver of it. Pray (40), your honor," continued (55) he to Sir William, "can
• LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 415
qui sans cesse se joue de yous, et, pour une bonne fois, acceptez ce bonheur qui toujours s'offre de lui-meme/^ *
"Baron William/^ repondit le vieillard, "jamais je n'ai force les inclinations de ma fille, et je ne le ferai pas h present. Si elle persiste a aimer ce jeune bomme qu'elle le prenne; je sous- eris de grand coeur a sa volonte. Grrace au ciel il leur reste encore assez de fortune ! et votre promesse pent encore Faug- menter. Tenez, que mon vieil ami ici present" — c'etait moi qu'il voulait dire — " me promette d'assurer a ma fille six mille livres dans le cas oil il recouvrera sa fortune, et je suis des ce soir le premier a les marier."
Comme le bonbeur du jeune couple ne dependait plus que de moi, sur-le-cbamp je donnai la promesse d' assurer la somme requise ; ce qui, du reste, n'etait pas un grand effort de ma part, vu que j'etais sans espoir de recouvrer mon capital. Nous eumes rieanmoins le plaisir de les voir s'embrasser avec joie. " Apres tant de malbeurs," s'ecria mon fils Greorges, " obtenir une telle recompense c'est beaucoup plus que je ne pouvais I'esperer ! posseder tant de bonbeur apres des moments si pe- nibles, c'est une cbose h laquelle je ne pouvais aucunement m'at- tendre !'' '^Oui, Georges/^ ajouta sa cbarmante pretendue, *^ que le miserable garde ma fortune ; puisque vous etes content sans elle je le suis aussi. Oh ! quel ecbange viens-je de faire, quittant le plus vil pour recevoir le plus cber et le meilleur ! Qu'il jouisse de notre fortune; maintenant je puis §tre beureuse puisque vous I'etes dusse-je tomber dans I'indigence T' "Etje vous garantis," s'ecria le jeune baronnet avec un rire sardo- nique, " qu'avec ce que vous meprisez je serai parfaitement beu- reux.'' — " Attendez, attendez, monsieur," s'ecria Jenkinson, '^ voici deux mots sur ce marcb^. Quant k la fortune de cette demoiselle vous n'en aurez pas un centime. Excusez ma de-
416 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
the squire have (988) this lady's fortune (304) if he be married to another ?" — '' How can you (623, 1176) make such a simple demand (556, 334) ?" replied the baronet (55) ; '' undoubtedly he cannot (52)/'—" I am sorry (799,52) for that,'' cried (55) Jenkinson, " for as this gentleman and I (21) have (1231) been old fellow-sporters, I have (52) a friendship for him. But I must declare (52, 1176), well as I love him, that his contract is not worth (727, 52) a tobacco-stopper, for he is (840) married already (727, 776)."—" You lie (52) like a rascal," returned (55) the squire, who seemed roused (55,777) by this insult; "1 never was legally married (56, 405) to any woman." — " Indeed, begging (52,987) your honor's (304) pardon," replied the other (55), " you were (52); and I hope (52, 893) you will show a proper return of friendship to your own honest Jenkinson, who brings you (52) a wife ; and if the company restrain (52, 1176, 1075) their curiosity a few (537) minutes, they shall (59) see her." So saying (769), he went off with his usual celerity, and left us (769) all unable to form any probable conjecture as to his design. "Ay, let him go (41)," cried (55) the squire: '^what- ever else I may have done (667 bis, 736), I defy (52, 623) him there. I am (52) too old now to be frightened with (779, 52, . 727) squibs."
" I am surprised (52, 86)," said the baronet, " what the fellow can intend (1075) by this. Some (537) low piece of humor (59, 855), I suppose (59)."— "Perhaps (1016, 52), sir," replied I (55), ''he may have (52) a more serious meaning. For when we reflect (52) on the various schemes this gentleman has laid (777) to seduce (49) innocence, perhaps some one, more artful than the rest, has been found (55, 635) able to deceive him. When we consider (771) what numbers he has ruined, how many parents now feel (52) with anguish the infamy and the conta- mination which he has brought (655, 726) into their families, it would not surprise me (39) if some one of them Amaze- ment! Do I see (736, 743) my lost daughter? Do I hold her (727)? Itis(648, 727), my life, my happiness! I thought thee lost (58, 777), my Olivia, yet still I hold thee (52), and still thou shalt
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 417
rnande," dit-il, s'adressant au baron William, "le barontiet a-t-il droit a la fortune de mademoiselle s'il est marie h une autre femme ?'■' " Pourquoi me faire une pareille question V repliqua le baron William : " il est clair qu'il ne le pent." '' J'en suis faclie pour lors/' s'ecria Jenkinson, " parceque ce gentilhomme et moi ayant ete camarades dans le temps, je me sens pour lui un petit faible d'amitie. Mais ami qu'ami je dois lui declarer que son contrat ne vaut pas une pipe de tabac, parcequ'il est dej^ marie." " Tu mens comme un fripon/^ s'ecria le baronnet qui se sentit blesse de cette insulte; " je n'ai jamais ete marie legale- ment avec qui que ce soit." " Je vous demande bien pardon, monsieur, mais vous Fetes. Vous daignerez montrer un peu plus d'amitie, j'ose I'esperer, a votre bon Jenkinson qui vous rend une femme ', et si la compagnie presente veut m'accorder quelques instants on aura bientot le plaisir de la voir." Disant cela il sortit avec un air degage, nous laissant incertain sur ce qu'il allait faire. " Qu'il s'en aille," s'ecria le baronnet, ''quoi que je puisse avoir fait je me moque»de lui sur ce point. Je suis trop vieux maintenant pour qu'on m'en conte."
" J'ignore ou veut en venir le compare," dit le baron William ; ^' sans doute sera-ce quelque mauvaise plaisanterie." " Qui le sait!" repliquai-je, '' peut-§tre a-t-il en vue quelque cbose de plus serieux. Car, si nous reflecbissons sur la foule de moyens employes par ce gentilbomme pour seduire I'innocence, il se pourrait enfin qu'il fut dupe d'un plus ruse que lui. Considerant le nombre de ses victimes, ou celui des p^res et des meres qui aujourd'bui ressentent I'infamie et la souillure qu'il a introduites dans leurs families, rien ne m'etonnerait si quelqu'un d'eux. . . , Que vois-je ! N'est-ce pas une illusion, et est-ce bien ma fille? Mon Olivic, toi que j'avais cru morte, je tiens dans mes bras et
418 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
live (52) to bless me (49, 1176) !" The warmest (407) transports of the fondest lover were not greater (39,1176) than mine, when I saw him (55, 1176) introduce my child, and held my daughter (732) in my arms, whose silence (367, 596) only spoke her (54, 855) raptures. "And art thou returned (52, 86) to me, my darling," cried (55) I, " to be my comfort in age ?" — " That she is (40)," cried (65) Jenkinson, "and make much (40, 623) of her, for she is (52, 640) your own honorable child, and as honest (556) a woman as any in the whole room, let the other be who she will (854). And as for you (845), squire, as sure (808, 434) as you stand there, this young lady is (52, 727) your lawful wedded wife : and, to convince you (49, 623) that I speak (52) nothing but the truth, here is (40) the license by which you were married to- gether." So saying (769), he put (55) the license into the baronet's hand (304), who read it (155, 777, 623), and found it (55) perfect in every respect. " And now, gentlemen," continued he (55), "I find (52) you are surprised at all this (171) ; but a very few words (537) will explain (59, 162 bis) the difficulty. That there squire of renown, for whom I have (52) a great friend- ship— but that's between ourselves (52) — has often employed me (623, 56) in doing odd little things for him. Among the rest, he commissioned me (55, 1178) to procure him a false license, and a false (556) priest, in order (1161) to deceive this young lady. But as I was (54) very much his friend, what did I do (55, 764) but went (55) and got a true license and a true priest, and married them (732, 623) both as fast as the cloth could make them ? Perhaps you'll (52, 1176) think it was (640,55) gene- rosity made me do all this. But no. To my shame 1 confess it (52, 623), my only design was (54, 1178) to keep the license, and let the squire know (799, 1178) that I could prove it upon him (1178) whenever I thought proper, and so make him come down whenever I wanted money (30,991)." A burst of pleasure now seemed to fill (55) the whole apartment; our joy even reached the common room, where the prisoners themselves sym- pathized,—
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 419
tu vis pour faire mon bonheur." Quand je vis mon enfant et que je la pressai sur mon coeur, les plus vifs transports d'un amant n'auraient pu egaler les miens ; son silence me disait ce qui se passait dans le sien. '' Tu reviens h moi, ma clierie, pour etre la consolation de ma vieillesse/^ " Oui, cherissez-la," s'ecria Jenkinson ; " car c'est votre honorable fille, aussi bonnete qu'aucune des femmes ici presentes n'importe laquelle. Quant k vous, baronnet, aussi sur que vous etes \h cette dame est votre fejnme legitime. Pour vous convaincre que je dis vrai lisez ceci : c'est Facte de votre mariage avec madame.^' Disant cela il mit le document dans les mains du baron, qui Tayant lu le trouva parfaitement en regie. " Messieurs," s'ecria-t-il alors, " cela vous surprend, n'est-ce pas ? quelques mots vous en expliqueront le mystere. Ce baronnet que vous avez sous les yeux et que j'aime de tout mon coeur — cbose que je dis de vous k moi — souvent m'a employe a de certaines drolleries pour son compte. Parmi le nombre, pour tromper cette jeune personne, il me char- gea de lui procurer un faux-acte et un faux-pretre. Etant trop son ami voici ce que je crus devoir faire : je me procurai un acte en forme, et un veritable pretre qui les maria tout-de-bon aussi solidement que chair et ongle. N'allez pas croire que ce fut generosite de ma part. Non, je Favoue k ma honte, mon intention etait de garder Facte de devers moi, d'en instruire le baronnet, et de le ranyonner quand ma bourse serait k sec.'* Une explosion de joie remplit alors Fappartement, et un ^cho sympathique la reproduisit dans la salle commune.
420 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
''"And shook their chains In transport and rude harmony."
Happiness was expanded (54, 86) upon every face, and even Olivia's cheeks seemed flushed (55) with pleasure. To be thus restored (777) to reputation, to friends and (83^, 535) fortune at once, was a rapture (54) sufficient to stop (49) the progress of decay, and restore former health and vivacity. But perhaps, among all, there was (54, 598) not one who felt sincerer pleasuj:e than I (1204). Still holding (769) the dear loved child in my arms, I asked (54) my heart if these transports were not (54, 727) delusion. "How could you," cried (55) I, turning to Jen- kinson, " how could you add (56) to my miseries by the story of her death ? But it matters not (854) ; my pleasure at finding her again (1178, 623) is more than a recompense for the pain.'*
"As to (845) your question," replied (55) Jenkinson, "that is easily (52,637) answered (938, 1176). I thought (54) the only probable means of freeing (1230,1178) you from prison was (54, 1178) by submitting to the squire, and consenting (1178) to his marriage with the other young lady. But these you had vowed (58, 1092) never to grant (39) while your daugh- ter was (511 bis) living; there was (55), therefore, no other method to bring things to bear, but by persuading you (640, 55, 1039, 764) that she was dead (54, 717). I prevailed on (55) your wife to join in the deceit, and we have not had (93, 776) a fit opportunity of undeceiving you (1178, 1230) till now.'^
In the whole (826 bis) assembly there now appeared (751) only two faces that did not glow with transport (727, 54). Mr. ThornhilFs (304) assurance had entirely forsaken him (1041); he now saw (55) the gulf of infamy and want before him, and trembled (55) to take the plunge. He therefore fell (771) on his knees before his uncle, and in a voice (290) of piercing misery implored (55) compassion. Sir William was going (54, 1076) to spurn him away (69), but at my request he raised him (765, 1176), and after pausing a few (537) moments, — " Thy vices, crimes, and ingratitude (555)," cried (55) he, " deserve
LE VIOAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 421
" Et du bruit de leurs fers, La sombre enceinte retentit."
Le bonheur rayonnait sur tous les visages; et les joues d'Olivie prirent une teinte vermeille que leur communiqua le plaisir. Se voir ainsi tout-k-coup rendue h rhonneur, a sa famille et k la fortune, etaient de sufiisans motifs pour arreter les progres de sa melancolie. Parmi cc nombre d'heureux toutefois nul n'eprou- vait une joie egale k la mienne. Pressant cette chere enfant sur mon coeur, je me demandais si je n'etais pas Tobjet d'une illu- sion. " Comment/' m'ecriai-je, me tournant vers Jenkinson, " comment avez-vous pu aggraver mes chagrins par I'liistoire fictive du deces de ma fille ? Mais, n'importe, le plaisir de la reposseder fait plus que compenser mon premier chagrin."
"Quant h cette question/' repliqua Jenkinson, " je puis facile- ment y repondre. J'entrevoyais que de faire votre soumission au baronnet, et de consentir a son mariage avec I'autre demoi- selle serait le seul moyen de vous tirer de prison. Comme vous aviez jure que vous n'y consentiriez jamais du vivant de votre fille, le seul moyen d'en venir la fut de vous faire accroire qu'elle ^tait morte. Votre femme consentit a cette deception innocente, et ce n'est qu'aujourd'hui que s'est oflferte Foccasion de dessiller vos yeux."
II ne restait que deux visages, parmi les personnes presentes, qui ne portassent pas I'empreinte de la satisfaction gen^rale. L'effronterie de M. Thornhill lui ayant fait defaut, il aper§ut beant devant lui un gouffre d'infamie et de mis^res. Saisi de crainte a cette vue et tombant aux pieds de son oncle, d'une voix de suppliant il implora sa misericorde. Le baron William allait lui temoigner son m^pris, quand k ma pri^re lui faisant quitter cette humiliante posture, apr^s une pose de quelques instants il lui adressa ces paroles — " Tes vices, tes crimes et ton
36
422 THE VICAR OP WAKEFIELD.
(52, 679) no tenderness, yet thou slialt not be (59, 162 bis) en- tirely forsaken ; a bare competence shall be supplied (727), to support (49) the wants (991) of life, but not its (366) follies. This young lady, thy wife, shall be (59) put in possession of o> third part (335) of that fortufie which once was thine (56) ; and from her tenderness alone thou art to expect (59,1177) any ex- traordinary supplies for the future (711). '^ He was going to ex- press (54) his gratitude for such kindness in a set speech j but the baronet prevented him (623, 55) by bidding him (769) not aggravate (1178) his meanness, which was (54) already but too apparent. He ordered him at the same time to be gone (1178), and from all his former domestics to choose one (1178), Buch as he should think (54, 727) proper, which was all (606, 54) that should be (727) granted to attend him.
As soon as he had left us (57, 776), Sir "William very politely stepped up (55) to his new niece with a smile, and wished her (55, 1026) joy. His example (512) was followed by (714) Miss "Wilmot and her father : my wife, too, kissed her daughter with much affection, as, to use her own expression, she was now made (54) an honest woman of Sophia and Moses followed (55) in turn, and even our benefactor Jenkinson desired (55, 1046 bis) to be admitted to that honor. Our satisfaction seemed (54) scarcely capable of increase. Sir William, whose greatest plea- sure was in doing good (1176,1032), now looked round (771), with a countenance open as the sun, an,d saw nothing but joy in the looks of all except (774) that of my daughter Sophia, who, for some reasons (537) we could not comprehend, did not seem (54) perfectly satisfied. '*! think, now," cried (55) he, with a smile, "that all the company, except one or two, seem (700) per- fectly happy. There only remains (52) an act of justice for me to do (1177). You are sensible (52), sir," continued he (55), turning to me (769), " of the obligations we both owe (52, 988) to Mr. Jenkinson ; and it is (52) but just we should (738 bis) both reward him for it. Miss Sophia will (59,799,52, 605 bis), I am sure, make him very happy, and he shall have (727) from me five hundred (583) pounds as her fortune ; and upon this I
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 423
ingratitude," s'ecria-t-il, "ne meritent aucune indulgence. Tu ne seras-pas neanmoins abandonne. Tu auras un revenu suffi- sant pour tes besoins, rien pour entretenir tes folies. Cette jeune personne, ta femme, aura le tiers de la fortune que tu as possedee ; et c'est d'elle qu^a I'avenir tu auras a dependre pour tes depenses excedant ce revenu." Dans un discours en regie le baronnet s'appretait a lui temoigner sa reconnaissance ; mais son oncle Yen empecba lui ordonnant de ne pas augmenter sa bas- sesse, qui deja n^etait que trop apparente. II lui signifia en m§me temps de se retirer.; et parmi ses domestiques de se cboisir celui qui lui conviendrait le mieux, car c'etait tout ce qu'on lui accordait pour son service particulier.
Des qu'il fut sorti, fort poliment le baron William s'approcha de sa nouvelle niece, et le sourire sur les levres fit des voeux pour son bonbeur. Son exemple fut suivi de Mile. Wilmot et par son pere. Ma femme aussi embrassa de bon coeur sa fiUe ; laquelle, pour me servir de son expression, redevenait encore honnete-femme. Sopbie et Moise prirent leur tour; et M. Jen- kinson, notre bienfaiteur, voulut aussi prendre part a cet hon- neur. Notre bonbeur paraissait a son comble. Regardant autour de lui d'un air rayonnant, le baron William dont le principal plaisir consistait a faire le bien n'apergut que des visages beu- reux ; a I'exception de Sopbie, pourtant, qui pour quelque secret motif ne paraissait en aucune maniere partager le bonbeur des autres. " Je crois," s'ecria-t-il avec un sourire, " qu'a Fexception d'un ou de deux tout le monde ici est completement satisfait ; mais il nous reste encore a remplir un acte de justice. Yous appre- ciez, Monsieur," dit-il en se retournant vers moi, " les obligations que nous avons a M. Jenkinson; il est done juste qu'il en soit recompense. Mile. Sopbie j'en suis certain fera son bonbeur. J'ajouterai pour dot cinq cent livres, ce qui doit les faire
424 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
am sure they can live very comfortably together. Come (40), Miss Sophia, what say you (736) to this match of my making? — will you have him (1046 bis) ?" My poor girl seemed (55) almost sinking into her mother's arms (304) at the hideous pro- posal. " Have him (623, 1176), sir V cried she (55), faintly; "no, sir, never!" — "What!'' cried he, again (727), "not have (1176) Mr. Jenkinson, your benefactor; a handsome young fel- low, with five hundred (584) pounds and good expectations !" — " I beg (779, 52), sir," returned she (732), scarcely able to speak (665, 54, 1176), " that you will desist (49, 1178, 1228), and not make me so very wretched." — " Was ever such obstinacy known (665, 56) ?" cried he (55), again, " to refuse (1176) a man whom the family has (52) such infinite (806, 556) obliga- tions to, who has preserved (56) your sister, and who (657) has five hundred pounds ? What ! not have him (163, 623, 1176) !" — " No, sir, never (403, 486)," replied she (55), angrily; " I'd sooner (407) die first (757) !"— "If that be the case, then," cried he (55), " if you will not have him, I think (59) I must have (742) you myself (857)." And so saying (765), he caught her (55, 623) to his breast with ardor : " My loveliest (407), my most sensible of girls," cried he (732), "how could you ever think (56, 780) your own Burchell could deceive you (737,751), or that Sir William Thornhill could ever cease (742) to admire. (1178) a mistress that loved him (52, 728, 623) for himself alone? I have (52) for some years (316) sought (726) for a woman who, a stranger to my fortune, could think (742, 751) I had merit as a man. After having tried in vain, even among (826 bis) the pert and the ugly, how great at last must be (52) my rapture to have made (56, 1031) a conquest of such sense and such heavenly beauty !" Then, turning (93, 771) to Jenkinson, — " As I cannot (52, 212), sir, part (975,1176) with this young lady myself, for she has taken (56) a fancy to the cut of my face, all the recom- pense I can make (52,1176) is (640,727) to give you (1178, 623) her fortune, and you may call upon (69, 59) my steward to- morrow for five hundred pounds (1185)." Thus we had (55) all our compliments to repeat (1177), and Lady Thornhill under-
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 425
vivre comfortablement. Approchez, mademoiselle Sophie, que pensez-vous de ce mariage a ma fagon ? Youlez-vous prendre M. Jenkinson ?" A cette horrible proposition la pauvre enfant parut s'evanouir dans les bras de sa mere. " Le prendre lui, mon- sieur!" s'ecria-t-elle d'une voix defaillante, " Non, jamais!'' " Comment/' ajouta-t-il, " ne pas vouloir de M. Jenkinson, le bienfaiteur de la famille, un tres-joli gargon, jeune, possesseur de cinq cents livres, sans compter un bel avenir/' " Je yous en conjure, monsieur,'' repliqua-t-elle, d'un ton de voix qu'on pou- vait a peine entendre; "si vous ne voulez pas me rendre mal- heureuse cessez de me parler ainsi." " Mais a-t-on jamais vu pareil entetement !" s'ecria-t-il encore, " refuser un bomme k qui la famille doit tant ! qui a sauve sa soeur et qui possede cinq cents livres ! Ne pas en vouloir I" " Non, monsieur, jamais !" repondit-elle d'un air colere ; " plutot la mort !" " Dans ce cas," ajouta-t-il, '^ si vous ne voulez pas le prendre il faudra que je vous prenne moi-meme." Disant cela il la pressa tendrement sur son coeur. ^' 0 ! la plus aimable et la meilleure des filles," s'ecria-t-il, " comment avez-vous pense que votre Burcbell put vous tromper I ou que le baron William Thornbill cessat d' ad- mirer une maitresse qui ne Faime que pour lui-meme ? Depuis longtemps je cberche une femme,qui, etrang^re a ma fortune ne m'aimat que pour mon merite. Apres avoir essaye, mais en vain, meme parmi les laides et les mal elevees, que ne doit-il pas etre mon bonbeur quand je fais encontre d'une beaute aussi divine ?" Se tournant ensuite vers M. Jenkinson — " Comme je ne peux me dessaisir de cette jeune-personne attendu qu'elle a pris gout k mon physique, tout ce que je puis faire c'est de vous ceder sa dot : demain mon homme-d'affaires vous comptera les cinq cents livres." De cette maniere nous eumes encore h re- nouveler nos compliments; et la future Me. Thornhill passa
8fl«
426 THE VICAR OF WAKEriELD.
went (55, 1113 bis) tlie same round of ceremony that her sister had done before. In the mean time Sir William's gentleman appeared, to tell us (49) that the equipages (1185) were ready (54, 679, 918) to carry us to the inn, where every thing was pre- pared for our reception. My wife and I led the van (54, 680), and we left (769) those gloomy mansions of sorrow. The gene- rous baronet ordered (55, 1039) forty pounds (1185) to be distri- buted (1176) among the prisoners, and Mr. Wilmot, induced by his example, gave (55) half (564) that sum. "We were received (57, 776) below by the shouts of the villagers, and I saw and shook (769) by the hand two or three of my honest parishioners, who were (54, 776, 909) among the number. They attended us (55, 623) to our inn, where a sumptuous entertainment was pro- vided (58), and coarser provisions distributed in great quantities* among the populace.
After supper (884), as my spirits were exhausted (484, 767) by the alternation of pleasure and pain which they had sustained during the day, I asked permission (55,623,1178) to withdraw; and leaving the company (769) in the midst of their mirth, as soon as I found (55) myself alone, I poured out (769) my heart in gratitude to the G-iver (434) of joy as well as of sorrrow, and then slept (55, 1153) undisturbed till morning.
LE VIC AIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 427
alors par le meme ceremonial que sa soeur. Le majordome du baron, pendant ce temps, vint annoncer que les equipages qui devaient nous prendre a Fauberge voisine etant prets, rien de plus ne manquait pour notre reception. Quittant cette demeure de tristesse et de malheur ma femme et moi ouvrions la marcbe. Le genereux baron fit distribuer quarante livres parmi les prison- niers, et, pousse par cet exemple, de son cote M. Wilmot en donna vingt. Ce fut aux acclamations des villageois que nous fumes re§us dans la rue ; touchant aussi la main h quelques-uns de mes bons paroissiens qui se trouvaient m§les a la foule. lis nous escorterent jusqu'k I'auberge oh. un somptueux festin ^tait prepare, et ou I'on distribua a la populace des vivres plus sub- stantiels que les notres.
Epuis6 par les alternatives de plaisir et de douleur je deman- dai cong^ de me retirer apres le souper. Quittant la compagnie au plus fort de sa joie, d^s que je me vis seul avec reconnais- sance elevant mon ame vers Celui qui envoie le bien comme le mal, je dormis d'un profond somme jusqu'au lendemain matin.
428 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
CHAPTER XXXII.
THE CONCLUSION (306).
The next morning, as soon as I awaked, I found (55) my eldest son sitting at my bedside, who came (769, 1176, 179 bis) to increase my joy with another turn of fortune in my favor. First having released me (623, 769) from the settlement that I had made (58, 777) the day before in his favor, he let me know (55, 1176; 1074) that my merchant who had failed (54,1085) in town was arrested (1231) at Antwerp, and there had given up (665, 58) effects to a much greater amount than what was due (54, 49) to his creditors. My boy's (304) generosity pleased me (55) almost as much as this unlooked-for good fortune. But I had some (54, 537) doubts whether I ought in justice to accept (1176) his offer. While I was pondering (54, 79) upon this, Sir William entered (55,706) the room, to whom I communicated (55, 1031) my doubts (711). His opinion was (55, 732) that as my son was already possessed (54) of a very affluent (412 bis) for- tune by his marriage, I might accept (54, 1176) his (592) offer without hesitation. His business, however, was to inform me (54, 623, 1176) that as he had (58) the night before sent for (1176, 69) the licenses, and expected (54) them every hour, he hoped (54, 893) that I would not refuse (39) my assistance in making all the company happy that morning.
A footman entered (55, 1176, 1077) while we were (54, 21) speaking, to tell us that the messenger was returned (58) ; and as I was by this time ready (1231,918), I went down (55, 859), where I found (769) the whole company as merry as affluence and innocence (535, 550) could make them (698). However, as they were now preparing (54) for a very solemn ceremony, their laughter entirely displeased me (55, 679). I told them (55, 732)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 429
CHAP I THE XXXII.
CONCLUSION.
La matinee suivante, d^s mon re veil, je trouvai pr^s de mon lit mon fils ain^, qui vint accroitre ma joie par Fannonce d'un nouveau revirement heureux de fortune. M'ayant libere d'abord de Ten- gagement que j 'avals pris la veille en faveur de sa pretendue, il m'apprit que le negociant cliez qui j'avais mes fonds etant arrete k Anvers, on avait trouve sur lui plus de valours qu'il n'en fallait pour satisfaire tons ses creanciers. La generosite de mon fils me plut encore plus que ne le fit ce recouvrement inattendu de mon argent. J'eprouvais quelques scrupules h accepter son ofire, et ^tais tout indecis sur le parti que j'aurais a prendre, quand le baron William entrant dans la cbambre je lui fis part de mon embarras. II fut d'avis que je pouvais accepter roff"re sans hesi- tation; attendu que par son mariage mon fils possedait deja une fortune assez rondelette. II venait me dire qu'il attendait, d'heure en beure, des permis-de-marriage qu'il avait envoye prendre la veille par expr^s ; et qu'il comptait que je ne refuse- rais pas, ce matin, de completer par mon minist^re le bonbeur de notre society.
Pendant que nous causions un laquais vint annoncer le retour du messager. Etant pr§t je descendis; trouvant la reunion aussi heureuse que le bien-etre et I'innocence pouvait la rendre. Comme nous nous preparions, neanmoins, pour une ceremonie tr^s-solennelle je fus choqu4 de leurs grands rires. Je les entre-
430 THE VIGAR OP WAKEPIELD.
of the grave, becoming, and sublime deportment; tbey should assume (54) upon this mystical occasion, and read them (74, 55) two homilies and a thesis, of my own composing, in order to pre- pare them. Yet they still seemed (55) perfectly refractory and ungovernable. Even as we were going along to church, to which I led the way, all gravity had quite forsaken them (769), and I was often tempted (55) to turn back (1178,1088) in indignation. In church a new dilemma arose, which promised (54) no easy solution. This was (54), which couple should be married (39, 776) first: my son's bride (304) warmly insisted (54, 1062) that Lady Thornhill (that was to be) should take the lead (751,1113 bis) ; but this the other refused (54) with equal ardor, protesting (765) she would not be guilty of such rudeness for the world. The argument was supported for some time between both with equal obstinacy and good breeding. But as I stood all this time with my book (1185) ready, I was at last (771) quite tired of the contest, and, shutting it (772, 638), '^ 1 perceive (52, 55)," cried I, " that none of you have a mind to be married, and I think (79, 52) we had as good (736, 1148) go back again ; for I suppose (775) there will be (59) no business done here to-day." This at once reduced them (55) to reason. The baronet and his lady were (55,679) first married, and then my son (679) and his lovely partner.
I had previously (58) that morning given orders that a coach should be sent for (1176, 1081 bis) my honest neighbor Flam- borough and his family, by which means, upon our return to the inn, we had (55) the pleasure of finding the two Miss Flam- boroughs alighted (54, 776) before us, Mr. Jenkinson gave (55) his (592) hand to the eldest, and my son Moses led up the other; and I have since found (52, 79) that he has taken a real liking to the girl, and my consent and bounty he shall have (52, 1176) whenever he thinks proper to demand them. We were no sooner returned (54) to the inn, but numbers of my parishioners, hear- ing (155, 696) of my success, came (55, 679) to congratulate, me (49, 623); but among the rest were those (54) who rose (58) to rescue me, and whom I formerly rebuked (58) with such sharpness.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 431
tins sur le maintien grave, sublime, convenant qu'exigeait ce rite mystique. Je leur lus meme deux homelies et une these de ma composition. Tout fut h, pure perte ; autant en emporta le vent. Meme pendant la marche a I'eglise, moi en t§te, eux oubliant tout sentiment de gravite, je me vis sur le point de les quitter avec indignation. Arrives 1^ autre difficulte. Le dilemme non plus n'etait pas facile k resoudre; il ne s'agissait que de savoir quel couple se marierait le premier. La pretendue de mon fils tenait a ce que la baronne Thornhill passat la premiere. Mais celle-ci refusait obstinement, alleguant que rien au monde ne lui ferait commettre une pareille inconvenance. Pendant ce debat, debout mon livre ouvert, finissant par perdre patience je leur dis en le refermant, " Comme personne n'a envie de se marier je suis d'avis que nous nous en retournions, vu qu'il ne se fera rien ici d'aujourd'hui.^^ Ces mots a I'instant les ramenerent tons a Tordre. Le baron William et sa dame passerent les premiers; puis vinrent mon fils avec son aimable compagne.
A I'avance, d^s le matin, j'avais commands un carrosse pour nous amener I'bonn^te voisin Flamborough et sa famille ; aussi d^s notre retour k I'auberge trouvames-nous les deux demoiselles Flamborough qui dej^ etaient descendues de voiture. M. Jen- kinson donna la main h Fainee et Moise h, la cadette. Je me suis apergus depuis lors que celui-ci aime tendrement cette fille ; aussi peut-il compter sur mon consentement et mon aide d^s qu'il croira h 'propos de se marier. A peine etions-nous de retour a Fauberge, qu'ayant su notre bonne-fortune grand nombre de mes paroissiens vinrent pour nous y complimenter. Parmi ce nombre se trouvaient ceux qui avaient vole k mon secours et que j^avais si vertement tanc^s. Je racontai I'affaire au baron Wil-
432 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
I told (55) the story to Sir "William, my son-in-law, wlio went out (55) and reproved them (1030) with great severity; but, finding them (765, 55) quite disheartened by this harsh reproof, he gave them (55) half a guinea apiece to drink (49) his health and raise (764) their dejected spirits.
Soon after this we were called (665,55) to a very genteel entertainment, which was dressed (773) by Mr. Thornhill's (304) cook. And it may not be improper to observe (1039,910), with respect to that gentleman, that he now resides (52,1087) in quality of companion at a relation's house, being very well liked, and seldom sitting (52, 665, 445) at the side-table except (774) when there is (1223) no room at the other, for they make no stranger of him (666, 52). His time is (1113 bis) pretty much taken up in keeping his relation, who is a little melancholy, in spirits (711), and in learning (52,726) to blow (1177, 1104) the French horn. My eldest daughter, however, still remembers (921, 93) him with regret; and she has even told me, though I make a great secret of it, that when he reforms (54) she may be brought (39) to relent (1176, 706). But to return (52), for I am not apt to digress thus : when we were to sit down (55, 1041 bis) to dinner, our ceremonies were going (55) to be renewed. The question was (55, 1178), whether my eldest daughter as being a matron should not sit (39) above the two young brides (556) ; but the debate was cut short (55) by my son George, who proposed (727) that the company should sit (39) indiscrimi- nately, every gentleman by his lady. This was received (57) with great approbation by all excepting (774) my wife, who, I could perceive (55), was not perfectly satisfied (49, 776), as she expected (623,54) to have had the pleasure (1178) of sitting at the head of the table and carving the meat (1104) for all the company. But, notwithstanding this, it is impossible (54) to describe our good humor. I cannot say (735, 1074) whether we had (55) more wit among us now than usual, but I am (640, 52) certain we had (732) more laughing (1156), which answered the end as well. One jest (531) I particularly remember (921) : old Mr. Wilmot drinking to Moses, whose head was turned (58,776)
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 433
liam, mon gendre, qui sortit pour leur en faire un severe r^pri- mande. Mais voyant que sa remontrance les avait tout-a-fait decourages, afin de rallier leur gaiete il donna h chacun d'eux une demi-guinee pour aller boire h sa sante.
On nous appela, apr^s cela, pour assister h un magnifique festin prepare par le chef de M. Thornhill. Revenant k ce monsieur il est bon de faire remarquer qu'en qualite de mon- sieur-de-compagnie, il reside actuellement chez un de ses parents qui en fait beaucoup de cas. Rarement le met-on a la petite table, h moins qu'il n'y ait pas place a Fautre, car c'est sans fagon qu'on agit avec lui. La plus grande partie de son temps se passe k distraire ce parent que Ton dit hypocondriaque. II apprend aussi h, donner du cor. Ma fille ainee, pourtant, se le rappelie avec regret. Elle a meme ete jusqu'a me dire, que, si jamais il s'arrangeait, elle condescendrait a lui pardonner : mais cela n'est dit qu'entre vous et moi. Peu porte aux digressions je retourne a mon sujet. Quand nous nous mimes a table les ceremonies recommencerent. La question fut de savoir, alors, si en sa qualite de matrone ayant preseance sur les nouvelles ma- riees, ma fille ainee ne devrait pas occuper le haut-bout de la table. A cela mon fils G-eorges repliqua que chaque cavalier s'assierait pres de sa dame, ce qui trancba sur-le-champ la diffi- culte. Cette proposition fut bien accueillie de tout le monde ; ma femme exceptee que je remarquai n'etre pas enti^rement satisfaite, vu qu'elle avait anticipe d'occuper ce baut-bout pour decouper les viandes. A cela pres tout le monde etait de bonne- humeur. Je ne saurais dire si nous montrames plus d'esprit que de coutume. Ce dont je suis certain, pourtant, c'est que nous rimes a gorge-deploy^e, et Tun certainement vaut bien Tautre. Je me rappelie encore un coq-a-Fane qui eut lieu. Buvant h la sante de Moise, dont la tete etait tournee de Fautre cote, il
37
434 THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD.
another way, my son replied (55, 722), '• Madam, I thank you (52, 1175 bis)." Upon which the old gentleman, winking (769, 298) upon the rest of the company, observed (55, 910) that he was thinking (54) of his mistress. At which jest I. thought the two Miss Flamboroughs would have died (55) with laughing. As soon as dinner was over (773, 484), according to my old custom, I requested (55, 1176, 1084) that the table might be taken away, to have the pleasure of seeing (1178) all my family assembled once more by a cheerful fireside. My two little ones sat upon each knee (290,55), the rest of the company by their partners. I had (52, 861) nothing now on this side of the grave to wish for (1177); all my cares were (726, 1175) over, my plea- sure was (52, 679) unspeakable. It now only remained (736, 484) that my gratitude in good fortune should exceed (49) my former submission in adversity.
THE END.
LE VICAIRE DE WAKEFIELD. 435
echappa a mon fils de dire en rendant cette politesse au vieux M. Wilmot, '' Madame, je vous remercie." Le vieillard^ sur cette reponse nous faisant un signe de I'oeil^ ajouta, " Le gail- lard m'a pris pour sa maitresse/' Les deux demoiselles Flam- borough a ces mots ^claterent de rire. Selon mon habitude, le diner fini, je fis enlever la table pour reunir encore la famille autour d'un joyeux coin-du-feu. Mes deux bambins se per- ch^rent sur mes genoux, les autres se placerent k cote de leurs partenaires. De ce revers de la tombe je n'ai plus rien h desirer.* Mes chagrins ont cesse et mon bonheur est ineffable. Puisse, dans le bonheur, ma reconnaissance surpasser Thumilite que j'ai d^ploy^e dans I'adversit^.
FIN.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
Preface of the Translator 5
Notice of the translator , 7
Author's advertisement 8
CHAPTER I. — The description of the family of Wakefield, in which
a kindred likeness prevails, as well of minds as of persons 10
CHAPTER II. — Family misfortunes. — The loss of fortune only
serves to increase the pride of the worthy 18
CHAPTER III. — A migration. — The fortunate circumstances of
our lives are generally found at last to be of our own procuring 28
CHAPTER IV. — A proof that even the humblest fortune may grant happiness, which depends not on circumstances, but constitu- tion 44
CHAPTER V. — A new and great acquaintance introduced. — What
we place most hopes upon, generally proves most fatal 52
CHAPTER VI. — The happiness of a country fireside 60
CHAPTER VII. — A town wit described. — The dullest fellows may
learn to be comical for a night or two 68
CHAPTER VIII. — An amour which promises little good fortune,
yet may be productive of much 78
CHAPTER IX. — Two ladies of great distinction introduced. —
Superior finery ever seems to confer superior breeding 94
CHAPTER X. — The family endeavor to cope with their betters. — The miseries of the poor when they attempt to appear above their circumstances .• 102
CHAPTER XI. — The family still resolve to hold up their heads.... 112
CHAPTER XII. — Fortune seems resolved to humble the family of Wakefield. — Mortifications often more painful than real cala- mities 124
CHAPTER XIII. — Mr. Burchell is found to be an enemy; for he
has the confidence to give disagreeable advice 136
CHAPTER XIV. — Fresh mortifications, or a demonstration that
seeming calamities may be real blessings... 144
436
TABLE DES MATIEEES.
PAGE
Preface du Traducteur 5
Notice du traducteur 7
Avertissement de I'auteur 9
CHAPITRE I. — Description des Wakefield, oil se remarque une res- semblance de famille dans les traits moraux et physiques 11
CHAPITRE II. — D^sastre de famille — La parte de fortune ne sert
qu'a relever la dignite de I'homme vertueux 19
CHAPITRE III. — Un changement — Les epoques heureuses de la
vie d'ordinaire proviennent de nous-memes 29
CHAPITRE IV. — La fortune la plus mediocre peut nous procurer le bonheur, lequel depend moins des circonstances que du caractfere 45
CHAPITRE V. — Presentation d'une nouvelle et grande connais- sance — Souvent sommes-nous de9us dans nos plus belles anti- cipations 53
CHAPITRE VI.— Bonkeur d'un coin-du-feu rustique 61
CHAPITRE VII. — Description d'un bel esprit de ville — Le person- nage le plus ennuyeux peut etre amusant pendant une ou deux soirees 69
CHAPITRE VIII. — Un amour qui promet peu de fortune et qui
peut neanmoins en procurer beaucoup 79
CHAPITRE IX. — Presentation de deux dames de haut rang —
Bonne mise et grande naissance semblent se donner la main... 95
CHAPITRE X. — La famille s'essaie a rivaliser avec de plus haut
places — Misere du pauvre quand il veut paraitre plus qu'il n'est 103
CHAPITRE XI. — La famille se decide a tenir encore la tete haute 113
CHAPITRE XII. — La fortune semble vouloir humilier les Wake- field— Les blessures de I'amour-propre sont souvent plus dou- loureuses que les infortunes reelles 125
CHAPITRE XIII. — On regarde M. Burchell comme un ennemi
parcequ'il a la pr^somption d'ofi"rir un conseil qui d^plait 137
CHAPITRE XIV. — Nouvelles contrariet^s, ou demonstration que des calamit^s apparentes peuvent se consid^rer comme devraies
b^u^dictions • 145
37* 437
438 CONTENTS.
PAG8
CHAPTER XV.— All Mr. Burchell's villany at once detected.— The
folly of being overwise 158
CHAPTER XVI.— The family use art, which is opposed by still
greater 170
CHAPTER XVII. — Scarcely any virtue found to resist the power
of long and pleasing temptation 182
CHAPTER XVIII.— The pursuit of a father to reclaim a lost child
to virtue 200
CHAPTER XIX. — The description of a person discontented with the present government, and apprehensive of the loss of our liberties 210
CHAPTER XX, — The history of a philosophic vagabond, pursuing , novelty, but losing content 228
CHAPTER XXI. — The short continuance of friendship among the
vicious, which is coeval only with mutual satisfaction 262
CHAPTER XXII. — Offences are easily pardoned where there is
love at bottom 280
CHAPTER XXIII.— None but the guilty, can be long and com- pletely miserable 290
CHAPTER XXIV.— Fresh calamities 800
CHAPTER XXV. — No situation, however wretched it seems, but
has some sort of comfort attending it 310
CHAPTER XXVI. — A reformation in the jail. To make laws com- plete they should reward as well as punish 320
CHAPTER XXVII.— The same subject, continued 332
CHAPTER XXVIII. — Happiness and misery rather the result of prudence than of virtue in- this life; temporal evils or felici- ties being regarded by Heaven as things merely in themselves trifling, and unworthy its care in the distribution 342
CHAPTER XXIX. — The equal dealings of Providence demon- strated with regard to the happy and the miserable here be- low. That, from the nature of pleasure and pain, the wretched must be repaid the balance of their sufferings in the life here- after ; 366
CHAPTER XXX. — Happier prospects begin to appear. Let us be
inflexible, and fortune will at last change in our favor 376
CHAPTER XXXI. — Former benevolence now repaid with unex- pected interest 394
CHAPTER XXXII.— The conclusion 428
TABLE DES MATliiRES. 439
PAQE
CHAPITRE XV. — La bassesse de M. Burchell mise lout-a-coup au
grand jour — Folie d'etre par trop sage 169
CHAPITRE XVI. — La famille a recours aux artifices, ils sont
opposes par de plus grands 171
CHAPITRE XVII. — II y a a peine de vertu capable de ri^sister a
une tentation longue et attrayante.... 183
CHAPITRE XVIII. — La recherche d'un pere qui veutramener son
enfant a la yertu 201
CHAPITRE XIX. — Description d'un personnage m^content du gou- vernement actuel, et qui redoute la perte de nos liberies poll- ■ tiques 211
CHAPITRE XX. — Histoire d'un philosophe vagabond en quete de
la nouveaut^ et en perte du contentement 229
CHAPITRE XXI. — Une courte amitie parmi les vicieux ne dure
jamais plus que la satisfaction qu'elle procure 263
CHAPITRE XXII. — On pardonne aisement a ceux qu'on aime 281
CHAPITRE XXIII. — II n'y a que le coupable qui puisse etre long- temps malheureux 291
CHAPITRE XXIV.— Nouveaux malheurs 301
CHAPITRE XXV. — Quelque malheureuse que puisse etre notre
condition, elle a toujours son bon cote 311
CHAPITRE XXVI. — Reforme p^nitencifere — Pour etre completes les lois devraient avoir leurs recompenses comme elles ont leurs peines 321
CHAPITRE XXVII.— Suite du meme sujet 333
CHAPITRE XXVIII. — Le bonheur etle malheur en ce monde sont plutot le resultat de la prudence que de la vertu — Aux yeux de la Providence les jouissances temporelles compt^es pour peu de choses lui semblent indigne d'une repartition 6gale 343
CHAPITRE XXIX. — La justice de la Providence d^montr^e par les f^licites et par les mis^res de ee monde — Le bien et le mal, par leur nature, nous font voir que les malheureux re9oivent une compensation, dans I'autre monde, pour les maux qu'ils ont endures ici-bas 367
CHAPITRE XXX. — Annonce d'un meilleur avenir — Tenons ferme,
et la fortune finira par se tourner devers nous 377
CHAPITRE XXXI. — Bienveillance recompens^e avec usure 395
CHAPITRE XXXIL— Conclusion 429
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