I should never have decided upon such a step as this, but for the fact that I have managed to put by a small sum of money which will make me independent for two or three years.

Till quite lately I hadn't a thought of using my freedom in this way; it was clear to me that I must throw over the old drudgery at Rotherhithe, but this resolve which astonishes you had not yet ripened--I saw it only as one of the possibilities of my life.

Well, now, it's only too true that there's something of speculation in my purpose; I look to the Church, not only as a congenial sphere of activity, but as a means of subsistence.

In a man of no fortune this is inevitable; I hope there is nothing to be ashamed of.

Even if the conditions of the case allowed it, I shouldn't present myself for ordination forthwith; I must study and prepare myself in quietness.