I hope my morals are irreproachable, and that I have done my duty with a conscientious regard; I may venture an appeal to the parishioners among whom I have lived these seventeen years.

After all, it is natural for every man to favour his own friends in preference to strangers.

As for me, I propose to try my fortune in the great city, and I doubt not but Providence will provide for me and my little ones.' "To this declaration Sir Launcelot made no reply; but, riding home, set on foot a strict inquiry into the character of this man, whose name was Jenkins.

He found that he was a reputed scholar, equally remarkable for his modesty and good life; that he visited the sick, assisted the needy, compromised disputes among his neighbours, and spent his time in such a manner as would have done honour to any Christian divine.

Thus informed, the knight sent for the gentleman to whom the living had been promised, and accosted him to this effect: 'Mr.Tootle, I have a favour to ask of you.