She has no friends, John, and no relations, save only my cousin, Dr.George Dimsdale.

Never was a girl left more lonely and unprotected.

Take her, I beg of you, and bring her up under your own eye.

Treat her as though she were your child.

Guard her above all from those who would wreck her young life in order to share her fortune.
Do this, old friend, and make me happy on my deathbed." The merchant made no answer.