And now, madam, may I beg to know the name of the family to whom I am indebted for so much kindness." Mrs.Goodwin and her husband exchanged glances, and something like a slight cloud appeared to overshadow for a moment the expression of their countenances.

At length Mr.Goodwin spoke.
"My name, sir," he proceeded, "is Goodwin; and until a recent melancholy event, your family and mine were upon the best and most cordial terms; but, unfortunately, I must say that we are not so now--a circumstance which I and mine deeply regret.

You must not imagine, however, that the knowledge of your name and connections could make the slightest difference in our conduct toward you on that account.

Your family, Mr.
Woodward, threw off our friendship and disclaimed all intimacy with us; but I presume you are not ignorant of the cause of it." "I should be uncandid if I were to say so, sir.

I am entirely aware of the cause of it; but I cannot see that there is any blame whatsoever to be attached to either you or yours for the act of my poor uncle.