I suspect that thou wast united to some one of this family by ties of tenderness like those which led the unfortunate _Maravegli_ hither." This suggestion was attended, in relation to myself, with some degree of obscurity; but my curiosity was somewhat excited by the name that he had mentioned, I inquired into the character and situation of this person, and particularly respecting his connection with this family.
"Maravegli," answered he, "was the lover of the eldest daughter, and already betrothed to her.

The whole family, consisting of helpless females, had placed themselves under his peculiar guardianship.

Mary Walpole and her children enjoyed in him a husband and a father." The name of Walpole, to which I was a stranger, suggested doubts which I hastened to communicate.

"I am in search," said I, "not of a female friend, though not devoid of interest in the welfare of Thetford and his family.

My principal concern is for a youth, by name Wallace." He looked at me with surprise.