I have no doubt he will fulfil his promise, so that you will meet the gentleman." I was highly gratified by this information, and thanked my informant with some degree of warmth.

My gratitude he did not notice, but continued: "In order to beguile expectation, I have ordered supper; will you do me the favour to partake with me, unless indeed you have supped already ?" I was obliged, somewhat awkwardly, to decline his invitation, conscious as I was that the means of payment were not in my power.

He continued, however, to urge my compliance till at length it was, though reluctantly, yielded.

My chief motive was the certainty of seeing Capper.
My new acquaintance was exceedingly conversible, but his conversation was chiefly characterized by frankness and good-humour.

My reserve gradually diminished, and I ventured to inform him, in general terms, of my former condition and present views.