I am no beggar, Sir Gervaise Oakes, though only an American.

I am the owner of a plantation, which affords me a respectable independence, already; and I do not serve from necessity, but from choice.

Perhaps, if Sir Wycherly knew this, he would consent to omit my name.

I honour and respect him; would gladly relieve his distress, either of body or mind; but I cannot consent to accept his money when offered on terms I consider humiliating." This was said modestly, but with a warmth and sincerity which left no doubt that the speaker was in earnest.

Sir Gervaise too much respected the feelings of the young man to urge the matter any further, and he turned towards the bed, in expectation of what the sick man might next say.