three days, and I am weak with fever. I cannot work yet; wait till I am
better.'

This man's attenuated form, his bony hands and cadaverous cheeks--eyes
staring with hunger, told a tale too common, alas, of fearful suffering;
but no marble was colder than the agent.

'I am not your physician, Mr. Johnson, and therefore cannot say any
thing about your fitness for work. One thing I have to say, that is, you
cannot sit rent free in my lord's cottage; the money must be paid or out
you pack. I have an attachment on your tools, so you cannot remove them.
You have had the usual legal notice, and my offer just now was
liberal--very liberal.'

'And my children--'

'There are institutions provided by the laws, Mr. Johnson, for the
reception of paupers. But we are wasting time. Do you accept my
proposition or not?'

'I cannot do it; give me time.'

'Too much has been already wasted. Take back your money. You doubtless
can obtain more in the same manner you did this. It looks very
suspicious, I must say.'

'And this is called a Christian land!' said the poor fellow, holding his
wasted hands up to heaven. 'O God, that these things should be! The
earth is covered with food for sustaining life, and hundreds, aye,
thousands, like myself, are perishing at home. Oh, where is Christian