THIRD EPOCH.

ONE of my faults (which has not been included in the list set
forth by my valet) is a disinclination to occupy myself with my
own domestic affairs. The proceedings of my footman, while I had
been away from home, left me no alternative but to dismiss him on
my return. With this exertion of authority my interference as
chief of the household came to an end. I left it to my excellent
housekeeper, Mrs. Mozeen, to find a sober successor to the
drunken vagabond who had been sent away. She discovered a
respectable young man--tall, plump, and rosy--whose name was
Joseph, and whose character was beyond reproach. I have but one
excuse for noticing such a trifling event as this. It took its
place, at a later period, in the chain which was slowly winding
itself round me.

My uncle had asked me to prolong my visit and I should probably
have consented, but for anxiety on the subject of a near and dear
relative--my sister. Her health had been failing since the death
of her husband, to whom she was tenderly attached. I heard news
of her while I was in Sussex, which hurried me back to town. In a
month more, her death deprived me of my last living relation. She
left no children; and my two brothers had both died unmarried
while they were still young men.

This affliction placed me in a position of serious embarrassment,
in regard to the disposal of my property after my death.

I had hitherto made no will; being well aware that my fortune
(which was entirely in money) would go in due course of law to