CHAPTER II.



After three weeks passed in London, a year followed, during which
William and Henry never sat down to a dinner, or went into a bed,
without hearts glowing with thankfulness to that Providence who had
bestowed on them such unexpected blessings; for they no longer
presumed to expect (what still they hoped they deserved) a secure
pittance in this world of plenty. Their experience, since they came
to town, had informed them that to obtain a permanent livelihood is
the good fortune but of a part of those who are in want of it: and
the precarious earning of half-a-crown, or a shilling, in the
neighbourhood where they lodged, by an errand, or some such
accidental means, was the sole support which they at present
enjoyed.

They had sought for constant employment of various kinds, and even
for servants' places; but obstacles had always occurred to prevent
their success. If they applied for the situation of a clerk to a
man of extensive concerns, their qualifications were admitted; but
there must be security given for their fidelity;--they had friends,
who would give them a character, but who would give them nothing
else.

If they applied for the place even of a menial servant, they were
too clownish and awkward for the presence of the lady of the house;-