entirely at my own disposal, yet the bequest was accompanied with advice
to keep it unimpaired till I should want it for my own proper subsistence.
On that condition I received, and on that condition shall keep it."

"I am glad of it with all my heart," replied he, with affected
vivacity. "I was afraid you had spent it by this time on dolls, trinkets,
and baby-things. The sum is entire, you say? In your drawer? I am
surprised you could resist the temptation to spend it. I wonder nobody
thought of robbing you."

"You cannot suppose, brother, I would keep that sum in my possession?
You know it was in bank at my aunt's death, and there it has
remained."

"At what bank, pr'ythee?"

I told him.

"Well, I am extremely glad thou hadst wit enough to keep it snug, for
now the time has come to put it to some use. My father and I have a scheme
on foot by which we shall realize immense profit. The more engines we set
to work, the greater and more speedy will be the ultimate advantage. It
occurred to me that you had some money, and that, unless it were better
employed, it would be but justice to allow you to throw it into stock. If,
therefore, you are willing, it shall be done. What say you, Jane?"

This proposal was totally unexpected. I harboured not a moment's doubt
as to the conduct it became me to pursue; but how to declare my
resolutions, or state my reasons for declining his offer, I knew not.