you cannot hesitate? What is your objection? Perhaps you are one of those
provident animals who look before they leap, and, having gained a monopoly
of wisdom, will take no scheme upon trust. You must examine with your own
eyes. I will explain the affair to you, if you choose, and convince you
beyond controversy that your money may be trebled in a twelvemonth."

"You know, brother, I can be no judge of any scheme that is at all
intricate."

"There is no intricacy here. All is perfectly simple and obvious. I can
make the case as plain to you, in three minutes, as that you have two
thumbs. In the English cottons, in the first place, there is----"

"Nay, brother, it is entirely unnecessary to explain the scheme. My
determinations will not be influenced by a statement which no mortal
eloquence will make intelligible to me."

"Well, then, you consent to my proposal?"

"I would rather you would look elsewhere for a partner in your
undertaking."

"The girl's a fool!--Why, what do you fear? suspect? You surely cannot
doubt my being faithful to your interest? You will not insult me so much
as to suppose that I would defraud you of your money? If you do,--for I
know I do not stand very high in your opinion,--if you doubt my honesty, I
will give you the common proofs of having received your money. Nay, so
certain am I of success, that I will give you my note, bond, what you
please, for thrice the amount, payable in one year."