--I believe I am making an oration; but I despair of
expressing myself."
"I understand you perfectly; it is sad, indeed."
"Excuse me, you don't understand me. Some men put off old houses and put
on new ones, like their clothes, without a thought. Others grow into
their habitations and become a part of them. You might as well say to
a lobster, 'Get out of your shell,' when you know that the poor
wretch will die when his naked, quivering members are exposed to the
sharp-edged stones. A delicate nature, proud, but gentle, too sensitive
to accept charity, and doubtful of a friendly service even, suffers more
anguish in one hour, under such circumstances, than your brazen beggar
feels from his dirty cradle to his nameless grave."
Mr. Holworthy mused.
"He has nothing to do, then?"
"Nothing, but to suck his thumbs."
"Is he willing to work, even if the task should appear irksome?"
"I haven't a doubt. He has no _false_ pride. Anything honorable would be
welcome."
"Perhaps I can find something for him to do; it will be temporary, but
its continuance will depend upon himself.
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