 sooner out of hearing, than the communicative priest
desired his company to take particular notice of this person to whom he had paid
his respects: »That man (said he) is this day one of the most flagrant instances
of neglected virtue which the world can produce. Over and above a cool,
discerning head, fraught with uncommon learning and experience, he is possessed
of such fortitude and resolution, as no difficulties can discourage, and no
danger impair; and so indefatigable is his humanity, that even now, while he is
surrounded with such embarassments, as would distract the brain of any ordinary
mortal, he has added considerably to his incumbrances, by taking under his
protection that young gentleman, who, induced by his character, appealed to his
benevolence for redress of the grievances under which he labours from the
villainy of his guardian.«
    Peregrine's curiosity being excited by this encomium, he asked the name of
this generous patron, of which when he was informed, »I am no stranger (said he)
to the fame of that gentleman, who has made a considerable noise in the world,
on account of that great cause he undertook in defence of an unhappy orphan; and
since he is a person of such an amiable disposition, I am heartily sorry to find
that his endeavours have not met with that successful issue which their good
fortune in the beginning seemed to promise. Indeed, the circumstance of his
espousing that cause was so uncommon and romantic, and the depravity of the
human heart so universal, that some people, unacquainted with his real
character, imagined his views were altogether selfish; and some were not
wanting, who affirmed he was a mere adventurer. Nevertheless, I must do him the
justice to own, I have heard some of the most virulent of those who were
concerned on the other side of the question, bear testimony in his favour,
observing, that he was deceived into the expence of the whole, by the plausible
story which at first engaged his compassion. Your description of his character
confirms me in the same opinion; though I am quite ignorant of the affair, the
particulars of which I should be glad to learn, as well as a genuine account of
his own life, many circumstances of which are by his enemies, I believe,
egregiously misrepresented.«
    »Sir, (answered the priest) that is a piece of satisfaction which I am glad
to find myself capable of giving you: I have had the pleasure of being
acquainted with Mr. M -- from his youth, and every thing which I shall relate
concerning him, you
