 beside her,
look at me, I have escaped the flames.

"IS it true?" Replied she, looking at me with great earnestness,—
no, you deceive me, you are not my papa.

A seasonable flood of tears ensued, which restored her so much that she knew me, and enquired after Charles. I related the particulars of the event, as concisely as possible, and, advising her to rest, left her in the care of Miss Moreton.

I, THEN, walked to the site, on which Maitland-hall had stood, where I found Mr. Maitland and Charles surveying the ruins. From the composure which appeared in the countenance of my old friend, I did not apprehend his loss to exceed that of the house and furniture; but, on enquiry, he informed me his strong box, containing notes and securities for upwards of fifty thousand pounds, being almost all he was worth, was missing. But, said he, to a philosopher, this is of little consequence. I can bound my appetites, and enough is left. If I lose my tranquillity, it will be a greater loss than that I have just now sustained. Tom must choose one of the professions to live by; and it is not impossible but the employment of raising a fortune, may prove much more innocent than that of spending one.

I TOOK this occasion to tell him, that I had no intention of breaking off the treaty, on account of the alteration this misfortune would make in his son's circumstances; and he, in answer, said, he expected no less, from the confidence he reposed in my integrity. When I consider the sincerity of his friendship to me, and the proofs he has given me of it, I cannot bear the thought of refusing my daughter, at this time. It carries with it a mark of baseness not to be endured. Perhaps, this disaster may give a new turn to Tom's mind, and make him more worthy of my girl. If so, all will be well, and this shocking circumstance will bet productive of good. I hope to hear that your affairs go on to your satisfaction, and am, with perfect esteem, Sir,
Your most obedient Friend and Servant, J. STAMFORD.


P. S.
My son is gone to town, to give notice of Mr. Maitland's loss at the public offices, and will be with you before this letter comes to hand.


LETTER XXXVII. Mr. ALWYN to Mr. HILKIRK.
Dear HILKIRK,
I ARRIVED at my
