ing on
the floor, embracing the bolster with all my might. Such was the vivid
impression of this dream, that I could not turn my thoughts away from
it, and at last I considered that it was a divine interposition. All my
scruples vanished, and before the day had dawned I determined that I
would follow the advice of Timothy. An enthusiast is easily led to
believe what he wishes, and he mistakes his own feelings for warnings;
the dreams arising from his daily contemplations for the interference of
Heaven. He thinks himself armed by supernatural assistance, and
warranted by the Almighty to pursue his course, even if that course
should be contrary to the Almighty's precepts. Thus was I led away by my
own imaginings, and thus was my _monomania_ increased to an impetus
which forced before it all consideration of what was right or wrong.

Chapter XIX

_An important chapter--I make some important acquaintances, obtain
some important papers which I am importunate to read through._

The next morning I told my dream to Timothy, who laughed very heartily
at my idea of the finger of Providence. At last, perceiving that I was
angry with him, he pretended to be convinced. When I had finished my
breakfast, I sent to inquire the number in the square of Lord
Windermear's town house, and wrote the following simple note to his
lordship, "_Japhet Newland_ has arrived from his tour at the Piazza,
Covent Garden." This was confided to Timothy, and I then set off with
the other letter to Mr Masterton, which was addressed to Lincoln's Inn.
By reading the addresses of the several legal gentlemen, I found out
that Mr Masterton was located on the first floor. I rang the bell, which
had the effect of "Open, Sesame," as the door appeared to swing to admit
me without any assistance. I entered an ante-room, and from thence found
myself in the presence of Mr Masterton--a little old man, with
spectacles on his nose, sitting at a table covered with papers. He
offered me a chair, and I presented the letter.

"I see that I am addressing Mr Neville," said he, after he had perused
the letter. "I congratulate you on your return. You may not, perhaps,
remember me?"

"Indeed, sir, I cannot say that I do, exactly."

"I could not expect it, my dear sir, you have been so long away. You
have very much improved in person, I must say; yet still, I recollect
your features as a mere boy. Without compliment, I had no idea that you
would ever have