thought little of poisoning and stabbing a
layman, would not dare to attempt the life of so sacred a character.
Having full and extraordinary powers, he had made a short inquiry into
the different departments of government, and now come to the mines to
ascertain how far the delivery of the diamonds at the treasury agreed
with the collection at the mines; for these mines had usually produced
from a million to a million and a half of revenue. The director was in
a great fuss when he heard of this arrival at the further barrier;
although immediately announced to him, he had scarcely an hour to
prepare before the superior of the Jesuits arrived with his suite,
consisting of about twenty people, and fifty or sixty sumpter mules and
riding-horses. We were all called out to receive him, that is, all the
inspectors. I went to attend the parade, and awaited with much
indifference; but my feelings were soon changed, when in this superior
of the Jesuits I beheld the Catholic priest who had visited me in the
Tower and obtained my release. The superior bowed to the director and
to all around him, and as he then looked at us all, he recognised me
immediately.

"You here, my son?" said he.

"Yes, holy father," replied I, "and I thank Heaven that your arrival
will enable me to prove my innocence."

"Pray how is this?" said he.

In a few words I narrated my story.

"And you were thrown into prison without being permitted to defend
yourself?"

"Even so, good father, and sent to the mines to slave for life."

"Did you not make known your case to the director of the mines?"

"I did, Sir, but he stated that he pitied me, but could not help me."

"Is this the case, Mr Director?" said the Jesuit, severely.

"It is, Sir," replied the director; "I have more than once reported
cases of what appeared to me great hardship, if what those condemned
have said was true, and have been told that I was too officious, and
that there could be no reversal of sentence. I can prove to you, Sir,
by my journals and letter-books, how many cases I did formerly attempt
to bring before the government; but I at last received such replies,
which I can show you, as will prove that there has been no fault of
mine."

"Allow me to add, holy father," said I, "that the kindness and
consideration of the director have been very great to all those under
his charge, and I think it very fortunate that such a person has been
appointed to this situation, as he