maining, I
rapidly regained my strength, and with my strength, my feelings of
resentment increased in proportion. Nothing but the very weak state
that I was in when Captain Turnbull spoke to me would have softened me
down to give the kind message that I did; but my vindictive mind was
subdued by disease, and better feelings predominated. The only effect
this had was to increase my animosity against the other parties who were
the cause of my ill-treatment, and I vowed that they, at least, should
one day repent their conduct.

The Dominie called upon me the following Sunday. I was dressed and
looking through the window when he arrived. The frost was now intense,
and the river was covered with large masses of ice, and my greatest
pleasure was to watch them as they floated down with the tide; "Thou
hast had a second narrow escape, my Jacob," said he, after some
preliminary observations. "Once again did death (_pallida mors_) hover
over thy couch; but thou hast arisen, and thy fair fame is again
established. When wilt thou be able to visit Mr Drummond, and be able
to thank him for his kindness?"

"Never, sir," replied I; "I will never again enter Mr Drummond's
house."

"Nay, Jacob, this savoureth of enmity. Are not we all likely to be
deceived--all likely to do wrong? Did not I, even I, in thy presence,
backslide into intemperance and folly? Did not I disgrace myself before
my pupil--and shalt thou, in thy tender years, harbour ill-will against
one who had cherished thee when thou wert destitute, and who was
deceived with regard to thee by the base and evil-speaking?"

"I am obliged to Mr Drummond for all his kindness, sir," replied I;
"but I never wish to enter his house. I was turned out of it, and never
will again go into it."

"_Eheu! Jacobe_, thou art in error; it is our duty to forgive as we
hope to be forgiven."

"I do forgive, sir, if that is what is requested: but I cannot, and will
not, accept of further favours."

The Dominie urged in vain, and left me. Mr Tomkins also came, and
argued the point without success. I was resolved. I was determined to
be independent; and I looked to the river as my father, mother, home,
and everything. As soon as my health was reinstated, Captain Turnbull
one day came to me. "Jacob," said he, "the lighter has returned: and I
wish to know if you intend to go on board again, and afterwards go into
the vessel into which Mr Drummond proposes to send you."

"I wi