l Michael's departure. Up to that time, he came to
the bank in his carriage with much ceremony--spoke to the dependents
there with becoming _hauteur_, and took his leave, on all occasions, as
a rich man should, with abundant fuss, scarcely troubling himself with
the proceedings of the day. "He had," he was always repeating the words,
"he had the greatest confidence in Allcraft. It was unbounded. He felt
that he could trust to him entirely and unreservedly." Gratefully did
such expressions fall upon the flattered ear of Michael, applauding
himself ever upon his victory--upon the acquisition of such a man. Of
what service he would be to him in his well-laid plans! Of what use was
his name already--and how much more serviceable than all would be the
noble sum of money which he had _promised_ to bring into the bank at the
close of the year! Michael, in his moments of chivalry, standing in the
presence of Bellamy, looked upon him almost with an eye of pity and
self-reproach. Whilst he himself could only plead guilty to a most
refined and cunning policy, his innocent partner was but too full of
trust; too simple and too unsuspecting. Somebody remarks, that God
reserves unto himself that horrid sight--a naked, human heart. Had
Allcraft and Bellamy, during one of their early interviews, suddenly
stripped, and favoured each other with reciprocal glances--one or both
would have been slightly startled by the unexpected exhibition. Planner
had always looked upon Mr Bellamy as a very great man indeed--had
contemplated him with that exact admixture of awe and admiration, that
was pleasing and acceptable to the subject of it. Mr Bellamy, in his
turn, conducted himself towards the schemer with much cordiality and
kindness. Proud men never unbend until their supremacy is acknowledged
through your servility. Your submission turns their gall to
honey--converts their vinegar to milk--to the very cream of human
complaisance. Mr Bellamy acted his part in this respect, as in every
other--well; a tiger to such as would not cringe, he could become a
playful lamb to all who were content to fawn. Planner and he were on the
best possible terms. Looking into what is called the nature of things,
we shall think it very natural on the part of Mr Bellamy, when he found
himself so agreeably situated in regard to the circulating medium, if he
took an early opportunity to help himself of the abundance by which he
was surrounded. The truth is, that some time