ired whither
Thetford had removed, and whether he had any knowledge of his present
condition.

They had removed to No.--, in Market Street. Concerning their state he
knew nothing. His acquaintance with Thetford was imperfect. Whether he
had left the city or had remained, he was wholly uninformed.

It became me to ascertain the truth in these respects. I was preparing
to offer my parting thanks to the person by whom I had been so highly
benefited; since, as he now informed me, it was by his interposition
that I was hindered from being enclosed alive in a coffin. He was
dubious of my true condition, and peremptorily commanded the followers
of the hearse to desist. A delay of twenty minutes, and some medical
application, would, he believed, determine whether my life was
extinguished or suspended. At the end of this time, happily, my senses
were recovered.

Seeing my intention to depart, he inquired why, and whither I was going.
Having heard my answer,--"Thy design," resumed he, "is highly indiscreet
and rash. Nothing will sooner generate this fever than fatigue and
anxiety. Thou hast scarcely recovered from the blow so lately received.
Instead of being useful to others, this precipitation will only disable
thyself. Instead of roaming the streets and inhaling this unwholesome
air, thou hadst better betake thyself to bed and try to obtain some
sleep. In the morning, thou wilt be better qualified to ascertain the
fate of thy friend, and afford him the relief which he shall want."

I could not but admit the reasonableness of these remonstrances; but
where should a chamber and bed be sought? It was not likely that a new
attempt to procure accommodation at the inns would succeed better than
the former.

"Thy state," replied he, "is sorrowful. I have no house to which I can
lead thee. I divide my chamber, and even my bed, with another, and my
landlady could not be prevailed upon to admit a stranger. What thou wilt
do, I know not. This house has no one to defend it. It was purchased and
furnished by the last possessor; but the whole family, including
mistress, children, and servants, were cut off in a single week.
Perhaps no one in America can claim the property. Meanwhile, plunderers
are numerous and active. A house thus totally deserted, and replenished
with valuable furniture, will, I fear, become their prey. To-night
nothing can be done towards rendering it secure, but staying in it. Art
thou willing to remain here till