permit.

To detail the events of this expedition, the arguments and supplications
which I used to overcome the dictates of avarice and fear, the
fluctuation of my hopes and my incessant disappointments, would be
useless. Having exhausted all my expedients ineffectually, I was
compelled to turn my weary steps once more to Medlicote's lodgings.

My meditations were deeply engaged by the present circumstances of my
situation. Since the means which were first suggested were
impracticable, I endeavoured to investigate others. Wallace's debility
made it impossible for him to perform this journey on foot; but would
not his strength and his resolution suffice to carry him beyond
Schuylkill? A carriage or horse, though not to be obtained in the city,
could, without difficulty, be procured in the country. Every farmer had
beasts for burden and draught. One of these might be hired, at no
immoderate expense, for half a day.

This project appeared so practicable and so specious, that I deeply
regretted the time and the efforts which had already been so fruitlessly
expended. If my project, however, had been mischievous, to review it
with regret was only to prolong and to multiply its mischiefs. I trusted
that time and strength would not be wanting to the execution of this new
design.

On entering Medlicote's house, my looks, which, in spite of my languors,
were sprightly and confident, flattered Wallace with the belief that my
exertions had succeeded. When acquainted with their failure, he sunk as
quickly into hopelessness. My new expedient was heard by him with no
marks of satisfaction. It was impossible, he said, to move from this
spot by his own strength. All his powers were exhausted by his walk from
Bush Hill.

I endeavoured, by arguments and railleries, to revive his courage. The
pure air of the country would exhilarate him into new life. He might
stop at every fifty yards, and rest upon the green sod. If overtaken by
the night, we would procure a lodging, by address and importunity; but,
if every door should be shut against us, we should at least enjoy the
shelter of some barn, and might diet wholesomely upon the new-laid eggs
that we should find there. The worst treatment we could meet with was
better than continuance in the city.

These remonstrances had some influence, and he at length consented to
put his ability to the test. First, however, it was necessary to
invigorate himself by a few hours' rest. To this, thoug