this zeal?
Cannot my feeble efforts obviate some portion of this evil?

No one has hitherto claimed this disgustful and perilous situation. My
powers and discernment are small, but if they be honestly exerted they
cannot fail to be somewhat beneficial.

The impulse produced by these reflections was to hasten to the City
Hall, and make known my wishes. This impulse was controlled by
recollections of my own indisposition, and of the state of Wallace. To
deliver this youth to his friends was the strongest obligation. When
this was discharged, I might return to the city, and acquit myself of
more comprehensive duties.

Wallace had now enjoyed a few hours' rest, and was persuaded to begin
the journey. It was now noonday, and the sun darted insupportable rays.
Wallace was more sensible than I of their unwholesome influence. We had
not reached the suburbs, when his strength was wholly exhausted, and,
had I not supported him, he would have sunk upon the pavement.

My limbs were scarcely less weak, but my resolutions were much more
strenuous than his. I made light of his indisposition, and endeavoured
to persuade him that his vigour would return in proportion to his
distance from the city. The moment we should reach a shade, a short
respite would restore us to health and cheerfulness.

Nothing could revive his courage or induce him to go on. To return or to
proceed was equally impracticable. But, should he be able to return,
where should he find a retreat? The danger of relapse was imminent; his
own chamber at Thetford's was unoccupied. If he could regain this house,
might I not procure him a physician and perform for him the part of
nurse?

His present situation was critical and mournful. To remain in the
street, exposed to the malignant fervours of the sun, was not to be
endured. To carry him in my arms exceeded my strength. Should I not
claim the assistance of the first passenger that appeared?

At that moment a horse and chaise passed us. The vehicle proceeded at a
quick pace. He that rode in it might afford us the succour that we
needed. He might be persuaded to deviate from his course and convey the
helpless Wallace to the house we had just left.

This thought instantly impelled me forward. Feeble as I was, I even ran
with speed, in order to overtake the vehicle. My purpose was effected
with the utmost difficulty. It fortunately happened that the carriage
contained but one person, who stopped at my request. His co