lfishness of mankind, by the
want of seasonable remedies, and exposure to inclement airs. Some
uncertainty, however, rested on his fate. It was my duty to remove it,
and to carry to the Hadwins no mangled and defective tale. Where, I
asked, had Wallace and his companion parted?

It was about three miles farther onward. The spot, and the house within
view from the spot, were accurately described. In this house it was
possible that Wallace had sought an asylum, and some intelligence
respecting him might be gained from its inhabitants. My informant was
journeying to the city, so that we were obliged to separate.

In consequence of this man's description of Wallace's deportment, and
the proofs of a dissolute and thoughtless temper which he had given, I
began to regard his death as an event less deplorable. Such a one was
unworthy of a being so devoutly pure, so ardent in fidelity and
tenderness, as Susan Hadwin. If he loved, it was probable that, in
defiance of his vows, he would seek a different companion. If he adhered
to his first engagements, his motives would be sordid, and the
disclosure of his latent defects might produce more exquisite misery to
his wife than his premature death or treacherous desertion.

The preservation of this man was my sole motive for entering the
infected city, and subjecting my own life to the hazards from which my
escape may almost be esteemed miraculous. Was not the end
disproportioned to the means? Was there arrogance in believing my life a
price too great to be given for his?

I was not, indeed, sorry for the past. My purpose was just, and the
means which I selected were the best my limited knowledge supplied. My
happiness should be drawn from reflecting on the equity of my
intentions. That these intentions were frustrated by the ignorance of
others, or my own, was the consequence of human frailty. Honest
purposes, though they may not bestow happiness on others, will, at
least, secure it to him who fosters them.

By these reflections my regrets were dissipated, and I prepared to
rejoice alike, whether Wallace should be found to have escaped or to
have perished. The house to which I had been directed was speedily
brought into view. I inquired for the master or mistress of the mansion,
and was conducted to a lady of a plain and housewifely appearance.

My curiosity was fully gratified. Wallace, whom my description easily
identified, had made his appearance at her door on the evening o