"And now, Anthony Hurdlestone, let me speak a few words to you, and mark
them well. Is it for a boy like you to prescribe rules for his father's
conduct? Away from my presence! I will not be insulted in my own house
by a beardless boy, and assailed by such impertinent importunities.
Reflect, young man, on your present undutiful conduct, and, if ever you
provoke me by a repetition of it, I will strike your name out of my
will, and leave my property to strangers more deserving of it. I hear
that you have been studying for the Church, under the idea that I will
provide for you in that profession; I could do it. I would have done it,
and made good a promise I once gave you to that effect. But this meeting
has determined me to pursue another plan, and leave you to provide for
yourself."
"You are welcome so to do, Mr. Hurdlestone," said Anthony, proudly; "the
education which I have received at your brother's expense will place me
above want. Farewell! and may God judge between us!"
With a heavy heart, Anthony returned to ----. He saw a crowd collected
round the jail, and forcing his way to the entrance, was met by Godfrey;
his face was deadly pale, and his lips quivered as he addressed his
cousin.
"You are too late, Anthony--'tis all over. My poor father--."
He turned away, for his heart, at that time, was not wholly dead to the
feelings common to our nature.
Pages:
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227