Page:Beautiful and interesting account of the shepherd of Salisbury Plain.pdf/19

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neighbour, but old Wilson, my clerk, was so infirm, and I trust so well prepared, that there is no reason to be sorry for his death, I have been to pray by him, and he died while I staid.

I have always intended that you should succeed in his place; it is no great matter, but every little is something.

No great matter, Sir, cried the Shepherd, indeed it is a great thing to me; I will more than pay my rent. Blessed be God for all his goodness. Mary said nothing, but lifted up her eyes full of tears in silent gratitude.

O Sir, cried the Shepherd, how can I ever be thankful enough for such blessings? And will my poor Mary have a dry thatch over her head? and shall I be able to send for the doctor when I am likely to lose her? Indeed my cup runs over with blessings. I hope God will give me humility. Here he and Mary looked at each other and burst into tears. The gentlemen saw their distress, and kindly walked out upon the little green before the door, that these