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THE ALIENATED MANOR: A COMEDY.


CRAFTON.

Now, Mr. Charville, this point being settled, let me crave your pardon for a poor criminal in custody below: he is a faithful servant to an unfortunate master.

CHARVILLE.

Speak no more of it: my heart has often smote me on that subject. I have renounced the gaming-table for ever, and I restore to poor Henry all I have won from him, though it was, by every rule of honourable play, fairly won.

CRAFTON.

I believe so, entirely. But I wish the rules of honour came a little nearer to the good Bible precept, "Think not of your own matters, but think also everv one of his neighbour's." You risked a small part of your ample fortune against the whole of poor Henry's, and you took it from him. However, in restoring it, you do what has seldom been done by men of honour; and, on the part of my thoughtless relation, I gratefully receive your generosity.

MARY (after a pause).

Charles, you look melancholy; what are you thinking of?

CHARVILLE.

What I never suspected before—that I have been a very selfish fellow.—Mr. Crafton, I know that this estate was purchased by my family at