Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 3).djvu/232

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Gratitude is a virtue that flourishes in a noble mind; the produce of the soul, that feels a conscious sense of benefits concerned. If the freedom you procured for Fatima was solely to gratify yourself, she owes you no obligation; nor can you claim any merit from the deed."

"'Tis well," returned Heli, with a lowering brow; "I see what kindness I may expect from you; I have been a tool to all.—Oh! prophet," cried he, with a furious menacing air——

"Stop, Heli," said Ferdinand.—"Spare your appeal to Mahomet; I am more your friend that you are willing to believe; I despise and detest Fatima; she is a worthless woman; you may rejoice to get rid of one who would have proved a constant source of trouble to you; I vindicate her not; nor do I desire ever to hear of her more, because I am convinced she is incorrigible; but any services we can render you, command us, and you shall see that Christians know how to be grateful and hospitable to strangers."