( 61 )
explaining my situation, but that the least mistake, the smallest imprudence, might betray me to insupportable wretchedness."
"Why then, if that's the case, you are very right to hold your tongue. If the law never makes a person condemn himself, much less ought a little civility. There are dangers enough in the world without running risks out of mere compliment."
Then putting his guinea before her, upon the table, he charged her to keep it unbroken till she set out, assuring her that he should himself order whatever she could require for her dinner, supper, and lodging, and settle for the whole with the landlord; as well as with the book-keeper for her journey to London.
The stranger seemed almost overpowered with gratitude; but interrupting what she attempted to say, "No thankings," he cried, "young woman! it's a bad sign when a good turn surprises a person, I have not escaped
