Peregrine, in spite of his misanthropy, could not help being affected
with this uncommon testimony of regard; but he strove to stifle his
sensations. His brows contracted themselves into a severe frown;
his eyes kindled into the appearance of live coals. He waved with
his hand in signal for Godfrey to be gone, and leave such a wretch
as him to the miseries of his fate; and, finding nature too strong
to be suppressed, uttered a deep groan, and wept aloud.
The soldier, seeing him thus melted, unable to restrain the strong
impulse of his affection, sprung towards, and clasping him in his
arms, "My dearest friend, and best benefactor," said he, "I am
come hither to humble myself for the offence I was so unhappy as
to give at our last parting; to beg a reconciliation, to thank you
for the case and affluence I have enjoyed through your means, and
to rescue you, in spite of yourself, from this melancholy situation;
of which, but an hour ago, I was utterly ignorant. Do not deny me the
satisfaction of acquitting myself in point of duty and obligation.
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