But there is
still another reason why I wish to get away from this situation. Mr.
Jasper seems to think and care for nothing but money-getting. In his
mind, gold is the highest good. To a far greater extent than I was,
until very recently, aware, have I fallen, by slow degrees, into his
way of thinking and feeling; until I have grown dissatisfied with
my position. Temptation has come, as a natural result; and, before I
dreamed that my feet were wandering from the path of safety, I have
found myself on the brink of a fearful precipice."
"My dear young friend!" said Mr. Melleville, visibly moved, "this is
dreadful!"
"It is dreadful. I can scarcely realize that it is so," replied
Claire, also exhibiting emotion.
"You ought not to remain in the employment of Leonard Jasper. That,
at least, is plain. Better, far better, to subsist on bread and water,
than to live sumptuously on the ill-gotten gold of such a man."
"Yes, yes, Mr. Melleville, I feel all the truth of what you affirm,
and am resolved to seek for another place. Did you not say, when
we parted two years ago, that if ever I wished to return, you would
endeavour to make an opening for me?"
"I did, Edward; and can readily bring you in now, as one of my young
men is going to leave me for a higher salary than I can afford to pay.
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