Poor Folk

Chapter 31

But I have not yet told you in detail how things have gone with

me today. During the morning I suffered as much agony of spirit

as might have been experienced in a year. 'Twas like this: First

of all, I went out to call upon the gentleman of whom I have

spoken. I started very early, before going to the office. Rain

and sleet were falling, and I hugged myself in my greatcoat as I

walked along. "Lord," thought I, "pardon my offences, and send me

fulfilment of all my desires;" and as I passed a church I crossed

myself, repented of my sins, and reminded myself that I was

unworthy to hold communication with the Lord God. Then I retired

into myself, and tried to look at nothing; and so, walking

without noticing the streets, I proceeded on my way. Everything

had an empty air, and ever