Having
occasion to open his trunk, he discovered, to his surprise, that it was
unlocked. Further examination showed that he had been robbed of all his
earthly possessions. This was a severe blow. The money was the
accumulation of two years' service, and he was now penniless,--without
even a sufficient sum to pay his passage. He immediately informed the
captain of his loss, who gave him the comfortable assurance that the
robber had probably gone ashore at Natchez. However, he caused a
thorough search of the boat to be made; but, as may be supposed, the
search was vain.
Uncle Nathan sympathized with him in his loss,--not with words alone,
but voluntarily proposed to lend him any amount he required; an offer
which Henry accepted with gratitude.
"I see you are acquainted with that lady you saved from drowning," said
the worthy farmer, after he had passed the loan to Henry. The duel had
before been discussed and roundly condemned. The cause of the quarrel
had introduced the fact to which the farmer had alluded.
"I am. Her father was my best friend.
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