He had thought that he could explain the
reasons to the Minister, but found himself incapable of explaining
them to himself. In regard to means of subsistence he was no better
off now than when he began the world. He was, indeed, without
incumbrance, but was also without any means of procuring an income.
For the last twelve months he had been living on his little capital,
and two years more of such life would bring him to the end of all
that he had. There was, no doubt, one view of his prospects which was
bright enough. If Marie Goesler accepted him, he need not, at any
rate, look about for the means of earning a living. But he assured
himself with perfect confidence that no hope in that direction would
have any influence upon the answer he would give to Mr. Gresham. Had
not Marie Goesler herself been most urgent with him in begging him to
accept the offer; and was he not therefore justified in concluding
that she at least had thought it necessary that he should earn his
bread? Would her heart be softened towards him,--would any further
softening be necessary,--by his obstinate refusal to comply with her
advice? The two things had no reference to each other,--and should be
regarded by him as perfectly distinct.
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