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not power to utter one word in my own vindication but stood motionless and silent, when each present made their respective remarks on what appeared against me.—My mistress took occasion to rail against the practice of employing strangers; and Mrs. Gawky, after having observed that she never had a good opinion of me, proposed to have me carried before the Justice.—Her husband was going for a Constable, but was stopt by Mr Lavement on the stairs, who considered the cost and trouble of a prosecution. The Captain and his lady used all the arguments they could, to prevail on the apothecary to pursue me to destruction. But their eloquence made no impression on my master, who turning to me said, “Go, miserable from my house, quick.—“and make reparation for your actions.” By this time my indignation had roused me from the stupefaction in which I had hitherto remained and I began in this manner:—“Sir. appearances, I own, condemn me; but you are imposed upon as much as I am abused. I have fallen a sacrifice to the rancour of that scoundrel (pointing to Gawky) who has found means to convey your goods hither; and I am afraid, madam (turning to Mrs. Gawky) you have too easily entered into the sentiments of your husband—I have often found you my enemy: and am well acquainted with the occasion of your being so, which I don't at
