“I have nothing to pardon, madam,” said she, more calmly, “except, indeed, to Mr Albany; and to him, 'tis of no use to be angry, for he minds not what I say! he is very good, but he is very strange, for he thinks the whole world made to live in common, and that every one who is poor should ask, and every one who is rich should give: he does not know that there are many who would rather starve.” “And are you,” said Cecilia, half-smiling, “of that number?” “No, indeed, madam! I have not so much greatness of mind. But those to whom I belong have more fortitude and higher spirit. I wish I could imitate them!” Struck with the candour and simplicity of this speech, Cecilia now felt a warm desire to serve her, and taking her hand, said, “Forgive me, but though I see you wish me gone, I know not how to leave you: recollect, therefore, the charge that has been given to us both, and if you refuse my assistance one way, point out to me in what other I may offer it.” “You are very kind, madam,” she answered, “and I dare say you are very good; I am sure you look so, at least. But I want nothing; I do very well, and I have hopes of doing better. Mr Albany is too impatient. He knows, indeed, that I am not extremely rich, but he is much to blame if he supposes me therefore an object of charity, and thinks me so mean as to receive money from a stranger.” “I am truly sorry,” cried Cecilia, “for the error I have committed, but you must suffer me to make my peace with you before we part: yet, till I am better known to you, I am fearful of proposing terms. Perhaps you will permit me to leave you my direction, and do me the favour to call upon me yourself?” “O no, madam! I have a sick relation whom I cannot leave: and indeed, if he were well, he would not like to have me make an acquaintance while I am in this place.” “I hope you are not his only nurse? I am sure you do not look able to bear such fatigue. Has he a physician? Is he properly attended?” “No, madam; he has no physician, and no attendance at all!” “And is it possible that in such a situation you can refuse to be assisted? Surely you should accept some help for him, if not for yourself.” “But what will that signify when, if I do, he will not make use of it? and when he had a thousand and a thousand times rather die, than let any one know he is in want?” “Take it, then, unknown to him; serve him without acquainting him you serve him. Surely you would not suffer him to perish without aid?” “Heaven forbid! But what can I do? I am under his command, madam, not he under mine!” “Is he your father?--Pardon my question, but your youth seems much to want such a protector.” “No, madam, I have no father! I was happier when I had! He is my brother.” “And what is his illness?” “A fever.” “A fever, and without a physician! Are you sure, too, it is not infectious?” “O yes, too sure!” “Too sure? how so?” “Because I know too well the occasion of it!”