“I see through your design, Jack,” returned the carpenter, gravely; “but I don't like under-hand work. Even when you've a knave to deal with, let your actions be plain, and above-board. That's my maxim; and it's the maxim of every honest man. It would be a great matter, I must own, to bring Jonathan Wild to justice. But I can't consent to the course you would pursue--at least, not till I've given it due consideration. In regard to yourself, you've had a very narrow escape. Wild's intention, doubtless, was to use you as far as he found necessary, and then to sell you. Let this be a caution to you in future--with whom, and about what you deal. We're told, that 'Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul.' Avoid taverns and bad company, and you may yet do well. You promise to become a first-rate workman. But you want one quality, without which all others are valueless. You want industry--you want steadiness. Idleness is the key of beggary, Jack. If you don't conquer this disgraceful propensity in time, you'll soon come to want; and then nothing can save you. Be warned by your father's fate. As you brew so must you drink. I've engaged to watch over you as a son, and I _will_ do so as far as I'm able; but if you neglect my advice, what chance have I of benefitting you? On one point I've made up my mind--you shall either obey me, or leave me. Please yourself. Here are your indentures, if you choose to seek another master.” “I _will_ obey you, master,--indeed I will!” implored Jack, seriously alarmed at the carpenter's calm displeasure. “We shall see. Good words, without deeds, are rushes and reeds. And now take away those cards, and never let me see them again. Drive away the cat; throw that measure of gin through the window; and tell me why you've not so much as touched the packing-case for Lady Trafford, which I particularly desired you to complete against my return. It must be sent home this evening. She leaves town to-morrow.” “It shall be ready in two hours,” answered Jack, seizing a piece of wood and a plane; “it isn't more than four o'clock. I'll engage to get the job done by six. I didn't expect you home before that hour, Sir.” “Ah, Jack,” said Wood, shaking his head, “where there's a will there's a way. You can do anything you please. I wish I could get you to imitate Thames Darrell.” “I'm sure I understand the business of a carpenter much better than he does,” replied Jack, adroitly adjusting the board, and using the plane with the greatest rapidity. “Perhaps,” replied Wood, doubtfully. “Thames was always your favourite,” observed Jack, as he fastened another piece of wood on the teeth of the iron stopper. “I've made no distinction between you, hitherto,” answered Wood; “nor shall I do so, unless I'm compelled.” “I've had the hard work to do, at all events,” rejoined Jack, “But I won't complain. I'd do anything for Thames Darrell.”