"I thought that my friend Stephen had been a more prudent man," he observed. "How could he enter into such a speculation? How could he trust such people as Hunter and Dove? Why, Roger Kyffin, you yourself should have been better informed about them. However, if we were only to undertake to assist the wise and prudent we might keep our money chests locked and our pockets buttoned up. Stephen Coppinger is an honest man, and has shown himself a kind and generous one, albeit he might not always have exhibited as much prudence, as was desirable. The amount you mention shall, however, be at his disposal. We must not let a breath of suspicion rest on his name. I have a regard for him, and his six fair daughters, and it would be cruel to allow the maidens to go out into the world without sufficient dowers or means of maintenance, whereas if Stephen Coppinger tides over the present crisis, he may leave them all well off." "That's right, that's right," said Mrs. Barbara, looking approvingly at her brother. "He gives good advice, and acts it, too, eh, Mr. Kyffin? And now my brother has had his say I must have mine. What about the negro slave trade? We have not seen Mr. Wilberforce nor any of his friends for several weeks, and my brother cannot help on the cause as he used to do." "It is a good cause, that will ultimately be successful," answered Roger Kyffin; "but, my dear Mrs. Barbara, like other good causes, we may have a long fight for it before we gain the day. Just now men's minds are so engaged with our national affairs that the poor blacks are very little thought of." "Too true," answered Mistress Barbara; "I wish, however, that Mr. Wilberforce would call here. I want to tell him how delighted I am with his new book, which I got a few days ago--his `Practical View of Christianity.' It will open the eyes, I hope, of some of the upper classes, to the hollow and unsatisfying nature of the forms to which they cling. I think, and my brother agrees with me, it's one of the finest books on theology that has ever been written; that is to say, it is more likely to bring people to a knowledge of the truth than all the works of the greatest divines of the past and present age. Get the book and judge for yourself." Mr. Kyffin promised to do so, and after some further conversation, he rose to take his departure. Mrs. Barbara did not fail to press him to come again as soon as his occupations would allow. "The money shall be ready for you before noon to-morrow," said Mr. Thornborough, shaking his hand. Roger Kyffin hastened back to Idol Lane. Mr. Coppinger had not risen from his arm-chair since he quitted the house. The belief that his liabilities would be met without further difficulty, greatly relieved the merchant's mind, and he thanked Roger Kyffin again and again for the important assistance afforded him.