Thorsby found that his affairs, under the careful and conscientious management of Thomas Barnsdale and Letty, had flourished. The trade in London had greatly expanded under the judicious control of the agent whom Mr. Barnsdale had put there, and whom, in the days of his folly, Thorsby would have dismissed, if the American crisis had allowed him time. Since his return from New York, his business had equally prospered in the hands of the new house with which he had entrusted it. Worldly strength was, therefore, given to him to enable him to persevere; and even whilst his own character was at a very low estimate in his native town, he was busily engaged in schemes for the safeguard of the character of others. Whilst he was absent, and Letty attended the warehouse and counting-house, she observed that in the lobby of the warehouse there were continually people waiting, who were bringing in work, or expecting it being given out. There was a considerable number of young women amongst these, who had to remain there for hours sometimes amongst men and youths, who did not appear the most suitable companions for them. On speaking to Thomas Barnsdale about this, he said that he had long thought they ought to do something to amend this state of things. He had heard complaints from young women of the language and conduct of some young men there, and had dismissed one or two for their doings. “But,” said Letty, “cannot we curtail this waiting by establishing certain regulations, as to the bringing in and sending out work, at least so far as relates to the town?”