Behold me, then, without a coat; my honest fellow-traveller offered to lend me his, which they did not think worth taking from him, but he seemed less able to bear the cold of the night than myself, so I would not accept of his offer. We then spurred our horses and rode on, and tried to laugh at our adventure, in which, indeed, we did not make a very noble figure; though it would have been fool hardy to have attempted to resist four strong men, something like fighting a windmill, or storming the moon. Why then do I feel a little hurt at having been robbed? To say the truth, that fellow’s treachery vexed me more than the loss of my money: but I have gained something by my experience; I will never talk of my own affairs when I am travelling, or too soon make an acquaintance on the road. Farewell. CHARLES. LETTER XIII. CHARLES _to_ WILLIAM. Edward is much better, which gives me great pleasure on every account; his hot-headed antagonist may now safely return to his regiment. Edward was very anxious about him: if I should die, said he, when the surgeon thought him in danger, pray intreat Sir Charles to endeavour to obtain a pardon for young Atkins, who has only his commission to depend on; he is passionate, I knew it, and yet provoked him by my unfeeling jest; if I recover, I will be more prudent for the future. It gave me great pleasure to hear him talk so; and I hope this illness will make a good impression on his mind. Three o’clock in the afternoon.—What an agreeable surprise—my father is just arrived, and does not disapprove of my conduct! He turned pale when he heard of the robbery, and thanked heaven that had preserved him a son, whose loss he should have deplored with his latest breath. I tell you this in the pride of my heart; how sweet is the praise of a parent! Edward was glad to see him, and acknowledged his fault. I must not be long absent from this dear parent. Adieu. CHARLES. LETTER XIV. CHARLES _to_ WILLIAM. Edward is so far recovered as to be able to travel; he is to set off to-morrow for Grandison Hall, and I am to return to my tutor. When I reach home I will finish this letter. * * * * *