Matthews' mint per day,
and ten on Friday, when working men are poorest.
She contrived this with diabolical, no, angelical cunning, to save the
old man from ridicule, and to do his soul much good. All souls were dear
to her. What was the consequence? He went about with his mint, and
relieved poor people, and gratified his mania at the same time. His face
began to beam with benevolence and innocent self-satisfaction. On Richard
Hardie's all was cordage: and deep gloom sat on his ever-knitted brow.
Of these two men which was the rich man; he who had nothing, yet thought
he possessed enough for himself and his neighbours: or he who rolled in
wealth, but writhed under imaginary poverty?
One reflection more. Do not look to see Providence dash the cup of
prosperity from every dishonest hand; or you will often be disappointed.
Yet this, if you look closer, you shall often see: such a man holds the
glittering cup tight, and nectar to the brim; but into that cup a shadowy
hand squeezes some subtle ingredient, which turns that nectar to
wormwood.
Richard Hardie died, his end being hastened by fear of poverty coming
like an armed man, and his guinea a week going.
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