DR. FARR 119 



In this dilemma I walked to my friend the Avine- 

 merchant's, where two young ladies were on a visit, the 

 daughters of a wealthy citizen of Norwich, to one of 

 whom a member of the medical profession, who has since 

 attained a high position as well as great celebrity 

 as a physician,^ had proposed, and was then present. 

 With him I had been some little time acquainted, and as 

 fellow-feeling induces confidence, I imparted to him all 

 that had occurred, asking how he would act under such 

 conflicting circumstances. He replied, I remember, with 

 great emphasis, — 



" If a thousand lions were at the door I would go in ! " 



It did not require this rhapsody to strengthen my 

 intention of o-oino- to St. Albans, however I miirht 

 afterwards act. Consequently, I procured a substitute 

 and went down by one of the early coaches, stopping at 

 the house of my friend. His sister, Avho was on the 

 most intimate terms with the family, was not surprised to 

 see me, or ignorant of the object of my visit, but in the 

 most earnest manner entreated me not make my appear- 

 ance at the house, as the effect on the feelino-s of the 

 mother in her then state of mind would only add to her 

 sufferings, and give cause for unworthy constructions 

 on my behaviour. Her thouglits being in unison with 

 my own, and abhorring what might be deemed a mean 

 attempt at being reinstated in the favour of the dis- 

 tressed widow, I wrote a note conveying my sorrowful 

 feelings, and returned to London. 



It was not lono; before I heard that the mother's health, 

 at all times delicate, had given way under this awful 



' Dr. Farr. 



