in the fields by the Foundling Hospital, precisely at seven o'clock this
evening, when you shall be met by a person who will give you the
satisfaction you desire, together with his reason for addressing you in
this mysterious manner."

Had this intimation concerned any other subject, perhaps the knight would
have deliberated with himself in what manner he should take a hint so
darkly communicated. But his eagerness to retrieve the jewel he had lost
divested him of all his caution; the time of assignation was already at
hand, and neither the captain nor his nephew could be found to accompany
him, had he been disposed to make use of their attendance. He therefore,
after a moment's hesitation, repaired to the place appointed, in the
utmost agitation and anxiety, lest the hour should be elapsed before his
arrival.

Crowe was one of those defective spirits who cannot subsist for any
length of time on their own bottoms. He wanted a familiar prop, upon
which he could disburden his cares, his doubts, and his humours; an
humble friend who would endure his caprices, and with whom he could
communicate, free of all reserve and restraint. Though he loved his
nephew's person, and admired his parts, he considered him often as a
little petulant jackanapes, who presumed upon his superior understanding;
and as for Sir Launcelot, there was something in his character that
overawed the seaman, and kept him at a disagreeable distance. He had, in
this dilemma, cast his eyes upon Timothy Crabshaw, and admitted him to a
considerable share of familiarity and fellowship. These companions had
been employed in smoking a social pipe at an alehouse in the
neighbourhood, when the knight made his excursion; and returning to the
house about supper-time, found Mr. Clarke in waiting.