The will testified their loving pride in Edward, and left their little property to George--because he "needed it"; whereas, "owing to a bountiful Providence," such was not the case with Edward.

The property was left to George conditionally: he must buy out Edward's partner with it; else it must go to a benevolent organization called the Prisoner's Friend Society.

The old people left a letter, in which they begged their dear son Edward to take their place and watch over George, and help and shield him as they had done.
Edward dutifully acquiesced, and George became his partner in the business.

He was not a valuable partner: he had been meddling with drink before; he soon developed into a constant tippler now, and his flesh and eyes showed the fact unpleasantly.

Edward had been courting a sweet and kindly spirited girl for some time.