'But it does me good to get it told; it's been burdening me this long while.

Now you must listen, Sidney, whilst I show you why I've kept this a secret.

I've no fear but _you_'ll understand me, though most people wouldn't.

It's a secret from everybody except a lawyer in London, who does business for me; a right-hearted man he is, in most things, and I'm glad I met with him, but he doesn't understand me as you will; he thinks I'm making a mistake.

My son knows nothing about it; at least, it's my hope and belief he doesn't.