It was one of those chances which, "taken at the flood, lead on to fortune," but there was also the question of honour, and Mr.Murray, notwithstanding his desire for opening out a splendid new connection in business, would do nothing inconsistent with the strictest honour.

He was most unwilling to thrust himself in between Constable and Longman.

Instead, therefore, of jumping at Constable's advantageous offer, his feelings induced him to promote a reconciliation between the parties; and he continued to enjoin forbearance on the part of both firms, so that they might carry on their business transactions as before.

Copies of the correspondence between Constable and the Longmans were submitted to referees (Murray and Davies), and the following was Mr.Murray's reply, addressed to Messrs.
Constable & Co.: _John Murray to Messrs.

Constable & Co_.
_December_ 14, 1805.
GENTLEMEN, Mr.Hunter's obliging letter to me arrived this morning.