We cannot tell.

You know he was anxious to prevent Captain Montague from impressing his men." "And would proclaiming himself a pirate be a good way of accomplishing that end, mother ?" "Mary," said Mr.Mason, solemnly, as he seated himself at the table and looked earnestly in the widow's face, "your knowledge of this man and your manner of speaking about him surprise me.

I have long thought that you were not acting wisely in permitting Gascoyne to be so intimate; for, whatever he may in reality be, he is a suspicious character, to say the best of him; and although _I_ know that you think you are right in encouraging his visits, other people do not know that; they may judge you harshly.

I do not wish to pry into secrets; but you have sought to comfort me by bidding me have perfect confidence in this man?
I _must_ ask what knowledge you have of him.

How far are you aware of his character and employment?
How do you know that he is so trustworthy ?" An expression of deep grief rested on the widow's countenance as she replied, in a sad voice; "I _know_ that you may trust Gascoyne with your child.