He resumed:-- "I have detained you in my service, partly for your own benefit, but chiefly for mine.

I intended to inflict upon you injury and to do you good.

Neither of these ends can I now accomplish, unless the lessons which my example may inculcate shall inspire you with fortitude and arm you with caution.
"What it was that made me thus, I know not.

I am not destitute of understanding.

My thirst of knowledge, though irregular, is ardent.