At first it appeared that an attainable degree of skill and circumspection would enable me to arrive, by means of counterfeit bills, to the pinnacle of affluence and honour.

My error was detected by a closer scrutiny, and I finally saw nothing in this path but enormous perils and insurmountable impediments.
"Yet what alternative was offered me?
To maintain myself by the labour of my hands, to perform any toilsome or prescribed task, was incompatible with my nature.

My habits debarred me from country occupations.

My pride regarded as vile and ignominious drudgery any employment which the town could afford.

Meanwhile, my wants were as urgent as ever, and my funds were exhausted.
"There are few, perhaps, whose external situation resembled mine, who would have found in it any thing but incitements to industry and invention.