The traveller had no baggage, and his dress betokened the pressure of many wants.
"My compassion for this stranger was powerfully awakened.

I was in possession of a suitable apartment, for which I had no power to pay the rent that was accruing; but my inability in this respect was unknown, and I might enjoy my lodgings unmolested for some weeks.

The fate of this youth would be speedily decided, and I should be left at liberty to execute my first intentions before my embarrassments should be visibly increased.
"After a moment's pause, I conducted the stranger to my home, placed him in my own bed, and became his nurse.

His malady was such as is known in the tropical islands by the name of the yellow or malignant fever, and the physician who was called speedily pronounced his case desperate.
"It was my duty to warn him of the death that was hastening, and to promise the fulfilment of any of his wishes not inconsistent with my present situation.

He received my intelligence with fortitude, and appeared anxious to communicate some information respecting his own state.