It was with a reproachful and troublesome consciousness, therefore, that
he now addressed his more youthful companion on the subject so fearfully
presented to his thought He had already, in their brief acquaintance,
found in Ralph a firm and friendly adviser, and acknowledging in his
person all the understood superiorities of polished manners and correct
education, he did not scruple to come to him for advice in his present
difficulties. Ralph, fully comprehending his distress, and conscious how
little of his fault had been premeditated,--estimating, too, the many
good qualities apparent in his character--did not withhold his counsel.
"I can say little to you now, Forrester, in the way of advice, so long
as you continue to herd with the men who have already led you into so
much mischief. You appear to me, and must appear to all men, while
coupled with such associates, as voluntarily choosing your ground, and
taking all the consequences of its position. As there would seem no
necessity for your dwelling longer among them, you certainly do make
your choice in thus continuing their associate.
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