So about one we reached the gate; but every body was a-bed. But one of
the helpers got the keys from Mrs. Jewkes, and opened the gates; and the
horses could hardly crawl into the stable. And I, when I went to get out
of the chariot, fell down, and thought I had lost the use of my limbs.
Mrs. Jewkes came down with her clothes huddled on, and lifted up her
hands and eyes, at my return; but shewed more care of the horses than of
me. By that time the two maids came; and I made shift to creep in, as
well as I could.
It seems my poor master was very ill indeed, and had been upon the bed
most part of the day; and Abraham (who succeeded John) sat up with him.
And he was got into a fine sleep, and heard not the coach come in, nor
the noise we made; for his chamber lies towards the garden,--on the other
side of the house. Mrs. Jewkes said, He had a feverish complaint, and
had been blooded; and, very prudently, ordered Abraham, when he awaked,
not to tell him I was come, for fear of surprising him, and augmenting
his fever; nor, indeed, to say any thing of me, till she herself broke it
to him in the morning, as she should see how he was.
So I went to bed with Mrs. Jewkes, after she had caused me to drink
almost half a pint of burnt wine, made very rich and cordial, with
spices; which I found very refreshing, and set me into a sleep I little
hoped for.
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