Fitz of Fitz-Ford; a legend of Devon - University Library

FITZ OF FITZ-FORD. 29
upon this people the wrongs they have heaped
upon my head."
'^ But for what cause could they so falsely
accuse you, uncle ?" enquired Benjamin, '*^ what
good could it do them so to use you?"
'' Some one amongst their own people, who
was greatly trusted," continued Levi, '' had
acted dishonestly ; and, in order to screen
himself, charged me with the offence. The
Jew found ready credit as a thief, and he was
made as the scapegoat of the tribe. The sins
of the people were laid upon his head—I fled
to save myself from the malice of mine enemies,
and for some time took shelter with the bold
men who had once been miners, till, for their
rebellion against their rulers, they became out-
lawed by the sentence of their own Stannary
courts. These miserable men used me better
than my faithless masters, since they did not
flatter me to ruin me. They made me bear the
burthen of the day ; but they gave me the
bread I required to supply my wants."
'' And why did you leave them, uncle?" said
the nephew.
'^ I have not left them," replied Levi, '' I
have only left to dicell with them. But I am
still the broker and the chief agent of their