text:  When it is borne in mind that the possessions of Mr Bellamy were involved beyond their actual worth--that for some time he had lived in a perpetual dread of exposure and utter ruin--that for years he had looked abroad for some kind friend who if not altogether willing might still be prevailed upon to release him from his difficulties--it will be easy to understand his very great desire to confer on Michael Allcraft all the advantages of his own position and high character