Sparks was reluctant to engage in any such proceeding.  His character was vindicated, his business restored.  He occupied his own shop, and his family were comfortable and content.  But the current of public opinion was too strong for him.  All Philadelphia had determined that the banker should suffer.  An eminent lawyer volunteered to conduct the suit, and make no charge if a liberal verdict were not obtained.  The locksmith pondered the matter well.  His own wrongs he freely forgave, but he thought that there had been a readiness to secure the interests of a wealthy corporation by blasting the prospects of a humble mechanic, which, for the good of society, ought not to pass unrebuked.  He felt that the moral effect of such a prosecution would be salutary, teaching the rich not to presume too far upon their affluence, and cheering the hearts of the poor while suffering unmerited persecution.  The suit was commenced, and urged to trial, notwithstanding several attempts at compromise on the part of the banker.  The pleadings on both sides were able and ingenious; but the counsel for the plaintiff had a theme worthy of the fine powers he possessed.  At the close of a pathetic and powerful declamation, the audience, who had formerly condemned Amos in their hearts without evidence, were melted to tears by the recital of his sufferings; and when the jury returned with a verdict of ten thousand dollars damages against the banker, the locksmith was honoured by a ride home on their shoulders amidst a hurricane of cheers.

THE END