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+The Project Gutenberg Etext of The Allen House, or Twenty Years Ago and Now
+by T. S. Arthur
+(#3 in our series by T. S. Arthur)
+
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+Title: The Allen House, or Twenty Years Ago and Now
+
+Author: T. S. Arthur
+
+Release Date: October, 2003  [Etext #4588]
+[Yes, we are more than one year ahead of schedule]
+[This file was first posted on February 12, 2002]
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+Edition: 10
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+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
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+The Project Gutenberg Etext of The Allen House, or Twenty Years Ago and Now
+by T. S. Arthur
+******This file should be named tahty10.txt or tahty10.zip******
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+
+
+THE ALLEN HOUSE;
+
+OR, TWENTY YEARS AGO AND NOW.
+
+BY T. S. ARTHUR.
+
+PHILADELPHIA:
+
+1860
+
+
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+WE point to two ways in life, and if the young man and maiden, whose
+feet are lingering in soft green meadows and flowery walks, will
+consider these two ways in sober earnest, before moving onward, and
+choose the one that truth and reason tell them leads to honor,
+success, and happiness, our book will accomplish its right work for
+them. It is a sad thing, after the lapse of twenty years, to find
+ourselves amid ruined hopes;--to sit down with folded hands and say,
+"Thus far life has been a failure!" Yet, to how many is this the
+wretched summing up at the end of a single score of years from the
+time that reason takes the helm! Alas! that so few, who start wrong,
+ever succeed in finding the right way; life proving, even to its
+last burdened years, a miserable failure!
+
+
+
+
+
+
+TWENTY YEARS AGO, AND NOW.
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+
+
+
+THE rain had poured in torrents all day, and now, for the third time
+since morning, I came home, wet, uncomfortable and weary. I half
+dreaded to look at the slate, lest some urgent call should stare me
+in the face.
+
+"It must indeed be a case of life and death, that takes me out again
+to-night," said I, as my good wife met me in the entry, and with
+light hands, made active by love, assisted in the removal of my
+great coat and comforter.
+
+"Now come into the sitting-room," she said, "your slippers are on
+the rug, and your dressing-gown warmed and waiting. Tea is ready,
+and will be on the table by the time you feel a little comfortable.
+What a dreadful day it has been!"
+
+"Dreadful for those who have been compelled to face the storm," I
+remarked, as I drew off my boots, and proceeded to take advantage of
+all the pleasant arrangements my thoughtful wife had ready for my
+solace and delight.
+
+It was on my lip to inquire if any one had called since I went out,
+but the ringing of the tea-bell sent my thought in a new direction;
+when, with my second self leaning on an arm, and my little Aggy
+holding tightly by my hand, I moved on to the dining-room, all the
+disagreeable things of the day forgotten.
+
+"Has any one been here?" I asked, as I handed my cup for a third
+replenishing. Professional habit was too strong--the query would
+intrude itself.
+
+"Mrs. Wallingford called to see you."
+
+"Ah! Is anybody sick?"
+
+"I believe so--but she evaded my inquiry, and said that she wished
+to speak a word with the Doctor."
+
+"She don't want me to call over to-night, I hope. Did she leave any
+word?"
+
+"No. She looked troubled in her mind, I thought."
+
+"No other call?"
+
+"Yes. Mary Jones sent word that something was the matter with the
+baby. It cried nearly all last night, her little boy said, and
+to-day has fever, and lies in a kind of stupor."
+
+"That case must be seen to," I remarked, speaking to myself.
+
+"You might let it go over until morning," suggested my wife. "At any
+rate, I would let them send again before going. The child may be
+better by this time."
+
+"A call in time may save life here, Constance," I made answer; the
+sense of duty growing stronger as the inner and outer man felt the
+renovating effects of a good supper, and the brightness and warmth
+of my pleasant home. "And life, you know, is a precious thing--even
+a baby's life."
+
+And I turned a meaning glance upon the calm, sweet face of our
+latest born, as she lay sleeping in her cradle. That was enough. I
+saw the tears spring instantly to the eyes of my wife.
+
+"I have not a word to say. God forbid, that in the weakness of love
+and care for you, dear husband, I should draw you aside from duty.
+Yes--yes! The life of a baby is indeed a precious thing!"
+
+And bending over the cradle, she left a kiss on the lips, and a tear
+on the pure brow of our darling. Now was I doubly strengthened for
+the night. There arose at this instant a wild storm-wail, that
+shrieked for a brief time amid the chimneys, and around the eaves of
+our dwelling, and then went moaning away, sadly, dying at last in
+the far distance. The rain beat heavily against the windows. But I
+did not waver, nor seek for reasons to warrant a neglect of duty. "I
+must see Mary Jones's baby, and that to-night." I said this to
+myself, resolutely, by way of answer to the intimidating storm.
+
+Mrs. Jones was a widow, and poor. She lived full a quarter of a mile
+away. So in deciding to make the visit that night, I hardly think a
+very strong element of self-interest was included in the motives
+that governed me. But that is irrelevant.
+
+"As there is no prospect of an abatement in the storm," said I,
+after returning to our cosy little sitting-room, "it may be as well
+for me to see the baby at once. The visit will be over, so far as I
+am concerned, and precious time may be gained for the patient."
+
+"I will tell Joseph to bring around the horse," said my wife.
+
+"No--I will walk. Poor beast! He has done enough for one day, and
+shall not be taken out again."
+
+"Horse-flesh is not so precious as man-flesh," Constance smiled
+entreatingly, as she laid her hand upon my shoulder. "Let Tom be
+harnessed up; it won't hurt him."
+
+"The merciful man is merciful to his beast," I made answer. "If
+horse-flesh is cheaper than man-flesh, like most cheap articles, it
+is less enduring. Tom must rest, if his master cannot."
+
+"The decision is final, I suppose."
+
+"I must say yes."
+
+"I hardly think your great coat is dry yet," said my wife. "I had it
+hung before the kitchen fire. Let me see."
+
+"You must wait for ten, or fifteen minutes longer," she remarked, on
+returning from the kitchen. "One sleeve was completely wetted
+through, and I have turned it in order to get the lining dry."
+
+I sat down and took Agnes on my lap, and was just getting into a
+pleasant talk with her, when the door-bell rung. A shadow fell
+across my wife's face.
+
+"People are thoughtless of Doctors," she remarked, a little
+fretfully, "and often choose the worst weather and the most untimely
+seasons to send for them."
+
+I did not answer, but listened as the boy went to the door. Some one
+was admitted, and shown into the office.
+
+"Who is it?" I enquired, as Joseph came to the sitting-room.
+
+"Mrs. Wallingford."
+
+My wife and I exchanged glances. She looking grave and curious; but
+no remark was made.
+
+"Good-evening, Mrs. Wallingford," said I, on entering my office.
+"This is a very bad night for a lady to come out. I hope no one is
+seriously ill."
+
+"I wish you would come over and see our Henry, Doctor."
+
+There was a choking tremor in her voice; and as I looked in her
+face, I saw that it was pale and distressed.
+
+"What's the matter?" I inquired.
+
+"I can't say what it is, Doctor. Something's wrong. I'm afraid--yes,
+I'm afraid he's going out of his senses."
+
+And she wrung her hands together with a nervous uneasiness in
+singular contrast with her usual quiet exterior.
+
+"How is he affected?"
+
+"Well, Doctor, he came home last evening looking as white as a
+sheet. I almost screamed out when I saw the strange, suffering
+expression on his colorless face. My first thought was that he had
+fallen somewhere, and been hurt dreadfully. He tried to pass me
+without stopping; but I put both hands on him, and said--'Oh, Henry!
+what does ail you?' 'Nothing of any account,' he answered, in a low,
+husky tone. 'I don't feel right well, and am going to my room to lie
+down.' And saying this, he brushed right past me, and went up
+stairs. I followed after him, but when I tried his door it was
+fastened on the inside. I called three times before he answered, and
+then he said--'Mother, I'm not sick; but I feel bad and want to be
+alone. Please don't disturb me to-night.' I don't think I would have
+known the voice if it hadn't been just then and there. Knowing his
+disposition, anxious and troubled as I was, I felt that it would be
+best for the time being to let him alone. And I did so. For an hour
+or more all in his room was as still as death, and I began to grow
+very uneasy. Then I heard his feet upon the floor moving about. I
+heard him walk to his bureau--my ears served me for eyes--then to
+the mantlepiece, and then to the window. All was still again for
+some minutes. My heart beat like a hammer, as one vague suggestion
+after another floated through my mind. Then he crossed the room with
+a slow step; turned and went back again; and so kept on walking to
+and fro. I listened, waiting for the sound to cease; nut he walked
+on and on, backwards and forwards, backwards and forwards, tramp,
+tramp, tramp, until it seemed as if every jarring footfall was on my
+heart. Oh, Doctor! I never had anything to affect me so before in my
+whole life. An hour passed, and still he walked the floor of his
+room. I could bear it no longer, and went and called to him. But he
+seemed deaf, and made no reply. I rattled at the lock and called
+again and again. Then he came close to the door, and said, speaking
+a little impatiently for him--
+
+'Mother! Mother! For Heaven's sake don't trouble me! I don't feel
+just right, and you must let me alone for the present.'
+
+"Well, he kept on walking for an hour longer, and then everything
+was still in his room for the night. This morning on trying his door
+it was unfastened. I went in. He was lying in bed wide awake. But,
+oh! such a change as I saw in his face. It was colorless as on the
+evening before; but less expressive of emotion. A dead calm seemed
+to have settled upon it. I took his hand; it was cold. I pressed his
+forehead; it was cold also. 'Henry, my son, how are you?' I asked.
+He did not reply; but looked in my face with a cold, steady gaze
+that chilled me. 'Are you sick, my son?' He merely shook his head
+slowly. 'Has anything happened? What has happened?' I pressed my
+question upon him; but it was of no use. He would not satisfy me. I
+then asked if he would not rise. 'Not yet,' he said. 'Shall I bring
+you some breakfast?' 'No--no--I cannot eat.' And he shook his head
+and shut his eyes, while there came into his face a look so sad and
+suffering that as I gazed on him I could not keep the tears back.
+
+"And it has been no better with him all the day, Doctor," added Mrs.
+Wallingford, heaving a long sigh. "Oh, I am distressed to death
+about it. Won't you come and see him? I'm afraid if something isn't
+done that he will lose his senses."
+
+"Have you no conjecture as to the cause of this strange condition of
+mind?" I asked.
+
+"None," she replied. "Henry is a reserved young man, you know,
+Doctor; and keeps many things hidden in his mind even from me that
+should be outspoken."
+
+"Has he no love affair on hand?"
+
+"I think not."
+
+"Hasn't he been paying attention to Squire Floyd's daughter?"
+
+"Delia?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I believe not, Doctor."
+
+"I've seen him at the Squire's."
+
+"Nothing serious, or I should have known of it. Henry is rather shy
+about the girls."
+
+"And you wish me to see him to-night?"
+
+"Yes. Something ought to be done."
+
+"What is his condition just now?" I inquired. "How did you leave
+him?"
+
+"He's been in bed nearly all day, and hasn't touched a mouthful. To
+all my persuasions and entreaties he answers--'Please, mother, let
+me alone. I will be better after a while.'"
+
+"I think," said I, after musing on the case, "that, may be, the
+let-alone prescription will be the best one for the present. He is
+prostrated by some strong mental emotion--that seems clear; and time
+must be given for the mind to regain its equipoise. If I were to
+call, as you desire, it might annoy or irritate him, and so do more
+harm than good. No medicine that I can give is at all likely to
+reach his case."
+
+Mrs. Wallingford looked disappointed, and demurred strongly to my
+conclusion.
+
+I'm sure, Doctor, if you saw him you might suggest something. Or,
+may be, he would open his mind to you."
+
+"I'll think it over," said I. "Mrs. Jones has sent for me to see her
+baby to-night. I was just about starting when you called. On my way
+back, if, on reflection, it seems to me advisable, I will drop in at
+your house."
+
+"Call at any rate, Doctor," urged Mrs. Wallingford. "Even if you
+don't see Henry, you may be able to advise me as to what I had
+better do."
+
+I gave my promise, and the troubled mother went back through storm
+and darkness to her home. By this time my overcoat was thoroughly
+dried. As Constance brought it forth warm from the fire, she looked
+into my face with an expression of inquiry. But I was not ready to
+speak in regard to Mrs. Wallingford, and, perceiving this at a
+glance, she kept silence on that subject.
+
+As I opened the front door, the storm swept into my face; but I
+passed out quickly into the night, and shielding myself with an
+umbrella, as best I could, bent to the rushing wind, and took my
+solitary way in the direction of Mrs. Jones's humble dwelling, which
+lay quite upon the outskirts of our town. To reach my destination, I
+had to pass the Old Allen House, which stood within a high stone
+enclosure, surrounded by stately elms a century old, which spread
+their great arms above and around the decaying mansion, as if to
+ward off the encroachments of time. As I came opposite the gate
+opening upon the carriage way, I stopped suddenly in surprise, for
+light streamed out from both windows of the north-west chamber,
+which I knew had been closed ever since the death of Captain Allen,
+who passed to his account several years before.
+
+This Allen House was one of the notable places in our town; and the
+stories in circulation touching the Allen family, now almost
+extinct, were so strongly tinctured with romance, that sober-minded
+people generally received them with a large measure of incredulity.
+
+The spacious old two-story mansion, with its high-pitched roof and
+rows of dormer windows, was built by the father of Captain Allen,
+who had also followed the sea, and, it was said, obtained his large
+wealth through means not sanctioned by laws human or divine. Men and
+women of the past generation, and therefore contemporaries, did not
+hesitate to designate him an "old pirate," though always the
+opprobrious words were spoken in an undertone, for people were half
+afraid of the dark, reserved, evil-looking man, who had evidently
+passed a large portion of his life among scenes of peril and
+violence. There were more pleasing traditions of the beautiful wife
+he brought home to grace the luxurious dwelling he had fitted up in
+a style of almost princely splendor, compared with the plain abode
+of even the best off people in town. Who she was, or from whence she
+came, no one knew certainly. She was very young--almost a
+child--when the elder Captain Allen brought her to S----.
+
+Very little intercourse, I believe, passed between the Allen family
+and the town's-people, except in a business way. The first regular
+entry made into the house beyond the formal drawing-room, was on the
+occasion of a birth, when the best nurse and gossip in town was
+summoned to attend the young mistress. A son was born. He was called
+John; though not under the sign of Christian baptism--John Allen;
+afterwards Captain Allen. The old sea-dog, his father, was absent at
+the time; but returned before the infant was four weeks old. The
+nurse described the meeting of husband and wife as very lover-like
+and tender on his part, but with scarcely a sign of feeling on hers.
+She did not repel him, nor turn from him; but received his caresses
+with the manner of one in whom all quick emotion had died. And so it
+continued between them--he thoughtful and assiduous, and she cold,
+and for the most part silent. But, to her babe, the young mother was
+passionate at times in her loving demonstrations. The pent up waters
+of feeling gave way in this direction, and poured themselves out,
+often, in a rushing flood. Towards all others she bore herself with
+a calm, sweet dignity of manner, that captivated the heart, and made
+it sigh for a better acquaintance with one around whom mystery had
+hung a veil that no hand but her own could push aside--and that hand
+was never lifted.
+
+The next event in the Allen House, noted by the people, was the
+birth of a daughter. The same nurse was called in, who remained the
+usual time, and then retired; bearing with her a history of the
+period, which she related, very confidentially, at tea-tables, and
+in familiar gossip with choice spirits of her own.
+
+Those who knew her best, were always something in doubt as to which
+of her stories contained truth and which romance. The latter element
+mingled largely, it is presumed, in all of them.
+
+A great change had taken place in the Captain's manner. He no longer
+played the lover to a cold and distant mistress, but carried himself
+haughtily at times--captiously at times--and always with an air of
+indifference. All affection seemed transferred to his boy, who was
+growing self-willed, passionate, and daring. These qualities were
+never repressed by his father, but rather encouraged and
+strengthened. On learning that his next heir was a daughter, he
+expressed impatience, and muttered something about its being
+strangled at birth. The nurse said that he never deigned even to
+look at it while she was in the house.
+
+The beautiful young wife showed signs of change, also. Much of the
+old sweetness had left her mouth, which was calmer and graver. Her
+manner towards Captain Allen, noted before, was of the same quiet,
+distant character, but more strongly marked. It was plain that she
+had no love for him. The great mystery was, how two so wholly unlike
+in all internal qualities, and external seeming, could ever have
+been constrained into the relationship, of man and wife. She was,
+evidently, an English woman. This was seen in her rich complexion,
+sweet blue eyes, fair hair, and quiet dignity of manner. Among the
+many probable and improbable rumors as to her first meeting with
+Captain Allen, this one had currency. A sailor, who had seen a good
+deal of service in the West Indies, told the following story:
+
+An English vessel from Jamaica, richly freighted, had on board a
+merchant with his family, returning from a residence of a few years
+on the island, to the mother country.
+
+They had been out only a day, when a pirate bore down upon them, and
+made an easy capture of the ship. The usual bloody scenes of that
+day followed. Death, in terrible forms, met the passengers and crew,
+and the vessel, after being robbed of its costliest treasures, was
+scuttled and sent down into the far depths of the ocean, from whence
+no sign could ever come.
+
+But one living soul was spared--so the story went. An only child of
+the English merchant, a fair and beautiful young girl, whose years
+had compassed only the early spring-time of life, flung herself upon
+her knees before the pirate Captain and begged so piteously for
+life, that he spared her from the general slaughter he had himself
+decreed. Something in her pure, exquisitely beautiful face, touched
+his compassion. There were murmurs of discontent among his savage
+crew. But the strong-willed Captain had his way, and when he sailed
+back with his booty to their place of rendezvous, he bore with him
+the beautiful maiden. Here, it was said, he gave her honorable
+protection, and had her cared for as tenderly as was possible under
+the circumstances. And it was further related, that, when the maiden
+grew to ripe womanhood, he abandoned the trade of a buccaneer and
+made her his wife. The sailor told this story, shrugged his
+shoulders, looked knowing and mysterious, and left his auditors to
+draw what inference they pleased. As they had been talking of
+Captain Allen, the listeners made their own conclusion as to his
+identity with the buccaneer. True to human nature, in its
+inclination to believe always the worst of a man, nine out of ten
+credited the story as applied to the cut-throat looking captain, and
+so, after this, it was no unusual thing to hear him designated by
+the not very flattering sobriquet of the "old pirate."
+
+Later events, still more inexplicable in their character, and yet
+unexplained, gave color to this story, and invested it with the
+elements of probability. As related, the old gossip's second
+intrusion upon the Aliens, in the capacity of nurse, furnished the
+town's-people with a few additional facts, as to the state of things
+inside of a dwelling, upon whose very walls seemed written mystery.
+In the beginning, Mrs. Allen had made a few acquaintances, who were
+charmed with her character, as far as she let herself be known.
+Visits were made and returned for a short season. But after the
+birth of her first child, she went abroad but rarely, and ceasing to
+return all visits, social intercourse came to an end. The old nurse
+insisted that this was not her fault, but wholly chargeable upon the
+Captain, who, she was certain, had forbidden his wife to have
+anything to do with the town's-people.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+
+
+
+One day, nearly two years after the birth of this second child, the
+quiet town of S----was aroused from its dreams by a strange and
+startling event. About a week before, a handsomely dressed man, with
+the air of a foreigner, alighted from the stage coach at the "White
+Swan," and asked if he could have a room. A traveler of such
+apparent distinction was a rare event in S----; and as he suggested
+the probable stay of a week or so, he became an object of immediate
+attention, as well as curiosity.
+
+Night had closed in when he arrived, and as he was fatigued by his
+journey in the old lumbering stage coach that ran between the
+nearest sea-port town and S----, he did not show himself again that
+evening to the curious people who were to be found idling about the
+"White Swan." But he had a talk with the landlord. That functionary
+waited upon him to know his pleasure as to supper.
+
+"The ride has given me a headache," the stranger said, "which a cup
+of tea will probably remove. Beyond that, I will take nothing
+to-night. Your name is--"
+
+"Adams, sir. Adams is my name," replied the landlord.
+
+"And mine is Willoughby--Col. Willoughby. "And the Englishman bowed
+with a slight air of condescension.
+
+"I am at your service, Col. Willoughby," said the landlord in his
+blunt way. "Just say what you want, and the thing is done."
+
+"A cup of tea will serve me to-night, my friend. Let it be good and
+strong; for my head is a little unsettled with this throbbing pain.
+That stage coach of yours would be something better for a pair of
+new springs."
+
+"It's seen service, and no mistake. But people in these parts don't
+calculate much on easy riding. Springs are no great account. We look
+to the main chance."
+
+"What is that?"
+
+"Getting over the ground."
+
+The traveler smiled to himself in a quiet way, as if the landlord's
+answer had touched some memory or experience.
+
+Nothing further being remarked, Mr. Adams retired to order a cup of
+tea for his guest. Something about the Englishman had stimulated his
+curiosity; and, so, instead of sending the cup of tea by his wife,
+who did most of the waiting, he carried it to the room himself.
+
+"Sit down, Mr. Adams," said the traveler, after the tea had been put
+before him.
+
+The landlord did not wait for a second invitation.
+
+"I hope the tea is to your liking, sir."
+
+"Excellent. I've not tasted better since I left London."
+
+The traveler spoke blandly, as he held his cup a little way from his
+lips, and looked over the top of it at his host with something more
+than a casual glance. He was reading his face with an evident effort
+to gain from it, as an index, some clear impression of his
+character.
+
+"My wife understands her business," replied the flattered landlord.
+"There is not her equal in all the country round."
+
+"I can believe you, Mr. Adams. Already this delicious beverage has
+acted like a charmed potion. My headache has left me as if by
+magic."
+
+He set his cup down; moved his chair a little way from the table at
+which he was sitting, and threw a pleasant look upon the landlord.
+
+"How long have you been in this town, Mr. Adams?" The question
+seemed indifferently asked; but the landlord's ear did not fail to
+perceive in the tone in which it was given, a foreshadowing of much
+beyond.
+
+"I was born here," he replied.
+
+"Ah! Then you know all the people, I imagine?"
+
+"I know all their faces, at least."
+
+"And their histories and characters?"
+
+"Perhaps."
+
+Something in this "perhaps," and the tone in which it was uttered,
+seemed not to strike the questioner agreeably. He bent his brows a
+little, and looked more narrowly at the landlord.
+
+"I did not see much of your town as I came in this evening. How
+large is it?"
+
+"Middling good size, sir, for an inland town," was the not very
+satisfactory answer.
+
+"What is the population?"
+
+"Well, I don't know--can't just say to a certainty."
+
+"Two thousand?"
+
+"Laws! no sir! Not over one, if that."
+
+"About a thousand, then?"
+
+"Maybe a thousand, and maybe not more than six or seven hundred."
+
+"Call it seven hundred, then," said the traveler, evidently a little
+amused.
+
+"And that will, in my view, be calling it enough."
+
+There was a pause. The traveler seemed in doubt as to whether he
+should go on with his queries.
+
+"Not much trade here, I presume?" He asked, at length.
+
+"Not much to boast of," said Adams.
+
+Another pause.
+
+"Any well-to-do people? Gentlemen who live on their means?"
+
+"Yes; there's Aaron Thompson. He's rich, I guess. But you can't
+measure a snake 'till he's dead, as they say."
+
+"True," said the traveler, seeming to fall into the landlord's mood.
+"Executors often change the public estimate of a man as to this
+world's goods. So, Aaron Thompson is one of your rich men?"
+
+"Yes, and there's Abel Reeder--a close-fisted old dog, but wealthy
+as a Jew, and no mistake. Then there is Captain Allen."
+
+A flash of interest went over the stranger's face, which was turned
+at once from the light.
+
+"Captain Allen! And what of him?" The voice was pitched to a lower
+tone; but there was no appearance of special curiosity.
+
+"A great deal of him." The landlord put on a knowing look.
+
+"Is he a sea captain?"
+
+"Yes;" and lowering his voice, "something else besides, if we are to
+credit people who pretend to know."
+
+"Ah! but you speak in riddles, Mr. Adams. What do you mean by
+something more?"
+
+"Why, the fact is, Mr. Willoughby, they do say, that he got his
+money in a backhanded sort of fashion."
+
+"By gambling?"
+
+"No, sir! By piracy!"
+
+Col. Willoughby gave a real or affected start.
+
+"A grave charge that, sir." He looked steadily at the landlord. "And
+one that should not be lightly made."
+
+"I only report the common talk."
+
+"If such talk should reach the ears of Captain Allen?" suggested the
+stranger.
+
+"No great likelihood of its doing so, for I reckon there's no man in
+S----bold enough to say 'pirate' to his face."
+
+"What kind of a man is he?"
+
+"A bad specimen in every way."
+
+"He's no favorite of yours, I see?"
+
+"I have no personal cause of dislike. We never had many words
+together," said the landlord. "But he's a man that you want to get
+as far away from as possible. There are men, you know, who kind of
+draw you towards them, as if they were made of loadstone; and others
+that seem to push you off. Captain Allen is one of the latter kind."
+
+"What sort of a looking man is he?"
+
+"Short; thick-set; heavily built, as to body. A full, coarse face;
+dark leathery skin; and eyes that are a match for the Evil One's.
+There is a deep scar across his left forehead, running past the
+outer corner of his eye, and ending against the cheek bone. The
+lower lid of this eye is drawn down, and the inside turned out,
+showing its deep red lining. There is another scar on his chin. Two
+fingers are gone from his left hand, and his right hand has suffered
+violence."
+
+"He has evidently seen hard service," remarked the stranger, and in
+a voice that showed him to be suppressing, as best he could, all
+signs of interest in the landlord's communication.
+
+"There's no mistake about that; and if you could only see him, my
+word for it, you would fall into the common belief that blood lies
+upon his conscience."
+
+"I shall certainly put myself in the way of seeing him, after the
+spur you have just given to my curiosity," said Col. Willoughby, in
+a decided manner, as if he had an interest in the man beyond what
+the landlord's communication had excited.
+
+"Then you will have to remain here something more than a week, I'm
+thinking," replied the landlord.
+
+"Why so?"
+
+"Captain Allen isn't at home."
+
+There was a sudden change in the stranger's face that did not escape
+the landlord's notice. But whether it indicated pleasure or
+disappointment, he could not tell; for it was at best a very
+equivocal expression.
+
+"Not at home!" His voice indicated surprise.
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"How long has he been absent?"
+
+"About a month."
+
+"And is expected to return soon, no doubt?"
+
+"As to that, I can't say. Few people in this town I apprehend, can
+speak with certainty as to the going and coming of Captain Allen."
+
+"Is he often away?"
+
+"No, sir; but oftener of late than formerly."
+
+"Is his absence usually of a prolonged character?"
+
+"It is much longer than it used to be--never less than a month, and
+often extended to three times that period."
+
+Colonel Willoughby sat without further remark for some time, his
+eyes bent down, his brows contracted by thought, and his lips firmly
+drawn together.
+
+"Thank you, my friend," he said, at length, looking up, "for your
+patience in answering my idle questions. I will not detain you any
+longer."
+
+The landlord arose, and, bowing to his guest, retired from the
+apartment.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+
+
+
+On the next morning Colonel Willoughby plied the landlord with a few
+more questions about Captain Allen, and then, inquiring the
+direction of his house, started out, as he said, to take a ramble
+through the town. He did not come back until near dinner time, and
+then he showed no disposition to encourage familiarity on the part
+of Mr. Adams. But that individual was not in the dark touching the
+morning whereabouts of his friend. A familiar of his, stimulated by
+certain good things which the landlord knew when and how to
+dispense, had tracked the stranger from the "White Swan" to Captain
+Allen's house. After walking around it, on the outside of the
+enclosure once or twice, and viewing it on all sides, he had
+ventured, at last, through the gate, and up to the front door of the
+stately mansion. A servant admitted him, and the landlord's familiar
+loitered around for nearly three hours before he came out. Mrs.
+Allen accompanied him to the door, and stood and talked with him
+earnestly for some time in the portico. They shook hands in parting,
+and Colonel Willoughby retired with a firm, slow step, and his eyes
+bent downwards as if his thoughts were sober, if not oppressive.
+
+All this Mr. Adams knew; and of course, his curiosity was pitched to
+a high key. But, it was all in vain that he threw himself in the way
+of his guest, made leading remarks, and even asked if he had seen
+the splendid dwelling of Captain Allen. The handsome stranger held
+him firmly at a distance. And not only on that day and evening, but
+on the next day and the next. He was polite even to blandness, but
+suffered no approach beyond the simplest formal intercourse. Every
+morning he was seen going to Captain Allen's house, where he always
+stayed several hours. The afternoons he spent, for the most part, in
+his own room.
+
+All this soon became noised throughout the town of S----, and there
+was a little world of excitement, and all manner of conjectures, as
+to who this Colonel Willoughby might be. The old nurse, of whom
+mention has been made, presuming upon her professional acquaintance
+with Mrs. Allen, took the liberty of calling in one afternoon, when,
+to her certain knowledge, the stranger was in the house. She was,
+however, disappointed in seeing him. The servant who admitted her
+showed her into a small reception-room, on the opposite side of the
+hall from the main parlor, and here Mrs. Allen met her. She was
+"very sweet to her"--to use her own words--sweet, and kind, and
+gentle as ever. But she looked paler than usual, and did not seem to
+be at ease.
+
+The nurse reported that something was going wrong; but, as to its
+exact nature, she was in the dark. It certainly didn't look right
+for Mrs. Allen to be receiving daily the visits of an elegant
+looking stranger, and her husband away. There was only one opinion
+on this head.
+
+And so it went on from day to day for nearly a week--Colonel
+Willoughby, as he had called himself, spending the greater part of
+every morning with Mrs. Allen, and hiding himself from curious eyes,
+during the afternoons, in his room at the "White Swan." Then came
+the denouement to this exciting little drama.
+
+One day the stranger, after dining, asked Mr. Adams for his bill,
+which he paid in British gold. He then gave directions to have a
+small trunk, the only baggage he had with him, sent to the house of
+Captain Allen.
+
+The landlord raised his eyebrows, of course; looked very much
+surprised, and even ventured a curious question. But the stranger
+repelled all inquisition touching his movements. And so he left the
+"White Swan," after sojourning there for nearly a week, and the
+landlord never saw him again.
+
+The news which came on the following day, created no little
+sensation in S----. Jacob Perkins, who lived near Captain Allen's,
+and often worked for him, told the story. His relation was to this
+effect: About ten o'clock at night, Mrs. Allen sent for him, and he
+waited on her accordingly. He found her dressed as for a journey,
+but alone.
+
+"Take a seat, Jacob," she said. "I wish to have some talk with you."
+The man noticed something unusual in her talk and manner.
+
+"Jacob," she resumed, after a pause, bending towards Mr. Perkins,
+"can I trust you in a matter requiring both service and secrecy? I
+have done some kind things for you and yours; I now wish you to
+return the favor."
+
+As she spoke, she drew out a purse, and let him see something of its
+golden contents.
+
+"Say on, Mrs. Allen. You may trust me. If you ask anything short of
+a crime, it shall be done. Yes, you have been kind to me and mine,
+and now I will repay you, if in my power to do so."
+
+Jacob Perkins was in earnest. But, whether gratitude, or that
+apparition of golden sovereigns, had most influence upon him, cannot
+at this remote period be said.
+
+"Can you get a pair of horses and a carriage, or light wagon,
+to-night?"
+
+"I can," replied Jacob.
+
+"And so as not to excite undue curiosity?"
+
+"I think so."
+
+"Very well. Next, will you drive that team all night?"
+
+And Mrs. Allen played with the purse of gold, and let the coins it
+contained strike each other with a musical chink, very pleasant to
+the ear of Jacob Perkins.
+
+"You shall be paid handsomely for your trouble," added the lady, as
+she fixed her beautiful blue eyes upon Jacob with an earnest, almost
+pleading look.
+
+"I hope there is nothing wrong," said Jacob, as some troublesome
+suspicions began turning themselves over in his mind.
+
+"Nothing wrong, as God is my witness!" And Mrs. Allen lifted her
+pale face reverently upwards.
+
+"Forgive me, madam; I might have known that," said Jacob. "And now,
+if you will give me your orders, they shall be obeyed to the
+letter."
+
+"Thank you, my kind friend," returned Mrs. Allen. "The service you
+are now about to render me, cannot be estimated in the usual way. To
+me, it will be far beyond all price."
+
+She was agitated, and paused to recover herself. Then she resumed,
+with her usual calmness of manner--
+
+"Bring the carriage here--driving with as little noise as
+possible--in half an hour. Be very discreet. Don't mention the
+matter even to your wife. You can talk with her as freely as you
+choose on your return from Boston."
+
+"From Boston? Why, that is thirty miles away, at least!"
+
+"I know it, Jacob; but I must be in Boston early to-morrow morning.
+You know the road?"
+
+"Every foot of it."
+
+"So much the better. And now go for the carriage."
+
+Jacob Perkins arose. As he was turning to go, Mrs. Allen placed her
+hand upon his shoulder, and said--
+
+"I can trust you, Mr. Perkins?"
+
+"Madam, you can," was his reply; and he passed from the quiet house
+into the darkness without. The night was moonless, but the stars
+shone down from an unclouded sky. When Jacob Perkins found himself
+alone, and began to look this adventure full in the face, some
+unpleasant doubts touching the part he was about to play, intruded
+themselves upon his thoughts. He had seen the handsome stranger
+going daily to visit Mrs. Allen, for now nearly a week, and had
+listened to the town talk touching the matter, until his own mind
+was filled with the common idea, that something was wrong. And now,
+to be called on to drive Mrs. Allen to Boston, secretly, and under
+cover of the night, seemed so much like becoming a party to some act
+of folly or crime, that he gave way to hesitation, and began to seek
+for reasons that would justify his playing the lady false. Then came
+up the image of her sweet, reverent face, as she said so earnestly,
+"Nothing wrong, as God is my witness!" And his first purpose was
+restored.
+
+Punctually, at half-past ten o'clock, the team of Jacob Perkins
+drove noiselessly in through the gate, and up the carriage-way to
+the door of the Allen mansion. No lights were visible in any part of
+the house. Under the portico were two figures, a man and a
+woman--the man holding something in his arms, which, on a closer
+observation, Jacob saw to be a child. Two large trunks and a small
+one stood near.
+
+"Put them on the carriage," said Mrs. Allen, in a low, steady voice;
+and Jacob obeyed in silence. When all was ready, she got in, and the
+man handed her the sleeping child, and then took his place beside
+her.
+
+"To Boston, remember, Jacob; and make the time as short as
+possible."
+
+No other words were spoken. Jacob led his horses down the
+carriage-way to the gate, which he closed carefully after passing
+through; and then mounting to his seat, drove off rapidly.
+
+But little conversation took place between Mrs. Allen and her
+traveling companion; and that was in so low a tone of voice, that
+Jacob Perkins failed to catch a single word, though he bent his ear
+and listened with the closest attention whenever he heard a murmur
+of voices.
+
+It was after daylight when they arrived in Boston, where Jacob
+Perkins left them, and returned home with all speed, to wake up the
+town of S----with a report of his strange adventure. Before parting
+with Mrs. Allen, she gave him a purse, which, on examination, was
+found to contain a hundred dollars in gold. She also placed in his
+hand a small gold locket, and said, impressively, while her almost
+colorless lips quivered, and her bosom struggled with its pent up
+feelings--
+
+"Jacob, when my son--he is now absent with his father--reaches his
+tenth year, give him this, and say that it is a gift from his
+mother, and contains a lock of her hair. Can I trust you faithfully
+to perform this office of love?"
+
+Tears filled her eyes; then her breast heaved with a great sob.
+
+"As Heaven is my witness, madam," answered Jacob Perkins, "it shall
+be done."
+
+"Remember," she said, "that you are only to give this to John, and
+not until his tenth year. Keep my gift sacred from the knowledge of
+every one until that time, and then let the communication be to him
+alone."
+
+Jacob Perkins promised to do according to her wishes, and then left
+her looking so pale, sad, and miserable, that, to use his own words,
+"he never could recall her image as she stood looking, not at him,
+but past him, as if trying to explore the future, without thinking
+of some marble statue in a grave-yard."
+
+She was never seen in S----again.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+
+
+
+The excitement in the little town of S----, when Jacob returned from
+Boston, and told his singular story, may well be imagined. The whole
+community was in a buzz.
+
+It was found that Mrs. Allen had so arranged matters, as to get all
+the servants away from the house, on one pretence or another, for
+that night, except an old negro woman, famous for her good sleeping
+qualities; and she was in the land of forgetfulness long before the
+hour appointed for flight.
+
+Many conjectures were made, and one or two rather philanthropic
+individuals proposed, as a common duty, an attempt to arrest the
+fugitives and bring them back. But there were none to second this,
+the general sentiment being, that Captain Allen was fully competent
+to look after his own affairs. And that he wood look after them, and
+promptly too, on his return, none doubted for an instant. As for
+Jacob Perkins, no one professed a willingness to stand in his shoes.
+The fire-eating Captain would most probably blow that gentleman's
+brains out in the heat of his first excitement. Poor Jacob, not a
+very courageous man, was almost beside himself with fear, when his
+view of the case was confidently asserted. One advised this course
+of conduct on the part of Jacob, and another advised that, while all
+agreed that it would on no account be safe for him to fall in the
+Captain's way immediately on his return. More than a dozen people,
+friends of Jacob, were on the alert, to give him the earliest
+intelligence of Captain Allen's arrival in S----, that he might hide
+himself until the first fearful outbreak of passion was over.
+
+Well, in about two weeks the Captain returned with his little son.
+Expectation was on tip-toe. People's hearts beat in their mouths.
+There were some who would not have been surprised at any startling
+occurrence; an apparition of the scarred sea-dog, rushing along the
+streets, slashing his sword about like a madman, would have seemed
+to them nothing extraordinary, under the circumstances.
+
+But expectation stood so long on tip-toe that it grew tired, and
+came down a few inches. Nothing occurred to arouse the quiet
+inhabitants. Captain Allen was seen to enter his dwelling about two
+o'clock in the afternoon, and although not less than twenty sharp
+pairs of eyes were turned in that direction, and never abated their
+vigilance until night drew down her curtains, no one got even a
+glimpse of his person.
+
+Jacob Perkins left the town, and took refuge with a neighbor living
+two miles away, on the first intimation of the Captain's return.
+
+The next day passed, but no one saw the Captain. On the third day a
+member of the inquisitorial committee, who had his house under
+constant observation, saw him drive out with his son, and take the
+road that went direct to the neighborhood where Jacob Perkins lay
+concealed in the house of a friend.
+
+Poor Jacob! None doubted but the hour of retribution for him was at
+hand. That he might have timely warning, if possible, a lad was sent
+out on a fleet horse, who managed to go by Captain Allen's chaise on
+the road. Pale with affright, the unhappy fugitive hid himself under
+a hay rick, and remained there for an hour. But the Captain passed
+through without pause or inquiry, and in due course of time returned
+to his home, having committed no act in the least degree notable.
+
+And so, as if nothing unusual had happened, he was seen, day after
+day, going about as of old, with not a sign of change in his
+deportment that any one could read. In a week, Jacob Perkins
+returned to his home, fully assured that no harm was likely to visit
+him.
+
+No event touching Captain Allen or his family, worthy of record,
+transpired for several years. The only servants in the house were
+negro slaves, brought from a distance, and kept as much as possible
+away from others of their class in town. Among these, the boy, John,
+grew up. When he was ten years old, Jacob Perkins, though in some
+fear, performed the sacred duty promised to his mother on that
+memorable morning, when he looked upon her pale, statuesque
+countenance for the last time. A flush covered the boy's face, as he
+received the locket, and understood from whence it came. He stood
+for some minutes, wholly abstracted, as if under the spell of some
+vivid memory.
+
+Tears at length filled his eyes, and glistened on the long fringed
+lashes. Then there was a single, half-repressed sob--and then,
+grasping the locket tightly in his hand, he turned from Jacob, and,
+without a word, walked hastily away.
+
+When the boy was sixteen, Captain Allen took him to sea. From that
+period for n any years, both of them were absent for at least
+two-thirds of the time. At twenty-five, John took command of a large
+merchant-man, trading to the South American coast, and his father,
+now worn down by hard service, as well as by years, retired to his
+home in S----, to close up there, in such repose of mind as he could
+gain, the last days of his eventful life. He died soon after by
+apoplexy.
+
+Prior to this event, his son, the younger Captain Allen, had brought
+home from Cuba a Spanish woman, who took the name of his wife. Of
+her family, or antecedents, no one in our town knew anything; and it
+was questioned by many whether any rite of marriage had ever been
+celebrated between them. Of this, however, nothing certain was
+known. None of the best people, so called, in S----paid her the
+hospitable compliment of a visit; and she showed no disposition to
+intrude herself upon them. And so they stood towards each other as
+strangers; and the Allen house remained, as from the beginning, to
+most people a terra incognita.
+
+Neither Captain Allen nor his Spanish consort, to whom no children
+were born, as they advanced in years, "grew old gracefully." Both
+had repulsive features, which were strongly marked by passion and
+sensuality. During the last two years of his life I was frequently
+called to see him, and prescribe for his enemy, the gout, by which
+he was sorely afflicted. Mrs. Allen also required treatment. Her
+nervous system was disordered; and, on closer observation, I
+detected signs of a vagrant imagination, leading her away into
+states verging upon insanity. She was fretful and ill-tempered; and
+rarely spoke to the Captain except complainingly, or in anger. The
+visits I made to the Allen house, during the lifetime of Captain
+Allen, were among the most unsatisfactory of all my professional
+calls. I think, from signs which met my eyes, that something more
+than bitter words passed occasionally between the ill-matched
+couple.
+
+Late in the day, nearly five years anterior to the time of which I
+am now writing, I was summoned in haste to visit Captain Allen. I
+found him lying on a bed in the north-west chamber, where he usually
+slept, in a state of insensibility. Mrs. Allen received me at the
+door of the chamber with a frightened countenance. On inquiry as to
+the cause of his condition, she informed me that he had gone to his
+own room about an hour before, a little the worse for a bottle of
+wine; and that she had heard nothing more from him, until she was
+startled by a loud, jarring noise in his chamber. On running up
+stairs, she found him lying upon the floor, insensible.
+
+I looked at her steadily, as she gave me this relation, but could
+not hold her eyes in mine. She seemed more uneasy than troubled.
+There was a contused wound just below the right temple, which
+covered, with its livid stain, a portion of the cheek. A cursory
+examination satisfied me that, whatever might be the cause of his
+fall, congestion of the brain had occurred, and that but few chances
+for life remained. So I informed Mrs. Allen. At the words, I could
+see a shudder run through her frame, and an expression of something
+like terror sweep over her face.
+
+"His father died of apoplexy," said she in a hoarse whisper, looking
+at me with a side-long, almost stealthy glance, not full and
+open-eyed.
+
+"This is something more than apoplexy," I remarked; still observing
+her closely.
+
+"The fall may have injured him," she suggested.
+
+"The blow on his temple has done the fearful work," said I.
+
+There was a perceptible start, and another look of fear-almost
+terror.
+
+"For heaven's sake, doctor," she said, rousing herself, and speaking
+half imperatively, "do something! Don't stand speculating about the
+cause; but do something if you have any skill."
+
+Thus prompted, I set myself to work, in good earnest, with my
+patient. The result was in no way flattering to my skill, for he
+passed to his account in less than an hour, dying without a sign.
+
+I shall never forget the wild screams which rang awfully through the
+old mansion, when it was announced to Mrs. Allen that the Captain
+was dead. She flung herself upon his body, tore her hair, and
+committed other extravagances. All the slumbering passions of her
+undisciplined nature seemed quickened into sudden life,
+overmastering her in their strong excitement. So it would have
+seemed to a less suspicious observer; but I thought that I could
+detect the overacting of pretence. I may have done her wrong; but
+the impression still remains. At the funeral, this extravagant role
+of grief was re-enacted, and the impression was left on many minds
+that she was half mad with grief.
+
+Occasionally, after this event, I was summoned to the Allen House to
+see its unhappy mistress. I say unhappy, for no human being ever had
+a face written all over with the characters you might read in hers,
+that was not miserable. I used to study it, sometimes, to see if I
+could get anything like a true revelation of her inner life. The
+sudden lighting up of her countenance at times, as you observed its
+rapidly varying expression, made you almost shudder, for the gleam
+which shot across it looked like a reflection from hell. I know no
+other word to express what I mean. Remorse, at times, I could
+plainly read.
+
+One thing I soon noticed; the room in which Captain Allen died--the
+north-west chamber before mentioned--remained shut up; and an old
+servant told me, years afterwards, that Mrs. Allen had never been
+inside of it since the fatal day on which I attended him in his last
+moments.
+
+At the time when this story opens the old lady was verging on to
+sixty. The five years which had passed since she was left alone had
+bent her form considerably, and the diseased state of mind which I
+noticed when first called in to visit the family as a physician, was
+now but a little way removed from insanity. She was haunted by many
+strange hallucinations; and the old servant above alluded to,
+informed me, that she was required to sleep in the room with her
+mistress, as she never would be alone after dark. Often, through the
+night, she would start up in terror, her diseased imagination
+building up terrible phantoms in the land of dreams, alarming the
+house with her cries.
+
+I rarely visited her that I did not see new evidences of waning
+reason. In the beginning I was fearful that she might do some
+violence to herself or her servants, but her insanity began to
+assume a less excitable form; and at last she sank into a condition
+of torpor, both of mind and body, from which I saw little prospect
+of her ever rising.
+
+"It is well," I said to myself. "Life had better wane slowly away
+than to go out in lurid gleams like the flashes of a dying volcano."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+
+
+
+And now, reader, after this long digression, you can understand my
+surprise at seeing broad gleams of light reaching out into the
+darkness from the windows of that north-west chamber, as I breasted
+the storm on my way to visit the sick child of Mary Jones. No wonder
+that I stood still and looked up at those windows, though the rain
+beat into my face, half blinding me. The shutters were thrown open,
+and the curtains drawn partly aside. I plainly saw shadows on the
+ceiling and walls as of persons moving about the room. Did my eyes
+deceive me? Was not that the figure of a young girl that stood for a
+moment at the window trying to pierce with her eyes the thick veil
+of night? I was still in doubt when the figure turned away, and only
+gave me a shadow on the wall.
+
+I lingered in front of the old house for some minutes, but gaining
+no intelligence of what was passing within, I kept on my way to the
+humbler dwelling of Mary Jones. I found her child quite ill, and
+needing attention. After doing what, in my judgment, the case
+required, I turned my steps towards the house of Mrs. Wallingford to
+look into the case of her son Henry, who, acording to her account,
+was in a very unhappy condition.
+
+I went a little out of my way so as to go past the Allen House
+again. As I approached, my eyes were directed to the chamber windows
+at the north-west corner, and while yet some distance away, as the
+old elms tossed their great limbs about in struggling with the
+storm, I saw glancing out between them the same cheery light that
+met my astonished gaze a little while before. As then, I saw shadows
+moving on the walls, and once the same slender, graceful
+figure--evidently that of a young girl--came to the window and tried
+to look out into the deep darkness.
+
+As there was nothing to be gained by standing there in the drenching
+storm, I moved onward, taking the way to Mrs. Wallingford's
+dwelling. I had scarcely touched the knocker when the door was
+opened, and by Mrs. Wallingford herself.
+
+"Oh, Doctor, I'm so glad you've come!" she said in a low, troubled
+voice.
+
+I stepped in out of the rain, gave her my dripping umbrella, and
+laid off my overcoat.
+
+"How is Henry now?" I asked.
+
+She put her finger to her lip, and said, in a whisper,
+
+"Just the same, Doctor--just the same. Listen! Don't you hear him
+walking the floor overhead? I've tried to get him to take a cup of
+tea, but he won't touch any thing. All I can get out of him
+is--'Mother--dear mother--leave me to myself. I shall come right
+again. Only leave me to myself now.' But, how can I let him go on in
+this way? Oh, Doctor, I am almost beside myself! What can it all
+mean? Something dreadful has happened."
+
+I sat listening and reflecting for something like ten minutes.
+Steadily, from one side the room overhead to the other, went the
+noise of feet; now slowly, now with a quicker motion: and now with a
+sudden tramp, that sent the listener's blood with a start along its
+courses.
+
+"Won't you see him, doctor?"
+
+I did not answer at once, for I was in the dark as to what was best
+to be done. If I had known the origin of his trouble, I could have
+acted understandingly. As it was, any intrusion upon the young man
+might do harm rather than good.
+
+"He has asked to be let alone," I replied, "and it may be best to
+let him alone. He says that he will come out right. Give him a
+little more time. Wait, at least, until to-morrow. Then, if there is
+no change, I will see him."
+
+Still the mother urged. At last I said--
+
+"Go to your son. Suggest to him a visit from me, and mark the
+effect."
+
+I listened as she went up stairs. On entering his room, I noticed
+that he ceased walking. Soon came to my ears the murmur of voices,
+which rose to a sudden loudness on his part, and I distinctly heard
+the words:
+
+"Mother! you will drive me mad! If you talk of that, I will go from
+the house. I _must_ be left alone!"
+
+Then all was silent. Soon Mrs. Wallingford came down. She looked
+even more distressed than when she left the room.
+
+"I'm afraid it might do harm," she said doubtingly.
+
+"So am I. It will, I am sure, be best to let him have his way for
+the present. Something has disturbed him fearfully; but he is
+struggling hard for the mastery over himself, and you may be sure,
+madam, that he will gain it. Your son is a young man of no light
+stamp of character; and he will come out of this ordeal, as gold
+from the crucible."
+
+"You think so, Doctor?"
+
+She looked at me with a hopeful light in her troubled countenance.
+
+"I do, verily. So let your heart dwell in peace."
+
+I was anxious to get back to my good Constance, and so, after a few
+more encouraging words for Mrs. Wallingford, I tried the storm
+again, and went through its shivering gusts, to my own home. There
+had been no calls in my absence, and so the prospect looked fair for
+a quiet evening--just what I wanted; for the strange condition of
+Henry Wallingford, and the singular circumstance connected with the
+old Allen House, were things to be conned over with that second
+self, towards whom all thought turned and all interest converged as
+to a centre.
+
+After exchanging wet outer garments and boots, for dressing gown and
+slippers; and darkness and storm for a pleasant fireside; my
+thoughts turned to the north-west chamber of the Allen House, and I
+said--
+
+"I have seen something to-night that puzzled me."
+
+"What is that?" inquired my wife, turning her mild eyes upon me.
+
+"You know the room in which old Captain Allen died?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"The chamber on the north-west corner, which, as far as we know, has
+been shut up ever since?"
+
+"Yes, I remember your suspicion as to foul play on the part of Mrs.
+Alien, who, it is believed, has never visited the apartment since
+the Captain's death."
+
+"Well, you will be surprised to hear that the shutters are unclosed,
+and lights burning in that chamber."
+
+"Now!"
+
+"Yes--or at least half an hour ago."
+
+"That is remarkable."
+
+My wife looked puzzled.
+
+"And more remarkable still--I saw shadows moving on the walls, as of
+two or three persons in the room."
+
+"Something unusual has happened," said my wife.
+
+"Perhaps Mrs. Allen is dead."
+
+This thought had not occurred to me. I turned it over for a few
+moments, and then remarked,
+
+"Hardly probable--for, in that case, I would have been summoned. No;
+it strikes me that some strangers are in the house; for I am certain
+that I saw a young girl come to the window and press her face close
+up to one of the panes, as if trying to penetrate the darkness.
+
+"Singular!" said my wife, as if speaking to herself. "Now, that
+explains, in part, something that I couldn't just make out
+yesterday. I was late in getting home from Aunt Elder's you know.
+Well, as I came in view of that old house, I thought I saw a girl
+standing by the gate. An appearance so unusual, caused me to strain
+my eyes to make out the figure, but the twilight had fallen too
+deeply. While I still looked, the form disappeared; but, through an
+opening in the shrubbery, I caught another glimpse of it, as it
+vanished in the portico. I was going to speak of the incident, but
+other matters pushed it, till now, from my thoughts when you were at
+home."
+
+"Then my eyes did not deceive me," said I; "your story corroborates
+mine. There is a young lady in the Allen House. But who is she? That
+is the question."
+
+As we could not get beyond this question, we left the riddle for
+time to solve, and turned next to the singular state of mind into
+which young Henry Wallingford had fallen.
+
+"Well," said my wife, speaking with some emphasis, after I had told
+her of the case, "I never imagined that he cared so much for the
+girl!"
+
+"What girl?" I inquired.
+
+"Why, Delia Floyd--the silly fool! if I must speak so strongly."
+
+"Then he is really in love with Squire Floyd's daughter?"
+
+"It looks like it, if he's taking on as his mother says," answered
+my wife, with considerable feeling. "And Delia will rue the day she
+turned from as true a man as Henry Wallingford."
+
+"Bless me, Constance! you've got deeper into this matter, than
+either his mother or me. Who has been initiating you into the love
+secrets of S----?"
+
+"This affair," returned my wife, "has not passed into town talk, and
+will, I trust, be kept sacred by those who know the facts. I learned
+them from Mrs. Dean, the sister of Mrs. Floyd. The case stands thus:
+Henry is peculiar, shy, reserved, and rather silent. He goes but
+little into company, and has not the taking way with girls that
+renders some young men so popular. But his qualities are all of the
+sterling kind--such as wear well, and grow brighter with usage. For
+more than a year past, he has shown a decided preference for Delia
+Floyd, and she has encouraged his attentions. Indeed, so far as I
+can learn from Mrs. Dean, the heart of her niece was deeply
+interested. But a lover of higher pretensions came, dazzling her
+mind with a more brilliant future."
+
+"Who?" I inquired.
+
+"That dashing young fellow from New York, Judge Bigelow's nephew."
+
+"Not Ralph Dewey?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Foolish girl, to throw away a man for such an effigy! It will be a
+dark day that sees her wedded to him. But I will not believe in the
+possibility of such an event."
+
+"Well, to go on with my story," resumed Constance. "Last evening,
+seeing, I suppose, that a dangerous rival was intruding, Henry made
+suit for the hand of Delia, and was rejected."
+
+"I understand the case better now," said I, speaking from a
+professional point of view.
+
+"Poor young man! I did not suppose it was in him to love any woman
+after that fashion," remarked Constance.
+
+"Your men of reserved exterior have often great depths of feeling,"
+I remarked. "Usually women are not drawn towards them; because they
+are attracted most readily by what meets the eye. If they would look
+deeper, they would commit fewer mistakes, like that which Delia
+Floyd has just committed."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+
+
+
+
+Delia Floyd was a girl of more than ordinary attractions, and it is
+not surprising that young Wallingford was drawn, fascinated, within
+the charmed circle of her influence. She was, by no means, the weak,
+vain, beautiful young woman, that the brief allusion I have made to
+her might naturally lead the reader to infer. I had possessed good
+opportunities for observing her, for our families were intimate, and
+she was frequently at our house. Her father had given her a good
+education--not showy; but of the solid kind. She was fond of books,
+and better read, I think, in the literature of the day, than any
+other young lady in S----. Her conversational powers were of a high
+order. Good sense, I had always given her credit for possessing; and
+I believed her capable of reading character correctly. She was the
+last one I should have regarded as being in danger of losing a heart
+to Ralph Dewey.
+
+In person, Delia was rather below than above the middle stature. Her
+hair was of a dark brown, and so were her eyes--the latter large and
+liquid. Her complexion was fresh, almost ruddy, and her countenance
+animated, and quick to register every play of feeling.
+
+In manner, she was exceedingly agreeable, and had the happy art of
+putting even strangers at ease. It was no matter of wonder to me, as
+I said before, that Henry Wallingford should fall in love with Delia
+Floyd. But I did wonder, most profoundly, when I became fully
+assured, that she had, for a mere flash man, such as Ralph Dewey
+seemed to me, turned herself away from Henry Wallingford.
+
+But women are enigmas to most of us--I don't include you, dear
+Constance!--and every now and then puzzle us by acts so strangely
+out of keeping with all that we had predicated of them, as to leave
+no explanation within our reach, save that of evil fascination, or
+temporary loss of reason. We see their feet often turning aside into
+ways that we know lead to wretchedness, and onward they move
+persistently, heeding neither the voice of love, warning, nor
+reproach. They hope all things, believe all things, trust all
+things, and make shipwreck on the breakers that all eyes but their
+own see leaping and foaming in their course. Yes, woman is truly an
+enigma!
+
+Squire Floyd was a plain, upright man, in moderately good
+circumstances. He owned a water power on the stream that ran near
+our town, and had built himself a cotton mill, which was yielding
+him a good annual income. But he was far from being rich, and had
+the good sense not to assume a style of living beyond his means.
+
+Henry Wallingford was the son of an old friend of Squire Floyd's.
+The elder Mr. Wallingford was not a man of the Squire's caution and
+prudence. He was always making mistakes in matters of business, and
+never succeeded well in any thing. He died when his son was about
+eighteen years of age. Henry was at that time studying law with
+Judge Bigelow. As, in the settlement of his father's estate, it was
+found to be wholly insolvent, Henry, unwilling to be dependent on
+his mother, who had a small income in her own right, gave notice to
+the Judge that he was about to leave his office. Now, the Judge was
+a man of penetration, and had already discovered in the quiet,
+reserved young man, just the qualities needed to give success in the
+practice of law. He looked calmly at his student for some moments
+after receiving this announcement, conning over his face, which by
+no means gave indications of a happy state of mind.
+
+"You think you can find a better preceptor?" said the Judge, at
+last, in his calm way.
+
+"No, sir! no!" answered Henry, quickly. "Not in all this town, nor
+out of it, either. It is not that, Judge Bigelow."
+
+"Then you don't fancy the law?"
+
+"On the contrary, there is no other calling in life that presents to
+my mind any thing attractive," replied Henry, in a tone of
+despondency that did not escape the Judge.
+
+"Well, if that is the case, why not keep on? You are getting along
+bravely."
+
+"I must support myself, sir--must do something besides sitting here
+and reading law books."
+
+"Ah, yes, I see." The Judge spoke to himself, as if light had broken
+into his mind. "Well, Henry," he added, looking at the young man,
+"what do you propose doing?"
+
+"I have hands and health," was the reply.
+
+"Something more than hands and health are required in this world.
+What can you do?"
+
+"I can work on a farm, if nothing better offers. Or, may be, I can
+get a place in some store."
+
+"There's good stuff in the lad," said Judge Bigelow to himself. Then
+speaking aloud--
+
+"I'll think this matter over for you, Henry. Let it rest for a day
+or two. The law is your proper calling, and you must not give it up,
+if you can be sustained in it."
+
+On that very day, Judge Bigelow saw Squire Floyd, and talked the
+matter over with him. They had but one sentiment in the matter, and
+that was favorable to Henry's remaining where he was.
+
+"Can he be of any service to you, in your office, Judge--such as
+copying deeds and papers, hunting up cases, and the like?" asked the
+Squire.
+
+"Yes, he can be of service to me in that way; and is of service
+now."
+
+"You can afford to pay him something?" suggested Squire Floyd.
+
+"It is usual," replied the Judge, "to get this kind of service in
+return for instruction and office privileges."
+
+"I know; but this case is peculiar. The death of Henry's father has
+left him without a support, and he is too independent to burden his
+mother. Unless he can earn something, therefore, he must abandon the
+law."
+
+"I understand that, Squire, and have already decided to compensate
+him," said the Judge. "But what I can offer will not be enough."
+
+"How much can you offer?"
+
+"Not over a hundred dollars for the first year."
+
+"Call it two hundred, Judge," was the ready answer.
+
+The two men looked for a moment into each other's faces.
+
+"His father and I were friends from boyhood," said Squire Floyd. "He
+was a warm-hearted man; but always making mistakes. He would have
+ruined me two or three times over, if I had been weak enough to
+enter into his plans, or to yield to his importunities in the way of
+risks and securities. It often went hard for me to refuse him; but
+duty to those dependent on me was stronger than friendship. But I
+can spare a hundred dollars for his son, and will do it cheerfully.
+Only, I must not be known in the matter; for it would lay on Henry's
+mind a weight of obligation, not pleasant for one of his sensitive
+disposition to bear."
+
+"I see, Squire," answered Judge Bigelow to this; "but then it won't
+place me in the right position. I shall receive credit for your
+benevolence."
+
+"Don't trouble yourself on that score," answered the Squire,
+laughing. "It may be that I shall want some law business
+done--though heaven forbid! In that case, I will call on you, and
+you can let Henry do the work. Thus the equilibrium of benefits will
+be restored. Let the salary be two hundred."
+
+And so this matter being settled, Henry Wallingford remained in the
+office of Judge Bigelow. The fact of being salaried by the Judge,
+stimulated him to new efforts, and made him forward to relieve his
+kind preceptor of all duties within the range of his ability. There
+came, during the next year, an unusually large amount of office
+practice--preparing deeds, making searches, and drawing up papers of
+various kinds. In doing this work, Henry was rapid and reliable. So,
+when Squire Floyd tendered his proportion of the young man's salary
+to his neighbor, the Judge declined receiving it. The Squire urged;
+but the Judge said--
+
+"No; Henry has earned his salary, and I must pay it, in simple
+justice. I did not think there was so much in him. Business has
+increased, and without so valuable an assistant, I could not get
+along."
+
+So the way had opened before Henry Wallingford, and he was on the
+road to a successful manhood. At the time of his introduction to the
+reader, he was in his twenty-third year. On attaining his majority,
+he had become so indispensable to Judge Bigelow, who had the largest
+practice in the county, that no course was left for him but to offer
+the young man a share in his business. It was accepted; and the name
+of Henry Wallingford was thenceforth displayed in gilt letters, in
+the office window of his preceptor.
+
+From that time, his mind never rested with anything like care or
+anxiety on the future. His daily life consisted in an almost
+absorbed devotion to his professional duties, which grew steadily on
+his hands. His affection was in them, and so the balance of his mind
+was fully sustained. Ah, if we could all thus rest, without anxiety,
+on the right performance of our allotted work! If we would be
+content to wait patiently for that success which comes as the
+orderly result of well-doing in our business, trades, or
+professions, what a different adjustment would there be in our
+social condition and relations! There would not be all around us so
+many eager, care-worn faces--so many heads bowed with anxious
+thought--so many shoulders bent with burdens, destined, sooner or
+later, to prove too great for the strength which now sustains them.
+But how few, like Henry Wallingford, enter with anything like
+pleasure into their work! It is, in most cases, held as drudgery,
+and regarded only as the means to cherished ends in life wholly
+removed from the calling itself. Impatience comes as a natural
+result. The hand reaches forth to pluck the growing fruit ere it is
+half ripened. No wonder that its taste is bitter to so many
+thousands. No wonder that true success comes to so small a
+number--that to so many life proves but a miserable failure.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+
+
+
+The morning which broke after that night of storm was serene and
+beautiful. The air had a crystal clearness, and as you looked away
+up into the cloudless azure, it seemed as if the eye could penetrate
+to an immeasurable distance. The act of breathing was a luxury. You
+drew in draught after draught of the rich air, feeling, with every
+inhalation, that a new vitality was absorbed through the lungs,
+giving to the heart a nobler beat, and to the brain a fresh
+activity. With what a different feeling did I take up my round of
+duties for the day! Yesterday I went creeping forth like a reluctant
+school boy; to-day, with an uplifted countenance and a willing step.
+
+Having a few near calls to make, I did not order my horse, as both
+health and inclination were better served by walking. Soon after
+breakfast I started out, and was going in the direction of Judge
+Bigelow's office, when, hearing a step behind me that had in it a
+familiar sound, I turned to find myself face to face with Henry
+Wallingford! He could hardly have failed to see the look of surprise
+in my face.
+
+"Good morning, Henry," I said, giving him my hand, and trying to
+speak with that cheerful interest in the young man which I had
+always endeavored to show.
+
+He smiled in his usual quiet way as he took my hand and said in
+return,
+
+"Good-morning, Doctor."
+
+"You were not out, I believe, yesterday," I remarked, as we moved on
+together.
+
+"I didn't feel very well," he answered, in a voice pitched to a
+lower key than usual; "and, the day being a stormy one, I shut
+myself up at home."
+
+"Ah," said I, in a cheerful way, "you lawyers have the advantage of
+us knights of the pill box and lancet. Rain or shine, sick or well,
+we must travel round our parish."
+
+"All have their share of the good as well as the evil things of
+life," he replied, a little soberly. "Doctors and lawyers included."
+
+I did not observe any marked change in the young man, except that he
+was paler, and had a different look out of his eyes from any that I
+had hitherto noticed; a more matured look, which not only indicated
+deeper feeling, but gave signs of will and endurance. I carried that
+new expression away with me as we parted at the door of his office,
+and studied it as a new revelation of the man. It was very certain
+that profounder depths had been opened in his nature--opened to his
+own consciousness--than had ever seen the light before. That he was
+more a man than he had ever been, and more worthy to be mated with a
+true woman. Up to this time I had thought of him more as a boy than
+as a man, for the years had glided by so quietly that bore him
+onward with the rest, that he had not arisen in my thought to the
+full mental stature which the word manhood includes.
+
+"Ah," said I, as I walked on, "what a mistake in Delia Floyd! She is
+just as capable of high development as a woman as he is as a man.
+How admirably would they have mated. In him, self-reliance, reason,
+judgment, and deep feeling would have found in her all the qualities
+they seek--taste, perception, tenderness and love. They would have
+grown upwards into higher ideas of life, not downwards into
+sensualism and mere worldliness, like the many. Alas! This mistake
+on her part may ruin them both; for a man of deep, reserved
+feelings, who suffers a disappointment in love, is often warped in
+his appreciation of the sex, and grows one-sided in his character as
+he advances through the cycles of life.
+
+I had parted from Henry only a few minutes when I met his rival,
+Ralph Dewey. Let me describe him. In person he was taller than
+Wallingford, and had the easy, confident manner of one who had seen
+the world, as we say. His face was called handsome; but it was not a
+manly face--manly in that best sense which includes character and
+thought. The chin and mouth were feeble, and the forehead narrow,
+throwing the small orbs close together. But he had a fresh
+complexion, dark, sprightly eyes, and a winning smile. His voice was
+not very good, having in it a kind of unpleasant rattle; but he
+managed it rather skillfully in conversation, and you soon, ceased
+to notice the peculiarity.
+
+Ralph lived in New York, where he had recently been advanced to the
+position of fourth partner in a dry goods jobbing house, with a
+small percentage on the net profits. Judging from the air with which
+he spoke of his firm's operations, and his relation to the business,
+you might have inferred that he was senior instead of junior
+partner, and that the whole weight of the concern rested on his
+shoulders.
+
+Judge Bigelow, a solid man, and from professional habit skilled in
+reading character, was, singularly enough, quite carried away with
+his smart nephew, and really believed his report of himself.
+Prospectively, he saw him a merchant prince, surrounded by palatial
+splendors.
+
+Our acquaintance was as yet but slight, so we only nodded in
+passing. As we were in the neighborhood of Squire Floyd's pleasant
+cottage, I was naturally curious, under the circumstances, to see
+whether the young man was going to make a visit at so early an hour;
+and I managed to keep long enough in sight to have this matter
+determined. Ralph called at the Squire's, and I saw him admitted. So
+I shook my head disapprovingly, and kept on my way.
+
+Not until late in the afternoon did I find occasion to go into that
+part of the town where the old Allen house was located, though the
+image of its gleaming north-west windows was frequently in my
+thought. The surprise occasioned by that incident was in no way
+lessened on seeing a carriage drive in through the gateway, and two
+ladies alight therefrom and enter the house. Both were in mourning.
+I did not see their faces; but, judging from the dress and figure of
+each, it was evident that one was past the meridian of life, and the
+other young. Still more to my surprise, the carriage was not built
+after our New England fashion, but looked heavy, and of a somewhat
+ancient date. It was large and high, with a single seat for the
+driver perched away up in the air, and a footman's stand and
+hangings behind. There was, moreover, a footman in attendance, who
+sprung to his place after the ladies had alighted, and rode off to
+the stables.
+
+"Am I dreaming?" said I to myself, as I kept on my way, after
+witnessing this new incident in the series of strange events that
+were half-bewildering me. But it was in vain that I rubbed my eyes;
+I could not wake up to a different reality.
+
+It was late when I got home from my round of calls, and found tea
+awaiting my arrival.
+
+"Any one been here?" I asked--my usual question.
+
+"No one.' The answer pleased me for I had many things on my mind,
+and I wished to have a good long evening with my wife. Baby Mary and
+Louis were asleep: but we had the sweet, gentle face of Agnes, our
+first born, to brighten the meal-time. After she was in dream-land,
+guarded by the loving angels who watch with children in sleep, and
+Constance was through with her household cares for the evening, I
+came into the sitting-room from my office, and taking the large
+rocking-chair, leaned my head back, mind and body enjoying a sense
+of rest and comfort.
+
+"You are not the only one," said my wife, looking up from the basket
+of work through which she had been searching for some article, "who
+noticed lights in the Allen House last evening."
+
+"Who else saw them?" I asked.
+
+"Mrs. Dean says she heard two or three people say that the house was
+lit up all over--a perfect illumination."
+
+"Stories lose nothing in being re-told. The illumination was
+confined to the room in which Captain Allen died. I am witness to
+that. But I have something more for your ears. This afternoon, as I
+rode past, I saw an old-fashioned English coach, with a liveried
+driver and footman, turn into the gate. From this two ladies
+alighted and went into the house; when the coach was driven to the
+stables. Now, what do you think of that?"
+
+"We are to have a romance enacted in our very midst, it would seem,"
+replied my wife, in her unimpassioned way. "Other eyes have seen
+this also, and the strange fact is buzzing through the town. I was
+only waiting until we were alone to tell you that these two ladies
+whom you saw, arrived at the Allen House in their carriage near
+about daylight, on the day before yesterday. But no one knows who
+they are, or from whence they came. It is said that they made
+themselves as completely at home as if they were in their own house;
+selected the north-west chamber as their sleeping apartment; and
+ordered the old servants about with an air of authority that subdued
+them to obedience."
+
+"But what of Mrs. Allen?" I asked, in astonishment at all this.
+
+"The stories about her reception of the strangers do not agree.
+According to one, the old lady was all resistance and indignation at
+this intrusion; according to another, she gave way, passively, as if
+she were no longer sole mistress of the house."
+
+Constance ceased speaking, for there came the usual interruption to
+our evening _tete-a-tete_--the ringing of my office bell.
+
+"You are wanted up at the Allen House, Doctor, said my boy, coming
+in from the office a few moments afterwards.
+
+"Who is sick?" I asked.
+
+"The old lady."
+
+"Any thing serious?"
+
+"I don't know, sir. But I should think there was from the way old
+Aunty looked. She says, come up as quickly as you can."
+
+"Is she in the office?"
+
+"No, sir. She just said that, and then went out in a hurry."
+
+"The plot thickens," said I, looking at Constance.
+
+"Poor old lady!" There was a shade of pity in her tones.
+
+"You have not seen her for many years?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Poor old witch of Endor! were better said."
+
+"Oh!" answered my wife, smiling, "you know that the painter's idea
+of this celebrated individual has been reversed by some, who affirm
+that she was young and handsome instead of old and ugly like modern
+witches."
+
+"I don't know how that may be, but if you could see Mrs. Allen, you
+would say that 'hag' were a better term for her than woman. If the
+good grow beautiful as they grow old, the loving spirit shining like
+a lamp through the wasted and failing walls of flesh, so do the evil
+grow ugly and repulsive. Ah, Constance, the lesson is for all of us.
+If we live true lives, our countenances will grow radiant from
+within, as we advance in years; if selfish, worldly, discontented
+lives, they will grow cold, hard, and repulsive."
+
+I drew on my boots and coat, and started on my visit to the Allen
+House. The night was in perfect contrast with the previous one.
+There was no moon, but every star shone with its highest brilliancy,
+while the galaxy threw its white scarf gracefully across the sky,
+veiling millions of suns in their own excessive brightness. I paused
+several times in my walk, as broader expanses opened between the
+great elms that gave to our town a sylvan beauty, and repeated, with
+a rapt feeling of awe and admiration, the opening stanza of a
+familiar hymn:--
+
+"The spacious firmament on high,
+With all the blue ethereal sky,
+And spangled heavens, a shining frame,
+Their great Original proclaim."
+
+How the beauty and grandeur of nature move the heart, as if it
+recognized something of its own in every changing aspect. The sun
+and moon and stars--the grand old mountains lifting themselves
+upwards into serene heights--the limitless expanse of ocean,
+girdling the whole earth--rivers, valleys, and plains--trees,
+flowers, the infinite forms of life--to all the soul gives some
+response, as if they were akin.
+
+I half forgot my interest in old Mrs. Allen, as my heart beat
+responsive to the pulsings of nature, and my thoughts flew upwards
+and away as on the wings of eagles. But my faithful feet had borne
+me steadily onwards, and I was at the gate opening to the grounds of
+the Allen House, before I was conscious of having passed over half
+the distance that lay between that and my home. I looked up, and saw
+a light in the north-west chamber, but the curtains were down.
+
+On entering the house, I was shown by the servant who admitted me,
+into the small office or reception room opening from the hall. I had
+scarcely seated myself, when a tall woman, dressed in black, came
+in, and said, with a graceful, but rather stately manner--
+
+"The Doctor, I believe?"
+
+How familiar the voice sounded! And yet I did not recognise it as
+the voice of any one whom I had known, but rather as a voice heard
+in dreams. Nor was the calm, dignified countenance on which my eyes
+rested, strange in every lineament. The lady was, to all appearance,
+somewhere in the neighborhood of sixty, and, for an elderly lady,
+handsome. I thought of my remark to Constance about the beauty and
+deformity of age, and said to myself, "Here is one who has not lived
+in vain."
+
+I arose as she spoke, and answered in the affirmative.
+
+"You have come too late," she said, with a touch of feeling in her
+voice.
+
+"Not dead?" I ejaculated.
+
+"Yes, dead. Will you walk up stairs and see her?"
+
+I followed in silence, ascending to the chamber which had been
+occupied by Mrs. Allen since the old Captain's death. It was true as
+she had said; a ghastly corpse was before me. I use the word
+ghastly, for it fully expresses the ugliness of that lifeless face,
+withered, marred, almost shorn of every true aspect of humanity. I
+laid my hand upon her--the skin was cold. I felt for her pulse, but
+there was no sign of motion in the arteries.
+
+"It is over," I said, lifting myself from my brief examination, "and
+may God have mercy upon her soul!" The last part of the sentence was
+involuntary.
+
+"Amen!"
+
+I felt that this response was no idle ejaculation.
+
+"How was she affected?" I asked. "Has she been sick for any time? Or
+did life go out suddenly?"
+
+"It went out suddenly," replied the lady--"as suddenly as a lamp in
+the wind."
+
+"Was she excited from any cause?"
+
+"She has been in an excited state ever since our arrival, although
+every thing that lay in our power has been done to quiet her mind
+and give it confidence and repose."
+
+She spoke calmly, as one, who held a controlling position there, and
+of right. I looked into her serene face, almost classic in its
+outlines, with an expression of blended inquiry and surprise, that
+it was evident did not escape her observation, although she offered
+no explanation in regard to herself.
+
+I turned again to the corpse, and examined it with some care. There
+was nothing in its appearance that gave me any clue to the cause
+which had produced this sudden extinguishment of life.
+
+"In what way was she excited?" I asked, looking at the stranger as I
+stepped back from the couch on which the dead body was lying.
+
+She returned my steady gaze, without answering, for some moments.
+Either my tone or manner affected her unpleasantly, for I saw her
+brows contract slightly, her full lips close upon themselves, and
+her eyes acquire an intenser look.
+
+"You have been her physician, I believe?" There was no sign of
+feeling in the steady voice which made the inquiry.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"_I_ need not, in that case, describe to you her unhappy state of
+mind. _I_ need not tell you that an evil will had the mastery over
+her understanding, and that, in the fierce struggle of evil passion
+with evil passion, mind and body had lost their right adjustment."
+
+"I know all this," said I. "Still, madam, in view of my professional
+duty, I must repeat my question, and urge upon you the propriety of
+an undisguised answer. In what way was she excited? and what was the
+cause leading to an excitement which has ended thus fatally?"
+
+"I am not in the habit of putting on disguises," she answered, with
+a quiet dignity that really looked beautiful.
+
+"I pray you, madam, not to misunderstand me," said I. "As a
+physician, I must report the cause of all deaths in the range of my
+practice. If I were not to do so in this case, a permit for burial
+would not be issued until a regular inquest was held by the
+Coroner."
+
+"Ah, I see," she replied, yet with an air of indecision. "You are
+perfectly right, Doctor, and we must answer to your satisfaction.
+But let us retire from this chamber."
+
+She led the way down stairs. As we passed the memorable north-west
+room, she pushed the door open, and said,
+
+"Blanche, dear, I wish to see you. Come down to the parlor."
+
+I heard faintly the answer, in a very musical voice. We had scarcely
+entered the parlor, when the lady said--
+
+"My daughter, Doctor."
+
+A vision of beauty and innocence met my gaze. A young girl, not over
+seventeen, tall like her mother, very fair, with a face just subdued
+into something of womanly seriousness, stood in the door, as I
+turned at mention of her presence.
+
+A single lamp gave its feeble light to the room, only half subduing
+the shadows that went creeping into corners and recesses. Something
+of a weird aspect was on every thing; and I could not but gaze at
+the two strangers in that strange place to them, under such peculiar
+circumstances, and wonder to see them so calm, dignified, and
+self-possessed. We sat down by the table on which the lamp was
+standing, the elder of the two opposite, and the younger a little
+turned away, so that her features were nearly concealed.
+
+"Blanche," said the former, "the Doctor wishes to know the
+particular incidents connected with the death of Mrs. Allen."
+
+I thought there was an uneasy movement on the part of the girl. She
+did not reply. There was a pause.
+
+"The facts are simply these, Doctor," and the mother looked me
+steadily in the face, which stood out clear, as the lamp shone full
+on every feature. "From the moment of our arrival, Mrs. Allen has
+seemed like one possessed of an evil Spirit. How she conducted
+herself before, is known to me only as reported by the servants.
+From the little they have communicated, I infer that for some time
+past she has not been ii her right mind. How is it? You must know as
+to her sanity or insanity."
+
+"She has not, in my opinion, been a truly sane woman for years," was
+my answer.
+
+"As I just said," she continued, "she has seemed like one possessed
+of an evil spirit. In no way could we soften or conciliate her. Her
+conduct resembled more nearly that of some fierce wild beast whose
+den was invaded, than that of a human being. She would hold no
+friendly intercourse with us, and if we met at any time, or in any
+part of the house, she would fix her keen black eyes upon us, with
+an expression that sent a shudder to the heart. My daughter scarcely
+dared venture from her room. She so dreaded to meet her. Twice, as
+she flew past me, in her restless wanderings over the house,
+muttering to herself, I heard her say, as she struck her clenched
+hand in the air, 'I can do it again, and I will!'"
+
+A cold chill crept over me, for I remembered the death of Captain
+Allen; and this was like a confirmation of what I had feared as to
+foul play.
+
+"There is no trusting one wholly or even partially insane. So we
+were always on our guard. Not once, but many times during the few
+nights we have spent here, have we heard the door of our chamber
+tried after midnight. It was plain to us that it was not safe to
+live in this way, and so we had come to the reluctant conclusion
+that personal restraint must be secured. The question as to how this
+could best be done we had not yet decided, when death unraveled the
+difficulty."
+
+The speaker ceased at this part of her narrative, and lifting from
+the table a small bell, rung it. A maid entered. I had never seen
+her before.
+
+"Tell Jackson that I want him."
+
+The girl curtsied respectfully, and withdrew.
+
+Nothing more was said, until a man, whom I recognized at a glance to
+be a regularly trained English servant, presented himself.
+
+"Jackson," said the lady, "I wish you to relate exactly, what
+occurred just previously to, and at the time of Mrs. Allen's death."
+
+The man looked bewildered for a moment or two; but soon recovering
+himself, answered without hesitation.
+
+"Hit 'appened just in this way, ma'am. I was a comin' hup stairs,
+when I met the hold lady a tearin' down like a mad cat. She looked
+kind o' awful. I never saw anybody out of an 'ospital look that way
+in all my life before. She 'eld an hiron poker in 'er 'and. As my
+young lady--" and he looked towards Blanche--" was in the 'all, I
+didn't think it safe for 'er if I let the hold woman go down. So I
+just stood in 'er way, and put my harms across the stairs
+so"--stretching his arms out. "My! but 'ow she did fire up! She
+stood almost a minute, and then sprung on me as if she was a tiger.
+But I was the strongest, and 'olding 'er in my harms like as I would
+a mad kitten, I carried 'er hup to 'er room, put 'er hin, and shut
+the door. My young lady saw it hall, for she followed right hup
+after me."
+
+He looked towards Blanche.
+
+"Just as it occurred," she said, in a low, sweet fluttering voice.
+
+"I heard the strife," said her mother, "and ran up to see what was
+the matter. I reached the door of Mrs. Allen's room just as Jackson
+thrust her in. He did not use any more violence than was needed in a
+case of such sudden emergency. He is strong, and held her so tightly
+that she could not even struggle. One wild, fierce scream rent the
+air, as he shut the door, and then all was silent as death. I went
+in to her instantly. She was on the floor in a convulsion. You were
+sent for immediately; but it was too late for human intervention.
+Jackson, you can go."
+
+The man bowed with an air of deferential respect, and retired.
+
+"Now, sir," she added, turning to me, "you have the facts as they
+occurred. I have no wish to give them publicity, for they are family
+matters, and these are always in their degree, sacred. If, however,
+you think it your duty as a physician, to make the matter one of
+official investigation, I can have nothing to say."
+
+I thought for some minutes before answering. The story, as related
+by the servant, I fully credited.
+
+"Let me see the body again," said I, coming at length to a
+conclusion.
+
+We went up stairs, all three together; but only two of us entered
+the chamber of death. As we neared the door, Blanche caught at her
+mother's arm, and I heard her say, in a whisper:
+
+"Dear mamma! spare me that sight again. It is too horrible!"
+
+"The presence of your daughter is not needed," said I, interposing.
+"Let her retire to her own room."
+
+"Thank you!" There was a grateful expression in her voice, as she
+uttered these brief words, and then went back, while we passed in to
+the apartment where the dead woman was still lying.
+
+As I looked upon her face again, it seemed even more ghastly than
+before; and I could hardly repress a shudder. My companion held a
+lamp; while I made as careful an examination as was possible under
+the circumstances. I did not expect to find any marks of violence,
+though I searched for them about her head, neck, and chest. But,
+under the circumstances, I felt it to be my duty to know, from
+actual search, that no such signs existed. In every aspect presented
+by the corpse, there was a corroboration of the story related by the
+serving man. It was plain, that in a fit of half insane,
+uncontrollable passion, the nice adjustment of physical forces had
+been lost.
+
+"I am fully satisfied, madam," said I, at length, turning from my
+unpleasant task.
+
+She let her calm, earnest eyes dwell on mine for a few moments, and
+then answered, with a softened tone, in which there was just a
+perceptible thrill of feeling--
+
+"If I were a believer in omens, I should take this sad incident,
+following so quickly on our removal to a new country and a new home,
+as foreshadowing evil to me or mine. But I do not so read external
+events."
+
+"Between a life like hers, and a life like yours, madam, there can
+be no possible nearness; nor any relation between your spiritual
+affinities and hers. The antipodes are not farther apart," said I,
+in return; "therefore, nothing that has befallen her can be ominous
+as to you."
+
+"I trust not," she gravely answered, as we left the room together.
+
+To my inquiry if I could serve her in any way, in the present
+matter, she simply requested me to send a respectable undertaker,
+who would perform what was fitting in the last rites due to the
+dead.
+
+I promised, and retired.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+
+
+
+
+The appearance, manner, and bearing of the two strangers impressed
+me strongly. The elder had evidently moved in refined and cultivated
+society all her life. There was about her the air of "a lady, born
+and bred"--dignified, calm, easy, and courteous. The daughter was a
+lovely blossom on this stately stem--delicate, beautiful, sweet with
+the odors of innocence. I see her now as I saw her on that first
+night of our meeting--to my eyes a new born vision of loveliness.
+
+I found Constance awaiting, with curious interest, my return. I was
+going right into the heart of this new wonder, and could not fail to
+bring back some revelation that would satisfy, in a measure, the
+excitement of mind produced by so singular an intrusion of strangers
+upon our quiet town. I answered her first look of inquiry by the
+words:--
+
+"It is over. Another book of life is sealed up here to be opened in
+eternity."
+
+"Dead! Not dead?"
+
+"Yes, Constance, Mrs. Allen is dead. Her spirit had passed away
+before my arrival."
+
+"How did she die?--from what cause?"
+
+"From what I can learn she died in a fit of passion." I then related
+all that I had seen and heard.
+
+"But who can they be?" This query came as a natural sequence. "What
+right have they in the Allen House?"
+
+"Whoever they may be," I replied, "they act, or, at least, the elder
+of the two ladies acts as if her right there was not even open to a
+question. And, perhaps, it is not."
+
+"But what can they be to the Allens?"
+
+"I will give you," said I, "the benefit of my guessing on the
+subject. You recollect the story told about Captain Allen's mother;
+how she went off a great many years ago with a stranger--an
+Englishman."
+
+Constance remembered all about this family history, for it was the
+romance of our town.
+
+"My conclusion is that this lady is the sister of Captain Allen--the
+child that his mother took with her when she fled from her husband's
+house. I am strengthened in this belief from the first impression of
+her voice, as if the tones had in them something familiar."
+
+We talked this matter over, looking at it in every way, until we
+satisfied ourselves that my conjectures must be true. The quiet
+manner in which they had intruded themselves, and taken possession
+of the house--unheralded as far as we knew--could not but present
+itself to our minds as a matter of special wonder. The more we
+conned it over the more we were puzzled. Before coming home I had
+called at an undertaker's, and notified him that his services were
+wanted at the Allen House. Early on the next day I took the liberty
+of calling there myself. I sent up my name, and awaited, with some
+interest, my reception. The visit might be regarded as an intrusion,
+and I was prepared to receive a message from the lady asking to be
+excused. Not so, however. I had been seated only a few moments, when
+I heard the rustle of her garments on the stairs. My first glance at
+her face assured me that I was no unwelcome visitor.
+
+"Thank you, Doctor," she said, as she extended her hand, "for this
+early call. Our meeting last night for the first time can hardly be
+called a pleasant one--or the associations connected with it such as
+either of us might wish to recall."
+
+"Our control over events is so slight," I made answer as I resumed
+my seat, "that we should separate unpleasant feelings as far as
+possible from any memories connected with them."
+
+A faint, sad smile just lightened up her placid face as she said, in
+reply to the remark.
+
+"Ah, Doctor, that may not be. Lives are too intimately blended here
+for any one to suffer or do wrong without leaving a burden of
+sadness on other memories."
+
+"True; but the burden will be light or heavy according to our
+strength."
+
+She looked at me without replying, for the remark was so palpable,
+that it seemed to involve nothing beyond a literal fact.
+
+"Or rather," I said, "the burden will be heavy or light according to
+our state or quality."
+
+There was a sign of awakening interest in her countenance as if my
+remark had touched some hidden spring of thought.
+
+"If we are right with ourselves," I went on, "the disturbance
+produced by others' misconduct will not reach very far down. The
+pressure of sadness may lie upon us for a season; but cannot long
+remain; for the pure heart will lift itself into serene
+atmospheres."
+
+"But, who is right with himself?" she said. "Whose heart is pure
+enough to dwell in these serene atmospheres? Not mine, alas!"
+
+I looked into the suddenly illuminated face as she put these
+questions, in surprise at the quick change which had passed over it.
+But the tone in which she uttered the closing sentence was touched
+with tender sadness.
+
+"Rather let me say," I made answer, "_in the degree_ that we are
+right with ourselves. None attain unto perfection here."
+
+"Yet," said the lady, with a sweet calmness of manner that made her
+look beautiful, "is it not pleasant to imagine a state of
+perfection--or rather a state in which evil is quiescent, and the
+heart active with all good and loving impulses? How full of
+inspiration is such an ideal of life! But the way by which we must
+go, if we would rise into this state, is one of difficulty and
+perpetual warfare. The enemies of our peace are numbered by myriads;
+and they. seek with deadly hatred to do us harm."
+
+"And yet are powerless," said I, "if we keep the outworks of our
+lives in order."
+
+"Yes," she answered, "it is the very ultimate or last things of our
+lives where the power of repulsion resides. We can, in temptation,
+be it ever so strong, refuse to _act_ in the wrong direction--refuse
+to do an evil thing, because it is sinful. And this is our bulwark;
+this is our tower of safety; for it is only in _wrong doing_ that
+our enemies gain the victory over us. They may assault us never so
+fiercely--may dazzle our eyes with the glitter of this world's most
+alluring things--may stir the latent envy, malice, pride, or
+dishonesty, that lurks in every heart; but if we stand still, hold
+back our hands and stay our feet--if we give our resolute 'No' to
+all enticements, and keep our _actions_ free from evil, all hell
+cannot prevail against us. God will take care of the interior of our
+lives, and make them pure and heavenly, if we resist evil in the
+exterior. But, pardon me; I did not mean to read you a homily."
+
+She smiled with a grave sort of smile, and then sat silent.
+
+"I like your way of talking," said I. There was something about the
+lady that put me at ease with her, and I said this without reserve,
+as if I were speaking to a friend. "It looks to higher things in
+life than people usually regard as worthy of our chief
+consideration. To most of us, the outer world offers the highest
+attractions; only the few turn inwardly to the more beautiful world
+of mind."
+
+"Outward things fade--change--die; only spiritual things dwell in
+unfading beauty. We are in a world of mere effects as to our bodies;
+but the soul lives in the world of causes. Do we not spend a vain
+and unprofitable life, then, if we go on building, day after day,
+our tabernacle on the ever-shifting sands of time, instead of upon
+the immoveable Rock of Ages? But who is guiltless of this folly? Not
+I! not I!"
+
+Again that calm, earnest voice fell to a lower key, and was veiled
+by a tender sadness.
+
+"It is something gained," she added, with returning firmness of
+tone, "if, even after the sharp lessons of many years, we get
+glimpses of Truth, and are willing to follow, though it be at a far
+distance, the light she holds aloft. Yes, it is something
+gained--something gained!"
+
+She spoke the last words as if merely thinking aloud, and not
+addressing an auditor.
+
+"Can I aid you in anything, madam?" said I, breaking in upon a state
+of reverie into which her mind seemed to be falling. "The
+circumstances under which you find yourself are peculiar--I refer to
+the death of Mrs. Allen, following so quickly on your arrival among
+strangers--and you may stand in need of friendly service from one
+who knows the people and their ways. If so, do not hesitate to
+command me."
+
+"I thank you sincerely," she answered, unbending still more from her
+almost stately manner. "Friendly consideration I shall need, of
+course--as who does not in this world? And I repeat my thanks, that
+you have so kindly and so promptly anticipated my needs So far as
+the remains of my unhappy kinswoman are concerned, I have referred
+all to the undertaker. He will carry out my wishes. To-morrow the
+interment will take place. On the day following, if it it is altogether
+agreeable to yourself, I would esteem a call as a particular favor."
+
+I arose, as she concluded the last sentence, saying as I did so,
+
+"I will be sure to call, madam; and render any service in my power.
+You may regard me as a friend."
+
+"Already you have extorted my confidence," she answered, faintly
+smiling.
+
+I bowed low, and was retiring when she said--
+
+"A moment, Doctor!"
+
+I turned toward her again.
+
+"Doctor, it may be well for you to see my daughter."
+
+"Is she indisposed?" I asked.
+
+"Not exactly that. But the excitement and alarm of the last two or
+three days have been, I fear, rather too much for her nerves. I say
+alarm, for the poor girl was really frightened at Mrs. Allen's wild
+conduct--and no wonder. Death following in so sad a way, shocked her
+painfully. She did not sleep well last night; and this morning she
+looks pale and drooping. In all probability, quiet of mind and body
+will soon adjust the balance of health; still, it may be safest for
+you to see her."
+
+"A mere temporary disturbance, no doubt, which, as you suggest,
+quiet of mind and body will, in all probability, overcome. Yet it
+will do no harm for me to see her; and may save trouble."
+
+"Excuse me a moment," she said, and left the room. In a little while
+she returned, and asked me to accompany her up stairs,
+
+I found the daughter in a black and gray silk wrapper, seated on a
+lounge. She arose as I entered, a slight flush coming into her face,
+which subsided in a few moments, leaving it quite pale, and weary
+looking. After we were all seated, I took her hand, which was hot in
+the palm, but cold at the extremities. Her pulse was feeble,
+disturbed, and quick.
+
+"How is your head?" I asked.
+
+"It feels a little strangely," she replied, moving it two or three
+times, as if to get some well defined sensation.
+
+"Any pain?"
+
+"Yes; a dull kind of pain over my left eye, that seems to go deep
+into my head."
+
+"What general bodily sensation have you? Any that you can speak of
+definitely?"
+
+"None, except a sense of oppression and heaviness. When I raise my
+arm, it seems to fall like lead; if I move about, I am weary, and
+wish to be at rest."
+
+"Rest is, by all means, the most desirable condition for you now,"
+said I. Then addressing her mother, I added--"I think your daughter
+had better lie down. Let her room be shaded and kept quiet. She
+needs rest and sleep. Sleep is one of nature's great restorers."
+
+"Will you make no prescription, Doctor?" the mother asked.
+
+I reflected on the symptoms exhibited, for a few moments, and then
+said,
+
+"Nothing beyond repose, now. I trust that nature, as the pressure is
+removed, will work all right again."
+
+"You will call in again to-day."
+
+"Yes; towards evening I will see your daughter, when I hope to find
+her improved in every way."
+
+I spoke with a cheerfulness of manner that did not altogether
+express my feelings in the case; for, there were some indications,
+not yet clear enough for a diagnosis, that awakened slight concern.
+As I did not wish to go wrong in my first prescription, I deemed it
+better to wait a few hours, and see how nature would succeed in her
+efforts to repel the enemy. So I went away, with a promise to call
+again early in the afternoon.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+
+
+
+It was between four and five o'clock in the afternoon, when I called
+again at the Allen House. An old colored servant, who had been in
+the family ever since my remembrance--she went by the name of
+"Aunty"--was standing by the gate as I alighted from my chaise.
+
+"'Deed, massa, Ise glad you come," said she in a troubled way.
+
+"Why so, Aunty? No body very sick, I hope."
+
+"'Deed, an dar is den; else old Aunty don't know nothin'."
+
+"Who?"
+
+"Why dat blessed young lady what drapped in among us, as if she'd
+come right down from Heaven. I was jest a gwine to run down an' ax
+you to come and see her right away."
+
+I did not linger to talk with "Aunty," but went forward to the
+house. The mother of Blanche met me at the door. She looked very
+anxious.
+
+"How is your daughter now?" I asked.
+
+"Not so well as when you saw her this morning," she answered. Her
+voice trembled.
+
+"I would have called earlier, but have been visiting a patient
+several miles away."
+
+"She has been lying in a kind of stupor ever since you were here.
+What can it mean, Doctor?"
+
+The mother looked intently in my face, and paused for an answer,
+with her lips apart. But I knew as little as she what it meant. Ah!
+how often do anxious friends question us, and hearken eagerly for
+our replies, when the signs of disease are yet too indefinite for
+any clear diagnosis!
+
+"I can tell better after seeing your daughter," said I. And we went
+up to the sick girl's chamber; that north-west room, at the window
+of which I had first seen the fair stranger, as I stood wondering in
+storm and darkness. I found her lying in apparent sleep, and
+breathing heavily. Her face was flushed; and I noticed the peculiar
+odor that usually accompanies an eruptive fever.
+
+"How do you feel now?" I asked.
+
+She had opened her eyes as I took her hand. She did not answer, but
+looked at me in a half bewildered way. Her skin was hot and the
+pulse small, but tense and corded.
+
+"Does your head ache?"
+
+I wished to arouse her to external consciousness.
+
+"Oh, it's you, Doctor."
+
+She recognized me and smiled faintly.
+
+"How are you now?" I inquired.
+
+"Not so well, I think, Doctor," she answered. "My head aches worse
+than it did; and I feel sick all over. I don't know what can ail
+me."
+
+"Have you any uneasiness, or sense of oppression in the stomach?" I
+inquired.
+
+"Oh, yes, Doctor." She laid her hand upon her chest; and drew in a
+long breath, as if trying to get relief.
+
+"Have you felt as well as usual for a week, or ten days past?" I
+inquired.
+
+"No, Doctor." It was the mother who answered my question. "And in
+order that you may understand the case clearly, let me say, that it
+is only a week since we arrived from England. We came over in a
+steamer, and were fifteen days in making the trip. From Boston, we
+came here in our own carriage. Before leaving home, Blanche went
+around to see a number of poor cottagers in our neighbourhood, and
+there was sickness at several of the places where she called. In one
+cottage, particularly, was a case of low fever. I was troubled when
+I learned that she had been there, but still hoped that her
+excellent state of health would repel anything like contagion.
+During the first part of our voyage, she suffered considerably from
+sea-sickness; but got along very well after that. If it hadn't been
+for the unhappy scenes of the last few days, with their painfully
+exciting consummation, I think she would have thrown off, wholly,
+any lurking tendency to disease."
+
+I turned my face partly aside, so that its expression could not be
+seen. The facts stated, and the symptoms as now presented, left me
+in little doubt as to the nature of the malady against which I had
+to contend. Even while her mother talked, my patient fell away into
+the stupor from which I had aroused her.
+
+My treatment of the case coincided with the practice of men eminent
+in the school of medicine to which I then belonged. I am not a
+disciple of that school now, having found a system of exacter
+science, and one compassing more certain results with smaller risk
+and less waste of physical energy.
+
+In order to remove the uneasiness of which my patient complained, I
+gave an emetic. Its action was salutary, causing a determination
+towards the skin, and opening the pores, as well as relieving the
+oppression from which she suffered.
+
+"How is your head now?" I asked, after she had been quiet for some
+minutes.
+
+"Better. I feel scarcely any pain."
+
+"So far, all is right," said I, cheerfully.
+
+The mother looked at me with an anxious face. I arose, and we
+retired from the room together. Before leaving, I spoke
+encouragingly to my patient, and promised to see her early in the
+morning.
+
+"My daughter is very sick, Doctor. What is the disease?" The mother
+spoke calmly and firmly. "I am not one towards whom any concealments
+need be practised; and it is meet that I should know the worst, that
+I may do the best."
+
+"The disease, madam," I replied, "has not yet put on all of its
+distinctive signs. A fever--we call it the fever of incubation--is
+the forerunner of several very different ailments, and, at the
+beginning, the most accurate eye may fail to see what is beyond. In
+the present case, however, I think that typhoid fever is indicated."
+
+I spoke as evenly as possible, and with as little apparent concern
+as possible. But I saw the blood go instantly back from the mother's
+face.
+
+"Typhoid fever!" she ejaculated, in a low voice, clasping her hands
+together. I learned afterwards that she had cause to dread this
+exhausting and often fatal disease. "Oh, Doctor! do for her as if
+she were your own and only child."
+
+She grasped my arm, like one catching at a fleeting hope.
+
+"As if she were my own and only child!" I repeated her words in
+promise and assurance, adding--
+
+"The first result of the medicine which I gave is just what I
+desired. I will leave something more to be taken at intervals of two
+hours, until midnight. In the morning, I hope to find a very
+encouraging change."
+
+"But, Doctor," she replied, "if this is a case of typhoid fever, no
+hope of any quick change for the better can be entertained. I am no
+stranger to the fearful malady."
+
+"Attacks of all diseases," I answered to this, "are more or less
+severe, according to the nature of the predisposing and exciting
+causes. So far as your daughter is concerned, I should think, from
+the very slight opportunity I have had of forming an opinion in
+regard to her, that she is not readily susceptible of morbific
+intrusions. Under an unusual exposure to exciting causes, the
+balance of health has been overcome. If my presumption is correct,
+we have the steady effort of nature, in co-operation with remedial
+agencies, working towards a cure."
+
+"Do you think the attack light, or severe?" the mother asked,
+speaking more calmly.
+
+"Neither light nor severe; but of a character, judging from the
+first impression made upon it, entirely controllable by medicines."
+
+This opinion gave her confidence. As I had spoken without any
+apparent concealment, she evidently believed the case to stand
+exactly as I had stated it. After leaving medicine to be taken,
+every two hours, for the first part of the night, I went away.
+
+In the morning, I found my patient in that comatose state, the usual
+attendant upon typhoid fever. She aroused herself on my entrance,
+and answered all questions clearly. She had no pain in the head, nor
+any distressing symptoms. Her skin was soft and moist. All things
+looked favorable. I gave, now, only gentle diaphoretics, and let the
+case progress, watching it with the closest attention. In this, I
+followed my usual course of treatment as to giving medicines. If I
+could produce a reaction, or remove some obstruction, and give
+nature a chance, I did not think it wise to keep on with drugs,
+which, from their general poisonous qualities, make even well people
+sick--regarding the struggle of life with disease as hazardous
+enough, without increasing the risk by adding a new cause of
+disturbance, unless the need of its presence were unmistakably
+indicated.
+
+The course of this fever is always slow and exhausting. My patient
+sunk steadily, day by day, while I continued to watch the case with
+more than common anxiety. At the end of a week, she was feeble as an
+infant, and lay, for the most part, in a state of coma. I visited
+her two or three times every day, and had the thought of her almost
+constantly in my mind. Her mother, nerved for the occasion, was
+calm, patient, and untiring. The excitement which appeared on the
+occasion of my first visits, when there was doubt as to the
+character of the disease, passed away, and never showed itself again
+during her daughter's illness. I saw, daily, deeper into her
+character, which more and more impressed me with its simple
+grandeur, if I may use the word in this connection. There was
+nothing trifling, mean, or unwomanly about her. Her mind seemed to
+rest with a profoundly rational, and at the same time child-like
+trust, in Providence. Fear did not unnerve her, nor anxiety stay her
+hands in any thing. She met me, at every visit, with dignified
+self-possession, and received my report of the case, each time,
+without visible emotion. I had not attempted to deceive her in any
+thing from the beginning; she had seen this, and the fact gave her
+confidence in all my statements touching her daughter's condition.
+
+At the end of a week, I commenced giving stimulants, selecting, as
+the chief article, sound old Maderia wine. The effect was soon
+apparent, in a firmer pulse and a quickened vitality. The lethargic
+condition in which she had lain for most of the time since the
+commencement of the attack, began to give way, and in a much shorter
+period than is usually the case, in this disease, we had the
+unmistakable signs of convalescence.
+
+"Thank God, who, by means of your skill, has given me back my
+precious child!" said the mother to me, one day, after Blanche was
+able to sit up in bed. She took my hand and grasped it tightly. I
+saw that she was deeply moved. I merely answered:
+
+"With Him are the issues of life."
+
+"And I have tried to leave all with Him," she said. "To be willing
+to suffer even that loss, the bare thought of which makes me
+shudder. But I am not equal to the trial, and in mercy He has spared
+me."
+
+"He is full of compassion, and gracious. He knows our strength, and
+will not test it beyond the limits of endurance."
+
+"Doctor," she said, a light coming into her face, "I have much to
+say to you, but not now. I think you can understand me."
+
+I merely bowed.
+
+"There is one thing," she went on, "that I have liked in you from
+the beginning. I am to you a total stranger, and my presence in this
+house is a fact that must awaken many questions in your mind. Yet
+you have shown no restless curiosity, have plied me with no leading
+questions, have left me free to speak, or keep silence. There is a
+manly courtesy about this that accords with my feelings."
+
+I bowed again, but did not venture upon mere words of compliment.
+
+"I am not sure," said she, "that my name even is known to you."
+
+"It is not," I answered. "You have seemed to avoid any allusion
+thereto, and delicacy forbade my asking."
+
+"There has been no purposed concealment. My name is Montgomery; and
+I am sister to the late Captain Allen."
+
+"I had already inferred this relationship." The remark evidently
+surprised her.
+
+"On what ground could you base such an inference?" she asked,
+curiously.
+
+"On traditional ground. The history of this old mansion is familiar
+to most persons in S----; and some of the incidents connected with
+the family have too strong a tinge of romance about them to easily
+pass into oblivion. It is well known to us that Captain Allen had an
+only sister."
+
+"What is it said became of her?"
+
+"When she was about two years of age her mother carried her off,
+sailing, as was believed, to England, of which country she was a
+native."
+
+"Is the name of the child preserved in this tradition?"
+
+"Yes. It was Flora."
+
+"My own name," she said.
+
+"And in person you are identical."
+
+"Yes. My mother's early life embraced some dreadful experiences. Her
+father and mother, with two brothers and a younger sister, were all
+murdered by pirates. She alone was spared, and afterwards became the
+wife of a sea captain, who, I fear, was not a man innocent of blood.
+On this point, however, my mother was reserved, almost silent. In
+the course of time she grew so wretched, as the wife of this man,
+that she sent a letter to England, addressed to some remembered
+relative, imploring him to save her from a life that was worse than
+death. This letter fell into the right hands. A cousin was sent out
+from England, and she fled with him. No attempt, as far as we know,
+was ever made to follow and regain her She did not live many years
+afterwards. I grew up among my relatives, ignorant of her history.
+My memory of her is distinct, though she died when I was but eight
+years old.
+
+"I married, at the age of twenty-six, an officer in the British
+army, one of the younger sons in a titled family, for whom no way in
+the world is opened, except through the church or the battle-field.
+General Montgomery chose the profession of a soldier, not from a
+love of its exciting and fearful concomitants, but because he had no
+fancy for the gown and cassock, and could not be a hypocrite in
+religion. He went quite early to British India, and distinguished
+himself there by many acts of bravery, as well as by his humane and
+honorable conduct. So highly was he regarded by the East India
+Company, that he was selected for most important services, and
+assigned to posts of great responsibility. He was past thirty years
+of age when I met him, on the occasion of one of his visits to
+England. The attraction was mutual; and when he returned to
+Calcutta, I went with him as his wife. Then came twenty years of a
+happy married life;--happy, I mean, so far as a perfect union of
+souls can make us happy in this world, but miserable, at times,
+through intense anxiety for the absent one exposed to fearful
+perils.
+
+"We had three children." There was a tremor in the voice of Mrs.
+Montgomery as she referred to her children. "One only remains." She
+paused, as if to recover herself, and then went on.
+
+"I lost my husband first. Ten years ago, he fell at the post of
+duty, and, while my heart lay crushed and bleeding under the
+terrible blow, it leaped with throbbings of pride, as his honored
+name went sounding from lip to lip, and from land to land. I had not
+the sad pleasure of being with him in that last time. For the sake
+of our children, I was residing in England.
+
+"Troubles rarely come alone. Two years afterwards my oldest son
+died. My home was in the family of General Montgomery, where I was
+treated with great kindness; but as my income was not sufficient for
+an establishment of my own, I felt a sense of obligation that is
+always oppressive to one of my nature. This feeling grew upon me
+daily, and at last began to haunt me like a constantly re-appearing
+spectre. It is now about three years since, in looking over some old
+letters and papers, I came unexpectedly upon a document written by
+my mother--all the evidence as to this was clear--and addressed to
+myself. How it should have remained so long unobserved, and yet in
+my possession, is one of the mysterious things which I do not
+attempt to explain. There is a Providence in all things, even to the
+most minute, and I simply refer the fact to Providence, and leave it
+there. This document spoke briefly, but with no special
+particularity, of her marriage with a Captain Allen, and settlement
+in this town. It stated that she had two children, a son and a
+daughter, and that in leaving America for England, she had taken her
+daughter, but left the son behind. There was no suggestion as to the
+use to be made of these facts; but there was such a statement of
+them as left their verification, I thought, easy. I turned them over
+and over in my mind, and in the end resolved to gain all accessible
+information touching the present condition of things. To this end, I
+sent over about two years ago, a man of prudence and intelligence,
+versed in legal matters, with instructions to obtain all possible
+particulars in regard to my brother, his family and estate. He
+brought back word that my brother was dead; that he had left no
+children, and that his widow--if, indeed, she were ever his legal
+wife, which seemed to be doubted--was old, in poor health, and
+verging towards mental imbecility, if not insanity. That there was a
+large and valuable estate, to which I, as sister of Captain Allen,
+was undoubtedly the heir.
+
+"I kept these things, for the time being, to myself, and pondered
+over them in some perplexity as to the best course to take. But from
+these thoughts, my mind was soon turned by the illness of my oldest
+daughter. After a lingering sickness of many weeks, she died. It
+seemed almost impossible to arouse myself from the stunning effects
+of this blow. It crushed me down more than any previous sorrow, for
+it fell upon a heart weakened by pain. It was many months before the
+discipline of this affliction awakened me to thoughts of a higher
+life. Then I began to rise into serener heights--to see as by an
+interior vision, to believe that even our saddest things may fall
+upon us in mercy.
+
+"Finally, circumstances of which I need not speak, made me resolve
+to leave England, and under legal advice of the highest authority,
+take quiet possession of this estate, which is mine."
+
+Mrs. Montgomery ceased speaking.
+
+"Perhaps," she resumed, after a moment, "it may be as well, all
+things considered, that you do not speak of this for the present. I
+shall, as soon as my daughter's full recovery gives me time to enter
+into the subject, place my affairs in the hands of a safe legal
+agent, in order that they may assume due form and order. You can, no
+doubt, refer me to the right individual."
+
+"I can," was my reply. "Judge Bigelow, of our town, is the man. I
+speak of him with the utmost confidence."
+
+"Thank you, Doctor. You lay me under additional obligation," she
+said. "I will, at an early day consult him."
+
+Thus closed this deeply interesting interview.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+
+
+
+
+I attended Blanche Montgomery through her slow convalescence, and
+had many opportunities for observing her and her mother closely. The
+more intimately I knew them the higher did they rise in my
+estimation. A purer, sweeter, truer-hearted girl than Blanche I had
+never seen. There was an artlessness and innocence about her but
+rarely met with in young ladies of her age. Especially was she free
+from that worldliness and levity which so often mars young
+maidenhood. Her mind was well stored and cultivated, and she was
+beginning to use her mental treasures in a way that interested you,
+and made you listen with pleased attention when she spoke on even
+common-place subjects. Her manners had in them a grace and dignity
+that was very attractive. As she advanced towards health her
+deportment took on an easy, confiding air, as if she looked upon me
+as a true friend. Her smile, whenever I appeared, broke over her
+gentle face like a gleam of sunshine.
+
+Mrs. Montgomery's manner towards me was distinguished by the same
+frankness that marked her daughter's deportment. The stately air
+that struck me in the beginning I no longer observed. If it existed,
+my eyes saw it differently. At her request, when her mind was
+sufficiently at ease about her daughter to busy itself with the
+common affairs of life, I brought Judge Bigelow to see her, and she
+placed her business matters in his hands. The judge was very much
+struck with her person and manner, and told me the day after his
+first meeting with her that she came nearer to his ideal of a lady
+than any woman he had ever met; and as for the daughter she seemed
+more like a picture he had once seen than a piece of real flesh and
+blood. I smiled at the Judge's enthusiasm, but did not wonder at the
+impression he had received.
+
+Other characters in our story now claim attention, and we must turn
+to them. After Henry Wallingford had gained the mastery over
+himself:--the struggle was wild, but brief--he resumed his office
+duties as usual, and few noticed any change in him, except that he
+withdrew even more than ever into himself. I met him occasionally,
+and observed him closely. In my eyes there was a marked difference
+in the aspect of his face. It had an expression of patient suffering
+at times--and again I saw in it a most touching sadness.
+
+The dashing nephew of Judge Bigelow offered himself to Squire
+Floyd's daughter in about a week after her rejection of
+Wallingford's suit, and was accepted. I became immediately cognizant
+of the fact through my wife, who had the news from Delia's aunt,
+Mrs. Dean. A day or two afterwards I met her in company with young
+Dewey, and observed her closely. Alas! In my eyes the work of moral
+retrocession had already begun. She was gay and chatty, and her
+countenance fresh and blooming. But I missed something--something
+the absence of which awakened a sigh of regret. Ralph was very
+lover-like in his deportment, fluttering about Delia, complimenting
+her, and showing her many obtrusive attentions. But eyes that were
+in the habit of looking below the surface of things, saw no heart in
+it all.
+
+Squire Floyd was delighted with his daughter's fine prospects; and
+he and Judge Bigelow drew their heads together over the affair in a
+cosy and confidential way very pleasant to both of them. The Judge
+was eloquent touching his nephew's fine qualities and splendid
+prospects; and congratulated the Squire, time and again, on his
+daughter's fortunate matrimonial speculation. He used the word which
+was significative beyond any thing that entered his imagination.
+
+A few days after the engagement Ralph Dewey returned to New York.
+The wedding-day had not been fixed; but the marriage, as understood
+by all parties, was to take place some time during the next winter.
+
+From that time I noticed a change in Delia. She grew silent in
+company, and had an absent way about her that contrasted strongly
+with her former social disposition. Young people rallied her in the
+usual style about her heart being absent with the beloved one, but I
+read the signs differently. It could not but follow, that a soul,
+endowed like hers, would have misgivings in view of an alliance with
+one like Ralph Dewey. What was there in him to satisfy a true
+woman's yearnings for conjunction with a kindred nature? Nothing! He
+was all outside as to good. A mere selfish, superficial, speculating
+man of the world. While she had a heart capable of the deepest and
+truest affection. Would he make the fitting complement to her life?
+Alas! No! That were a thing impossible.
+
+During the few months that preceded this marriage, I often heard its
+promise discussed by my wife and Mrs. Dean, neither of whom had any
+strong liking for the young New York merchant.
+
+"It's my opinion," said Mrs. Dean, as she sat with my wife one
+evening, about two months after the engagement had taken place,
+"that Ralph has more froth than substance about him. He really
+talks, sometimes, as if he had the world in a sling and could toss
+it up among the stars. As far as my observation goes, such people
+flourish only for a season."
+
+"If Delia were a child of mine," said my good Constance, in her
+earnest way, "I would a thousand times rather trust her with Henry
+Wallingford than with Ralph Dewey."
+
+"Yes, and a thousand millions of times," responded Mrs. Dean. "He is
+a man. You know just what he is, and where he is. But, as for this
+splashing nephew of Judge Bigelow's--who knows what's below the
+surface? Delia's father is all taken up with him, and thinks the
+match a splendid one. Sister don't say much; but I can see that she
+has her misgivings. I can talk to you freely, you know."
+
+"I don't think," said I, "that Delia has grown more cheerful since
+her engagement. Brides expectant ought to feel as happy as the day
+is long."
+
+"More cheerful? Oh, dear, no! She isn't the same that she was at
+all; but mopes about more than half of her time. It's just my
+opinion--spoken between friends--that she cares, now, a great deal
+more for Henry than she does for Ralph."
+
+"Do they ever meet?" I inquired.
+
+"Not very often."
+
+"They have met?"
+
+"Yes, several times."
+
+"Have you seen them together?"
+
+"Oh, yes."
+
+"How does she act towards him?"
+
+"Not always the same. Sometimes she is talkative, and sometimes
+reserved--sometimes as gay as a lark, and sometimes sober enough; as
+if there were such a weight on her spirits, that she could not smile
+without an effort."
+
+"Does the fact of his presence make any change in her?" I inquired.
+"What I mean is, if she were lively in spirits before he came in,
+would she grow serious--or if serious, grow excited?"
+
+"Oh, yes, it always makes a change. I've known her, after being very
+quiet, and hardly having any thing to say, though in the midst of
+young company, grow all at once as merry as a cricket, and laugh and
+joke in a wild sort of way. And again, when she has been in one of
+her old, pleasant states of mind I have noticed that she all at once
+drew back into herself; I could trace the cause to only this--the
+presence of Henry Wallingford. But this doesn't often happen, for he
+rarely shows himself in company."
+
+"Is there anything noticeable about Henry when they meet?" I asked.
+
+"Not to an ordinary observer," replied Mrs. Dean. "But I look with
+sharper eyes than most people. Yes, there is something noticeable.
+He always puts himself in her way, but with a kind of forced,
+resolute manner, as if the act were a trial of strength, and
+involved a stern heart-discipline. And this I think, is just the
+real state of the case. He has deliberately and resolutely entered
+upon the work of unwinding from his heart the cord which love his
+thrown around it in so many intertwisted folds. So I read him. To
+break it by sudden force, would leave so many unwound portions
+behind, that the memory of her might sadden the whole of his
+after-life. And so he is learning to grow indifferent towards her.
+To search in her for such things as repel, instead of for those that
+charm the heart."
+
+"A dangerous experiment," said my wife, "for one who has loved so
+deeply."
+
+"It would be to most men," I remarked. "But there is stuff about
+Henry--the stuff that strong, persistent, successful men are made
+of. If he has begun this work, he will complete it certainly."
+
+A few weeks afterwards, I had an opportunity of seeing them
+together, and I improved it to observe them closely. It was in a
+mixed company at the house of Judge Bigelow. Wallingford came in
+rather late. I was conversing with Delia when he entered the room,
+and we were at an interesting point in the subject under
+consideration. I noticed, all at once, a hesitation and confusion of
+thought, as her eyes rested, with a sudden interest, on some object
+in the room. Glancing around, I saw the young man. We went on with
+our conversation, Delia rallying herself, as I could see, with an
+effort. But she talked no longer from thought, only from
+memory--uttering mere truisms and common-places. She put on more
+animation, and affected a deeper interest; but I was not deceived.
+
+We were still in conversation, when Wallingford joined us. I saw him
+fix his eyes, as they met, searchingly upon her face, and saw her
+eyes droop away from his. He was fully self-possessed; she not at
+ease. His mind was clear; hers in some confusion. I remained some
+time near them, listening to their conversation, and joining in
+occasionally. Never before had I seen him appear so well, nor her to
+such poor advantage. She tried to act a part--he was himself. I
+noticed, as he led the conversation, that he kept away from the
+esthetic, and held her thought in the region of moral causes; that
+he dwelt on the ends and purposes of life, as involving everything.
+Now and then she essayed a feeble argument, or met some of his
+propositions with light banter. But with a word he obliterated the
+sophism--and with a glance repressed the badinage. I think she could
+never before have so felt the superiority of this man, whose pure
+love--almost worship--she had put aside as a thing of light
+importance; and I think the interview helped him in the work upon
+which he had entered, that of obliterating from his heart all traces
+of her image.
+
+After this interview, they did not draw together again during the
+evening. Delia tried to be gay and indifferent; but he acted himself
+out just as he was. I did not observe that he was more social than
+usual, or that he mingled more than was his wont with the young
+ladies present. For most of the time, he kept, as was usual with
+him, in company and in conversation with his own sex.
+
+I could not but pity Delia Floyd. It was plain to me that she was
+waking up to the sad error she had committed--an error, the
+consequences of which would go with her through life. Very, very far
+was she from being indifferent to Wallingford--that I could plainly
+see.
+
+During the winter, Ralph came up frequently from New York to visit
+his bride to be. As he was the nephew of Judge Bigelow, he and
+Wallingford were, as a thing of course, thrown often together during
+these visits. It can hardly excite wonder, that Wallingford
+maintained a reserved and distant demeanor towards the young man,
+steadily repelling all familiarity, yet always treating him with
+such politeness and respect that no cause of offence could appear.
+On the part of Dewey, it may be said that he saw little in the grave
+plodder among dusty law books and discolored parchments, that won
+upon his regard. He looked upon him as a young man good enough in
+his way--a very small way, in his estimation--good enough for S----,
+and small enough for a country town lawyer. He would have put on
+towards him a patronizing air, and tried to excite in his mind a
+nobler ambition than to move in our circumscribed sphere, if
+something in the young man's steady, penetrating, half-mysterious
+eye had not always held him back:
+
+"I never can talk with that young associate or yours, uncle," he
+would say, now and then, to Judge Bigelow, "and I can't just make
+him out. Is he stupid, or queer?"
+
+The Judge would smile, or laugh quietly to himself, or perhaps
+answer in this wise:
+
+"I think Henry understands himself. Still waters, you know, run
+deep."
+
+One day in February, on the occasion of a periodical visit to S----,
+young Dewey called in at Judge Bigelow's office, and finding
+Wallingford alone, sat down and entered into as familiar a talk with
+him as was possible, considering how little they had in common.
+Ralph had a purpose in view, and as soon as he saw, or thought he
+saw, Wallingford's mind in the right mood, said--
+
+"I am going to ask a particular favor, and you must not refuse."
+
+"If I can serve you in any thing, it will be my pleasure to do so,"
+was the ready answer.
+
+"You know that I am to be married next month?"
+
+"So I have heard," replied Wallingford.
+
+"You will stand my groomsman? Don't say no!"
+
+He had seen an instant negative in the young man's face.
+
+"Almost any thing else, but not that!" replied Henry, speaking with
+some feeling. He was thrown off his guard by so unexpected a
+request.
+
+"Come now, my good friend, don't take the matter so much to heart!"
+said Dewey, in a light way. "Plenty of good fish in the sea yet--as
+good as ever were caught. You must forgive the girl for liking me
+the best."
+
+"You jest on a grave subject," said Wallingford, his face growing
+pale, but his eyes, a little dilated, riveting his companion's where
+he stood.
+
+"No, I am in earnest," said Dewey, with something in his manner that
+was offensive.
+
+"Jest or earnest, your familiarity is out of place with me,"
+retorted Wallingford, with a sternness of manner, that quickened the
+flow of bad blood in Dewey's heart.
+
+"Oh, you needn't take on airs!" replied the other with a sneer of
+contempt. Then muttering to himself, yet loud enough to be
+heard,--"I didn't suppose the puppy would growl at a familiar pat on
+the head."
+
+This was too much for Wallingford. At another time, he might have
+borne it with a manly self-possession. But only an hour before he
+had met Miss Floyd in the street, and the look she then gave him had
+stirred his heart, and left a tinge of shadowy regret on his
+feelings. He was, therefore, in no mood to bear trifling, much less
+insult. Scarcely had the offensive words passed Dewey's lips, when a
+blow in the face staggered him back against the wall. Instantly
+recovering himself, he sprang towards Wallingford in blind rage, and
+struck at him with a savage energy; but the latter stepped aside,
+and let his assailant come, with stunning force, against the wall at
+the other side of the office, when he fell to the floor.
+
+At this instant, Judge Bigelow came in.
+
+"Henry! Ralph!" he exclaimed--" what is the meaning of this?"
+
+"Your nephew insulted me, and in the heat of anger I struck him in
+the face. In attempting to return that blow, he missed his aim, and
+fell against the wall, as you see."
+
+Wallingford spoke without excitement, but in a stern, resolute way.
+By this time, Dewey was on his feet again. The sight of his uncle,
+and the unflinching aspect of the person he had ventured to insult,
+had the effect to cool off his excitement many degrees.
+
+"What is the meaning of this, young men?" sternly repeated Judge
+Bigelow, looking from one to the other.
+
+"I have answered your question as far as I am concerned," replied
+Henry.
+
+"Ralph! Speak! Did you offer him an insult?"
+
+To this demand, the nephew replied, with no abatement of his
+originally offensive manner--
+
+"If he chooses to consider my words as an insult, let him do so. I
+shall in no case take them back."
+
+"What did you say?"
+
+There was an imperative force in the Judge's manner.
+
+Dewey was silent.
+
+"What did he say,"--Judge Bigelow turned to Wallingford, "that you
+should answer it with a blow?"
+
+"If he is satisfied with the answer," replied the latter, "the case
+can rest where it is. If not, I am ready to meet him on any appeal.
+I He will find me no trifler."
+
+The Judge turned again to his nephew.
+
+"Ralph! I insist upon having this matter explained. I know Henry too
+well to believe that he would strike you, unless there had been
+strong provocation."
+
+"Perhaps he regarded it as such; I did not," said Dewey.
+
+"If he is satisfied with his chastisement, there is no occasion to
+press him farther, Judge." Wallingford was provoked to this by the
+young man's cool impertinence.
+
+Dewey made a movement as if about to rush upon Wallingford, but the
+Judge interposed his body to keep them apart. The appearance of a
+fourth party at this juncture, in the person of Squire Floyd, the
+prospective father-in-law of one of the belligerents, changed
+materially the aspect of affairs.
+
+"Good-morning, Squire," said Wallingford, with a quickly assumed
+cheerfulness of manner, smiling in his usual grave way.
+
+Both the Judge and his nephew saw reason to imitate the example of
+Wallingford, and thus throw up a blind before the eyes of Squire
+Floyd, who thought he perceived something wrong as he came in, but
+was afterwards inclined to doubt the evidence of his senses.
+
+Wallingford retired in a few moments. When he came back to the
+office an hour afterwards, he found a note of apology on his table,
+accompanied by a request that so unpleasant an incident as the one
+which had just occurred, might be suffered to pass into oblivion. No
+acknowledgment of this communication was made by the young lawyer.
+He felt the strongest kind of repugnance towards Dewey, and could
+not gain his own consent to have any intercourse with him. His
+position, as an associate with Judge Bigelow, occasionally brought
+him in contact with his nephew, who recognized him always in a
+respectful manner. But Wallingford held him ever coldly at a
+distance.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+
+
+
+The marriage of Delia Floyd was an event in our quiet town. It was
+celebrated at the house of her father, in the presence of a large
+company, who were invited to witness the ceremony, and take part in
+the attendant festivities. The match was regarded generally as a
+most desirable one for the young lady; and there was more than one
+mother present who envied the good fortune which had given such a
+son-in-law to Mrs. Floyd. I heard many snatches of conversation,
+half aside, in which marvelous things were related, or suggested,
+touching the bridegroom's fortune and the splendid home he had
+prepared for his bride. He was looked upon as a prospective
+millionaire, and imagination pictured Delia as the jeweled mistress
+of a palace home. Few seemed to think of any thing beyond the
+promised worldly advantage.
+
+"I am glad that your daughter has married so well."
+
+"Let me congratulate you, Squire Floyd, on this splendid match."
+
+"It is not often, Mrs. Floyd, that a mother sees her daughter go
+forth into the world with such brilliant prospects."
+
+"You have all that your heart can desire, so far as Delia is
+concerned, Mrs. Floyd."
+
+"You are the envy of mothers."
+
+And so I heard the changes rung on all sides of me, and from the
+lips of people who might have looked deeper if they had taken the
+trouble to use their eyes.
+
+To me, the wedding was full of sad suggestions. It was one of those
+social self-sacrifices, as common now as then, in which the victim
+goes self-impelled to the altar, and lays upon its consuming fires
+the richest dower of womanhood.
+
+I listened to the vows that were made on this occasion, and felt a
+low thrill of repulsion as words of such solemn import trembled on
+the air, for too well I knew that a union of souls in a true
+marriage, such as Delia Floyd might consummate, was impossible here.
+Could she be happy in this marriage? I gave to my own question an
+emphatic "No!" She might have a gay, brilliant, exciting life; but
+to that deep peace which is given to loving hearts, and which, in
+hours of isolation and loneliness, she would desire with an
+irrepressible longing, she must forever be a stranger.
+
+I looked into her beautiful young face as she stood receiving the
+congratulations of friends, and felt as I had never felt before on
+such an occasion. Instinctively my thought ran questioning along the
+future. But no hopeful answer was returned. How was she to advance
+in that inner-life development through which the true woman is
+perfected? I pushed the question aside. It was too painful. Had she
+been one of the great company of almost soulless women--if I may use
+such strong language--who pass, yearly, through legal forms into the
+mere semblance of a marriage, I might have looked on with
+indifference, for then, the realization would, in all probability,
+be equal to the promise. But Delia Floyd was of a different
+spiritual organization. She had higher capabilities and nobler
+aspirations; and if the one found no true sphere of development,
+while the other was doomed to beat its wings vainly amid the lower
+atmospheres of life, was happiness in the case even a possibility?
+
+Among the guests was Wallingford. It was six months, almost to a
+day, since the dearest hope in life he had ever cherished went
+suddenly out, and left him, for a season, in the darkness of
+despair. I did not expect to see him on this occasion; and there was
+another, I think, who as little anticipated his presence--I mean the
+bride. But he had shared in the invitations, and came up to witness
+the sacrifice. To see, what a few months before was to him the most
+precious thing in life, pass into the full possession of another.
+Had not the fine gold grown dim in his eyes? It had--dim with the
+tarnish that better natures receive when they consent to dwell with
+inferior spirits, and breathe in an atmosphere loaded with earthly
+exhalations. It would have been the highest delight of his life to
+have ascended with her into the pure regions, where thought builds
+tabernacles and establishes its dwelling-places. To have walked
+onward, side by side, in a dear life companionship, towards the goal
+of eternal spiritual oneness. But she had willed it otherwise; and
+now he had come, resolutely, to bear the pain of a final sundering
+of all bonds, that his soul might free itself from her soul
+completely and forever.
+
+I first noticed him as the bridal party entered the room, and took
+their places in front of the clergyman who was to officiate on the
+occasion. He occupied a position that gave him a clear view of
+Delia's face, while he was removed from general observation. Almost
+from the commencement to the ending of the ceremony his gaze rested
+on her countenance. His head was thrown a little forward, his brows
+slightly contracted, his lips firmly set, and his eyes fixed as if
+the object upon which he was gazing held him by an irresistible
+fascination. I was so much interested in him that I scarcely looked
+at the bride during the ceremony. At last, the minister, in
+conclusion, announced the twain to be husband and wife. I saw
+Wallingford give a slight start as if a tensely strung chord of
+feeling had been jarred. A moment more and the spell was broken!
+Every lineament of his countenance showed this. The stern aspect
+gave way--light trembled over the softening features--the body stood
+more erect as if a great pressure had been removed.
+
+I noticed that he did not hold back in the excitement of
+congratulation that followed the ceremony. I was near him when he
+took the hand of Delia, and heard him say--not--"I congratulate
+you"--but "May your life be a happy one." The tone was earnest and
+feeling, such as a brother might use to a beloved sister. I held
+that tone long afterwards in my memory, studying its signification.
+It had in it nothing of regret, or pain, or sadness, as if he were
+losing something, but simply expressed the regard and tender
+interest of a sincere well wisher. And so that great trial was at an
+end for him. He had struggled manfully with a great enemy to his
+peace, and this was his hour of triumph.
+
+With the bride's state of mind, as read in external signs, I was far
+from being satisfied. Marriage, in any case, to one who thinks and
+feels, is a thing of serious import; and even the habitually
+thoughtless can hardly take its solemn vows upon their lips without
+falling into a sober mood. We are, therefore, not surprised to see
+emotion put on signs of pain--like April showers that weep away into
+sunshine. But in Delia's face I saw something that went deeper than
+all this.
+
+"There is no one here," said I, taking her hand, and holding it
+tightly in mine, "who wishes you well in the future more sincerely
+than I do."
+
+"I know it, Doctor," she answered, returning the warm grasp I gave
+her. Her eyes rested steadily in mine, and saw a shadow in them.
+
+"We are sorry to lose you from S----. Indeed we cannot afford to
+lose you."
+
+"She is wanted," spoke up her young husband a little proudly, "to
+grace a wider and more brilliant sphere of life."
+
+"It is not the brilliant sphere that is always the happiest," said
+I. "Life's truest pleasures come oftener to quiet home circles even
+among the lowly, than to gilded palaces where fortune's favorites
+reside."
+
+"It is not to external condition," the bride remarked, "that we are
+to look for happiness." I thought her voice had in it a pensive
+tone, as if she were not wholly satisfied with the brilliant promise
+that lay before her. "You know, Doctor, we have talked that over
+more than once in our lives."
+
+"Yes, Delia; and it is a truth which we ought never to forget--one
+that I trust you and your husband will lay up in your hearts."
+
+I turned to the young man desiring my admonition to reach him also.
+
+"Perhaps I might differ something from this sage conclusion," he
+answered a little flippantly. "As far as I can see, the external
+condition has a great deal to do with our happiness. I am very sure,
+that if I were situated as some people are whom I know, I would be
+miserable. So you see, Doctor, I have my doubts touching this theory
+of yours and Delia's."
+
+"Time, I think, will demonstrate its truth," I said, in a graver
+tone, and turned from them to give place to those who could talk in
+a lighter strain than was possible for me on the occasion.
+
+During the evening I saw Wallingford more than once in conversation
+with the bride; but only when she happened to be a little separated
+from her husband, towards whom his manner was coldly polite. The two
+young men, after the scene in Judge Bigelow's office, only kept up,
+for the sake of others, the shadow of acquaintanceship. Between them
+there was a strong mutual repulsion which neither sought to
+overcome.
+
+As I remarked I saw Wallingford more than once in conversation with
+the bride. But nothing in his
+
+manner indicated any sentiment beyond that of friendship. He was
+polite, cheerful, and at his ease. But it was different with her.
+She was not at her ease in his company, and yet, I could see that
+his attention was grateful--even pleasant.
+
+The augury was not good. As I read the signs, Delia Floyd, when she
+passed from maidenhood to wifehood, departed from the path that led
+to happiness in this world. And I said to myself as I pondered her
+future--"May the disappointments and sorrows that are almost sure to
+come, turn her feet aside into the right way at last!"
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+
+
+
+
+On the day following, the young husband bore his bride away to grace
+the prouder home that awaited her in New York; and affairs in our
+town settled themselves down into the old routine.
+
+During the few months that have passed since the opening of our
+story, the only matter that has occurred, of any interest to the
+reader, at the Allen House, is the fact that Judge Bigelow has
+undertaken the management of Mrs. Montgomery's affairs, and the
+establishment of her claim to the possession, as only heir, of the
+whole of Captain Allen's property. Some legal difficulties, bearing
+upon her identification as his sister, were in the way; and in the
+effort to remove these, there had been considerable correspondence
+with persons in England.
+
+The first fact to be clearly proved was the solemnization of a
+marriage between Mrs. Montgomery's mother and the elder Captain
+Allen. Next, the identity of Mrs. Montgomery as her child. No
+marriage certificate, nor any record of the fact, as to the exact
+time and place, were known to be in existence; and without them, or
+evidence of a very conclusive character, the title of Mrs.
+Montgomery could not be clearly established.
+
+This, Judge Bigelow stated to her in the beginning; but, up to this
+time, no such evidence had been found.
+
+Mrs. Montgomery's health was not good, and as she required
+occasional medical aid, my visits to the Allen House were continued.
+The more intimately I came to know this lady, the higher did she
+rise in my esteem. She united strength of mind with clearness of
+perception: and decision of character with prudence and justice. She
+had, likewise, a depth and tenderness of feeling that often
+exhibited itself in beautiful incidents. The dignity of manner,
+which at first seemed touched with hauteur, now only gave grace to
+her fine proportions.
+
+She had, from the beginning, spoken to me without reserve of her
+affairs, in which I naturally took deep interest. One day she
+said:--
+
+"Doctor, I wish to get your opinion in regard to an individual whom
+Judge Bigelow proposes to send out to England for me on important
+business. He is a young man, associated with him, as I understand
+it, professionally.
+
+"Mr. Wallingford, you mean?"
+
+"Yes, that is the name, I believe. Do you know him?"
+
+"Very well."
+
+"Is he prudent, intelligent, and reliable?"
+
+"I think so."
+
+"You only think so, Doctor?"
+
+"I can speak in stronger terms. As far as one can know another, I am
+ready to say that _he is_ prudent, intelligent, and reliable. If I
+had important business to transact at a distant point, and needed a
+trusty agent, I would select him before any other man in S----."
+
+I wish no better testimony, Doctor, and am glad to know that I can
+procure an agent so well qualified."
+
+"Have you seen him?" I inquired.
+
+"No. But Judge Bigelow is to bring him here today, in order that I
+may see and converse with him."
+
+"You will find him," said I, a young man of few words and
+unobtrusive manners--but solid as a rock. I have seen him under
+circumstances calculated to test the character of any man."
+
+"What are the circumstances, if you are free to speak of them?"
+asked Mrs. Montgomery. "We get always a truer estimate of a man,
+when we see him in some great battle of life; for then, his real
+qualities and resources become apparent."
+
+I thought for a little while before answering. It did not seem just
+right to draw aside the veil that strangers' eyes might look upon a
+life-passage such as was written in Wallingford's Book of Memory.
+The brief but fierce struggle was over with him; and he was moving
+steadily onward, sadder, no doubt, for the experience, and wiser, no
+doubt. But the secret was his own, and I felt that no one ought to
+meddle therewith. Still, a relation of the fact, showing how deeply
+the man could feel, and how strong he was in self-mastery, could not
+but raise him in the estimation of Mrs. Montgomery, and increase her
+confidence.
+
+"It is hardly fair," said I, "to bring up the circumstances of a
+man's life over which he has drawn a veil; and which are sacred to
+himself alone. In this case, however, with the end of enabling you
+more fully to know the person you think of sending abroad on an
+important service, I will relate an occurrence that cannot fail to
+awaken in your mind an interest for the young man, such as we always
+feel for those who have passed through deep suffering."
+
+Blanche was sitting by her mother. Indeed, the two were almost
+inseparable companions. It was a rare thing to find them apart. I
+saw her face kindle with an earnest curiosity.
+
+"Judge Bigelow's nephew was married, recently," I said.
+
+"So the Judge informed me. He spoke very warmly of his nephew, who
+is a merchant in New York, I think he said."
+
+"He is a partner in a mercantile firm there. The bride was Squire
+Floyd's daughter; a very superior girl--lovely in character,
+attractive in person, and, mentally, well cultivated. I have always
+regarded her as the flower of our town."
+
+"The young man had good taste, it seems," Mrs. Montgomery remarked.
+
+"Better than the young lady showed in taking him for a husband,"
+said I.
+
+"Ah? Then your opinion of him is not so favorable."
+
+"He was not worthy of her, if I possess any skill in reading
+character. But there was one worthy of her, and deeply attached to
+her at the same time."
+
+"This young Wallingford, of whom we were speaking?"
+
+"The same."
+
+"But she didn't fancy him?"
+
+"She did fancy him. But--"
+
+"Was not able to resist the attractions of a New York merchant, when
+put in opposition to those of a humble country lawyer?"
+
+"The truth lies about there. She took the showy effigy of a man, in
+place of the real man."
+
+"A sad mistake. But it is made every day," said Mrs. Montgomery,
+"and will continue to be made. Alas for the blindness and folly that
+lead so many into paths that terminate in barren deserts, or
+wildernesses where the soul is lost! And so our young friend has
+been crossed in love."
+
+"The experience is deeper than usual," said I. Then I related, with
+some particularity, the facts in the case, already known to the
+reader. Both the mother and daughter listened with deep attention.
+After I had finished my story, Mrs. Montgomery said,
+
+"He possesses will and strength of character, that is plain; but I
+can't say that I just like the deliberate process of _un_loving, if
+I may use the word, which you have described. There is something too
+cold-blooded about it for me. Like the oak, bent under the pressure
+of a fierce storm, he comes up erect too soon."
+
+I smiled at her view of the case, and answered,
+
+"You look upon it as a woman, I as a man. To me, there is a certain
+moral grandeur in the way he has disenthralled himself from fetters
+that could not remain, without a life-long disability."
+
+"Oh, no doubt it was the wisest course," said Mrs. Montgomery.
+
+"And may we not look among the wisest men, for the best and most
+reliable?" I queried.
+
+"Among those who are truly wise," she said, her voice giving
+emphasis to the word _truly_.
+
+"What is it to be truly wise?"
+
+"All true wisdom," she answered, "as it appertains to the affairs of
+this life, has its foundation in a just regard for others; for, in
+the degree that we are just to others, are we just to ourselves."
+
+"And is not the converse of your proposition true also? In the
+degree that we are just to ourselves, are we not just to others?"
+
+"Undoubtedly. Each individual bears to common society, the same
+relation that a member, organ, or fibre, does to the human body, of
+which it makes a part. And as no member, organ, or fibre of the
+body, can injure itself without injuring the whole man; so no
+individual can do wrong to himself, without a consequent wrong to
+others. Each has duties to perform for the good of common society,
+and any self-inflicted or self-permitted disabilities that hinder
+the right performance of these duties, involve a moral wrong."
+
+"Then the case is very clear for my friend Wallingford," said I. "He
+is a wise man in your sense of the word--wise, in resolutely putting
+away from his mind the image of one who, if she had been worthy of
+him, would have taken her place proudly by his side; but, proving
+herself unworthy, could never afterward be to him more than a friend
+or stringer. He could not hold her image in his heart, and fondly
+regard it, without sin; for was she not to be the bride of another?
+Nor without suffering loss of mental power, and life-purpose, and
+thus injuring others trough neglect of duty. It was acting wisely,
+then, for him to come up, manfully, to the work of drawing back his
+misplaced affections, and getting them again fully into his own
+possession. And he has done the work, if I read the signs aright.
+All honor to his manhood!"
+
+"He has, I see, a warm advocate in you, Doctor," said Mrs.
+Montgomery, again smiling. "Still, in an affair of the heart, where
+so much was involved, as seemed to be in his case, we can hardly
+fancy such a matter-of-fact, business-like proceeding as you have
+described. He might well have been forgiven, if he had shown more
+weakness of character, and acted even a little unreasonably. I will
+yield to no one in my regard for manly firmness and self-control,
+for bravery and endurance; and I have seen these qualities put to
+some of the severest tests. But in matters of the heart, I must own
+that I like to see a man show his weakness. Your Mr. Wallingford is
+too cool and calculating for me. But this is irrelevant to our
+consideration of his qualities as a business agent. For this
+purpose, I am satisfied that he is fitted in all things essential."
+
+"And that is quite as far as we need go," said I.
+
+"The business in hand," said Mrs. Montgomery, resuming the
+conversation after a pause, "is of great importance to me, and may
+require not only a visit to England, but also to the West Indies.
+Unless evidence of my mother's marriage can be found, there will be,
+as you know, considerable difficulty in establishing my full right
+to inherit my brother's property. And my identity as the sister of
+the late Captain Allen must also be proved. By the will of my
+father, which is on record, he left all of his property to my
+brother. He, as far as is known, died intestate. As next of kin, I
+am the legal heir; but the proof is yet wanting. My mother's cousin,
+a Colonel Willoughby, of whom we have before spoken, came over from
+England, on the strength of some vague rumors that reached the
+family from Jamaica, and was successful in discovering the only
+survivor of his uncle's family. She saw it best to abandon her
+husband, as you know. My purpose in sending an agent, versed in
+legal matters, and used to weighing evidence, is to have such papers
+of Colonel Willoughby's as the family possess and will submit for
+examination, carefully searched, in the hope that some record may be
+found in his hand-writing, sufficiently clear to establish the fact
+that my mother was the wife of the elder Captain Allen. So important
+an event as that of searching out my mother, and inducing her to
+flee from her husband, could hardly have taken place, it seems to
+me, without evidence of the fact being preserved. And my hope is,
+that this evidence, if it can be found, will prove of great value.
+So you see, Doctor, that I have good reasons for wishing to know
+well the agent who goes abroad with a matter so vital as this in his
+hands."
+
+I admitted the importance of a thoroughly reliable man to go upon
+this mission, and repeated my faith in Wallingford.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+
+
+
+
+I saw Mrs. Montgomery a few days afterwards, and inquired if she had
+seen the young associate of Judge Bigelow. She replied in the
+affirmative.
+
+"How does he impress you?" I asked.
+
+"Favorably, upon the whole; though," she added with one of her
+meaning smiles, "I can't help thinking all the time about the cool,
+calculating, resolute way in which he went about disentangling
+himself from an unfortunate love affair. I look at his calm face,
+over which you rarely see a ripple of feeling go, and ask myself,
+sometimes, if a heart really beats within his bosom."
+
+"There does; a true, large, manly heart, full of deep feeling; you
+may be sure of this, madam," I answered, with some warmth.
+
+"I will not gainsay your words, Doctor. I trust for his sake that it
+may be so."
+
+"Leaving out the heart matter, and regarding him only as to his
+fitness for the work in hand, you are favorably impressed?"
+
+"Quite so. I find him quick of apprehension, intelligent, and of
+sufficient gravity of deportment to ensure a respectful attention
+wherever he may go. He made one suggestion that ought to have
+occurred to me, and upon which I am acting. As no will has been
+found, it has been assumed that Captain Allen died intestate. Mr.
+Wallingford suggests that a will may have been executed; and that a
+thorough search be made in order to discover if one exists. In
+consequence of this suggestion, Blanche and I have been hard at work
+for two days, prying into drawers, examining old papers, and looking
+into all conceivable, and I had almost said inconceivable places."
+
+"And if you were to find a will?" said I, looking into her earnest
+face.
+
+"The question would be that much nearer to a solution."
+
+"Is it at all probable that it would be in your favor?"
+
+I saw her start at the query, while her brows closed slightly, as if
+from a sudden pain. She looked at me steadily for a few moments,
+without speaking; then, after a long inspiration, she said:
+
+"Whether in my favor or not, any disposition that he has made of his
+property, in law and right, must, of course, stand good."
+
+"You might contest such a will, if not in your favor."
+
+She shook her head, compressed her lips firmly, and said:
+
+"No. I should not contest the will. My belief was, when I came here,
+that he died without making a bequest of any kind, and that his
+property would go, in consequence, to the heir-at-law. This was the
+information that I received. If it should prove otherwise, I shall
+make no opposition."
+
+"Do you intend, under this view, continuing the search for a will?"
+
+Something in the tone of voice touched her unpleasantly. I saw the
+light in her eyes glow intenser, and her lips arch.
+
+"Why not?" she asked, looking at me steadily. I could have given
+another meaning to my question from the one I intended to convey,
+had it so pleased me, and thus avoided a probable offence. But I
+wished to see a little deeper into the quality of her mind, and so
+used the probe that was in my hand.
+
+"If you find a will, devising the property out of your line, all
+your present prospects are at an end," said I.
+
+"I know it."
+
+Her voice was firm as well as emphatic.
+
+"Then why not take the other horn of this dilemma? Give up searching
+for a will that can hardly be in your favor, and go on to prove your
+title through consanguinity."
+
+"And thus shut my eyes to the probable rights of others, in order to
+secure a personal advantage? Do you think I would do this, Doctor?
+If so, you have mistaken me."
+
+There was a tone of regret in her voice.
+
+"Pardon me," I replied. "The suggestion was natural under the
+circumstances, and I gave it utterance."
+
+"Were you in my place, would you give up the search here?"
+
+She fixed on me a penetrating look.
+
+The probe had changed hands.
+
+"It is difficult," I answered, "for us to say what we would do if we
+were to change places with another. In my experience, it is easy to
+see what is right for our neighbor, but very difficult to see the
+right way for ourselves, when under the allurement of some personal
+advantage."
+
+"Would it be right in me to give up the search?"
+
+"I think not."
+
+My answer was without hesitation.
+
+"And I will not," she said, firmly. "If my brother has devised his
+property, I have only to know the terms of his will. If it is
+against me, well. I shall not oppose its operation."
+
+"It sometimes happens," I suggested, "that a testator is manifestly
+out of his right mind as to the direction given to his property, and
+bequeaths it in a manner so evidently unwise and improper, that both
+justice and humanity are served in the act of setting aside the
+will. And it might prove so in this case."
+
+"I know not how that may be, "Mrs. Montgomery answered, soberly, yet
+firmly. "But this I do know"--she spoke resolutely--"God helping me,
+I will not stain my hands with gold that, in any legal right,
+belongs to another. What is clearly mine, I will take and use. as it
+is my right and duty. But I must be certain that it is mine. If
+there is no will, I am clear as to who is the owner of this estate;
+if there is a will, and I and mine are not included in its
+provisions, I will step aside. First, however, the obligation to
+search for a will is imperative; and I shall continue it until
+clearly satisfied that no such document exists."
+
+What a womanly dignity there was in Mrs. Montgomery as she said
+this, drawing her tall form up to its full height in speaking--not
+proudly, but with conscious integrity!
+
+"What is right is always best." I made the remark as well
+approvingly as in expression of an immutable truth.
+
+"Always, always," she replied, with earnestness. "There is no
+blinder folly than that of grasping a present worldly good, at the
+expense of violated justice. Whoever does so, comes out that far
+wrong in the end. There is only one way that leads to peace of mind:
+the way of honor and right. All other ways, no matter into what rich
+harvest fields they may lead in the beginning, terminate in
+wretchedness. There never has been, and never will be, any exception
+to this rule. We see its operation daily, turn our eyes whatsoever
+way we choose. And God forbid that I should deliberately enter the
+way that leads to ultimate unhappiness! Self-denial in the present
+is better than gnawing regret in the future. The good things of this
+world prove to be curses instead of blessings, unless the mind be
+rightly adjusted for their enjoyment. And such a right adjustment is
+impossible where the very fact of their possession involves a moral
+wrong. I see this so clearly, Doctor, that I shudder inwardly at the
+bare imagination of committing such a wrong."
+
+"It is by trial that God proves us," said I, "and may He bring you
+out of this one, should the trial come, as gold from the refiner's
+furnace!"
+
+"Amen!" was her solemnly uttered response; "if it should come, may I
+be found strong enough to do the right!"
+
+For over a week this search for a will was continued, until it was
+clear to all concerned that no such document was in existence. Then
+preparation was made for the visit to England, in search of evidence
+bearing upon the identity of Mrs. Montgomery as the sister of
+Captain Allen. Two or three months elapsed, however, before Mr.
+Wallingford could so arrange his business as to be absent for the
+length of time it might take to complete his mission. He sailed for
+England in June, between three and four months after the marriage of
+Delia Floyd. He called to see me on the day before leaving, and I
+had a brief but pleasant talk with him. He was in good health and
+good spirits, and anticipated a successful visit.
+
+"I shall gain," he remarked, "in two ways by this trip.
+Professionally and intellectually. I have had many a dream of that
+land of our forefathers--England--now to be realized. I shall see
+London, walk its streets, and linger amid its historic places. Don't
+smile at this almost boyish enthusiasm, Doctor. London has always
+been the Mecca of my desires."
+
+I had never seen him so animated. A higher life seemed flowing in
+his veins. His countenance had a brighter aspect than usual, and his
+head an erecter carriage. There was a depth of meaning in his eyes
+never observed before--a look as if some new born hope were lending
+its inspiration to his soul. Altogether manlier was his aspect and
+bearing than I had ever seen it.
+
+"God speed your mission," said I, as I shook hands with him in
+parting.
+
+"If it depends on human agency, directed with earnestness, patience,
+and will, my mission will have a prosperous result," he replied. "It
+is to be my first entirely self-reliant experience, and I think the
+discipline of mind it will involve must strengthen me for higher
+professional work than any in which I have yet been engaged. You are
+aware, Doctor, that my heart is in my profession."
+
+"So I have seen from the beginning."
+
+"I will not deny," he added, "that I have ambition. That I wish to
+be distinguished at the bar."
+
+"An honorable ambition," said I.
+
+"Nor that, sometimes--in moments of weakness, perhaps--my dreams
+have gone higher. But I am a very young man, and youth is ardent and
+imaginative," he added.
+
+"And you have this great advantage," I replied, "that, with every
+year added to your life, you may, if you will, grow wiser and
+stronger. You stand, as all young minds, at the bottom of a ladder.
+The height to which you climb will depend upon your strength and
+endurance."
+
+"If we both live long enough, Doctor, you may see me on the topmost
+rundle, for I shall climb with unwearying effort."
+
+He spoke with a fine enthusiasm, that lent a manly beauty to his
+face.
+
+"Climb on," I answered, "and you will rise high above the great
+mass, who are aimless and indolent. But you will have competitors,
+few, but vigorous and tireless. In the contest for position that you
+must wage with these, all your powers will be taxed; and if you
+reach the topmost rundle to which you aspire, success will be,
+indeed, a proud achievement."
+
+"I have the will, the ambition, the courage, and the endurance,
+Doctor," was his reply. "So, if I fail, the fault will lie here,"
+and he touched, significantly, his forehead.
+
+"For lack of brains?" said I, smiling.
+
+"Yes. The defect will lie there," he answered, smiling in return.
+
+"Brains are remarkable for latent capacity. If stimulated, they
+develop new powers, and this almost without limit. All they want is
+to be well supplied with the right kind of food, and well worked at
+the same time."
+
+"I believe that, Doctor, and find vast encouragement in the
+thought," and Wallingford laughed pleasantly.
+
+Our parting words were growing voluminous. So we shook hands again,
+repeated our mutual good wishes, and separated. In the afternoon he
+started for Boston, from whence he sailed, on the next day, for
+England.
+
+This was towards the latter end of June. He was to write to Mrs.
+Montgomery immediately on his arrival out, and again as soon as he
+had obtained an interview with the Willoughby family. Early in
+August, she received his first letter, which was brief, simply
+announcing his arrival at Liverpool.
+
+About three weeks after the coming of this letter, I received a note
+from Mrs. Montgomery asking me to call. On meeting her, I noticed
+something in her manner that struck me as unusual. She did not
+smile, as was her wont, when we met, her countenance retaining its
+usual serious expression. I thought she looked paler, and just a
+little troubled.
+
+"Thank you for calling so promptly, Doctor," she said. "I am afraid
+you will think me troublesome. But you have always shown a kindly
+interest in me, though a stranger; and have proved, in all cases, a
+sound adviser."
+
+I bowed, and she continued:
+
+"I have a second letter from Mr. Wallingford. He has, he writes,
+been well received by my relatives, who had placed in his hands, for
+examination, a large quantity of papers that belonged to Colonel
+Willoughby."
+
+"If they contain any evidence in the right direction, he will be
+sure to find it," said I.
+
+"No doubt of that. But"--I thought her voice faltered a little--"
+the question is solved, and he may return."
+
+"Solved! How?" I asked quickly.
+
+"I have found the will."
+
+"What?"
+
+"I have found the will," she repeated, in a steady tone, "and that
+solves the question."
+
+"Is it in your favor?" I asked, and then held my breath for a reply.
+It came in a firmly uttered--
+
+"No."
+
+We looked steadily into each other's face for several moments.
+
+"In whose favor?"
+
+"In favor of Theresa Garcia his wife," she replied.
+
+"But she is dead," I answered quickly.
+
+"True--but I am not his heir."
+
+She said this resolutely.
+
+"She died childless," said I, "and will not the descent stop with
+her?--the property reverting to you, as next of kin to Captain
+Allen?"
+
+"She may have relatives--a brother or sister," said Mrs. Montgomery.
+
+"That is scarcely probable," I objected.
+
+"It is possible; and in order to ascertain the fact, all right means
+ought to, and must be, taken."
+
+"Where did you find the will?" I inquired.
+
+"Blanche was examining a small drawer in an old secretary, when she
+accidentally pressed her hand against one side, which yielded. She
+pressed harder, lad it continued to yield, until it was pushed back
+several inches. On withdrawing this pressure, the side returned to
+its place. She then tried to see how far it could be forced in. As
+soon as it had passed a certain point, a secret drawer, set in
+vertically, sprung up, and from the side, which fell open, the will
+dropped out."
+
+"It is singular," said I, "that it should come to light just at this
+time."
+
+"It is Providential, no doubt," Mrs. Montgomery remarked.
+
+"What course will you pursue?" I inquired.
+
+"My first step will be to recall Mr. Wallingford."
+
+"I must take the liberty of a friend, and object to that," said I.
+
+"On what ground?"
+
+"This will may be worth the paper on which it is written, and no
+more. If the legatee have no relatives, you stand just where you
+stood before, and will require the evidence as to identity for which
+Mr. Wallingford is now in search. Oh, no, Mrs. Montgomery; he must
+not be recalled."
+
+The lady mused for a little while, and then said--
+
+"Perhaps you are right, Doctor."
+
+"I am sure of it," I replied, speaking earnestly. "This will, if we
+find it, on examination, to be an instrument executed according to
+legal forms, puts your rights in jeopardy, though by no means sets
+them aside."
+
+"You take the correct view, no doubt," was her reply to this. Her
+voice was not so firm as in the beginning. As the probabilities
+began to show themselves again in her favor, she lost a degree of
+self-possession.
+
+"Let Mr. Wallingford complete his work," said I, "and find, if
+possible, the evidence you require, in case you prove to be the
+legal heir, as I trust you will. And until his return, the existence
+of this important document had better remain a secret."
+
+"Shall I not submit it to Judge Bigelow?"
+
+I reflected for some moments, and then replied--
+
+"Yes. He is your legal adviser, and one in whom the highest
+confidence may be reposed. The will should be at once placed in his
+hands for examination."
+
+"And go upon record?"
+
+"Better leave all to his superior legal judgment. But," as the
+thought occurred to me, "who are named as the executors of this
+will?"
+
+"I did not examine as to that, being too much interested in the
+provisions of the writing," she replied.
+
+"May I see the document?"
+
+"Blanche, dear, you will find it in the right-hand drawer of the
+secretary, in our room;" and Mrs. Montgomery handed a key to her
+daughter, who left the apartment in which we were sitting. She came
+back in a few minutes, and handed me a paper, which, on examination,
+I found to be written throughout, and evidently by the hand of
+Captain Allen. It was dated San Juan de Porto Rico, January 10,
+1820, and was witnessed by two signatures--the names Spanish. The
+executors were Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd. There was an
+important sentence at the conclusion of the will. It was in these
+words:--"In case my wife, in dying, should leave no relatives, then
+every thing shall revert to my own right heirs, should any be
+living."
+
+All this gave the affair, in my mind, a more serious aspect. Before
+mentioning the executors' names, I said--
+
+"Do you know where Theresa Garcia resided, before her marriage with
+Captain Allen?"
+
+"In Porto Rico, as I have learned from old 'Aunty,' and also from
+letters found in searching for the will."
+
+"Which I find was executed at San Juan De Porto Rico, the principal
+town on the island. Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd are the
+executors."
+
+I saw her start slightly, and grow a little pale as I said this.
+
+"Judge Bigelow, and Squire Floyd! That is extraordinary!" She was
+more disturbed than I had yet seen her in reference to this matter.
+
+"It is remarkable, certainly, that Judge Bigelow, your legal
+adviser, should be one of the executors of a will, which determines
+your brother's estate out of the line of consanguinity."
+
+"He must, of course, cease to represent my interest in the case,"
+remarked the lady.
+
+"He cannot represent two diverse interests," said I.
+
+"No; that is clear." She said this in a troubled way; and was,
+evidently, falling into a perplexed state of mind. "Well, Doctor,
+what is to be done?" She spoke with recovered self-possession, after
+a short period of silence, looking at me with her old calmness of
+expression.
+
+I took some moments for reflection, and then said,
+
+"My advice is, to keep your own counsel, and wait until Mr.
+Wallingford returns from England. Whenever you place this document
+in the hands of Judge Bigelow, he must go over to the adverse
+interest; when you will be compelled to seek another legal adviser.
+You are not just ready for this; nor will be until after your agent
+comes back with the result of his investigations. No wrong to any
+one can possibly occur from letting things remain just as they are
+for a few months."
+
+"I think your view of the matter correct, Doctor," was her reply.
+"And yet, to keep this secret, even for an hour, when I have no
+right to its possession, touches my conscience. Is it just? This
+will is not in my favor. It does not even recognize my existence. It
+devises property, of large value, in another line; and there may be
+heirs ready to take possession, the moment its existence is made
+known to them. Am I not intermeddling, unjustly, in the affairs of
+another?"
+
+"But for you," I replied, "this will might never have seen the
+light. If heirs exist, they can, therefore, have no just reason for
+complaint at the brief delay to which, under the circumstances, you
+are, in common justice, entitled. Your conscience may be over
+sensitive, Mrs. Montgomery."
+
+"I would rather it were over sensitive than obtuse," she said.
+"Worldly possessions are desirable. They give us many advantages. We
+all desire and cling to them. But they are dearly bought at the
+price of heavenly possessions. What will it profit a man if he gain
+the whole world and lose his own soul? Nothing! It were better for
+him to die like Lazarus. No, Doctor, I am resolved in this matter to
+be simply just. If, in justice and right, this estate comes into my
+hands, I will take the wealth thankfully and use it as wisely as I
+can. But I will not throw a single straw in the way of its passing
+to the legal heirs of my brother's wife, if any are in existence and
+can be found."
+
+"But you will keep this secret until Mr. Wallingford's return?" I
+urged.
+
+"I do not see that wrong to any one can follow such a delay," she
+answered. "Yes, I will keep the secret."
+
+"And I will keep it also, even from my good Constance," said I,
+"until your agent's return. The matter lies sacred between us."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+
+
+
+"Mrs. Dewey is at her father's," said my wife to me, one evening in
+August, as we sat at the tea-table.
+
+"Ah! have you seen her?" I was interested at once. Six months had
+elapsed since Delia's wedding, and this was her first visit home;
+though her mother had been twice down to New York, in company with
+the Squire, who had business with the firm to which Ralph belonged.
+In fact, since his marriage to Squire Floyd's daughter, young Dewey
+had prevailed upon his father-in-law to make the house of Floyd,
+Lawson, Lee & Co., agents for the entire product of his
+manufactory--an arrangement which the Squire regarded as greatly to
+his advantage.
+
+My question was answered in the affirmative.
+
+"How is she?"
+
+"Looking very well."
+
+There was no warmth or feeling in my wife's voice or manner,
+although Delia had been a favorite with her, and we had often talked
+about the pleasure we should have in meeting her again.
+
+"Have you nothing more to say of our young friend?" I asked.
+
+"She is very much changed."
+
+"For the better?"
+
+"Some might think so. I do not." There was a disappointed manner
+about my wife.
+
+"In what respect is she changed?"
+
+"Some would say that she had grown handsome; and, in truth, her
+countenance strikes you, at first, as much improved. It is rounded
+to a fuller outline, and has a style about it, caught, I suppose,
+from city life and feeling. But she carries her head with a
+statelier air than is becoming Squire Floyd's daughter; and I am
+very sure, that, as the wife of Ralph Dewey, she has acquired no
+special consequence. Rich jewelry may be very well in city
+drawing-rooms, and public assemblages, where dress is made
+conspicuous. But to sport diamond ear-rings and breastpin, splendid
+enough for a countess, in her father's little parlor, and before the
+eyes of friends who loved her once for herself alone, savored so
+strongly of weak pride and vanity, that I could not look upon her
+with any of my old feelings. It was Delia Floyd no longer. Already,
+the pure, sweet, artless maiden, had changed into a woman of the
+world, dressed up for show. Ah, my husband! if this is the effect of
+city life, let me never breathe its tainted atmosphere."
+
+And she dropped her eyes, with a sigh, and sat, lost in thought, for
+several moments.
+
+"Your account of Delia pains me," said I. "Is the case indeed so
+bad?"
+
+"It is. Alas! the fine gold is dimmed. Our sweet young friend has
+strayed from the paths of nature, and will never, I fear, get back
+again."
+
+"Had you any conversation with her?" I inquired.
+
+"Yes: or, rather I listened to her, as she ran on about her city
+life; the grand people with whom, she had already become acquainted;
+and the splendor of balls, parties, soirees, and operas. I grew
+sober as she talked: for not one true womanly sentiment fell from
+her lips. She did not express interest in any of her new friends and
+acquaintances for the good qualities they possessed; but spoke of
+their wealth, style of living, social connections, and other
+attractions wholly external to the individual. She was even eloquent
+over star actresses and opera singers; one or two of whom she spoke
+of having met at the house of a fashionable friend."
+
+"How true the old adage, that evil communications corrupt good
+manners!" said I.
+
+"There must be some radical weakness in a case of such sudden
+deterioration as this," replied my wife. "Some latent vanity and
+love of the world. I cannot believe that one sensible young woman in
+ten would be spoiled to the degree that Delia is spoiled, if you
+passed her through like temptations."
+
+I saw Delia myself, on the next day. She was dressed in New York,
+not in S----, style; and so, naturally, appeared to disadvantage in
+my eyes. I found her very bright and animated; and to my questions
+as to her new city life, she spoke warmly of its attractions. At
+times, in the intervals of exciting talk, her countenance would fall
+into its true expression, as nearly all countenances will when
+thought ceases to be active--that expression, in which you see, as
+in a mirror, the actual state of mind. It revealed far more than
+came into her consciousness at the time, else would she have covered
+it with one of the rippling smiles she had already learned to throw,
+like a spangled veil, over her face.
+
+Mrs. Dewey spent nearly a month in S----and then went back with her
+husband to New York. I saw them several times together during this
+period. He had grown more pompous in manner, and talked in a larger
+way. Our little town was simply contemptible in his eyes, and he was
+at no pains to conceal his opinion. New York was everything; and a
+New York merchant of passable standing, able to put two or three
+towns like S----in his breeches pocket.
+
+The only interest I felt in this conceited young man was as the
+husband of my young friend; and as touching their relation to each
+other, I observed both of them very closely. It did not take me long
+to discover that there was no true bond of love between them. The
+little fond attentions that we look for in a husband of only six
+months' standing; and the tender reciprocations which are sure to
+follow, were all wanting here. Constance spoke of this, and I
+answered, lightly, to cover the regret the fact occasioned--
+
+"It is not fashionable in good society, you know, for husband and
+wife to show any interest in each other."
+
+She laid her hand suddenly upon my arm, and looked lovingly into my
+face.
+
+"May we never make a part of good society, then!"
+
+I kissed her pure lips, and answered,
+
+"There is no present prospect of it, my Constance. I am not
+ambitious of social distinction. Still, our trial in this direction
+may come, for you know that I am not without ambition
+professionally. A chair in one of the medical schools might tempt me
+to an Atlantic city."
+
+Constance smiled, as she still rested her hand upon my arm. Then
+looking from my face to our little ones, two of whom were playing on
+the floor, while the third slept like a vision of innocence in the
+cradle, she said:--
+
+"I shall not need the glitter of diamonds--these are my jewels."
+
+Turn your eyes away, good society reader, lest they be offended at
+sight of a husband's kiss. Could I do less than breathe my tender
+love upon her lips again?
+
+"And richer jewels were never worn in the diadem of a queen," said
+I. "As a mother, woman attains her highest glory."
+
+"As wife and mother," Constance answered quickly. And now she leaned
+against me, and I drew my arm tenderly around her.
+
+"And all this," she said, "a good society woman must give up; and
+for what? God help them in the time of life's bitter trials and
+painful experience, which all must endure in some degree!" She spoke
+with strong feeling. "On what arm can a woman lean, who has no
+husband in the true sense? Is she strong enough, standing alone, for
+life's great battles? What has she to sustain her, when all the
+external support, received from pride, is swept away? Alas! Alas! Is
+there a blinder folly than the pageantry of fashionable society? It
+is the stage on a grander scale, glittering, gorgeous, fascinating
+to the senses--but all a mere show, back from which the actors
+retire, each with an individual consciousness, and the sad words
+pressing to tremulous lips--'The heart knoweth its own bitterness.'"
+
+Like ourselves, most of Delia's best friends were disappointed, and
+when she returned to New York, no hearts followed her with tender
+interest, except those of her own family. She had carried herself
+with an air of too much self-consequence; or, if she came down to
+the level of old friends and companions, it was with too evident a
+feeling of condescension.
+
+I happened to fall into the company of Squire Floyd and Judge
+Bigelow, not very long after the return of Delia and her husband to
+New York. The conversation turned upon business, and I learned that
+the Squire had thought of enlarging his mill, and introducing
+steam--the water power being only sufficient for its present
+productive capacity. Judge Bigelow was very much interested, I
+found, in the particular branch of manufacture in which his neighbor
+was engaged, and inclined to embark some capital with him in the
+proposed extension of the works. They frequently quoted the Judge's
+nephew, Mr. Ralph Dewey, as to the extent to which goods could be
+put into market by the house of Floyd, Lawson, Lee & Co., who
+possessed, it was conceded, almost unlimited facilities.
+
+I listened to their conversation, which involved plans of
+enlargement, statistics of trade, home and foreign production,
+capital, and the like, until I began to feel that I was moving in a
+narrow sphere, and destined, in comparison with them, to occupy a
+very small space on the world. And I will confess it, a shade of
+dissatisfaction crept over my heart.
+
+A few months later I learned that my two neighbors were jointly
+interested in the mill, and that early in the ensuing spring
+steam-power would be introduced, and the capacity of the works
+increased to more than double their present range.
+
+It was December when Wallingford returned from England. He brought
+back with him all the evidence required to prove the identity of
+Mrs. Montgomery. Up to this time only three persons knew of the
+existence of a will--Mrs. Montgomery, Blanche, and myself; and we
+formed a council on the question of what was now to be done. I gave
+it as my opinion, that, as Judge Bigelow was one of the executors,
+and must in consequence cease to act for Mrs. Montgomery, that we
+had better call in Mr. Wallingford, and get his view of the case
+before placing the will in Judge Bigelow's hands. The mother and
+daughter agreed with me. So a time of meeting was appointed, and a
+note sent to the young lawyer desiring his presence at the house of
+Mrs. Montgomery. He seemed very much gratified at the successful
+result of his visit to England, and referred to it with something of
+pardonable pride in his manner.
+
+"We have every reason," said Mrs. Montgomery, in response to this,
+"to be satisfied with the manner in which you have executed an
+important mission. Since you left America, however, a document has
+come into my hands, which, had it reached me earlier, would have
+saved you a long and tedious search among mouldy and moth-eaten
+papers. It was nothing less than Captain Allen's will."
+
+And she gave him the paper. He looked surprised, and for a moment or
+two bewildered. Then opening the will, he read it through rapidly. I
+saw the color leave his face as he progressed, and his hand move
+nervously. It was plain that his mind took in, at a grasp, the
+entire series of consequences which the appearance of this document
+involved.
+
+"This is a serious matter," he said, looking up at Mrs. Montgomery.
+
+"It is," she answered, calmly. "The will appears to be in legal
+form."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"And must go into the hands of those who are named as executors."
+
+"And be by them entered in the office of probate," added
+Wallingford.
+
+"I would have placed it in their hands immediately on its discovery,
+but have, acting under advice from my kind friend here, waited until
+your return from England. No interest has suffered, I presume, by
+this delay?"
+
+"None."
+
+Wallingford bent his eyes to the floor, and sat for some time as if
+half-confounded by the discovery.
+
+"What step will the executors probably take?" I inquired.
+
+"It will be their duty to assume possession of the estate, and hold
+it for the heirs of Mrs. Allen, if any are in existence," he
+replied.
+
+"And it will be their duty to take all proper means for discovering
+these heirs?" said I.
+
+"Yes. That follows, of course."
+
+"And if none are found within a reasonable time?" I asked.
+
+"The phrase, a reasonable time, is very indeterminate," said
+Wallingford. "It may include one, or ten years, according to the
+facts in the case, the views of the executors and the courts."
+
+"But, finally?"
+
+"Finally," he answered, "if no heirs come forward to claim the
+estate, it will revert to the old line of descent through the blood
+relations of Captain Allen."
+
+"And come into the possession of Mrs. Montgomery?"
+
+"Yes, if the courts are satisfied with the evidence which can be
+presented in her favor."
+
+There followed a long silence, which Mrs. Montgomery was first to
+break.
+
+"I believe," she said, firmly, "that I am prepared for the final
+issue of this matter, whatever it may be. I shall still require
+legal advice, Mr. Wallingford."
+
+The young man bowed assent.
+
+"And, as Judge Bigelow is one of the executors--"
+
+"I do not think, madam," said Wallingford, interrupting her, "that
+the fact of his executorship will make him any the less a safe
+adviser for you. He is a man of the highest integrity of character,
+clear-seeing, and of impartial judgment."
+
+"I believe in his judgment and integrity," she replied. "Still, I do
+not think it well to have these two interests represented by the
+same man. You are his associate, if I understand correctly the
+relation between you."
+
+"I am, in a certain sense."
+
+"Do you have a share in all of his business?"
+
+"Not in all."
+
+"So he can be independent of you in any special case if he deems it
+desirable."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"And this is also true as regards yourself?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then, Mr. Wallingford, I shall consult you, individually, in
+future."
+
+He bowed low in acquiescence.
+
+"And let me say to you, once for all, that I want only my rights, if
+I have any, protected. I do not wish any impediments thrown in the
+way of a proper search for the heirs of Mrs. Allen; but desire to
+see the fullest notice given, and in channels by which it is most
+likely to reach them. At the same time, it is but just to me and
+mine that all right steps should be taken to protect my interests,
+in case no heirs should be found. And I have faith in you, Mr.
+Wallingford."
+
+"You shall never have cause to regret your confidence, madam," he
+replied, in a tone so full of manly integrity, that I could not but
+gaze upon his fine countenance with a feeling of admiration.
+
+"Will you place this will in the hands of Judge Bigelow?" asked Mrs.
+Montgomery.
+
+"It will be best for you to do that yourself, madam," replied
+Wallingford.
+
+"I will be guided by your judgment in the case, sir. This very day I
+will send him a note asking an interview."
+
+"After that, madam," said Wallingford, rising, "I will be at your
+service."
+
+We retired together.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+
+
+
+
+Both Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd were discreet men, and did not,
+at the outset of their executorship, do more in the way of giving
+publicity to the fact, than probating the will, and entering into
+bonds for the faithful performance of the trust. For the present
+they decided to let Mrs. Montgomery remain in occupancy of the old
+mansion, and she accepted this concession in her favor.
+
+The property left by Captain Allen was large. The grounds upon which
+the old house stood, embraced nearly twenty acres, and as the town
+had grown in that direction, its value might now be estimated by the
+foot, instead of the acre, as houses had grown up on all sides.
+Moreover, the stream of water upon which the mill of Squire Floyd
+stood, ran through these grounds, in a series of picturesque rapids,
+giving a fall of over twenty feet. The value of this property,
+including a mill site, was estimated at sixty thousand dollars. Then
+there were twenty thousand dollars in stock of the County Bank, the
+interest of which Mrs. Allen had drawn since the death of her
+husband, regularly, as administratrix of the estate. Besides this
+property, there were several pieces of unimproved land in and around
+the town, the value of which could not fall much below twenty
+thousand dollars. In addition to all this, was a coffee estate on
+the island of Porto Rico. But as to its extent, or value, no
+evidence appeared. It might now be richly productive, or a mere
+tropical wilderness. If productive, no evidence of any return since
+Captain Allen's death appeared.
+
+The winter passed without any apparent movement on the part of the
+executors looking to the discovery of Mrs. Allen's heirs. Young
+Dewey came up from New York every few weeks, to hold business
+interviews with his uncle and Squire Floyd, touching the
+mill-extension which was fully determined upon; Judge Bigelow
+agreeing to invest twenty thousand dollars, and the nephew ten
+thousand. All these matters were talked of in the beginning, freely,
+before Wallingford, who still had his office with his old preceptor,
+and shared in his business. After a while, he noticed a growing
+reserve on the part of Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd, when he was
+by, touching their private affairs; and then they ceased entirely
+all reference thereto.
+
+Dewey came up as frequently as usual, but avoided any remark in
+relation to business while in the presence of Wallingford. During
+his stay in S----, the Judge spent but little time at the office;
+being, for the most part, at the mill with his nephew and the
+Squire.
+
+In the spring, a large force of men was set to work on the extension
+of Squire Floyd's mill; and as Judge Bigelow had become largely
+interested in the new enterprise, he gave a great deal more
+attention to what was going on in that direction, than to the
+business of his office, the heaviest part of which devolved upon Mr.
+Wallingford. Still, no steps were taken to discover the heirs of
+Mrs. Allen. Once or twice Mr. Wallingford had approached the
+subject, but the Judge made no response. At last, he put the
+question direct, as to what had been done. The Judge seemed a little
+annoyed; but said, in a hurried way that was unusual with him,
+
+"I must, and will attend to this matter immediately. I have had so
+much on my mind that it has been neglected."
+
+But the spring months passed--summer glided by--and still there was
+no advertisement for heirs, nor any steps taken, so far as
+Wallingford could learn, to ascertain their existence.
+
+Mrs. Montgomery still occupied the old mansion, waiting patiently
+the issue whatever it might be. Her health, I regretted to find, was
+not firm. She suffered a great deal from nervous debility; and I
+saw, plainly, that she had failed considerably during the past few
+months. Blanche, on the contrary, after recovering from the illness
+which followed immediately on her arrival in S----, had continued in
+excellent health; and was growing daily more matured and womanly
+both as to mental development and personal bearing.
+
+The mill improvements went on all summer, exciting no little
+interest in our town, and occasioning no small amount of talk and
+speculation. It was some time in the fall of that year, that I was
+permitted to hear this brief conversation between a couple of
+townsmen. Mr. A----had made some query as to the source of all the
+money expended on the new mill of Squire Floyd, which was now
+standing forth, under roof, in most imposing proportions, compared
+with the old works. Mr. B----shrugged his shoulders, and replied,
+
+"Floyd and the Judge are joint executors of old Allen's estate, you
+know."
+
+"What does that signify?" inquired Mr. A----.
+
+"It may signify a great deal. They have trust funds in their
+possession to a large amount, I am told."
+
+"They are both honorable men, and would not violate their trust,"
+said A----.
+
+"I will not gainsay that," answered Mr. B----. "Still, they may use
+these funds temporarily, and wrong no one."
+
+Nothing more was said in my presence, but I turned their remarks
+over and over again, feeling less satisfied the more I pondered
+them. A day or two afterwards I met Mr. Wallingford, and said to
+him,
+
+"How comes on the search for the heirs of the Allen estate?"
+
+The question caused him to look grave.
+
+"No progress has been made, so far as I can learn," he answered.
+
+"Isn't this indifference on the part of the executors a little
+extraordinary?" I remarked.
+
+"I must confess that I do not understand it," said the young lawyer.
+
+"There is personal, as well as real estate?"
+
+"Yes. Stocks worth twenty thousand dollars."
+
+"I have heard it suggested, that trust funds in the case are going
+into Squire Floyd's mill."
+
+Wallingford started at the suggestion, and looked for some moments
+intently in my face; then dropped his eyes, and stood lost in
+thought a good while.
+
+"Where did you hear the suggestion?" he at length inquired.
+
+I repeated the conversation just mentioned, and named the
+individuals with whom it had occurred.
+
+"And now, Henry," said I, "put this hint, and the singular neglect
+of the executors to search for the heirs to the Allen property,
+together, and tell me how the matter shapes itself in your mind. We
+speak confidentially with each other, of course."
+
+"I don't just like the appearance of it, that is all I can say,
+Doctor," he replied in a half absent manner.
+
+"As you represent the interests of Mrs. Montgomery," said I, "is it
+not your duty to look a little closer into this matter?"
+
+"It is; and I shall give it immediate attention."
+
+He did so, and to his surprise, found that all the bank stock had
+been sold, and transferred. It was now plain to him where at least a
+part of the funds being so liberally expended on the mill property
+of Squire Floyd came from. On venturing to make some inquiries of
+Judge Bigelow bearing on the subject, that individual showed an
+unusual degree of irritation, and intimated, in terms not to be
+misunderstood, that he thought himself competent to manage any
+business he might undertake, and did not feel disposed to tolerate
+any intermeddling."
+
+From that time, Wallingford saw that a separation from his old
+preceptor was inevitable; and he so shaped events, that in less than
+three months he made the separation easy and natural, and took an
+office to himself alone.
+
+Still there was no movement on the part of the executors in regard
+to the valuable estate in their hands. Summer and fall passed, and
+Christmas saw the splendid improvements of Squire Floyd completed,
+and the new mill in operation, under the vigorous power of steam.
+The product thus secured was almost fabulous in the eyes of the half
+asleep and awake people of S----, many of whom could hardly imagine
+people enough in the country to consume the miles of cloth that came
+streaming out from the rattling looms. And yet, we were informed,
+that more than quadruple this product could be sold by the extensive
+house of Floyd, Lawson, Lee, & Co.; and that all that stood in the
+way of creating a magnificent fortune out of cotton bales, was the
+lack of productive facilities.
+
+During this winter I saw more than usual of Mrs. Dewey. She came up
+from New York with her nurse and child, a babe not quite a year old,
+and spent over six weeks with her parents. She had lost, in the two
+years which had passed since her marriage, nearly all those
+beautiful traits of character which made her once so charming.
+Fashionable city life seemed to have spoiled her altogether. Her
+mind had not grown in the right direction. She had wholly abandoned
+that tasteful reading through which intellectual refinement comes;
+and to all appearance, no longer cared for anything beyond the mere
+sensuous. Nothing in S----had any interest for her; and she scarcely
+took the pains to conceal her contempt for certain sincere and
+worthy people, who felt called upon, for the sake of her parents, to
+show her some attention. She was not happy, of course. When in
+repose; I noticed a discontented look on her face. Her eyes had lost
+that clear, innocent, almost child-like beauty of expression, that
+once made you gaze into them; and now had a cold, absent, or eagerly
+longing expression, as if her thought were straining itself forward
+towards some coveted good.
+
+Her conversation was almost always within the range of New York
+fashionable themes; and barren of any food upon which the mind could
+grow. There was not even the pretence of affection between her and
+her husband. The fairest specimen of well bred indifference I had
+yet seen was exhibited in their conduct to each other. Their babe
+did not seem to be a matter of much account either. Delia took no
+personal care of it whatever--leaving all this to the nurse.
+
+It happened one day that I was called in to see the child. I found
+it suffering from some of the ill effects of difficult dentition,
+and did what the case required. There was an old friend of Delia's
+at the house--a young lady who had been much attached to her, and
+who still retained a degree of her old friendship. They were talking
+together in a pleasant, familiar way, when I came down stairs from
+my visit to the sick child--the mother had not shown sufficient
+interest in the little sufferer to attend me to the nurse's room. A
+word or two of almost careless inquiry was made;--I had scarcely
+answered the mother's queries, when her friend said, in a laughing
+way, looking from the window at the same time,
+
+"There, Delia! see what you escaped."
+
+I turned my eyes in the same direction, and saw Mr. Wallingford
+walking past, on the opposite side of the street, with his head bent
+down. His step was slow, but firm, and his air and carriage manly.
+
+Delia shrugged her shoulders, and drew up the corners of her lips.
+There was an expression very much like contempt on her face.--But
+she did not make any reply. I saw this expression gradually fade
+away, and her countenance grow sober. Her friend did not pursue the
+banter, and the subject dropped.
+
+What she had escaped! It was a dark day in the calendar of her life,
+when she made that escape; and I think there must have been times
+when a consciousness of this fact pressed upon her soul like a
+suffocating nightmare.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+
+
+
+Spring opened again, and the days glided swiftly on towards summer;
+and yet, so far as the movements of the executors could be traced,
+nothing had been done in the work of searching for the heirs. One
+day, early in June, Mrs. Montgomery sent for Mr. Wallingford. On
+attending her, she placed in his hands a communication which she had
+just received. It was from the executors, giving notice in a kind
+and respectful way, that, for the interest of the legal heirs, and
+their own security, it would be necessary for them to assume full
+possession of the mansion and grounds, unless she felt willing to
+pay a rental that was equivalent to the interest on their value.
+
+"I have expected this," said the lady; "and, so far from considering
+myself aggrieved, feel grateful that a quiet residence here has been
+so long accorded me."
+
+"You will remove?"
+
+"There is no other course left. My income will not justify a rent of
+some three thousand dollars."
+
+"As the property is unproductive, no such rent as that will be
+required."
+
+"The letter says, 'a rental equivalent to the interest on their
+value.'"
+
+"I will see Judge Bigelow this morning, and ascertain precisely what
+views are held in regard to this matter."
+
+They were sitting near one of the parlor windows that looked out
+upon the portion of the grounds that sloped away towards the stream,
+that threw its white folds of water from one rocky ledge to another
+in graceful undulations. As Mr. Wallingford ceased speaking, Mrs.
+Montgomery turned her head quickly and looked out. The sound of
+voices had reached her ears. Three men had entered the grounds, and
+were passing the window at a short distance.
+
+"Who are they?" asked Mr. Wallingford. Then, answering his own
+question, he said, "Oh, I see; Judge Bigelow, Squire Floyd, and
+Ralph Dewey, his son-in-law."
+
+The three men, after going a few hundred rods in the direction of
+the stream, turned and stood for some minutes looking at the house,
+and talking earnestly. Dewey appeared to have the most to say, and
+gesticulated quite freely. Then they moved on to that portion of the
+stream where the water went gliding down the mimic rapids, and
+remained there for a considerable time. It was plain that some
+scheme was in their heads, for they took measurement by pacing off
+the grounds in various directions; drew together in close conference
+at times; then separated, each making some examination for himself;
+and again stood in close deliberation. At last, as if satisfied with
+their investigations, they returned by way of the mansion, and
+passed out without calling.
+
+"Put that and that together, and there is a meaning in this
+procedure beyond the simple rental of the place," said Wallingford.
+
+"What is your inference?" asked Mrs. Montgomery.
+
+"I have made none as yet," he replied. "But I will see Judge
+Bigelow, and have some talk with him. Of course, I can have nothing
+to say, adverse to a requirement of rent. Executors are responsible
+for the right use of property in their hands, and must see that it
+produces an interest, if in a position to pay anything. You do not,
+of course, wish to occupy the whole of these grounds. It may be,
+that the use of the house, garden, lawn, and appurtenances, may be
+secured at a moderate rent. If so, do you wish to remain?"
+
+"I would prefer remaining here, if the rent is within a certain
+sum."
+
+"Say three hundred dollars?"
+
+"Yes. If not beyond that sum, I will remain," replied Mrs.
+Montgomery.
+
+The interview which Mr. Wallingford held with Judge Bigelow a few
+hours afterwards, was not satisfactory. The proposition to let Mrs.
+Montgomery and her daughter occupy the house, separate from the
+extensive grounds, would not be entertained. It finally came out,
+that an offer to purchase had been made by the firm of Floyd,
+Lawson, Lee, & Co., with a view to the erection of extensive mills,
+and that the executors were going to ask the Court for power to
+sell, as a handsome sum could now be obtained. It further came out,
+that in case this power was granted, Mr. Dewey was to reside in
+S----, to superintend the erection of these mills, and afterwards to
+join Squire Floyd in the management of both establishments--a
+consolidation of interests between the mercantile and manufacturing
+branches being about to take place. The old mansion was to undergo a
+thorough revision, and become the domicile of the resident partner.
+
+With these plans in view, the executors insisted upon the removal of
+Mrs. Montgomery; and notice as to time was given, which included
+three months. Formal application was made to the Court having power
+in the case, for authority to sell and re-invest. The reasons for so
+doing were set forth in detail, and involved plausible arguments in
+favor of the heirs whenever they should be found.
+
+Mr. Wallingford had personal reasons for not wishing to oppose this
+application. The executors had been his friends from boyhood.
+Especially towards Judge Bigelow did he entertain sentiments of deep
+gratitude for his many favors and kindnesses. But his duty, as
+counsel to Mrs. Montgomery, left him no alternative. She was heir
+prospective to this property, and he did not believe that the plans
+in view were best for her interests, in case no other heir was
+found. So, he went before the Court, and opposed the prayer of the
+executors. In doing so, he gained their ill-will, but did not
+succeed in preventing a decree authorizing a sale of the property.
+Dewey was present, a deeply interested listener to the arguments
+that were advanced on both sides. After the decision, as Wallingford
+was passing from the court-room, Dewey, who stood near the door,
+talking with a gentleman, said, loud enough for the young lawyer to
+hear him.
+
+"The hound! He got on the wrong scent that time!"
+
+A feeling of indignation stirred in Wallingford's bosom; but he
+repressed the bitter feeling, and moved on without giving any
+intimation that the offensive remark had reached him.
+
+As soon as this decree, authorizing a sale of the property, was
+made, Mrs. Montgomery began to make preparation for removal. At
+first she seemed inclined to favor a return to England; but after
+repeated conferences with Mr. Wallingford, she finally concluded to
+remain in this country.
+
+Nearly three years had woven their many colored web of events, since
+Mrs. Montgomery had dropped down suddenly among us like a being from
+cloudland. The friendly relation established between us in the
+beginning, had continued, growing more and more intimate. My good
+Constance found in her a woman after her own heart.
+
+"The days I spend at the Allen House," she would often say to me,
+"are days to be remembered. I meet with no one who lives in so pure
+and tranquil an atmosphere as Mrs. Montgomery. An hour with her
+lifts me above the petty cares and selfish struggles of this life,
+and fills my mind with longings after those higher things into which
+all must rise before that peace comes to the soul which passeth all
+understanding. I return home from these interviews, happier in mind,
+and stronger for life's duties. I do not know any term that so
+clearly expresses my idea of this lady, as Christian philosopher."
+
+Occasionally Mrs. Montgomery would pay us a visit; and these also
+were times treasured up in my wife's remembrance. I always observed
+a certain elevation of feeling, a calmer spirit, and a more loving
+sphere about her after one of these pleasant seasons.
+
+The daughter came very often. Our children loved her almost as much
+as they did their mother, and she seemed as happy with them, as if
+they were her own flesh and blood. Agnes, our oldest, now in her
+eighth year, almost lived at the Allen House. Blanche never came
+without taking her home with her, and often kept her for two or
+three days at a time.
+
+Blanche had developed into a young woman of almost queenly beauty;
+yet her manners retained the easy grace and truthfulness of a child.
+She did not seem conscious of her remarkable personal attractions,
+nor of the admiration her presence always extorted. No one could
+meet her, as a stranger, without feeling that she stood removed from
+ordinary contact--a being of superior mould with whom familiarity
+was presumption.
+
+The companion of such a mother, who had with tender solicitude, from
+childhood upwards, guarded all the avenues of her mind, lest false
+principles or false views of things should find entrance; and as
+carefully selected her mental food, in order that there might be
+health of mind as well as health of body--it was not surprising to
+find about her a solidity and strength of character, that showed
+itself beneath the sweet grace of her external life, whenever
+occasion for their exhibition arose. From her mother she had imbibed
+a deep religious sentiment; but this did not manifest itself so much
+in language, as in dutiful acts. I had often occasion to notice,
+how, almost instinctively, she referred all things to a
+superintending Providence; and looked into the future, veiled as it
+is to all eyes, with a confidence that every thing would come out
+right, beautiful to contemplate. What she meant by right, was
+something more than is usually included in the words; for she had
+learned from her wise teacher, that God's providence disposes the
+things of this world for every individual in a way that serves best
+his eternal interests; therefore, what was best in this sense, could
+not fail to be right.
+
+To our deep regret, Mrs. Montgomery decided to change the place of
+her residence from S----to Boston. All the reasons that led her to
+this decision, I was not able to discover. Her life at the Allen
+House had been quite secluded. She had been courteous to all the
+people with whom she was brought into any degree of contact, and had
+reciprocated all friendly visits; but there was a certain distance
+between her and them, that it seemed impossible for either to pass
+over. One of my inferences was, that, in removing from the retired
+old mansion, and taking a modern house, she would stand out more
+prominently before all eyes than was agreeable to her. Be this as it
+may, she was in earnest about removing to Boston.
+
+I happened to be present when the announcement of this purposed
+removal was made to Mr. Wallingford. He had called in, during one of
+my visits to Mrs. Montgomery, for the transaction of some business.
+
+"To Boston?" he said, in a tone of surprise, and, I thought,
+disappointment. At the same time I saw his eyes turned towards
+Blanche.
+
+"Yes; I think it will be best," she replied. "If I have any
+interests here, I feel that they are safe in your hands, Mr.
+Wallingford."
+
+She leaned a little towards him, and I thought her voice had in it a
+softer tone than usual. Her eyes looked steadily into his face.
+
+"I will do all that is right, madam." He spoke a little lower than
+usual.
+
+"And the right is always the best in any case, Mr. Wallingford,"
+said she with feeling.
+
+"How soon do you think of removing?" the young man inquired.
+
+"In three or four weeks."
+
+"So soon."
+
+Again I noticed that his eyes wandered towards Blanche, who sat
+close to her mother, with her face bent down and turned partly away.
+
+"There is no reason why we should linger in S----, after all things
+are ready for removal. It would have suited my feelings and habits
+of mind to have remained here; but as this cannot be, I prefer going
+to Boston on more than one account."
+
+"You will leave behind you many sincere friends," said Wallingford.
+
+There was more feeling in his voice than usually showed itself; and
+I again observed that Mrs. Montgomery, in responding to the remark,
+fixed her eyes upon him steadily, and with, I thought, a look of
+more than usual interest.
+
+The few weeks of preparation glided swiftly away, and then we parted
+from friends who had won their way into our own hearts; and whose
+memory would ever be to us like the fragrance of holy incense. I
+learned from Mrs. Montgomery, before she left us, during a more
+confidential talk than usual, that her income was comparatively
+small, and that the chief part of this, a pension from Government in
+acknowledgment of her husband's services, would cease at her death.
+There was a momentary failure in her voice as she said this, and her
+eyes turned with the instinct of love towards Blanche.
+
+At her desire, Mr. Wallingford attended them to Boston, and remained
+away for three or four days. He then returned to S----, bringing
+with him kind words from the absent ones. The old routine of life
+went on again, each of us taking up the daily duty; yet I think
+there was not one of the favored few who had known Mrs. Montgomery
+and her daughter intimately, that was not stronger to do right in
+every trial for the memory of these true-hearted strangers--no,
+friends!
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+
+
+
+It was in October when Mrs. Montgomery, after a residence of three
+years in the Allen House, went from among us. Old "Aunty," and
+another colored servant who had lived with Mrs. Allen, remained in
+charge of the mansion. There was, of course, no removal of
+furniture, as that belonged to the estate. Mrs. Montgomery had
+brought with her three servants from England, a coachman, footman,
+and maid. The footman was sent back after he had been a year in the
+country; but the coachman and maid still lived with her, and
+accompanied her to Boston.
+
+The large schemes of men ambitious for gain, will not suffer them to
+linger by the way. Ralph Dewey had set his mind on getting
+possession, jointly with others, of the valuable Allen property; and
+as the Court had granted a decree of sale, he urged upon his
+father-in-law and uncle an early day for its consummation. They were
+in heart, honorable men, but they had embarked in grand enterprises
+with at least one dishonest compeer, and were carried forward by an
+impulse which they had not the courage or force of character to
+resist. They thought that spring would be the best time to offer the
+property for sale; but Dewey urged the fall as more consonant with
+their views, and so the sale was fixed for the first day of
+November. Notice was given in the country papers, and Dewey engaged
+to see that the proposed sale was duly advertised in Boston and New
+York. He managed, however, to omit that part of his duty.
+
+On the day of sale, quite a company of curious people assembled at
+the Allen House, but when the property was offered, only a single
+bid was offered. That came from Dewey, as the representative of
+Floyd, Lawson, Lee & Co., and it was awarded to them for the sum of
+thirty-five thousand dollars, a little more than half its real
+value.
+
+From that time until spring opened, all remained quiet. Then began
+the busy hum of preparation, and great things for our town
+foreshadowed themselves. A hundred men went to work on the site
+chosen for a new mill, digging, blasting, and hauling; while
+carpenters and masons were busy in and around the old mansion, with
+a view to its thorough renovation, as the future residence of Mr.
+Ralph Dewey. That gentleman was on the ground, moving about with a
+self-sufficient air, and giving his orders in a tone of authority
+that most of the work people felt to be offensive.
+
+The antiquated furniture in the Allen House, rich though it was in
+style and finish, would not suit our prospective millionaire, and it
+was all sent to auction. From the auctioneers, it was scattered
+among the town's people, who obtained some rare bargains. An old
+French secretary came into my possession, at the cost of ten
+dollars--the original owner could not have paid less than a hundred.
+It was curiously inlaid with satin wood, and rich in quaint
+carvings. There seemed to be no end to the discoveries I was
+continually making among its intricate series of drawers, pigeon
+holes, slides, and hidden receptacles. But some one had preceded me
+in the examination, and had removed all the papers and documents it
+contained. It flashed across my mind, as I explored the mazes of
+this old piece of furniture, that it might contain, in some secret
+drawer, another will. This thought caused the blood to leap along my
+veins, my cheeks to burn, and my hands to tremble. I renewed the
+examination, at first hurriedly; then with order and deliberation,
+taking out each drawer, and feeling carefully all around the cavity
+left by its removal, in the hope of touching some hidden spring. But
+the search was fruitless. One drawer perplexed me considerably. I
+could not pull it clear out, nor get access above or below to see
+how closely the various partitions and compartments came up to its
+sides, top, and bottom. After working with it for some time, I gave
+up the search, and my enthusiasm in this direction soon died out. I
+smiled to myself many times afterwards, in thinking of the idle
+fancy which for a time possessed me.
+
+In May, the furnishing of the renovated house began. This took
+nearly a month. Every thing was brought from New York. Car loads of
+enormous boxes, bales, and articles not made up into packages, were
+constantly arriving at the depot, and being conveyed to the Allen
+House--the designation which the property retains even to this day.
+The furniture was of the richest kind--the carpets, curtains, and
+mirrors, princely in elegance. When all was ready for the proud
+owners to come in and enjoy their splendid home, it was thrown open
+for examination and admiration. All S----went to see the show, and
+wander in dreamy amazement through parlors, halls, and chambers. I
+went with the rest. The change seemed like the work of magic. I
+could with difficulty make out the old landmarks. The spacious
+rooms, newly painted and decked out in rich, modern furniture,
+looked still more spacious. In place of the whitewashed ceilings and
+dingy papered walls, graceful frescoes spread their light figures,
+entrancing the eyes with their marvelous semblances. The great hall
+received you with a statelier formality than before; for it, too,
+had received also its gift of painting, and its golden broideries.
+As you passed from room to room, you said--"This is the palace of a
+prince--not the abode of a citizen."
+
+The grounds around the mansion had been subject to as thorough a
+renovation as the mansion itself. The old gate had given place to
+one of larger proportions, and more imposing design. A new
+carriage-road swept away in a grander curve from the gate to the
+dwelling. Substantial stone-stabling had been torn down in order to
+erect a fanciful carriage-house, built in imitation of a Swiss
+cottage; which, from its singular want of harmony with the principal
+buildings, stood forth a perpetual commentary upon the false taste
+of the upstart owner.
+
+I hardly think that either Mr. Dewey or his wife would have been
+much flattered by the general tone of remark that ran through the
+curious crowds that lingered in the elegant rooms, or inspected the
+improvements outside. Nobody liked him; and as for his wife,
+fashionable associations had so spoiled her, that not a single old
+friend retained either affection or respect. It was sad to think
+that three years of a false life could so entirely obliterate the
+good qualities that once blossomed in her soul with such a sweet
+promise of golden fruitage.
+
+Early in June, the family of Mr. Dewey took possession of their new
+home, and the occasion was celebrated by a splendid entertainment,
+the cost of which, common rumor said, was over two thousand dollars.
+We--Constance and I--were among the invited guests. It was a festive
+scene, brilliant and extravagant beyond anything we had ever
+witnessed, and quite bewildering to minds like ours. Mrs. Dewey was
+dressed like a queen, and radiant in pearls and diamonds. I
+questioned her good taste in this, as hostess; and think she knew
+better--but the temptation to astonish the good people of S----was
+too strong to be resisted.
+
+After the curtain fell on this brilliant spectacle, Mrs. Dewey
+assumed a stately air, showing, on all occasions, a conscious
+superiority that was offensive to our really best people. There are
+in all communities a class who toady to the rich; and we had a few
+of these in S----. They flattered the Deweys, and basked in the
+sunshine of their inflated grandeur.
+
+I was not one towards whom Mrs. Dewey put on superior airs. My
+profession brought me into a kind of relation to her that set aside
+all pretence. Very soon after her removal to S----, my services were
+required in the family, one of her two children having been attacked
+with measles. On the occasion of my first call, I referred,
+naturally, to the fact of her removal from New York, and asked how
+she liked the change.
+
+"I don't like it all, Doctor," she replied, in a dissatisfied tone.
+
+"Could heart desire more of elegance and comfort than you possess?"
+I glanced around the richly decorated apartment in which we were
+seated.
+
+"Gilded misery, Doctor!" She emphasized her words.
+
+I looked at her without speaking. She understood my expression of
+surprise.
+
+"I need not tell you, Doctor, that a fine house and fine furniture
+are not everything in this world."
+
+I thought her waking up to a better state of mind, through the
+irrepressible yearnings of a soul that could find no sustenance amid
+the husks of this outer life.
+
+"They go but a little way towards making up the aggregate of human
+happiness," said I.
+
+"All well enough in their place. But, to my thinking, sadly out of
+place here. We must have society, Doctor."
+
+"True." My voice was a little rough. I had mistaken her.
+
+"But there is no society here!" And she tossed her head a little
+contemptuously.
+
+"Not much fashionable society I will grant you, Delia."
+
+She pursed up her lips and looked disagreeable.
+
+"I shall die of ennui before six months. What am I to do with
+myself?"
+
+"Act like a true woman," said I, firmly.
+
+She lifted her eyes suddenly to my face as if I had presumed.
+
+"Do your duty as a wife and mother," I added, "and there will be no
+danger of your dying with ennui."
+
+"You speak as if I were derelict in this matter."
+
+She drew herself up with some dignity of manner.
+
+"I merely prescribed a remedy for a disease from which you are
+suffering," said I, calmly. "Thousands of women scattered all over
+the land are martyrs to this disease; and there is only one
+remedy--that which I offer to you, Delia."
+
+I think she saw, from my manner, that it would be useless to quarrel
+with me. I was so much in earnest that truth came to my lips in any
+attempt at utterance.
+
+"What would you have me do, Doctor?" There was a petty fretfulness
+in her voice. "Turn cook or nursery-maid?"
+
+"Yes, rather than sit idle, and let your restless mind fret itself
+for want of useful employment into unhappiness."
+
+"I cannot take your prescription in that crude form," she replied,
+with more seriousness than I had expected.
+
+"It is not requisite to a cure," said I. "Only let your thought and
+purpose fall into the sphere of home. Think of your husband as one
+to be made happier by your personal control of such household
+matters as touch his comfort; of your babes as tender, precious
+things, blessed by your sleepless care, or hurt by your neglect; of
+your domestics, as requiring orderly supervision, lest they bring
+discord into your home, or waste your substance. Every household,
+Delia, is a little government, and the governor must be as watchful
+over all its concerns as the governor of a state. Take, then, the
+reins of office firmly into your hands, dispose of everything
+according to the best of your judgment, and require orderly
+obedience from every subject. But act wisely and kindly. Do this, my
+young friend, and you will not be troubled with the fashionable
+complaint--ennui."
+
+"That is, sink down into a mere housekeeper," she remarked; "weigh
+out the flour, count the eggs, fill the sugar bowls, and grow
+learned in cookery-books. I think I see myself wandering about from
+cellar to garret, jingling a great bunch of keys, prying into
+rubbish-corners, and scolding lazy cooks and idle chambermaids!"
+
+She laughed a short, artificial laugh, and then added--
+
+"Is that the picture of what you mean, Doctor?"
+
+"It is the picture of a happier woman than you are, Delia," said I,
+seriously.
+
+The suggestion seemed to startle her.
+
+"You speak very confidently, Doctor."
+
+"With the confidence of one who makes diseases and their cure his
+study. I know something of the human soul as well as the human body,
+and of the maladies to which both are subjected. A cure is hopeless
+in either case, unless the patient will accept the remedy. Pain of
+body is the indicator of disease, and gives warning that an enemy to
+life has found a lodgment; pain of mind is the same phenomenon, only
+showing itself in a higher sphere, and for the same purpose. If you
+are unhappy, surrounded by all this elegance, and with the means of
+gratifying every orderly wish, it shows that an enemy to your soul
+has entered through some unguarded gateway. You cannot get rid of
+this enemy by any change of place, or by any new associations.
+Society will not help you. The excitement of shows; gauds, glitter,
+pageants; the brief triumphs gained in fashionable tournaments, will
+not expel this foe of your higher and nobler life, but only veil,
+for brief seasons, his presence from your consciousness. When these
+are past, and you retire into yourself, then comes back the pain,
+the languor, the excessive weariness. Is it not so, Delia? Is not
+this your sad experience?"
+
+I paused. Her eyes had fallen to the floor. She sat very still, like
+one who was thinking deeply.
+
+"The plodding housekeeper, whose picture you drew just now--humble,
+even mean in your regard though she be--sinks to peaceful sleep when
+her tasks are done, and rises refreshed at coming dawn. If she is
+happier than your fine lady, whose dainty hands cannot bear the soil
+of these common things, why? Ponder this subject, Delia. It concerns
+you deeply. It is the happiest state in life that we all strive to
+gain; but you may lay it up in your heart as immutable truth, that
+happiness never comes to any one, except through a useful employment
+of all the powers which God has given to us. The idle are the most
+miserable--and none are more miserable in their ever-recurring
+ennuied hours, than your fashionable idlers. We see them only in
+their holiday attire, tricked out for show, and radiant in reflected
+smiles. Alas! If we could go back with them to their homes, and sit
+beside them, unseen, in their lonely hours, would not pity fill our
+hearts? My dear young friend! Turn your feet aside from this way--it
+is the path that leads to unutterable wretchedness."
+
+The earnestness of my manner added force to what I said, and
+constrained at least a momentary conviction.
+
+"You speak strongly, Doctor," she said, with the air of one who
+could not look aside from an unpleasant truth.
+
+"Not too strongly, Delia. Is it not as I have said? Are not your
+mere society-ladies too often miserable at home?"
+
+She sighed heavily, as if unpleasant images were forcing themselves
+upon her mind. I felt that I might follow up the impression I had
+made, and resumed:
+
+There was a time, Delia--and it lies only three or four short years
+backward on your path of life--when I read in your opening mind a
+promise of higher things than have yet been attained--you must
+pardon the freedom of an old but true friend. A time when thought,
+taste, feeling were all building for themselves a habitation, the
+stones whereof were truths, and the decorations within and without
+pure and good affections. All this--"I glanced at the rich
+furniture, mirrors, and curtains--"is poor and mean to that dwelling
+place of the soul, the foundations for which you once commenced
+laying. Are you happier now than then? Have the half bewildering
+experiences through which you have passed satisfied you that you are
+in the right way? That life's highest blessings are to be found in
+these pageantries? Think, think, my dear young friend! Look inwards.
+Search into your heart, and try the quality of its motives. Examine
+the foundation upon which you are building, and if it is sand, in
+heaven's name stop, and look for solid earth on which to place the
+corner stone of your temple of happiness."
+
+"You bewilder me, Doctor," she said, in reply to this. "I can't
+think, I can't look inwards. If I am building on a sandy foundation,
+God help me!--for I cannot turn back to search for the solid earth
+of which you speak."
+
+"But--"
+
+She raised her hand and said,
+
+"Spare me, Doctor. I know you are truthful and sincere--a friend who
+may be trusted--but you cannot see as I see, nor know as I know. I
+have chosen my way, and must walk in it, even to the end, let it
+terminate as it will. I had once a dream of other things--a sweet,
+entrancing dream while it lasted--but to me it can never be more
+than a dream. There are quiet, secluded, peaceful ways in life, and
+happy are they who are content to walk in them. But they are not for
+my feet, and I do not envy those who hide themselves in tranquil
+valleys, or linger on the distant hill-slopes. The crowd, the hum,
+the shock of social life for me!"
+
+"But this you cannot have in S----. And is it not the part of a wise
+woman--"
+
+"Again, Doctor, let me beg of you to spare me." she said, lifting
+her hands, and turning her face partly away. "I only half comprehend
+you, and am hurt and disturbed by your well-meant suggestions. I am
+not a wise woman, in your sense of the word, and cannot take your
+admonitions to heart. Let us talk of something else."
+
+And she changed the subject, as well as her whole manner and
+expression of countenance, with a promptness that surprised me;
+showing the existence of will and self-control that in a right
+direction would have given her large power for good.
+
+It was the first and last time I ventured to speak with her so
+freely. Always afterwards, when we met, there was an impression of
+uneasiness on her part, as if she had an unpleasant remembrance, or
+feared that I would venture upon some disagreeable theme.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+
+
+
+
+Steadily, under the busy hands of hundreds of workmen, the new
+buildings arose, stretching their far lengths along, and towering
+up, story after story. Steam, in addition to water power, was
+contemplated here also, for the looms and spindles to be driven were
+nearly twice the number contained in the other mill.
+
+Disappointments and vexatious delays nearly always attend large
+building operations, and the present case formed no exception. The
+time within which everything was to be completed, and the mill to go
+into operation, was one year. Two years elapsed before the first
+bale of goods came through its ample doors, ready for market.
+
+Of course there was a large expenditure of money in S----, and this
+was a great thing for our town. Property rose in value, houses were
+built, and the whole community felt that a new era had dawned--an
+era of growth and prosperity. Among other signs of advancement, was
+the establishment of a new Bank. The "Clinton Bank" it was called.
+The charter had been obtained through the influence of Judge
+Bigelow, who had several warm personal friends in the Legislature.
+There was not a great deal of loose money in S----to flow easily
+into bank stocks; but for all that the shares were soon taken, and
+all the provisions of the charter complied with. Judge Bigelow
+subscribed freely; so did Squire Floyd and Mr. Dewey. Other
+townsmen, to the number of twenty or thirty, put down their names
+for a few shares. It was from New York, however, that the largest
+subscriptions came; and it was New York shareholders, voting by
+proxy, who elected the Board of Directors, and determined the choice
+of officers. Judge Bigelow was elected President, and a Mr. Joshua
+King, from New York, Cashier. The tellers and book-keepers were
+selected from among our own people.
+
+The Clinton Bank and the new mills went into operation about the
+same time. Years of prosperity followed. Money was plenty in our
+town, and everybody was growing better off. Dewey was still the
+manufacturing partner of the large house in New York, whose demand
+for goods it seemed impossible to satisfy. He was a great man in
+S----. People spoke of him as possessing vast mental as well as
+money resources; as having expansive views of trade and finance; as
+being a man of extraordinary ability. I listened to all these things
+as I passed around among our citizens, plodding along in my
+profession, and managing to grow just a little better off each year;
+and wondered within myself if I were really mistaken in the man--if
+there was a solid basis of right judgment below all this splendid
+seeming.
+
+And what of our friend Wallingford, during those busy years? Like
+myself, he moved so quietly through his round of professional
+duties, as to attract little attention. But he had been growing in
+all this time--growing in mental stature; and growing in the
+confidence of all just men. Judge Bigelow's interest in the mills,
+and in the new Bank, drew his attention so much away from his law
+cases, that clients began to grow dissatisfied, and this threw a
+great deal of excellent business into the hands of Wallingford, who,
+if not always successful in his cases, so managed them as to retain
+the confidence and good will of all who employed him. He got the
+character in our town of a safe adviser. If a man had a difficulty
+with a neighbor, and talked of going to law with him, in all
+probability some one would say--
+
+"Go to Mr. Wallingford; he will tell you, on the spot, if there is
+any chance for you in Court."
+
+And he bore this character justly. A thorn in the side he had proved
+to the three great mill owners, Judge Bigelow, Squire Floyd, and
+Ralph Dewey. The two former failed entirely, in his view, as to the
+right steps for discovering the heirs to the large property in their
+hands, all of which had been changed from its original position;
+while the latter showed ill-feeling whenever Wallingford, as he
+continued to do, at stated intervals, filed interrogatories, and
+required answers as to the condition of the trust, and the prospects
+of finding heirs.
+
+Ten years had elapsed since the discovery of Mr. Allen's will, and
+yet no heirs had presented themselves. And now Mr. Wallingford took
+formal issue in the case, and demanded the property for his client,
+Mrs. Montgomery, who was still living in Boston with her daughter,
+in a retired way. Nearly one-half of her income had been cut off,
+and her circumstances were, in consequence, greatly reduced. Her
+health was feeble, having steadily declined since her removal from
+S----. An occasional letter passed between her and my wife; and it
+was in this way that I learned of her health and condition. How free
+was all she wrote from repining or despondency--how full of
+Christian faith, hope, and patience! You could not read one of her
+letters without growing stronger for the right--without seeing the
+world as through a reversed telescope.
+
+A time was fixed for hearing the case, which, now that it assumed
+this important shape, excited great interest among the people of
+S----. When the matter came fairly into court, Mr. Wallingford
+presented his clearly arranged documentary evidence, in proof of
+Mrs. Montgomery's identity as the sister of Captain Allen, and
+claimed the property as hers. He covered, in anticipation, every
+possible ground of objection; bringing forward, at the same time,
+such an array of precedents and decisions bearing upon the case,
+that it was clear to every one on which side the decision would lie.
+
+At this important juncture a letter, post-marked in New York on the
+day before, was offered in court, and a demand, based on its
+contents, made for a stay of proceedings. It came from the Spanish
+Consul, and was addressed to Abel Bigelow and John Floyd, executors
+of the late Captain Allen, and notified them that he had just
+received letters from San Juan De Porto Rico, containing information
+as to the existence of an heir to the estate in the person of a boy
+named Leon Garcia, nephew to the late Mrs. Allen. The case was
+immediately laid over until the next term of court.
+
+In the meantime, steps were promptly taken to ascertain the truth of
+this assumption. An agent was sent out to the island of Porto Rico,
+who brought back all the proofs needed to establish the claim, and
+also the lad himself, who was represented to be in his fourteenth
+year. He was a coarse, wicked-looking boy, who, it was plain, had
+not yet fully awakened to a realizing sense of the good fortune that
+awaited him.
+
+A resolute opposition was made by Wallingford, but all the evidence
+adduced to prove Leon Garcia's relationship to Mrs. Allen was too
+clear, and so the court dismissed the case, and appointed Ralph
+Dewey as guardian to the boy, who was immediately placed at school
+in a neighboring town.
+
+So ended this long season of suspense. Immediately on the decision
+of the case, Wallingford went to Boston to see Mrs. Montgomery, and
+remained absent nearly a week. I saw him soon after his return.
+
+"How did she bear this final dashing of her hopes to the earth?" I
+asked.
+
+"As any one who knew her well might have expected," he answered,
+with so little apparent feeling that I thought him indifferent.
+
+"As a Christian philosopher," said I.
+
+"You make use of exactly the right words," he remarked. "Yes, as a
+Christian philosopher. As one who thinks and reasons as well as
+feels. I have seen a great many so-called religious people in my
+time. People who had much to say about their-spiritual experiences
+and hopes of heaven. But never one who so made obedience to the
+strict law of right, in all its plain, common-sense interpretations,
+a matter of common duty. I do not believe that for anything this
+world could offer her, Mrs. Montgomery would swerve a hair's breadth
+from justice. I have been in the position to see her tempted; have,
+myself, been the tempter over and over again during the ten years in
+which I represented her claims to the Allen estate; but her
+principles were immovable as the hills. Once, I shall never forget
+the incident--I pressed her to adopt a certain course of procedure,
+involving a law quibble, in order to get possession of the property.
+She looked at me for a moment or two, with a flushing face. Then her
+countenance grew serene, almost heavenly, and she gave me this
+memorable reply--'Mr. Wallingford, I have a richer estate than this
+in expectancy, and cannot mar the title.' And she has not marred it,
+Doctor."
+
+"How did her daughter receive the news?" I inquired. I thought he
+turned his face a little away, as he answered.
+
+"Not so well as her mother." I knew his voice was lower. "When I
+announced the fact that the claims of young Garcia had been admitted
+by the court, tears sprung to her eyes, and a shadow fell upon her
+countenance such as I have never seen there before."
+
+"She is younger and less disciplined," said I.
+
+"Few at her age," he answered, are so well disciplined"
+
+"Will they still remain in Boston?" I asked.
+
+"Yes, for the present," he answered, and we parted. A few months
+after this, my wife said to me one day,
+
+"Did you hear that Mr. Wallingford had bought the pretty little
+cottage on Cedar Lane, where Jacob Homer lived?"
+
+"Is that true?"
+
+"It is said so. In fact, I heard it from Jane Homer, and that is
+pretty good authority."
+
+"Is he going to live there with his mother?"
+
+"Jane did not know. Her husband went behind hand the year he built
+the cottage, and never was able to get up even with the world. So
+they determined to sell their place, pay off their debts, and find
+contentment in a rented house. Mr. Homer said something to Mr.
+Wallingford on the subject, and he offered to buy the property at a
+fair price."
+
+A few days afterwards, in passing along Cedar Lane, I noticed a
+carpenter at work in the pretty cottage above referred to; and also
+a gardener who was trimming the shrubbery.
+
+Good morning, William, "I spoke to the gardener with whom I was well
+acquainted. This is a nice cozy place."
+
+"Indeed and it is, Doctor. Mr. Homer took great pride in it."
+
+"And showed much taste in gardening"
+
+"You may well say that, Doctor. There isn't a finer shrubbery to any
+garden in S----."
+
+"Is Mr. Wallingford going to live here, or does he intend renting
+the cottage?"
+
+"That's more than I can answer, Doctor. Mr. Wallingford isn't the
+man, you know, to talk with everybody about his affairs."
+
+"True enough, William," said I smiling and passed on.
+
+"Did you know," said my wife, a few weeks later, "that Mr.
+Wallingford was furnishing the cottage on Cedar Lane?"
+
+"Ah! Is that so?"
+
+"Yes. Mrs. Dean told me that Jones the cabinet maker had the order,
+which was completed, and that the furniture was now going in.
+Everything, she says, is plain and neat, but good."
+
+"Why, what can this mean, Constance? Is our young friend about to
+marry?"
+
+"It has a look that way, I fancy."
+
+"But who is the bride to be?" I asked.
+
+"Mrs. Dean thinks it is Florence Williams."
+
+"A fine girl; but hardly worthy of Henry Wallingford. Besides, he is
+ten year her senior," said I.
+
+"What is the difference in our ages. dear?" Constance turned her
+fresh young face to mine--fresh and young still, though more than
+thirty-five years had thrown across it their lights and shadows, and
+laid her head fondly against my breast.
+
+I kissed her tenderly, and she answered her own question.
+
+"Ten years; and you are not so much my senior. I do not see any
+force in that objection. Still if I had been commissioned to select
+a wife for Mr. Wallingford, I would not have chosen Florence
+Williams."
+
+"Her father is well off, and growing richer every day."
+
+"Worth taking into the account, I suppose, as one of the reasons in
+favor of the choice," said my wife. "But I hardly think Wallingford
+is the man to let that consideration have much influence."
+
+There was no mistake about the matter of furnishing Ivy Cottage, as
+the place was called. I saw carpets going in on the very next day.
+All the shrubbery had been trimmed, the grounds cleared up and put
+in order, and many choice flowers planted in borders already rich in
+floral treasures.
+
+Curiosity now began to flutter its wings, lift up its head, and look
+around sharply. Many arrows had taken their flight towards the heart
+of our young bachelor lawyer, but, until now, there had been no
+evidence of a wound. What fair maiden had conquered at last? I met
+him not long after, walking in the street with Florence Williams.
+She looked smiling and happy; and his face was brighter than I had
+ever seen it. This confirmed to me the rumor.
+
+Mrs. Wallingford was not to be approached on the subject. If she
+knew of an intended marriage, she feigned ignorance; and affected
+not to understand the hints, questions, and surmises of curious
+neighbors.
+
+A week or two later, and I missed Wallingford from his office. The
+lad in attendance said that he was away from the town, but would
+return in a few days.
+
+"I have a surprise for you," said my wife on that very afternoon.
+She had a letter in her hand just received by post. Her whole face
+was radiant with pleasure. Drawing a card from the envelope, she
+held it before my eyes. I read the names of _Henry Wallingford_ and
+_Blanche Montgomery_, and the words, "At home Wednesday evening,
+June 15th. Ivy Cottage."
+
+"Bravo!" I exclaimed, as soon as a momentary bewilderment passed,
+showing more than my wonted enthusiasm. "The best match since Hymen
+linked our fates together, Constance."
+
+"May it prove as happy a one!" my wife answered, with a glance of
+tenderness.
+
+"It will, Constance--it will. That is a marriage after my own heart;
+one that I have, now and then, dimly foreshadowed in imagination,
+but never thought to see."
+
+"It is over five years since we saw Blanche," remarked Constance. "I
+wonder how she looks! If life's sunshine and rain have produced a
+rich harvest in her soul, or only abraded the surface, and marred
+the sweet beauty that captivated us of old! I wonder how she has
+borne the shadowing of earthly prospects--the change from luxurious
+surroundings!"
+
+"They have not dimmed the virgin gold; you may be sure of that,
+Constance," was my reply to this.
+
+"At home, Wednesday evening, June fifteenth."
+
+And this was Tuesday. Only a single day intervened. And yet it
+seemed like a week in anticipation, so eager did we grow for the
+promised re-union with friends whose memory was in our hearts as the
+sound of pleasant music.
+
+It was eight o'clock, on Wednesday evening, when we entered Ivy
+Cottage, our hearts beating with quickened strokes under their
+burden of pleasant anticipation. What a queenly woman stood revealed
+to us, as we entered the little parlor! I would hardly have known
+her as the almost shrinking girl from whom we parted not many years
+before. How wonderfully she had developed! Figure, face, air,
+manner, attitude--all showed the woman of heart, mind, and purpose.
+Yet, nothing struck you as masculine; but rather as exquisitely
+feminine. It took but one glance at her serene face, to solve the
+query as to whether there had been a free gift of heart as well as
+hand. My eyes turned next to the pale, thin face of Mrs. Montgomery,
+who sat, or half reclined, in a large cushioned chair. She was
+looking at her daughter. That expression of blended love and pride,
+will it ever cease to be a sweet picture in my memory? All was
+right--I saw that in the first instant of time.
+
+The reception was not a formal one. There was no display of orange
+blossoms, airy veils, and glittering jewels--but a simple welcoming
+of a few old friends, who had come to heart-congratulations. It was
+the happiest bridal reception--always excepting the one in which my
+Constance wore the orange wreath--that I had ever seen. Do you
+inquire of Wallingford, as to how he looked and seemed? Worthy of
+the splendid woman who stood by his side and leaned towards him with
+such a sweet assurance. How beautiful it was to see the proud look
+with which she turned her eyes upon him, whenever he spoke! It was
+plain, that to her, his words had deeper meanings in them, than came
+to other ears.
+
+"It is all right, I see." I had drawn a chair close to the one in
+which Mrs. Montgomery sat, and was holding in mine the thin, almost
+shadowy hand which she had extended.
+
+"Yes, it is all right, Doctor," she answered, as a smile lit up her
+pale face. "All right, and I am numbered among the happiest of
+mothers. He is not titled, nor rich, nor noble in the vulgar
+sense--but titled, and rich, and noble as God gives rank and wealth.
+I came to this land of promise ten years ago, in search of an estate
+for my child; and I have found it, at last. Ah, Doctor"--and site
+glanced upwards as she spoke--"His ways are not as our ways. And if
+we will only trust in Him, He will bring such things to pass, as
+never entered into the imagination of cur hearts. I did not dream of
+this man as the husband of my child, when I gave my business into
+his care. The remote suggestion of such a thing would have offended
+me; for my heart was full of false pride, though I knew it not. But
+there was a destiny for Blanche, foreshadowed for me then, but not
+seen."
+
+"It is the quality of the man," I said, "that determines the quality
+of the marriage. She who weds best, weds the truest man. The rank
+and wealth are of the last consideration. To make them first, is the
+blindest folly of the blindest."
+
+"Ah, if this were but rightly understood"--said Mrs.
+Montgomery--"what new lives would people begin to live in the world!
+How the shadows that dwell among so many households--even those of
+the fairest external seeming--would begin to lift themselves upward
+and roll away, letting in the sunlight and filling the chambers of
+discord with heavenly music! I have sometimes thought, that more
+than half the misery which curses the world springs from discordant
+marriages."
+
+"The estimate is low," I answered. "If you had said two-thirds, you
+would have been, perhaps, nearer the truth."
+
+Blanche crossed the room, and came and stood by her mother's chair,
+looking down into her face with a loving smile.
+
+"I am afraid the journey has been too much for you," she said, with
+a shadow of concern in her face.
+
+"You look paler than usual."
+
+"Paler, because a little fatigued, dear. But a night's rest will
+bring me up even again," Mrs. Montgomery replied cheerfully.
+
+"How is the pain in your side, now?" asked Blanche, still with a
+look of concern.
+
+"Easier. I scarcely notice it now."
+
+"Blanche is over anxious about my health, dear girl!" said Mrs.
+Montgomery, as the bride moved to another part of the room. She
+thinks me failing rapidly. And, without doubt, the foundations of
+this earthly house are giving way; but I trust, that ere it fall
+into ruin, a house not made with hands, eternal, in the heavens,
+will be ready for my reception."
+
+There was no depressing solemnity in her tones, as she thus alluded
+to that event which comes to all; but a smiling cheerfulness of
+manner that was contagious.
+
+"You think of death as a Christian," said I.
+
+"And how else should I think of it?" she replied. "Can I not trust
+Him in whom I have believed? What is it more than passing from a
+lower to a higher state of life--from the natural to the spiritual
+world? When the hour comes, I will lay me down in peace and sleep."
+
+She remained silent for some moments, her thoughts apparently
+indrawn. The brief, closing sentence was spoken as if she were
+lapsing into reverie. I thought the subject hardly in place for a
+wedding occasion, and was about starting another theme, when she
+said--
+
+"Do you not think, Doctor, that this dread of dying, which haunts
+most people like a fearful spectre--the good as well as the bad--is
+a very foolish thing? We are taught, from childhood, to look forward
+to death as the greatest of all calamities; as a change attended by
+indefinable terrors. Teachers and preachers ring in our ears the
+same dread chimes, thrilling the strongest nerves and appalling the
+stoutest hearts. Death is pictured to us as a grim monster; and we
+shudder as we look at the ghastly apparition. Now, all this comes
+from what is false. Death is not the crowning evil of our lives; but
+the door through which we pass, tranquilly, into that eternal world,
+which is our destined home. I hold in my thought a different picture
+of Death from that which affrighted me in childhood. The form is one
+of angelic beauty, and the countenance full of love. I know, that
+when I pass along the dark and narrow way that leads from this outer
+world of nature, to the inner world from which it has existence,
+that my hand will rest firmly in that of an angel, commissioned of
+God to guide my peaceful footsteps. Is not that a better faith?"
+
+"Yes, a better and a truer," said I.
+
+"It is not the death passage that we need fear. That has in it no
+intrinsic evil. It is the sleep of mortality, and the rest is sweet
+to all. If we give place to fear, let it be for that state beyond
+the bourne, which will be unhappy in the degree that we are lovers
+of self and the world--that is, lovers of evil instead of good. As
+the tree falls, so it lies, Doctor. As our quality is at death, so
+will it remain to all eternity. Here is the just occasion for
+dread."
+
+She would have kept on, but her attention was drawn away by the
+remark of a lady who came up at the moment. I left her side and
+passed to another part of the room; but her words, tone, and
+impressive manner remained with me. I turned my eyes often during
+the evening upon her pale, pure face, which seemed like a
+transparent veil through which the spirit half revealed itself. How
+greatly she had changed in five years! There had been trial and
+discipline; and she had come up from them purer for the ordeal. The
+flesh had failed; but the spirit had taken on strength and beauty.
+
+"How did Mrs. Montgomery impress you?" said I to my wife, as we sat
+down together on our return home.
+
+"As one ready to be translated," she answered. "I was at a loss to
+determine which was the most beautiful, she or Blanche."
+
+"You cannot make a comparison between them as to beauty," I
+remarked.
+
+"Not as to beauty in the same degree. The beauty of Blanche was
+queenly; that of her mother angelic. All things lovely in nature
+were collated, and expressed themselves in the younger as she stood
+blushing in the ripeness of her charms; while all things lovely in
+the soul beamed forth from the countenance of the elder. And so, as
+I have said, I was at a loss to determine which was most beautiful."
+
+I was just rising from my early breakfast on the next morning when I
+received a hurried message from Ivy Cottage. The angel of Death had
+been there. Tenderly and lovingly had he taken the hand of Mrs.
+Montgomery, and led her through the gate that opens into the land of
+immortals. She received her daughter's kiss at eleven o'clock, held
+her for some moments, gazing into her face, and then
+said--"Good-night, my precious one! Good-night, and God bless you!"
+At seven in the morning she was found lying in bed with a smile on
+her face, but cold and lifeless as marble! There had been no strife
+with the heavenly messenger.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+
+
+
+No;--there had been no strife with the heavenly messenger. As a
+child falls asleep in its mother's arms, so fell Mrs. Montgomery
+asleep in the arms of an angel--tranquil, peaceful, happy. I say
+happy--for in lapsing away into that mortal sleep, of which our
+natural sleep is but an image, shall the world-weary who have in
+trial and suffering grown heavenly minded, sink into unconsciousness
+with less of tranquil delight than the babe pillowed against its
+mother's bosom? I think not.
+
+As I gazed upon her dead face, where the parting soul had left its
+sign of peace, I prayed that, when I passed from my labors, there
+might be as few stains of earth upon my garments.
+
+"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord, Yea, saith the Spirit, for
+they rest from their labors, and their works do follow them."
+
+I found myself repeating these holy words, as I stood looking at the
+white, shrunken features of the departed.
+
+It was not until the next day that I saw Blanche. But Constance was
+with her immediately after the sad news jarred upon her sympathizing
+heart.
+
+"How did you leave her?" was my anxious query, on meeting my wife at
+home.
+
+"Calm," was the brief answer.
+
+How much the word included!
+
+"Did you talk with her?"
+
+"Not a great deal; she did not seem inclined to talk, like some who
+seek relief through expression. I found her alone in the room next
+to the one in which the body of her mother was lying. She was
+sitting by a table, with one hand pressed over her eyes, as I
+entered. 'Oh, my friend! my dear friend!' she said, in a tone of
+grief, rising and coming a step or two to meet me. I drew my arms
+around her, and she laid her head against me and sobbed three or
+four times, while the tears ran down and dropped upon the floor. 'It
+is well with her!' I said.
+
+"'Oh, yes, my friend, it is well with her,' she answered,
+mournfully, 'well with her, but not with me. How shall I walk onward
+in life's difficult ways, without my mother's arm to lean upon? My
+steps already hesitate.'
+
+"'You have another arm to lean upon,' I ventured to suggest.
+
+"'Yes, a strong arm upon which I can lean in unfaltering trust. In
+this God has been good to me. But my wise, patient mother--how shall
+I live without her?'
+
+"'She is only removed from you as to bodily presence,' said I. 'Love
+conjoins your souls as intimately as ever.'
+
+"'Ah, yes, I know this must be. Too many times have I heard that
+comforting truth from her lips ever to forget it. But while we are
+in the body, the mind will not rest satisfied with any thing less
+than bodily presence.'
+
+"I did not press the point, for I knew that in all sorrow the heart
+is its own best comforter, and gathers for itself themes of
+consolation that even the nearest friend would fail to suggest. We
+went in together to look at the frail tabernacle from which the pure
+spirit of her mother had departed forever! How sweetly the smile
+left upon the lips in the last kiss of parting, lingered there
+still, fixed in human marble with more than a sculptor's art! There
+was no passionate weeping, as we stood by the lifeless clay. Very
+calm and silent she was; but oh, what a look of intense love went
+out from her sad eyes! Not despairing but hopeful love. The curtain
+of death hid from her no land of shadows and mystery; but a world of
+spiritual realities. Her mother had not gone shrinking and trembling
+into regions of darkness and doubt; but in the blessed assurance of
+a peaceful reception in the house of her friends.
+
+"How a true faith," said I, strongly impressed by the images which
+were presented to my mind, "strips from death its old terrors! When
+the Apostle exclaimed, 'Oh, grave, where is thy victory? oh, death,
+where is thy sting?' his mind looked deeper into the mystery of
+dying, and saw farther into the world beyond, than do our modern
+Christians, who frighten us with images of terror. 'I will lay me
+down in peace and sleep,' when the time of my departure comes,
+should be the heart-language of every one who takes upon himself the
+name of Him who said, 'In my Father's house are many mansions. I go
+to prepare a place for you, that where I am, ye may be also.'"
+
+"Since I knew Mrs. Montgomery, and felt the sphere of her quality,"
+said Constance, "my perceptions of life and duty here, and their
+connection with life and happiness hereafter, have been elevated to
+a higher region. I see no longer as in a glass darkly, but in the
+light of reason, made clear by the more interior light of
+Revelation."
+
+"And the same is true with me," I replied. "We may well say that it
+was good to have known her. She was so true, so just, so unconscious
+of self, that truth, justice, and unselfishness were always lovelier
+in your eyes for having seen them illustrated in her person. And
+there was no pious cant about her. No parade of her unworthiness; no
+solemn aspects, nor obtrusive writings of bitter things against
+herself. But always an effort to repress what was evil in her
+nature; and a state of quiet, religious trust, which said, 'I know
+in whom I have believed.'"
+
+"Ah," said Constance, "if there was only more of such religion in
+the world!"
+
+"It would be a happier world than it is," I answered.
+
+"By the impress of a life like hers, what lasting good is done!"
+said my wife. "Such are the salt of the earth. Cities set upon
+hills. Lights in candlesticks. They live not in vain!'"
+
+I did not see Blanche until the day of burial. Her beautiful face
+was calm, but very pale. It bore strongly the impress of sorrow, but
+not of that hopeless sorrow which we so often see on these mournful
+occasions. It was very plain that her thoughts were not lingering
+around the shrouded and coffined form of what was once her mother's
+body, but were following her into the world beyond our mortal
+vision, as we follow a dear friend who has gone from us on a long
+journey.
+
+And thus it was that Blanche Montgomery entered upon her new life.
+Death's shadow fell upon the torch of Hymen. There was a rain of
+grief just as the sun of love poured forth his brightest beams, and
+the bow which spanned the horizon gave, in that hour of grief, sweet
+promise for the future.
+
+These exciting events in the experience of our young friends had
+come upon us so suddenly, that our minds were half bewildered. A few
+weeks served, however, to bring all things into a right adjustment
+with our own daily life and thought, and Ivy Cottage became one of
+the places that grew dearer to us for the accumulating memories of
+pleasant hours spent there with true-hearted ones who were living
+for something more than the unreal things of this world.
+
+How many times was the life that beat so feverishly in the Allen
+House, and that which moved to such even pulsings in Ivy Cottage,
+contrasted in my observation! Ten years of a marriage such as Delia
+Floyd so unwisely consummated, had not served for the development of
+her inner life to any right purpose. She had kept on in the wrong
+way taken by her feet in the beginning, growing purse proud, vain,
+ambitious of external pre-eminence, worldly-minded, and
+self-indulgent. She had four children, who were given up almost
+wholly to the care of hirelings. There was, consequent upon neglect,
+ignorance, and bad regimen, a great deal of sickness among them, and
+I was frequently called in to interpose my skill for their relief.
+Poor little suffering ones! how often I pitied them An occasional
+warning was thrown in, but it was scarcely heeded by the mother, who
+had put on towards me a reserved stateliness, that precluded all
+friendly remonstrance.
+
+At least two months of every summer Mrs. Dewey was absent from
+S----, intermitting between Saratoga and Newport, where she
+abandoned herself to all the excitements of fashionable dissipation.
+Regularly each year we saw her name in the New York correspondence
+of the Herald, as the "fascinating Mrs. D----;" the "charming wife
+of Mr. D----;" or in some like style of reference. At last, coupled
+with one of these allusions, was an intimation that "it might be
+well if some discreet friend would whisper in the lady's ear that
+she was a little too intimate with men of doubtful reputation;
+particularly in the absence of her husband."
+
+This paragraph was pointed out to me by one of my patients. I read
+it with a throb of pain. A little while afterwards I passed Mr.
+Floyd and Mr. Dewey in the street. They were walking rapidly, and
+conversing in an excited manner. I saw them take the direction of
+the depot.
+
+"Here is trouble!" I said, sighing to myself. "Trouble that gold
+cannot gild, nor the sparkle of diamonds hide. Alas! alas! that a
+human soul, in which was so fair a promise, should get so far
+astray!"
+
+I met Mr. Floyd half an hour later. His face was pale and troubled,
+and his eyes upon the ground. He did not see me--or care to see
+me--and so we passed without recognition.
+
+Before night the little warning sentence, written by the Saratoga
+correspondent, was running from lip to lip all over S----. Some
+pitied, some blamed, and not a few were glad in their hearts of the
+disgrace; for Mrs. Dewey had so carried herself among us as to
+destroy all friendly feeling.
+
+There was an expectant pause for several days. Then it was noised
+through the town that Mr. Dewey had returned, bringing his wife home
+with him. I met him in the street on the day after. There was a
+heavy cloud on his brow. Various rumors were afloat. One was--it
+came from a person just arrived from Saratoga--that Mr. Dewey
+surprised his wife in a moonlight walk with a young man for whom he
+had no particular fancy, and under such lover-like relations, that
+he took the liberty of caning the gentleman on the spot. Great
+excitement followed. The young man resisted--Mrs. Dewey screamed in
+terror--people flocked to the place--and mortifying exposure
+followed. This story was in part corroborated by the following
+paragraph in the Herald's Saratoga correspondence:
+
+"We had a spicy scene, a little out of the regular performance, last
+evening; no less than the caning of a New York sprig of fashion, who
+made himself rather more agreeable to a certain married lady who
+dashes about here in a queenly way than was agreeable to her
+husband. The affair was hushed up. This morning I missed the lady
+from her usual place at the breakfast-table. Later in the day I
+learned that her husband had taken her home. If he'll accept my
+advice, he will keep her there."
+
+"Poor Mrs. Floyd!" It was the mother's deep sorrow and humiliation
+that touched the heart of my Constance when this disgraceful
+exposure reached her. "She has worn to me a troubled look for this
+long while," she added. "The handsome new house which the Squire
+built, and into which they moved last year, has not, with all its
+elegant accompaniments, made her any more cheerful than she was
+before. Mrs. Dean told me that her sister was very much opposed to
+leaving her old home; but the Squire has grown rich so fast that he
+must have everything in the external to correspond with his improved
+circumstances. Ah me! If, with riches, troubles so deep must come,
+give me poverty as a blessing."
+
+A week passed, and no one that I happened to meet knew, certainly,
+whether Mrs. Dewey was at home or not. Then she suddenly made her
+appearance riding about in her stylish carriage, and looking as
+self-assured as of old.
+
+"That was a strange story about Mrs. Dewey," said I to a lady whom I
+was visiting professionally. I knew her to be of Mrs. Dewey's set.
+Don't smile, reader; we had risen to the dignity of having a
+fashionable "set," in S----, and Mrs. Dewey was the leader.
+
+The lady shrugged her shoulders, drew up her eyebrows, and looked
+knowing and mysterious. I had expected this, for I knew my subject
+very well.
+
+"You were at Saratoga," I added; "and must know whether rumor has
+exaggerated her conduct."
+
+"Well, Doctor," said the lady, dropping her voice, and putting on
+the air of one who spoke in confidence. "I must say that our friend
+was not as discreet as she might have been. Nothing wrong--that is,
+criminal--of course. But the truth is, she is too fond of
+admiration, and encourages the attentions of young men a great deal
+more than is discreet for any married woman."
+
+"There was an actual rencontre between Mr. Dewey and a person he
+thought too familiar with his wife?" said I.
+
+"Oh, yes. Why, it was in the newspapers!"
+
+"How was it made up between the parties?"
+
+"It isn't made up at all, I believe; There's been some talk of a
+duel."
+
+"A sad affair," said I. "How could Mrs. Dewey have been so
+thoughtless?"
+
+"She isn't prudent, by any means," answered this intimate friend. "I
+often look at the way she conducts herself at public places, and
+wonder at her folly."
+
+"Folly, indeed, if her conduct strikes at the root of domestic
+happiness."
+
+The lady shook her head in a quiet, meaning way.
+
+I waited for her to put her thoughts into words, which she did in a
+few moments after this fashion:
+
+"There's not much domestic happiness to spoil, Doctor, so far as I
+can see. I don't think she cares a farthing for her husband; and he
+seems to have his mind so full of grand business schemes as to have
+no place left for the image of his wife. At least, so I read him."
+
+"How has this matter affected their relation one to the other?"
+
+"I have not seen them together since her return, and therefore
+cannot speak from actual observation," she replied.
+
+There was nothing very definite in all this, yet it revealed such an
+utter abandonment of life's best hopes--such a desolation of love's
+pleasant land--such a dark future for one who might have been so
+nobly blest in a true marriage union, that I turned from the theme
+with a sad heart.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+
+
+
+
+Almost daily, while the pleasant fall weather lasted, did I meet the
+handsome carriage of Mrs. Dewey; but I noticed that she went less
+through the town, and oftener out into the country. And I also
+noticed that she rode alone more frequently than she had been
+accustomed to do. Formerly, one fashionable friend or another, who
+felt it to be an honor to sit in the carriage of Mrs. Dewey, was
+generally to be seen in her company when she went abroad. Now, the
+cases were exceptional. I also noticed a gathering shade of trouble
+on her face.
+
+The fact was, opinion had commenced setting against her. The unhappy
+affair at Saratoga was not allowed to sleep in the public mind of
+S----. It was conned over, magnified, distorted, and added to, until
+it assumed most discreditable proportions; and ladies who respected
+themselves began to question whether it was altogether reputable to
+be known as her intimate friends. The less scrupulous felt the force
+of example as set by these, and began receding also. In a large
+city, like New York, the defection would only have been partial; for
+there, one can be included in many fashionable circles, while only a
+few of them may be penetrated by a defaming rumor. But in a small
+town like S----, the case is different.
+
+I was surprised when I comprehended the meaning of this apparent
+isolation of herself by Mrs. Dewey, and saw, in progress, the ban of
+social ostracism. While I pitied the victim, I was glad that we had
+virtue enough, even among our weak-minded votaries of fashion, to
+stamp with disapproval the conduct of which she had been guilty.
+
+"I saw Mrs. Dewey this morning," said my wife, one day, late in
+November. "She was in at Howard's making some purchases."
+
+"Did you speak to her?"
+
+"Yes, we passed a few words. How much she has changed!"
+
+"For the worse?"
+
+"Yes. She appears five years older than she did last summer, and has
+such a sad, disappointed look, that I could not help pitying her
+from my heart."
+
+"There are few who need your pity more, Constance. I think she must
+be wretched almost beyond endurance. So young, and the goblet which
+held the shine of her life broken, and all its precious contents
+spilled in the thirsty sand at her feet. Every one seems to have
+receded from her."
+
+"The common sentiment is against her; and yet, I am of those who
+never believed her any thing worse than indiscreet."
+
+"Her indiscretion was in itself a heinous offence against good
+morals," said I; "and while she has my compassion, I have no wish
+to see a different course of treatment pursued towards her."
+
+"I haven't much faith in the soundness of this common sentiment
+against her," replied Constance. "There is in it some
+self-righteousness, a good deal of pretended horror at her conduct,
+but very little real virtuous indignation. It is my opinion that
+eight out of ten of her old fashionable friends would be just as
+intimate with her as ever, though they knew all about the affair at
+Saratoga, if they only were in the secret. It is in order to stand
+well with the world that they lift their hands in pretended holy
+horror."
+
+"We cannot expect people to act from any higher principles than they
+possess," said I; "and it is something gained to good morals, when
+even those who are corrupt in heart affect to be shocked at
+departures from virtue in their friends."
+
+"Yes, I can see that. Still, when I look beneath the surface, I feel
+that, so far as the motives are concerned, a wrong has been done;
+and my soul stirs with a feeling of pity towards Mrs. Dewey, and
+indignation against her heartless friends. Do you know, dear, that
+since I met her this morning, I have had serious thoughts of calling
+upon her?"
+
+"You!"
+
+Constance gave me one of her placid smiles in answer to my surprised
+ejaculation.
+
+"Yes; why not?"
+
+"What will people say?"
+
+"I can tell you what they will not say," she replied,
+
+"Well?"
+
+"They will not say, as they do of her, that of all men, I care least
+for my husband."
+
+"I am not afraid of their saying that; but--"
+
+I was a little bewildered by this unexpected thought on the part of
+my wife, and did not at first see the matter clear.
+
+"She has held herself very high, and quite aloof from many of her
+old friends," Constance resumed. "While this was the case, I have
+not cared to intrude upon her; although she has been kind and polite
+to me whenever we happened to meet. Now, when the summer friends who
+courted her are dropping away like autumn leaves, a true friend may
+draw near and help her in the trial through which she is passing."
+
+"Right, Constance! right!" said I, warmly. "Your clearer eyes have
+gone down below, the surface. Oh, yes; call upon her, and be her
+true friend, if she will permit you to come near enough. There can
+be no loss to you; there may be great gain to her. Was there any
+thing in her manner that encouraged you to approach?"
+
+"I think so. It was this, no doubt, that stirred the suggestion in
+my mind."
+
+Constance waited a day or two, pondering the matter, and then made a
+call at the Allen House.
+
+"How were you received?" I asked, on meeting her.
+
+"Kindly," she said.
+
+"But with indifference?"
+
+"No. Mrs. Dewey was surprised, I thought, but evidently pleased."
+
+"How long did you stay?"
+
+"Only for a short time."
+
+"What did you talk about?"
+
+"Scarcely any thing beyond the common-place topics that come up on
+formal visits. But I penetrated deep enough into her mind to
+discover the 'aching void' there, which she has been so vainly
+endeavoring to fill. I do not think she meant to let me see this
+abyss of wretchedness; but her efforts to hide it were in vain.
+Unhappy one! She has been seeking to quench an immortal thirst at
+broken cisterns which can hold no water."
+
+"Can you do her any good, Constance?" I asked.
+
+"If we would do good, we must put ourselves in the way," she
+replied. "Nothing is gained by standing afar off."
+
+"Then you mean to call upon her again?"
+
+"She held my hand at parting, with such an earnest pressure, and
+looked at me so kindly when she said, 'Your visit has been very
+pleasant,' that I saw the way plain before me."
+
+"You will wait until she returns your call?"
+
+"I cannot say. It will depend upon the way things shape themselves
+in my mind. If I can do her good, I shall not stand upon etiquette."
+
+As I came in sight of my modest little home a few days afterwards, I
+saw the stylish carriage of Mrs. Dewey dash away from my door,
+taking a direction opposite to that by which I was approaching.
+
+"How are the mighty fallen!" It was hardly a good spirit by whom
+this thought was quickened, for I was conscious of something like a
+feeling of triumph. With an effort I repressed the ungenerous state
+of mind.
+
+"So your call has been returned," said I, on entering our sitting
+room.
+
+"Yes. How did you know?" Constance looked up, smiling, but curious.
+
+"I saw Mrs. Dewey's carriage leave our door as I turned into the
+street. Did she come in, or only leave her card?"
+
+"She came in, and sat for half an hour."
+
+"And made herself very agreeable,--was patronizing, and all that?"
+
+"No--nothing of the kind suggested by your words." And Constance
+looked at me reproachfully. "She was, on the contrary, quiet,
+subdued, and womanly. I called to see her, with the manner of one
+who had about her no consciousness of inferiority; and she returned
+the call, without a sign that I could regard as offensive."
+
+"It is well," I answered, coming back into my better state. "If true
+friends can take the place of false friends, who left her the moment
+a shadow fell upon her good name, then the occasion of blame may
+pave the way to life instead of ruin. There must be remains of early
+and better states covered up and hidden away in her soul, but not
+lost; and by means of these she may be saved--yet, I fear, that only
+through deep suffering will the overlying accretions of folly be
+broken away."
+
+"She is in the hands of one to whom all spirits are precious," said
+Constance, meekly; "and if we can aid in His good work of
+restoration and salvation, our reward shall be great."
+
+After the lapse of a week, Constance called again upon Mrs. Dewey.
+She found her in a very unhappy state of mind, and failed, almost
+entirely, in her efforts to throw a few sunbeams across the shadow
+by which she was environed. Her reception was neither cold nor
+cordial.
+
+"I think," she said, "that my visit was untimely. Some recent
+occurrence had, probably, disturbed her mind so deeply; that she was
+not able to rise above the depression that followed. I noticed a
+bitterness of feeling about her that was not apparent on the
+occasion of my first call; and a hardness of manner and sentiment,
+that indicated a condition of mental suffering having its origin in
+a sense of wrong. Mr. Dewey passed through the hall, and went out a
+few minutes after I entered the house, and before his wife joined me
+in the parlor. It may have been fancy; but I thought, while I sat
+there awaiting her appearance, that I heard angry words in the room
+above. The heavy tread of a man's foot was there; but the sound
+ceased all at once--so did the voices. A little while afterwards Mr.
+Dewey came down stairs, and went out, as I have said. Some minutes
+passed before I heard the rustle of Mrs. Dewey's garments. There was
+the air of one disturbed and ill at ease about her, when she
+entered; and though she made an effort to seem pleased, all was
+forced work. Poor woman! The path she selected to walk in through
+the world has proved rough and thorny, I fear, beyond any thing
+dreamed of in her young imagination."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+
+
+
+
+Weeks passed after this second visit to the Allen House, but the
+call was not returned by Mrs. Dewey. We talked the matter over,
+occasionally, and concluded that, for some reason best known to
+herself, the friendly overtures of Constance were not agreeable to
+the lady. She was not often seen abroad, and when she did appear,
+the closed windows of her carriage usually hid her face from careful
+observation.
+
+Of late, Mr. Dewey was away from S----more than usual, business
+connected with the firm of which he was a member requiring his
+frequent presence in New York. He did not remain absent over two or
+three days at a time.
+
+Nearly opposite to where I resided lived Mr. Joshua Kling, the
+Cashier of the new Clinton Bank. He and Mr. Dewey seemed to be on
+particularly friendly terms. Often I noticed the visits of Mr. Dewey
+to the Cashier's house after bank hours, and many times in paying
+evening calls would I meet the two gentlemen, arm in arm, engaged in
+close conversation.
+
+It was pretty generally understood in S----that the Clinton Bank was
+in the hands or parties in New York, and that a large proportion of
+the discounts made were of paper bearing the endorsement of Floyd,
+Lawson, Lee, & Co., which was passed by the directors as the
+legitimate business paper received by that house in its extensive
+business operations; or of paper drawn to the order of John Floyd &
+Co., given in payment of goods manufactured at the mills in S----.
+It was also generally conceded that as, through their partner, Mr.
+Dewey, this firm of Floyd, Lawson, Lee, & Co., had invested a large
+amount of capital in S----, and by their liberality and enterprise
+greatly benefited the town, they were entitled to all the favors it
+was in the power of the bank to give; more particularly as the firm
+was one of great wealth--"solid as gold"--and the interests of the
+stockholders would, therefore, be best served by keeping the line of
+discount mainly in so safe a channel.
+
+Now and then a disappointed storekeeper, whose small offerings were
+thrown out, would inveigh bitterly against the directors, calling
+hard names, and prophesying "a grand explosion one of these days;"
+but these invectives and predictions hardly ever found a repetition
+beyond the narrow limits of his place of business.
+
+And so the splendid schemes of Ralph Dewey and Company went on
+prospering, while he grew daily in self-importance, and in offensive
+superciliousness toward men from whom he had nothing to expect. In
+my own case I had little to complain of, as my contact with him was
+generally professional, and under circumstances that caused a
+natural deference to my skill as a physician.
+
+Nothing out of the ordinary range of things transpired until towards
+Christmas, when my wife received a note from Mrs. Dewey, asking her
+as a special favor to call at the Allen House. She was there in half
+an hour after the note came to hand.
+
+I was at home when she returned, and saw the moment I looked into
+her face that she had been the witness of something that had moved
+her deeply.
+
+"Is anything wrong with Mrs. Dewey?" I asked.
+
+"Yes." Her countenance took on a more serious aspect.
+
+"In what respect?"
+
+"The story cannot be told in a sentence. I received a note from her
+as you are aware. Its earnest brevity forewarned me that the call
+involved something of serious import; and I was not mistaken in this
+conclusion. On calling, and asking for Mrs. Dewey, I noticed an air
+of irresolution about the servant. 'Mrs. Dewey is not well,' she
+said, 'and I hardly think can see company to-day.'
+
+"'She is not ill, I hope?' said I.
+
+"'No, ma'am; not ill exactly, but--' and she hesitated and looked
+embarrassed.
+
+"'She will see me,' I spoke confidently. 'Take her my name, and I
+will wait here in the parlor.'
+
+"In a few minutes the girl returned and asked me to walk up stairs.
+I followed her to Mrs. Dewey's room. She tapped lightly on the door,
+which was opened. I passed in, and found myself alone with Delia.
+She grasped my arm tightly as she shut the door and locked it,
+saying as she did so, in a voice so altered from her usual tone,
+that it sounded strangely in my ears--
+
+"'Thank you, my friend, for coming so soon. I am in deep trouble,
+and need a counselor as well as a comforter. I can trust you for
+both.'
+
+"I drew my arm around her, so that by act I could give more than the
+assurance of words, and walked from the door with her to a lounge
+between the windows, where we sat down. Her face had a shrunken
+aspect, like the face of one who had been sick; and it showed also
+the marks of great suffering.
+
+"'You may trust me as your own sister, Delia,' said I, 'and if in my
+power to counsel or to comfort, both will be freely accorded.'
+
+"I called her Delia, instead of Mrs. Dewey; not from design, but
+because the old name by which I had known her was first on my lips.
+
+"I thought there was a sudden lifting of her eyes as I pronounced
+this name. The effect, if any followed, was not to repel, but to
+draw her closer.
+
+"'I am standing,' she said, speaking slowly and solemnly, 'at the
+edge of a deep abyss, my way hedged up on both sides, and enemies
+coming on behind. I have not strength to spring over; and to fall is
+destruction. In my weakness and despair, I turn to you for help. If
+there is help in any mortal arm, something tells me it is in yours.'
+
+"She did not weep, nor show strong emotion. But her face was almost
+colorless, and presented an image of woe such as never met my eyes,
+except in pictures.
+
+"'You have heard, no doubt,' she went on, 'some of the stories to my
+discredit which have been circulated in S----. That I was gay and
+imprudent at Saratoga, cannot be denied--gay and imprudent as are
+too many fashionable women, under the exciting allurements of the
+place. Little fond flirtations with gentlemen made up a part of our
+pastime there. But as for sin--it was not in my thoughts!' She said
+this with an emphasis that assured me of its truth. 'A mere life of
+fashionable pleasure is a great exhauster of resources. One tires of
+this excitement and of that, pushing them aside, as a child does an
+old or broken toy, to grasp after something new. It is not
+surprising, therefore, that mere pleasure-seeking women forget at
+times the just proprieties of life, and, before they are aware of
+danger, find themselves in very equivocal positions. This was simply
+my case. Nothing more--nothing less.'
+
+"She paused and looked earnestly into my face, to see if I credited
+this assertion.
+
+"'I have never believed any thing else,' said I.
+
+"A faint, sad smile flitted across her wan face.
+
+"'The consequences of this error on my part,' she went on, 'threaten
+to be of the most disastrous kind. My husband has ever since
+conducted himself towards me as if I were a guilty and disgraced
+thing. We occupy separate apartments; and though we sit together at
+the same table, words rarely pass between us. Occasionally he comes
+home under the influence of wine, and then his abuse of me is
+fearful to think of. If any thing could waken a thoughtless creature
+sleeping on enchanted ground, it was this.'
+
+"'There has never been anything more than the semblance of love
+between us,' she continued. 'The more intimately I came to know him,
+after our marriage, the more did my soul separate itself from him,
+until the antipodes were not farther apart than we. So we lived on;
+I seeking a poor compensation in fashionable emulations and social
+triumphs; and he in grand business enterprises--castles in the air
+perhaps. Living thus, we have come to this point in our journey; and
+now the crisis has arrived!'
+
+"She paused.
+
+"' What crisis?' I asked.
+
+"'He demands a separation.' Her voice choked--'a divorce--'
+
+"'On what ground?'
+
+"'On legal ground.' She bent down, covered her face, and uttered a
+groan so full of mental anguish, that I almost shuddered as the
+sound penetrated my ears.
+
+"'I am to remain passive,' she resumed, while he charges me before
+the proper court, with infidelity, and gains a divorce through
+failure on my part to stand forth and defend myself. This, or a
+public trial of the case, at which he pledges himself to have
+witnesses who will prove me criminal, is my dreadful alternative. If
+he gains a divorce quietly on the charge of infidelity, I am wronged
+and disgraced; and if successful in a public trial, through perjured
+witnesses, the wrong and disgrace will be more terrible. Oh, my
+friend! pity and counsel me.'
+
+"'There is one,' said I, 'better able to stand your friend in a
+crisis like this than I am.'
+
+"'Who?' She looked up anxiously.
+
+"'Your father.'
+
+"A shadow fell over her face, and she answered mournfully,
+
+"'Even he is against me. How it is I cannot tell; but my husband
+seems to have my father completely under his influence.'
+
+"'Your mother?' I suggested.
+
+"'Can only weep with me. I have no adviser, and my heart beats so
+wildly all the time, that thought confuses itself whenever it makes
+an effort to see the right direction. Fear of a public trial
+suggests passive endurance of wrong on my part; but an innate sense
+of justice cries out against this course, and urges me to
+resistance.'
+
+"'If you are innocent,' said I, firmly, 'in the name and strength of
+innocence defend yourself! All that a woman holds dearest is at
+stake. If they drive you to this great extremity, do not shrink from
+the trial.'
+
+"'But what hope have I in such a trial if false witnesses come up
+against me?'
+
+"'God and justice are stronger than all the powers of evil,' said I.
+
+"'They might be, in your case,' she answered, mournfully; 'for you
+have made God your friend, and justice your strong tower. But
+I--what have I to hope for in God? He has not been in all my
+thoughts; and now will He not mock at my calamity?'
+
+"'No--no, my unhappy friend!' I answered. 'He never turns from any;
+it is we who turn from Him. His tender mercy is over all His works.
+All human souls are alike precious in His eyes. If you trust in Him,
+you need not fear your bitterest enemies.'
+
+"'How shall I trust in him?'
+
+"She bent towards me eagerly.
+
+"'In the simple work of doing right,' said I.
+
+"'Doing right?'
+
+"She did not clearly understand me.
+
+"Do you think it would be right to let a charge of crime lie,
+unrepelled, against you; a great crime, such as is
+alleged--destroying your good name, and throwing a shadow of
+disgrace over your children!'
+
+"'No,' was her unhesitating reply.
+
+"'Then it would be wrong for you to suffer a divorce to issue on the
+ground of infidelity, without a defence of yourself by every legal
+means in your power. Do right, then, in so defending yourself, and
+trust in God for the result.'
+
+"I shudder at the bare thought of a public trial,' she answered.
+
+"'Don't think of anything but right action, said I. If you would
+have the Hosts of Heaven on your side, give them power by doing the
+right; and they will surely achieve for you the victory over all
+your enemies. Have any steps been taken by Mr. Dewey?'
+
+"'I fear so.'
+
+"'How long is it since your husband entertained this purpose?'
+
+"'I think it has been growing in his mind ever since that unhappy
+affair at Saratoga.'
+
+"As she said this, her thoughts seemed to turn aside upon something
+else, and she sat looking down upon the floor in a state of deep
+abstraction. At last, taking a long breath, she looked up, and said
+with trembling lips and a husky voice,
+
+"'I have something more to tell you. There is another aspect to this
+miserable affair.'
+
+"And she drew forth a crumpled letter.
+
+"'I found this, sealed, and directed, lying on the floor of my
+husband's room, two days ago. It is in his hand writing; addressed
+to a lady in New York, and signed R. D. I will read you its
+contents.' And she unfolded the letter, and read:
+
+"'My dearest Caroline,' it began; and then went on for a few
+paragraphs, in a lover-like strain; after which, the divorce from
+the writer's wife was referred to as a thing of speedy attainment,
+there being little fear of opposition on her part, as he had given
+her to understand that he had witnesses ready to prove her criminal
+conduct; if she dared to resist his will in the matter. 'A few
+months of patient waiting, dearest Caroline,' was the concluding
+sentence, 'and then for that happy consummation we have so long
+desired.'
+
+"'What do you think of that?' asked poor Delia, looking almost
+wildly into my face.
+
+"'I think,' said I, 'that you hold in your hands the means of
+safety. Your husband will not dare to force you into a defensive
+position, when he learns that you have this document in your
+possession. It would tell strongly against him and his perjured
+witnesses if produced in court. Then take heart, my friend. This
+worst evil that you dreaded will not come to pass. If a divorce is
+granted, it will have to be on some different allegation.'
+
+"She grasped my hand, and said, 'Oh, do you think so? Do you think
+so?'"
+
+"'I am sure of it,' was my confident answer. 'Sure of it. Why the
+man would only damage his cause, and disgrace himself, by venturing
+into a trial with a witness like this against him.'"
+
+"'Oh, bless you for such confidently assuring words!' and the poor
+creature threw herself forward, and laid her face upon my bosom. For
+the first time she wept, and for a season, oh how wildly! You will
+not wonder that my tears fell almost as fast as hers.
+
+"'I turned in my despair to you,' she said, on growing calm, 'you
+whom I loved, and almost revered, in the earlier and better days of
+my life, and my heart tells me that I have not turned in vain. Into
+the darkness that surrounded me like the pall of death, a little
+light has already penetrated.'"
+
+"May it shine unto the perfect day!" I answered fervently.
+
+"And, dear husband! it will shine," said Constance, a glow of
+enthusiasm lighting up her face, and giving it a new beauty, "even
+unto the perfect day! Not the perfect day of earthly bliss--for I
+think the sun of that day has gone down never to rise again for
+her--but the perfect day of that higher life, which to many comes
+not, except through the gates of tribulation."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+
+
+
+
+I was shocked and distressed by the painful revelation which Mrs.
+Dewey had made to Constance. A sadder history in real life I had
+never heard.
+
+A few days after this memorable visit to the Allen House, a note was
+received by my wife, containing this single word, "_Come_," and
+signed _Delia_.
+
+"Any change in the aspect of affairs?" I inquired of Constance on
+her return.
+
+"Yes. Mrs. Dewey has received notice, in due form, of her husband's
+application for a divorce."
+
+"What has she done?"
+
+"Nothing yet. It was to ask my advice as to her best course that she
+sent for me."
+
+"And what advice did you give her?"
+
+"I gave none. First, I must consult you."
+
+I shook my head and replied,
+
+"It will not do for me to be mixed up in this affair, Constance."
+
+Worldly prudence spoke there.
+
+My wife laid her hand upon my arm, and looking calmly in my face,
+said,
+
+"The right way is always a safe way."
+
+"Granted."
+
+"It will be right for you to give such advice as your judgment
+dictates, and therefore safe. I do not know much about law matters,
+but it occurs to me that her first step should be the employment of
+counsel."
+
+"Is her father going to stand wholly aloof?" I inquired.
+
+"Yes, if she be resolved to defend herself in open court. He will
+not sanction a course that involves so much disgrace of herself and
+family."
+
+"Has she shown him the letter you saw?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"I think she is afraid to let it go out of her hands."
+
+"She might trust it with her father, surely," said I.
+
+"Her father has been very hard with her; and seems to take the worst
+for granted. He evidently believes that it is in the power of Dewey
+to prove her guilty; and that if she makes any opposition to his
+application for a divorce, he will hold her up disgraced before the
+world."
+
+"This letter might open his eyes."
+
+"The letter is no defence of her; only a witness against him. It
+does not prove her innocence. If it did, then it would turn toward
+her a father's averted face. In court its effect will be to throw
+doubt upon the sincerity of her husband's motives, and to show that
+he had a reason, back of alleged infidelity, for wishing to be
+divorced from his wife."
+
+"I declare, Constance!" said I, looking at my wife in surprise, "you
+have taken upon yourself a new character. I think the case is safe
+in your hands, and that Mrs. Dewey wants no more judicious friend.
+If you were a man, you might conduct the defence for her to a
+successful issue."
+
+"I am not a man, and, therefore, I come to a man," she replied, "and
+ask the aid of his judgment. I go by a very straight road to
+conclusions; but I want the light of your reason upon these
+conclusions."
+
+"I am not a lawyer as you are aware, Constance--only a doctor."
+
+"You are a man with a heart and common sense," she answered, with
+just a little shade of rebuke in her tones, "and as God has put in
+your way a wretched human soul that may be lost, unless you stretch
+forth a saving hand, is there any room for question as to duty?
+There is none, my husband! Squire Floyd believes his daughter
+guilty; and while he rests in this conclusion, he will not aid her
+in anything that points to exposure and disgrace. She must,
+therefore, if a vigorous defence is undertaken, look elsewhere for
+aid and comfort."
+
+I began to see the matter a little clearer.
+
+"Mr. Wallingford is the best man I know."
+
+"Mr. Wallingford!" I thought Constance would have looked me through.
+
+"Mr. Wallingford!" she repeated, still gazing steadily into my face.
+"Are you jesting?"
+
+"No," I replied calmly. "In a case that involves so much, she wants
+a wise and good defender; and I do not know of any man upon whom she
+could so thoroughly rely."
+
+Constance dropped her eyes to the floor.
+
+"It would not do," she said, after some moments.
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Their former relation to each other precludes its possibility."
+
+"But, you must remember, Constance, that Delia never knew how deeply
+he was once attached to her."
+
+"She knows that he offered himself."
+
+"And that, in a very short time afterwards, he met her with as much
+apparent indifference as if she had never been to him more than a
+pleasant acquaintance. Of the struggle through which he passed, in
+the work of obliterating her image from his mind, she knows
+nothing."
+
+"But he knows it," objected Constance.
+
+"And what does that signify? Will he defend her less skillfully on
+this account? Rather will he not feel a stronger interest in the
+case?"
+
+"I do not think that she will employ him to defend her," said
+Constance. "I would not, were the case mine."
+
+"Womanly pride spoke there, Constance."
+
+"Or rather say a manly lack of perception in your case."
+
+"Perception of what?"
+
+"Of the fitness of things," she answered.
+
+"That is just what I do see," I returned. "There is no man in
+S----better fitted for conducting this case than Mr. Wallingford."
+
+"She will never place it in his hands; you may take a woman's word
+for that," said my wife confidently. "Of all living men he is the
+last one to whom she could talk of the humiliating particulars
+involved in a case like this."
+
+"Suppose you suggest his name to her. Twelve years of such a life as
+she has led may have almost obliterated the memory of that passage
+in her life."
+
+"Don't believe it. A woman never forgets a passage like that;
+particularly when the events of every passing day but serve to
+remind her of the error she once committed."
+
+"I don't know what else to advise," said I. "She ought to have a
+good and discreet man to represent her, or all may be lost."
+
+"Would you have any objection to confer with Mr. Wallingford on the
+subject in a private, confidential way?"
+
+"None in the world," I replied.
+
+"Will you see him at once?" The interest of Constance was too
+strongly excited to brook delay.
+
+"Yes, immediately."
+
+And putting on my overcoat I went to the office of Mr. Wallingford.
+I found him alone, and at once laid the whole case before
+him--relating, with particularity, all that had occurred between my
+wife and Mrs. Dewey. He listened with deep and pitying attention;
+and when I was through, expressed his opinion of Dewey in very
+strong language.
+
+"And now what is to be done?" I asked, going at once to the vital
+question.
+
+"Your wife is right," he answered. "I can hardly become her
+advocate. It would involve humiliation on her part too deep to be
+borne. But my aid she shall have to the fullest extent; and it will
+be strange if I do not thwart his wicked scheme."
+
+"How will you aid her?"
+
+"Through her right attorney, if my advice as to the choice be
+followed. You know James Orton?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"He is a young man to be relied upon. Let Mrs. Dewey put the case in
+his hands. If she does so, it will be, virtually, in mine."
+
+"Enough, Mr. Wallingford," said I. "It looks more hopeful for our
+poor unhappy friend, against whom even her own flesh and blood have
+turned."
+
+When I gave Constance the result of my interview with Mr.
+Wallingford, she was quite elated at the prospect of securing his
+most valuable aid for Mrs. Dewey. Orton was young, and had been
+practising at the bar for only a couple of years. Up to this time he
+had not appeared in any case of leading importance; and had,
+therefore, no established reputation. Our fear was that Mrs. Dewey
+might not be willing to place her case in such inexperienced hands.
+In order to have the matter settled with as little delay as
+possible, Constance paid an early visit to the Allen House, and
+suggested Mr. Orton as counsel. Mrs. Dewey had not even heard his
+name; but, after being assured that I had the fullest confidence in
+him, and particularly advised his employment, she consented to
+accept of his services.
+
+Their first interview was arranged to take place at my house, and in
+the presence of my wife, when the notice Mrs. Dewey had received on
+the institution of proceedings, was placed in the young lawyer's
+hands, and some conversation had as to the basis and tenor of an
+answer. A second interview took place on the day following, at which
+Mrs. Dewey gave a full statement of the affair at Saratoga, and
+asserted her innocence in the most solemn and impressive manner. The
+letter from her husband to the lady in New York, was produced, and
+at the request of Mr. Orton, given into his possession.
+
+The answer to Mr. Dewey's application for a divorce was drawn up by
+Mr. Wallingford, who entered with great earnestness into the matter.
+It was filed in court within a week after notice of the application
+was received. This was altogether unexpected by the husband, who, on
+becoming aware of the fact, lost all decent control of himself, and
+ordered his wretched wife to leave his house. This, however, she
+refused to do. Then she had her father's angry opposition to brave.
+But she remained firm.
+
+"He will cover you with infamy, if you dare to persevere in this mad
+opposition," he said. And she answered--
+
+"The infamy may recoil upon his own head. I am innocent--I will not
+be such a traitor to virtue as to let silence declare me guilty."
+
+There was a pause, now, for a few weeks. The unhappy state of
+affairs at the Allen House made it hardly proper for my wife to
+continue her visits there, and Mrs. Dewey did not venture to call
+upon her. The trial of the case would not come up for some two or
+three months, and both parties were waiting, in stern resolution,
+for the approaching contest.
+
+One day I received a message from Mrs. Dewey, desiring me to call
+and see two of her children who were sick. On visiting them--the two
+youngest--I found them seriously ill, with symptoms so like
+scarletina, that I had little question in my mind as to the
+character of the disease from which they were suffering. My second
+visit confirmed these fears.
+
+"It is scarlet fever?" said Mrs. Dewey, looking at me calmly, as I
+moved from the bed-side after a careful examination of the two
+little ones.
+
+I merely answered--
+
+"Yes."
+
+There was no change in her countenance.
+
+"They are both very ill."
+
+She spoke with a slow deliberateness, that was unusual to her.
+
+"They are sick children," said I.
+
+"Sick, it may be, unto death."
+
+There was no emotion in her voice.
+
+I looked at her without replying.
+
+"I can see them die, Doctor, if that must be."
+
+Oh, that icy coldness of manner, how it chilled me!
+
+"No hand but mine shall tend them now, Doctor. They have been long
+enough in the care of others--neglected--almost forgotten--by their
+unworthy mother. But in this painful extremity I will be near them.
+I come back to the post of duty, even at this late hour, and all
+that is left for me, that will I do."
+
+I was deeply touched by her words and manner.
+
+The latter softened a little as she uttered the closing sentence.
+
+"You look at the darkest side," I answered. "With God are the issues
+of life. He calls us, our children, or our friends, in His own good
+time. We cannot tell how any sickness will terminate; and hope for
+the best is always our truest state."
+
+"I hope for the best," she replied; but with something equivocal in
+her voice.
+
+"The best is life," I said, scarcely reflecting upon my words.
+
+"Not always," she returned, still speaking calmly. "Death is often
+the highest blessing that God can give. It will be so in the present
+case."
+
+"Madam!"
+
+My tone of surprise did not move her.
+
+"It is simply true, Doctor," she made answer. "As things are now,
+and as they promise to be in the future, the safest place for these
+helpless innocents is in Heaven; and I feel that their best Friend
+is about to remove them there through the door of sickness."
+
+I could not bear to hear her talk in this way. It sent cold chills
+through me. So I changed the subject.
+
+On the next day, all the symptoms were unfavorable. Mrs. Dewey was
+calm as when I last saw her; but it was plain from her appearance,
+that she had taken little if any rest. Her manner towards the sick
+babes was full of tenderness; but there was no betrayal of weakness
+or distress in view of a fatal termination. She made no anxious
+inquiries, such as are pressed on physicians in cases of dangerous
+illness; but received my directions, and promised to give them a
+careful observance, with a self-possession that showed not a sign of
+wavering strength.
+
+I was touched by all this. How intense must have been the suffering
+that could so benumb the heart!--that could prepare a mother to sit
+by the couch of her sick babes, and be willing to see them die! I
+have witnessed many sad scenes in professional experience; but none
+so sad as this.
+
+Steadily did the destroyer keep on with his work. There were none of
+those flattering changes that sometimes cheat us into hopes of
+recovery, but a regular daily accumulation of the most unfavorable
+symptoms. At the end of a week, I gave up all hope of saving the
+children, and made no more vain attempts to control a disease that
+had gone on from tie beginning, steadily breaking away the
+foundations of life. To diminish the suffering of my little
+patients, and make their passage from earth to Heaven as easy as
+possible, was now my only care.
+
+On the mother's part, there was no sign of wavering. Patiently,
+tenderly, faithfully did she minister to her little ones, night and
+day. No lassitude or weariness appeared, though her face, which grew
+paler and thinner every day, told the story of exhausting nature.
+She continued in the same state of mind I have described; never for
+an instant, as far as I could see, receding from a full consent to
+their removal.
+
+One morning, in making my usually early call at the Allen House, I
+saw, what I was not unprepared to see, a dark death sign on the
+door.
+
+"All over?" I said to the servant who admitted me.
+
+"Yes, sir, all is over," she replied.
+
+"Both gone?"
+
+"Yes, sir, both."
+
+Tears were in her eyes.
+
+"When did they die?"
+
+"About midnight."
+
+"At the same time?"
+
+"Yes, sir. Dear little souls! They went together."
+
+"I will go up to see them," said I.
+
+And the girl showed me to the room in which they were laid. The door
+was closed. I opened it, and stepped in softly. The room was
+darkened; but light came in through a small opening in the curtains
+at the top of the window, and fell in a narrow circle around the
+spot where the bodies, already in their snowy grave clothes, were
+laid. In a chair beside them sat the mother. She was alone with her
+dead. I felt that I was an intruder upon a sorrow too deep for tears
+or words; but it was too late to recede. So I moved forward and
+stood by the bedside, looking down upon the two white little faces,
+from which had passed every line of suffering.
+
+Mrs. Dewey neither stirred nor spoke, nor in any way gave token that
+she was aware of my presence in the room. I stood for over a minute
+looking upon the sweet images before me--for in them, death had put
+on forms of beauty--and still there was no movement on the part of
+Mrs. Dewey. Then, feeling that she was with One who could speak to
+her heart by an inner way, better than I could speak through the
+natural ear, I quietly receded and left the apartment. As my eyes
+rested on her a moment, in closing the door, I saw that her form
+remained as still as a statue.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+
+
+
+
+An hour later, when Constance went to see Mrs. Dewey, she found her
+in a state of unconsciousness, nature having at last given way. Not
+long after I left the house, her mother, on entering the room where
+the children were laid out, found her insensible, lying across the
+bed, with her dead babes clasped in her arms.
+
+Mrs. Floyd sent word for me to come and see her daughter, as she
+continued in a lethargic state. I found her like one in a deep
+sleep, only her breathing was light, and her pulse very feeble, but
+regular. She was out of the reach of my skill, and in the hands of
+the Great Physician. I could only trust the cure to Him. No medicine
+for the body would be of any avail here. I called again in the
+afternoon; but found no change. How little was there in the pale,
+pinched face that lay among the white pillows, to remind me of the
+handsome, dashing Mrs. Dewey, of a year gone by!
+
+"What do you think of her, Doctor?"
+
+Mrs. Floyd put the question. The tone had in it something that made
+me look narrowly into the speaker's face. My ears had not deceived
+me.
+
+There was the wish in her heart that Delia might die!
+
+I was not surprised at this. And yet the revelation of such a state
+of feeling, in so good and true a woman, as I had reason to know
+Mrs. Floyd to be, made my heart bound with a throb of pain.
+
+Alas! alas! Into what unnatural conditions may not the mind fall,
+through suffering that shuts out human hope!
+
+"Nature," said I, in answer to the question of Mrs. Floyd, "may be
+only gathering up her powers after a long period of exhaustion. The
+strife through which your daughter has passed--calmly passed to all
+external seeming--has not been without a wasting of internal life.
+How she kept on so evenly to the end, passes my comprehension. There
+is not one woman in a thousand who could have so borne herself
+through to the final act. It is meet that she should rest now."
+
+"If she were sleeping with her babes, happy would it be for her!"
+
+Tears fell over the face of Mrs. Floyd.
+
+"God knows what is best," I remarked.
+
+"She has nothing to live for in this world." A sob broke from its
+repression, and heaved the mother's bosom. "O Doctor, if I saw the
+death dews on her brow, I would not weep!"
+
+"Leave her, my dear friend," said I, "in the hands of Him who sees
+deeper into the heart than it is possible for our eyes to penetrate.
+Her feet have left the soft, flowery ways they trod for a time, and
+turned into rough paths, where every footfall is upon sharp stones;
+but it may be that a blessed land is smiling beyond, he has been
+astray in the world, and God may only be leading her homeward by the
+way of sorrow."
+
+Mrs. Floyd wept freely as I talked.
+
+"His will be done," she said, sobbing.
+
+"Your daughter," said I, taking the occasion to bear my testimony on
+the favorable side, "has been wronged without question. She was
+doubtless imprudent, but not sinful; and the present attempt to
+disgrace her I regard as a cruel wrong. It will recoil, I trust, in
+a way not dreamed of."
+
+"O Doctor, let me thank you for such words."
+
+And Mrs. Floyd caught my arm with an eager movement.
+
+"I speak soberly, madam, and from observation and reflection. And I
+trust to see Delia live and triumph over her enemies."
+
+"Won't you talk with the Squire, Doctor?" She still grasped my arm.
+"He will not hear a word from me in favor of Delia. Mr. Dewey has
+completely blinded him."
+
+"Wait patiently, Mrs. Floyd," said I, in a tone of encouragement.
+"Your daughter is not without friends. There are those upon her
+side, who have the will and the power to defend her; and they will
+defend her, I believe successfully."
+
+A sigh fluttered through the room, causing us both to turn quickly
+towards the bed on which Mrs. Dewey was lying. Her lips were moving
+slightly; but no change appeared on her death-like face. I laid my
+fingers upon her wrist, and searched for her pulse. It was very low
+and thread-like; but with more vitality than on the occasion of my
+first visit to her in the morning.
+
+"The signs are favorable."
+
+Mrs. Floyd did not respond. She was looking at her daughter with an
+expression of unutterable grief upon her countenance.
+
+I did not attempt to give medicine, but left unerring nature to do
+her own work.
+
+Mrs. Dewey did not again look upon the faces of her dead children.
+They were buried ere her mind awoke to any knowledge of passing
+events. I was at the funeral, and closely observed her husband. He
+appeared very sober, and shed some tears at the grave, when the
+little coffins were lowered together into the earth.
+
+It was a week before Mrs. Dewey was clearly conscious of external
+things. I visited her every day, watching, with deep interest, her
+slow convalescence. It was plain, as her mind began to recover its
+faculties, that the memory of a sad event had faded; and I was
+anxious for the effect, when this painful remembrance was restored.
+
+One day I found her sitting up in her room. She smiled feebly as I
+came in, and said:
+
+"Doctor, am I never going to get well? It seems like an age since I
+became sick."
+
+"You are getting on finely," I answered, in a cheerful way, sitting
+down by her and taking her hand, which was wasted and shadowy.
+
+"I don't know about that, Doctor," she said.
+
+"What makes me so weak? I've no more strength than a babe. And that
+reminds me of a frightful dream I had." And her countenance changed.
+
+"A dream?" I queried.
+
+"Yes; I thought Aggy and Lu were both dead! I saw them laid out,
+cold and white as statues, just as plainly as I see you now."
+
+She stopped suddenly, an expression of fear going over her
+face--then looked at me in a strange, questioning way.
+
+"Doctor"--she leaned towards me, with lips apart, and eyes full of a
+sudden, wild alarm. I laid my hand upon her, and said:
+
+"You have been very ill for some time, Mrs. Dewey, and are too weak
+to bear excitement. Don't let mere dreams disturb you."
+
+"Dreams?" Her eyes fell from mine. "Dreams?" she repeated. "I feel
+very weak, Doctor," was added, after a few moments. "Won't you
+assist me to lie down?"
+
+And she made a movement to rise. I took her arm and supported her to
+the bed, where she quietly composed herself, and turned her face
+away, so as almost to hide it from my view. At this moment Mrs.
+Floyd came in, and I withdrew, leaving them together.
+
+Memory had been restored. The accompanying shock was severe, but not
+heavy enough seriously to retard her recovery, which went on slowly.
+She still remained at the Allen House, rarely meeting her husband,
+who now spent a large part of his time in New York.
+
+The period fixed for a trial of the case between them was fast
+approaching. He continued resolute, and she did not waver from her
+purpose to defend her good name. The deep interest I took in the
+case, led me to see Mr. Wallingford often, and make inquiry as to
+the evidence which could be produced in Mrs. Dewey's favor, and the
+probable chances of an honorable result. We both favored a
+settlement of the difficulty without a trial and its consequent
+exposure, if that were possible. But how to prevent this was the
+difficult question. Finally it was determined to make a copy of the
+letter found by Mrs. Dewey, and enclose it to her husband, giving
+him warning at the same time that the original would be produced at
+the trial.
+
+Nothing was heard in response to this movement, until within a week
+of the day on which the case was expected to come up, when Mr.
+Dewey's lawyer called on Mr. Orton to know if it was still his
+intention to meet them in open court and resist their application
+for a divorce. On being assured that such was their purposes he
+expressed some regret at the consequent damage to the lady's
+reputation, as they had evidence against her of the most conclusive
+character. Finally he wished to know whether, in case a new ground
+were taken--one not touching the lady's good name--any opposition
+would be made. Mr. Orton said that he would consult his client, and
+answer the query with as little delay as practicable.
+
+Mrs. Dewey expressed a willingness to remain passive, provided no
+allegations were made in the new bill that even remotely cast a
+shadow upon her virtue
+
+But Mr. Wallingford, on taking the matter into further
+consideration, advised a different course altogether--no less than
+an application from the other side, on the ground of neglect,
+ill-treatment, and constructive conjugal infidelity, based on the
+important letter already referred to. Mrs. Dewey caught eagerly at
+this suggestion, as soon as it was presented to her. If a divorce
+were thus obtained, her vindication would be complete.
+
+The ranks of the enemy were thrown into confusion by this diversion.
+Mr. Dewey was violent, and threatened most terrible consequences.
+But when the time set for the case to come up arrived, he failed to
+appear.
+
+It was from the other side that the next movement came. A divorce
+was applied for on the part of Mrs. Dewey, in a bill carefully drawn
+up by Mr. Wallingford. It asked not only for a legal separation from
+her husband, but for alimony, and the possession of the two
+remaining children. An answer was filed; but it was of so feeble a
+character as to amount to scarcely anything in the way of
+opposition. The chief argument was directed against the claim for
+alimony. The result was as we had anticipated. In the following
+spring a divorce was granted, and Mrs. Dewey, with her two children,
+left the Allen House and returned to her father's. The maintenance
+allowed by the court, was one thousand dollars a year for herself,
+and five hundred a year for each of the children during their
+minority.
+
+And so closed this exciting drama, begun in weakness, and ending in
+hopeless disaster. Oh, a few years! How many broken hearts do they
+close over? How many wrecks of goodly lives do they see scattered
+among the breakers!
+
+The interposition of Mr. Wallingford, in this case, was so managed
+as to keep him entirely out of sight, and Mrs. Dewey was never made
+aware of the fact that he had rendered her a great service.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+
+
+
+
+We did not see a great deal of Mr. Dewey in S----for some months
+after this. I heard it casually remarked that he was traveling in
+the South and West, for a part of the time, on business. The large
+interests of his firm involved in the two mills, however, made his
+presence necessary among us, and late in the fall he came back, and
+remained through the winter residing at the Allen House.
+
+In the spring a rumor got afloat that Mr. Dewey was soon to be
+married. A lady in New York was mentioned; the same, it was said, to
+whom the letter found by Mrs. Dewey was addressed. A few signs of
+renovation at the Allen House gave confirmation of this rumor, which
+at length assumed a more positive shape.
+
+The intimacy between Mrs. Wallingford and Constance, had grown into
+a close interior friendship, and scarcely a week passed that an
+evening was not spent by them together, sometimes at our house, and
+sometimes at Ivy Cottage. Mr. Wallingford had developed into a man
+after my own heart; and so I shared, when professional engagements
+allowed, in the enjoyment of these pleasant seasons.
+
+One evening Mr. and Mrs. Wallingford came round to spend an hour
+with us. I was happily at leisure. Conversation naturally falls into
+the current of passing events, and on this occasion, the approaching
+marriage of Mr. Dewey came naturally into the field of topics. This
+led to a review of the many strange circumstances connected with
+Mrs. Wallingford's presence in S----, and naturally, to an inquiry
+from my wife as to the present position of the property left by
+Captain Allen.
+
+"What about this young Garcia?" said Constance, addressing Mr.
+Wallingford. "I haven't heard of him for some time."
+
+"He is at school yet, I believe," replied Mr. Wallingford, not
+showing much interest in the matter.
+
+"He must be nearly of age," said I.
+
+"About twenty, if his years were correctly given."
+
+"He will come into the possession of a handsome property," I
+remarked.
+
+"Yes, if it can be found by the time he is ready to receive it."
+
+"Can be found! I don't comprehend you, Mr. Wallingford? Do you mean
+to question the integrity of the men who are executors to the
+estate?"
+
+"No. But, they have embarked in the same vessel with an unscrupulous
+villain--so I regard Ralph Dewey--and have, as far as I can see,
+given the rudder into his hands. If he do not wreck them on some
+dangerous coast, or sunken rock, it will be more from good fortune
+than anything else."
+
+"He is partner in a very wealthy firm," said I.
+
+"The standing of Floyd, Lawson, Lee & Co., is, you know, undoubted.
+He can't wreck out friends Bigelow and Floyd, without ruining them
+also."
+
+"I was in New York a few months ago, on business," Mr. Wallingford
+replied, "and it so happened, that I heard the firm of which Dewey
+is a partner spoken of. Among other remarks, was this: 'They are
+thought to be very much extended.'"
+
+"What is the meaning of that?" asked Mrs. Wallingford.
+
+"It is understood in business circles," replied her husband, "to
+mean, that a house is doing too much business for the amount of
+capital employed, and that it has issued, in consequence, a large
+amount of paper. Any very heavy losses to a firm in this condition
+might prove disastrous."
+
+"Too much extended?" said I, thoughtfully, some new impressions
+forming themselves in my mind.
+
+"Yes, that was the opinion held by the individual I refer to; and he
+was not one to speak carelessly on so grave a matter."
+
+"If the house of Floyd, Lawson, Lee, & Co. should go down," I
+remarked, "there will be sad work in S----."
+
+"There will, without any doubt," replied Mr. Wallingford.
+
+"The executors to the Allen estate might find themselves in a most
+unfortunate position," said I.
+
+"Such a position as I would not be in, for all the world. Any thing
+but dishonor!"
+
+"How dishonor?" asked Constance.
+
+"The whole estate would be, I fear, involved."
+
+"They gave security," said I.
+
+"But the sureties are not worth a tenth part of the sum for which
+they stand responsible. The court acted with a singular want of
+discretion in appointing them."
+
+"You don't mean to have us infer that Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd
+have used the funds of this estate for their own purposes, to any
+great extent?"
+
+"I would not care to say this out of doors, Doctor, but that is just
+my opinion of the matter as it now stands. Dewey is guardian to the
+heir, and would favor, rather than oppose, such a use of the funds."
+
+"It might be just so much in favor of the heir," remarked Mrs.
+Wallingford, "if two-thirds of the property had disappeared by the
+time he reached his majority; for, from all that I have heard of
+him, he is not likely to become a man fitted to use large wealth
+either to his own or any body else's advantage. He was low born and
+low bred, in the worst sense of the words; and I fear that no
+education will change his original quality, or greatly modify his
+early bias. So while the wasting of his substance is a great wrong
+in the abstract, it may be a real blessing to him. Events in this
+life work out strangely to our human eyes, yet there is a Providence
+in them that ever educes good from evil."
+
+"If we could always believe that," said I, "how tranquilly might we
+pass through life! How clearly would our eyes see through the
+darkest clouds, and rest upon the silver lining!"
+
+"Is it not so? Does not God's providence follow us in the smallest
+things of our lives? Do we take a step that falls outside of his
+cognizance? We have only to look back, to be assured of this. We may
+walk on tranquilly, Doctor, for, as sure as we live, no evil can
+befall us that does not have its origin within our own spirits. All
+the machinations of our most bitter enemies will come to naught, if
+we keep our hearts free from guile. They may rob us of our earthly
+possessions; but even this God will turn to our greater gain."
+
+Mrs. Wallingford spoke with a charming enthusiasm.
+
+"With such a confidence," said my wife, "one is richer than if he
+had the wealth of an Astor."
+
+"And with this great advantage," replied Mrs. Wallingford, "that he
+may enjoy the whole of his possessions. Moth and rust never corrupt
+them; and no man can take them away."
+
+"I have a new book from which I want to read you a sentiment," said
+Constance, rising, and moving towards the secretary and book-case,
+which stood in the room.
+
+Mrs. Wallingford rose and went with her.
+
+"It is so beautifully accordant with many things I have heard you
+say," added my wife, as she took down the volume, and commenced
+turning over its pages.
+
+After reading a few sentences, and commenting upon them, some remark
+directed the attention of Mrs. Wallingford to the antiquated
+secretary, which was the one I had purchased when the furniture of
+the Allen house was sold.
+
+"I have reason to remember this old secretary," she said. "It was
+here that the will was found which cut off our interest in the
+estate of my uncle."
+
+As she spoke in a pleasant way, she pulled out a drawer--the very
+one which had suggested concealment, when I first got possession of
+the piece of furniture--and said--
+
+"This is where the will lay concealed."
+
+And she pressed against the side firmly, when a portion of it
+yielded, and there sprung up another drawer, or receptacle, placed
+in vertically.
+
+We were all very much interested in this curious arrangement. The
+drawer could not be pulled out much beyond half its depth; the
+secret portion lying within this limit.
+
+As I stood looking at the drawer, a sudden thought flashed through
+my mind, and I pressed my hand against the other side. It began to
+yield! I pressed harder, and up sprung a corresponding secret
+receptacle, from which a paper fell out. A hard substance rattled on
+the solid wood. It was a gold locket, tied with a piece of blue
+ribbon; and attached, with a seal, to the folded paper.
+
+It was some moments before a hand reached forth to lift the
+document. It was at length taken up by Mr. Wallingford. As he did
+so, the locket swung free, and we saw that it contained a braid of
+dark hair. Unfolding the paper, and stepping back to the light, he
+read, in a low, firm voice, as follows:
+
+"I, John Allen, being of sound mind, do make this as my last will
+and testament, revoking, at the same time, all other wills. I give
+and bequeath all my property, real and personal, to my sister Flora,
+if living; or, if dead, to her legal heirs--reserving only, for my
+wife, Theresa Garcia, in case she survive me, a legacy of five
+hundred dollars a year, to be continued during her natural life. And
+I name as my executors, to carry out the provisions of this will,
+Doctor Edward-----and James Wilkinson, of the town of S----, State
+of Massachusetts."
+
+Then followed the date, which was recent, compared with that of the
+other wills, and the signatures of the testator and witnesses, all
+in due form. The witnesses were men in our town, and well known to
+us all.
+
+At the reading of her mother's name, Mrs. Wallingford sat down
+quickly, and, covering her face, leaned over upon the centre table.
+I saw that she was endeavoring to control a strong agitation.
+
+I was the first to speak.
+
+"The ways of Providence are past finding out," said I. "Let me
+congratulate you on this good fortune."
+
+As I spoke, Mrs. Wallingford rose from the table, and, going to her
+husband, placed her hands upon his arms, and looking up into his
+face, fondly and tearfully, said:--
+
+"Dear Henry! For your sake, my heart is glad to-night."
+
+He laid the will down, as if it were a thing of little value, and
+kissing her, said:--
+
+"This cannot add to our happiness, Blanche, and may bring care and
+trouble."
+
+"Not more trouble than blessing," she replied, "if rightfully used."
+
+The locket attached to the will excited our curious interest. It
+was, we felt sure, the same that Captain Allen's mother had sent to
+him by the hands of Jacob Perkins. Doubtless, some memory of his
+mother, stirred by the sight of this locket, had caused him to
+revoke his former will, and execute this one in favor of his sister.
+There was no room to question, for a moment, its genuineness. It had
+all legal formality, and the men who witnessed the signature were
+living and well known to us all. I was named as one of the
+executors. So there was some perplexing business before me; for, in
+taking things as they were, it was not probable that the executors
+under the former will would be able, promptly, to give a
+satisfactory account of their trust, or to hand over the property in
+a shape acceptable to the right heirs.
+
+But, of this, more anon. Our good friends went home early after this
+singular discovery, showing more bewilderment than elation of
+manner. I think that Constance and I were gladder in heart than
+they.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+
+
+
+The first thing done was to place the will on record; the next to
+give proper legal notice of its existence to the executors under the
+previous will, Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd. Mr. Dewey, on the
+announcement of this discovery, unhesitatingly declared the paper a
+forgery; but the witnesses to the signature of Captain Allen were
+living, and ready to attest its genuineness. They remembered, very
+distinctly, the time when their names were appended to the document.
+It was only a year before the Captain's death. They were walking
+past the Allen House, when the old man called them in, and asked
+them to witness the signing of a paper. Of its contents they had no
+knowledge, as he did not make any communication on the subject. But
+he signed it in their presence, and their signatures showed this
+will to be the paper then executed.
+
+Notwithstanding this, it came to our ears, that Mr. Dewey persisted
+in alleging fraud, forgery, and the complicity of these witnesses.
+And from the manner of Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd, in the first
+brief interview I had with them, it was plain that they were far
+from being satisfied that all was right. Their manner was that of
+men utterly confounded. If the property in question had been held by
+them as really their own, they could hardly have exhibited more
+feeling.
+
+After the will was entered at the proper office, and thus made
+public, the following paragraph appeared in our "Weekly Star"--
+
+"_Remarkable Discovery of a Will._--A singular circumstance happened
+in our town last week, no less than the discovery of a new and more
+recent will of the late Captain Allen, by which all of his large
+property is devised to his sister and her heirs. It was found in a
+secret drawer, contained in an antiquated French Secretary, which
+Dr.----bought when the furniture of the Allen House was sold,
+previous to a renovation of the old mansion for the residence of Mr.
+Ralph Dewey. The late Mrs. Montgomery, who resided for a time at the
+Allen House, was sister to Captain Allen, and her daughter is now
+the wife of our townsman, Henry Wallingford, Esq. We congratulate
+the parties on the good fortune which has come to their door."
+
+The marriage of Mr. Dewey took place within a month after the
+discovery of this will, and he brought his new wife to S----,
+installing her as mistress of the Allen House. She was a showy
+woman, past thirty, with a pair of brilliant black eyes, and a dark,
+rich complexion. Her long, thin nose, and delicate, but proudly
+arching lips, showed her to possess will and determination. It was
+the rumor in S----, that she brought her husband a considerable
+fortune. But she was not well received among us. The families of
+Judge Bigelow, and Joshua Kling, Cashier of the Clinton Bank, called
+immediately. Something later called the wives of two Directors in
+the Bank, and afterwards the wives of one or two citizens who had
+embarked some capital in the cotton mills. Beyond this, no advances
+were made towards an acquaintance with the new Mrs. Dewey.
+
+It shocked my sensibilities to see this woman dashing about through
+S----in the elegant equipage once the pride of the now humbled
+daughter of Squire Floyd, who, since the divorce granted on her
+application, had lived in strict retirement in her father's house.
+The only time when she was seen abroad, was on the Sabbath, at
+church, with her two children. The oldest, a daughter, in her
+thirteenth year; and the youngest, a boy, ten years of age. The
+terrible ordeal passed through by this unhappy woman, had told upon
+her severely. In a year, she seemed to have lived ten. All the fine
+roundness of her face and person had given way, and she presented
+the appearance of one who had come out of a long and exhausting
+illness.
+
+Constance made it a point of duty to visit her often. She found her
+states of mind exceedingly variable. Sometimes she was in patient,
+tranquil states, and sometimes she manifested great bitterness of
+spirit, complaining of man's cruel selfishness, and God's injustice.
+The marriage of Mr. Dewey disturbed her considerably. One day, not
+long after this event, Constance called to see her. She was in one
+of her darker moods; and all the comforting suggestions which my
+good wife could make, seemed to go for nothing. They were sitting
+near a window, overlooking the street, when Delia suddenly turned
+pale, and caught her breath. A carriage went sweeping by at the
+moment, drawn by two spirited horses,
+
+"Is that the woman?" she exclaimed, as soon as she recovered
+herself.
+
+"That is the woman," Constance replied.
+
+Delia clutched her hands so tightly that her arms quivered, and grew
+rigid; while her pale face darkened with an expression so like
+revenge, that Constance felt a shudder of fear in her heart.
+
+"If my prayers for her are answered," said the excited woman,
+speaking through her closing teeth, "she will find that day the
+darkest in the calendar of her life, when she stepped between me and
+my husband. I have only curses for her in my heart. Only curses!"
+
+Constance, startled, and almost frightened by this wild burst of
+feeling, endeavored to soothe her; but the storm was too fierce to
+own the power of her gentle persuasions, and raged on for its brief
+season.
+
+"I thought her mind had given way," said my wife, on relating what
+she had seen and heard. "It was fearful to look upon a human
+creature so terribly moved."
+
+"The trial to her feelings must have been very
+
+[Gap in original]
+
+"But I thought the severe discipline through which she had passed,
+had chastened and subdued her," answered Constance. "I saw, or
+believed that I saw, the beginnings of a new and true life in her
+soul. But over all this, passion has swept with its besom of
+destruction."
+
+"The better states," I replied, "may not have been destroyed in this
+evil whirlwind. Such states, when once formed, usually retire and
+hide themselves until the storm has spent its fury."
+
+"I pray that it may be so in this case," said Constance. "But from
+what I saw to-day, my fears are on the other side."
+
+In the mean time we were taking such steps as the responsibility of
+our position required, towards getting possession of the property,
+which, under the will of Captain Allen, must come into our hands. My
+co-executor, Mr. James Wilkinson, a merchant of S----, was for
+adopting the most summary proceedings. He was annoyed at the
+questions, doubts, and delays which Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd
+permitted to intervene; and more especially by the intermeddling of
+Dewey, towards whom, from some cause, he entertained hostile
+feeling.
+
+As a matter of course, we were guided in all our movements by Mr.
+Wallingford. At the earliest term of court, we brought forward the
+claim of Mrs. Wallingford, under the last will and testament of her
+uncle. A feeble effort was made to throw doubt upon the genuineness
+of the document; but the oath of the witnesses to the signature of
+Captain Alien settled the question beyond the reach of cavil, and
+the executors under the first will were ordered to transfer, by a
+certain date, all property belonging to the estate into our hands.
+
+I saw plainly enough, from the beginning, that the idea of giving an
+account of their stewardship was not an agreeable one to either of
+the executors under the old will. The direction which the property
+must take was one that would not admit of any holding back or
+covering up on their part. They would be required to exhibit clean
+hands.
+
+The property clearly shown as having passed into their possession,
+was the old mansion and valuable grounds, which had been sold, under
+an order of the court, at a heavy sacrifice--bringing only
+thirty-five thousand dollars, instead of sixty thousand, its real
+value--and the proceeds re-invested. Then there was other town
+property worth twenty thousand dollars, and stocks valued at as much
+more: making seventy-five thousand dollars in all as the principal.
+Interest added, would swell the sum for which they must give account
+to over one hundred thousand dollars.
+
+It was found, on looking into the business, that the whole of this
+immense sum was invested in the cotton mills. The search made into
+the legal condition of these mill properties was not satisfactory.
+There were several mortgages against them, one of which, for
+twenty-five thousand dollars, was held by the Clinton Bank as
+collateral security for loans.
+
+After various delays and failures on the part of the old executors
+to meet us in a satisfactory manner, we all assembled, by
+appointment, in the office of Judge Bigelow. Mr. Dewey I was
+surprised to find present. But it was plain that he was there either
+by the consent or request of the Judge and Squire. The court had
+given a certain time for the executors under the first will to make
+up their accounts, and hand over the property in trust. That time
+had expired.
+
+There was manifest embarrassment on the part of Judge Bigelow and
+his associate; while Dewey looked stern and dogged. We soon got into
+the centre of the business, and found it pretty earnest work. It was
+admitted by the executors that the greater portion of the estate was
+in the cotton mills. How to get it out was the question.
+
+"I had always understood," said Mr. Wallingford, "that the mills
+were chiefly owned in New York."
+
+"The New York interest is large," replied Squire Floyd, in a husky
+voice.
+
+"And can be increased, no doubt, to almost any extent, in order to
+enable you to withdraw the trust investments" resumed Mr.
+Wallingford.
+
+"Why cannot you let it remain where it is for the present? The
+investment is safe and the interest sure," said Judge Bigelow.
+
+"There isn't safer security in the state," spoke up Mr. Dewey, with
+animation.
+
+"It isn't the kind of security we wish to hold," said Mr. Wilkinson
+firmly. "We have given heavy bonds, and prefer to get the property
+in a different shape."
+
+Here followed a chilling silence, which was broken by Mr.
+Wallingford.
+
+"There is one way in which this can be arranged," said he.
+
+All eyes were turned upon him.
+
+"If it is not convenient to transfer to new parties interests of
+such magnitude, we will take, at a fair valuation, the Allen House
+and grounds appertaining thereto, including the mill site."
+
+Mr. Dewey was on his feet in a moment, and said--
+
+"Never!" with considerable excitement of manner.
+
+Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd looked at each other in a bewildered
+manner, and then at Mr. Dewey, who was walking the floor with many
+signs of disturbance.
+
+"This is the family property," continued Mr. Wallingford, coolly--"
+and ought never to have been sold. It is but fair that it should
+come back."
+
+"It can't go back," spoke up Mr. Dewey. "The present owners will not
+let it pass out of their hands."
+
+"If that is the case," said Mr. Wallingford, "we shall have to look
+in another direction. It occurred to me that this might suit all
+parties, and lead to an easy arrangement. But if that cannot be--if
+the present owners, to use Mr. Dewey's words, will not let it go
+back--then my suggestion falls to the ground, and we must look to
+the investments as they stand. We do not press the matter."
+
+I observed Mr. Dewey closely; the amount of feeling he displayed
+having drawn my attention upon him. Once or twice I saw him dart
+malignant glances towards Mr. Wallingford. And so, by degrees, I
+began to have a glimpse of what was passing in his mind. To go out
+from that elegant home, and let Wallingford succeed him as the
+owner, was something to which his proud heart could not
+submit--Wallingford, the once despised and contemned student of his
+uncle! That was too bitter a humiliation.
+
+As nothing could then be decided, another meeting, to take place in
+three or four days, was agreed upon, and we separated.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+
+
+
+
+As my profession kept me going about all the while, I had
+opportunities for observing the movements of other people. The day
+following the meeting referred to in the last chapter, I saw Dewey,
+the Judge, and the Squire together several times, and always in
+earnest talk. As I came home, towards evening, I saw them all
+entering Mr. Dewey's residence. It was plain that there was trouble
+in the camp.
+
+On the next day, Mr. Dewey left town. I noticed him going into a car
+at the depot. When the time came for our meeting, a postponement was
+asked for. I felt like demurring, but Mr. Wallingford readily
+consented.
+
+"Give them a little more time," said he, as we walked away from
+Judge Bigelow's office. "It will come out as we desired. The easiest
+way for them to arrange with us, is to let us have the Allen House
+property, which is owned by the firm of which Dewey is a member; and
+it is with a view to this, I have no doubt, that he is now in New
+York."
+
+So we waited a few days longer. The return of Mr. Dewey took place
+in the course of a week, when I received a note from Judge Bigelow,
+asking a private interview. I found him and his nephew alone. They
+received me in a pleasant, affable way; and the Judge said that he
+wished to have a little talk with me before another formal meeting
+of the executors. I answered that it would give me pleasure to
+confer with him; though I could neither accept nor propose any
+thing, standing alone.
+
+"It is not with a view to that, Doctor," replied the Judge, his
+countenance putting on a shade of gravity that nearly obliterated
+the smiles with which he at first received me. "But I thought it
+might help to a better issue, if two of the parties representing the
+opposite interests in this case were to have a little informal
+conversation."
+
+"I am ready to hear any thing you have to say, Judge, and shall be
+very happy if I can aid, in any thing, the satisfactory adjustment
+of these matters." My answer, I thought, appeared to give him
+confidence, and he said--
+
+"Without doubt you can aid, Doctor. The position in which Squire
+Floyd and myself find ourselves placed, is one of some
+embarrassment. In making investments of the property which came into
+our hands, we had reference, of course, to its security and
+productiveness; at the same time looking to a period, still some
+years in advance, when our trust would cease, and the property pass
+in due course to the heir-at-law. To realize on these investments
+now, would be to damage the interests of others; and I cannot feel
+that it would be right for you to urge this. The discovery of a new
+will, bearing a later date, is a thing wholly unexpected. We had no
+warning to prepare for the summary action growing out of its
+appearance, and, as I have just intimated, cannot proceed without
+injury to others."
+
+"I do not believe," said Mr. Dewey, "that the court, if the case was
+fairly stated, would require this speedy settlement of the trust.
+And it is my advice, that the whole matter be referred back for a
+new award as to time. A year longer should be conceded to the
+executors under the old will."
+
+"That would be equitable," said the Judge.
+
+"I am afraid," I made answer to this, "that Mr. Wallingford will not
+consent to any postponement."
+
+"He won't? The hound!" I was startled by the fierceness of Dewey's
+tone of voice, and, turning to look at him, saw on his countenance
+an expression of malignant hatred.
+
+"Ralph!" said Judge Bigelow, in a warning voice.
+
+"I can't repress my indignation," answered the nephew. "What demons
+from the nether hell have conspired to give _him_ power over us? If
+it had been any other man in the world I could have borne it
+patiently."
+
+"Ralph! Ralph!" interposed the Judge, in a deprecating voice.
+
+"It is no use, uncle. I cannot keep down my feeling," was replied.
+"To see you hunted by this hound, who owes you everything."
+
+"Pardon me, Mr. Dewey," said I, "but I cannot hear such language
+used towards a gentleman of irreproachable character. Mr.
+Wallingford is not entitled to the epithet you give; and I warn you,
+not to repeat that, or anything like it, in my presence."
+
+"You warn me!"
+
+A gleam shot towards me from his evil eyes.
+
+"Ralph! silence!" The Judge spoke sternly.
+
+"Yes, in all soberness, I warn you," said I, fixing my gaze upon
+him, and holding his eyes until they fell to the floor. "Mr.
+Wallingford is not the man to permit any one to use language about
+him, such as you have indulged in. If you make use of another
+opprobrious epithet, I will communicate the fact to him immediately.
+And let me say, that, unless a different temper is manifested, I
+must terminate this interview at once."
+
+Judge Bigelow drew his nephew aside, and talked for some time with
+him, in a low, earnest tone; after which the latter apologized,
+though with an ill grace, for the intemperance of his
+manner--alleging that an old wound smarted whenever Wallingford
+crossed his path.
+
+The result of this confidential talk was not as favorable on my mind
+as Judge Bigelow had hoped to make it. I pitied his embarrassment;
+but the conduct of Dewey confirmed my previous view of the case,
+which was to require a transfer of the property specified by Mr.
+Wallingford, or press for an immediate foreclosure of the mill
+investments. There was, I felt satisfied, hazard in delay.
+
+When our next formal meeting took place, Dewey was again present. It
+was in my thought to suggest that he was not a party covered by the
+business to be considered, when Mr. Wallingford said, in his mild,
+grave way--
+
+"I believe this is a meeting of the Executors under the two wills of
+Captain Allen."
+
+The meaning of his remark could not be misunderstood, for he glanced
+towards Mr. Dewey as he spoke. That individual, however, did not
+choose to regard himself as referred to, and made no sign. But Mr.
+Wallingford was not the man to let a deliberate purpose fall to the
+ground. He had come with the intention of objecting to Dewey's
+presence at the conference, and to insist upon his retiring, as a
+preliminary to business.
+
+No one replying to Mr. Wallingford's remark, he said, further--
+
+"I do not mean to be uncourteous, but I must suggest the propriety
+of Mr. Dewey's withdrawal."
+
+"I am an interested party," said Dewey, with ill-concealed anger.
+
+"Ah! I was not before aware of this," replied Wallingford, and he
+looked inquiringly towards the Judge and Squire. They showed an
+uneasy perplexity of manner, but did not respond.
+
+"In what way are you interested?" queried Mr. Wallingford.
+
+"I am one of the guardians to the heir under an existing will."
+
+"A will that the decision of our court has rendered null and void,"
+was promptly answered. "We have not met to consider questions in
+which Leon Garcia, or his representative, has any concern. Our
+business refers to other matters."
+
+Dewey moved uneasily, and seemed struggling to keep down his rising
+displeasure. But he did not, manifest any intention to withdraw.
+
+"Had we not better proceed to business?" suggested Squire Floyd.
+
+"Not while Mr. Dewey remains," said I, firmly taking the side of Mr.
+Wallingford.
+
+"Somebody will repent himself of this!" exclaimed the ill-governed
+man, passionately, starting to his feet, and striding from the
+office.
+
+"I don't understand this individual's conduct," remarked
+Wallingford, in a serious way. "Why has he presumed to intermeddle
+in our business? It has a bad look."
+
+He knit his brows closely, and put on a stern aspect, very unusual
+to him.
+
+"You probably forget," said Judge Bigelow, "that you have proposed a
+change of ownership in property now occupied by him?"
+
+"That was simply to give you more latitude in settling up the estate
+in your hands. I said we were willing to accept that property at a
+fair valuation, thinking it would offer a desirable mode of
+liquidation. It is for you to say yea or nay to us; not Ralph Dewey.
+If you cannot gain his consent to the transfer, there is an end of
+that proposal."
+
+I really commiserated the embarrassment shown by the Judge and
+Squire. They seemed to be in a maze, without perceiving the right
+way of extrication. Dewey appeared to have over them some mysterious
+influence, above which they had not power to rise.
+
+"If Ralph will not consent--"
+
+"Ralph must consent!" exclaimed Squire Floyd, with a sudden energy
+of manner, and the exhibition of a degree of will not shown before.
+"Ralph _must_ consent! The mode of adjustment proposed by Mr.
+Wallingford is the one easiest for us to accomplish, and I shall
+insist on Dewey's giving up his opposition. There is a vast deal
+more of pride than principle involved in his objection."
+
+The Squire was breaking away from his fetters.
+
+"It is plain," added Squire Floyd, "that his partners wish that
+property to go in preference to any other. And it must go."
+
+This was a style of remark quite unexpected on our part; and only
+added firmness to our purpose. The interview was not prolonged in
+discussion. We merely reaffirmed our ultimatum, and gave one week
+for the two men to decide in what manner to close their trust.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+
+
+
+
+The decision was as I expected it to be; and the old property came
+back into the family. There were few hearts in S----, that did not
+beat with pleasure, when it was known that Mr. Wallingford and his
+lovely wife were to pass from Ivy Cottage to the stately Allen
+House.
+
+I think the strife between Mr. Dewey and the old executors was
+severe, and that he yielded only when he saw that they were
+immovable. An open rupture with Squire Floyd was a consequence of
+his persistent determination to have the Allen property transferred;
+and after the settlement of this business, they held no personal
+communication with each other.
+
+The change in Mr. Dewey's appearance, after it became a settled
+thing that he must remove from the splendid mansion he had occupied
+for years, was remarkable. He lost the impressive swagger that
+always said, "I am the first man in S----;" and presented the
+appearance of one who had suffered some great misfortune, without
+growing better under the discipline. He did not meet you with the
+free, open, better-than-you look that previously characterized him,
+but with a half sidelong falling of the eyes, in which there was, to
+me, something very sinister.
+
+As far as our observation went, Mr. Wallingford put on no new phase
+of character. There was about him the same quiet, thoughtful dignity
+of manner which had always commanded involuntary respect. He showed
+no unseemly haste in dispossessing Mr. Dewey of his elegant home.
+Two months after the title deeds had passed, I called in at Ivy
+Cottage, now one of the sweetest, little places in S----, for
+Constance, who had been passing the evening there. Not in any home,
+through all the region round, into which it was my privilege to
+enter, was there radiant, like a warm, enticing atmosphere that
+swelled your lungs with a new vitality, and gave all your pulses a
+freer beat, such pure love--maternal and conjugal--as pervaded this
+sanctuary of the heart. I say maternal, as well as conjugal, for two
+dear babes had brought into this home attendant angels from the
+higher heaven.
+
+A soft astral lamp threw its mellow rays about the room. Mr.
+Wallingford had a book open in his hand, from which he had been
+reading aloud to his wife and Constance. He closed the volume as I
+entered, and rising, took my hand, saying, with even more than his
+usual cordiality--
+
+"Now our circle is complete."
+
+"Excuse me from rising, Doctor," said Mrs. Wallingford, a smile of
+welcome giving increased beauty to her countenance, as she offered
+the hand that was free--the other held her babe, just three months
+old, tenderly to her bosom.
+
+"What have you been reading?" I asked, as I seated myself, and
+glanced towards the volume which Mr. Wallingford had closed and laid
+upon the table.
+
+"A memorable relation of the Swedish Seer," he replied, smiling.
+
+"Touching marriage in heaven," said I, smiling in return.
+
+"Or, to speak more truly," he replied, "the union of two souls in
+heaven, into an eternal oneness. Yes, that was the subject, and it
+always interests me deeply. Our life here is but a span, and our
+brief union shadowed by care, pain, sickness, and the never-dying
+fear of parting. The sky of our being is not unclouded long. And
+therefore I cannot believe that the blessedness of married love dies
+forever at the end of this struggle to come into perfect form and
+beauty. No, Doctor; the end is not here. And so Blanche and I turn
+often with an eager delight to these relations, feeling, as we read,
+that they are not mere pictures of fancy, but heavenly verities.
+They teach us that if we would be united in the next world, we must
+become purified in this. That selfish love, which is of the person
+must give place to a love for spiritual qualities. That we must grow
+in the likeness and image of God, if we would make one angel in His
+heavenly kingdom."
+
+His eyes rested upon Blanche, as he closed the sentence, with a look
+full of love; and she, as if she knew that the glance was coming,
+turned and received it into her heart.
+
+I did not question the faith that carried them over the bounds of
+time, and gave them delicious foreshadowings of the blessedness
+beyond. As I looked at them, and marked how they seemed to grow
+daily into a oneness of spirit, could I doubt that there was for
+them an eternal union? No, no. Such doubts would have been false to
+the instincts of my own soul, and false to the instincts of every
+conscious being made to love and be loved.
+
+"The laying aside of this earthly investiture," said Wallingford,
+resuming, "the passage from mortal to immortal life, cannot change
+our spirits, but only give to all their powers a freer and more
+perfect development. Love is not a quality of the body, but of the
+spirit, and will remain in full force, after the body is cast off
+like the shell of a chrysalis. Still existing, it will seek its
+object. And shall it seek forever and not find? God forbid! No! The
+love I bear my wife is not, I trust, all of the earth, earthy; but
+instinct with a heavenly perpetuity. And when we sleep the sleep of
+death, it will be in the confident assurance of a speedy and more
+perfect conjunction of our lives. On a subject of such deep concern,
+we are dissatisfied with the vague and conjectural; and this is why
+the record of things seen and heard in the spiritual world by
+Swedenborg--especially in what relates to marriages in heaven--has
+for us such an absorbing interest."
+
+"Are you satisfied with the evidence?" I ventured to inquire, seeing
+him so confident.
+
+"Yes."
+
+He answered quietly, and with an assured manner.
+
+"How do you reach a conclusion as to the truth of these things?"
+
+"Something after the same way that you satisfy yourself that the sun
+shines."
+
+"My eyes testify to me that fact. Seeing is believing," I answered.
+
+"The spirit of a man has eyes as well as his body," said
+Wallingford. "And seeing is believing in another sense than you
+intimate. Now the bodily eyes see material objects, and the mind,
+receiving their testimony, is in no doubt as to the existence,
+quality, and relation of things in the outer world. The eyes of our
+spirits, on the other hand, see immaterial objects or truths; and
+presenting them to the rational and perceptive faculties, they are
+recognized as actual existences, and their quality as surely
+determined as the quality of a stone or metal. If you ask me how I
+know that this is quartz, or that iron; I answer, By the testimony
+of my eyes. And so, if you ask how I satisfy myself as to the truth
+of which I read in this book; I can only reply that I see it all so
+clearly that conviction is a necessity. There is no trouble in
+believing. To attempt disbelief, would be to illustrate the fable of
+Sisyphus."
+
+He spoke calmly, like one whose mind had risen above doubt. I
+objected nothing further; for that would have been useless. And why
+attempt to throw questions into his mind? Was there anything evil in
+the faith which he had adopted as exhibited in his life? I could not
+say yes. On the contrary, taking his life as an illustration, good
+only was to be inferred. I remembered very well when his mind
+diverged into this new direction. Some years had intervened. I
+thought to see him grow visionary or enthusiastic. Not so, however.
+There was a change progressively visible; but it was in the
+direction of sound and rational views of life. A broader humanity
+showed itself in his words and actions. Then came the subtler vein
+of religious sentiments, running like pure gold through all that
+appertained to him.
+
+If, therefore, he was progressing towards a higher life, why should
+I question as to the way being right for him? Why should I seek to
+turn him into another path when there was such a broad light for his
+eyes on the one he had chosen? "By their fruits ye shall know them."
+And by his fruits I knew him to be of that highest type of manhood,
+a Christian gentleman.
+
+I noticed, while Mr. Wallingford spoke so confidently of their
+reunion in heaven, that his wife leaned towards, and looked at him,
+with eyes through which her soul seemed going forth into his.
+
+As the conversation flowed on, it gradually involved other themes,
+and finally led to the question On my part, as to when they were
+going to leave Ivy Cottage.
+
+"That is quite uncertain," replied Mr. Wallingford. "I shall not
+hurry the present occupant. We have been so happy here, that we feel
+more inclined to stay than to remove to a more ambitious home."
+
+"I hear that Mr. Dewey is going to build," said I.
+
+"Where?"
+
+"He has been negotiating for the property on the elevation west of
+the Allen House."
+
+"Ah!"
+
+"Yes. The price of the ground, five acres, is ten thousand dollars."
+
+"The site is commanding and beautiful. The finest in S----, for one
+who thinks mainly of attracting the attention of others," said Mr.
+Wallingford.
+
+"If he builds, we shall see something on a grander scale than
+anything yet attempted in our neighborhood. He will overshadow you."
+
+"The rivalry must be on his side alone," was Mr. Wallingford's
+reply. "No elegance or imposing grandeur that he may assume, can
+disturb me in the smallest degree. I shall only feel pity for the
+defect of happiness that all his blandishments must hide."
+
+"A splendid Italian villa is talked of."
+
+Mr. Wallingford shook his head.
+
+"You doubt all this?" said I.
+
+"Not the man's ambitious pride; but his ability to do what pride
+suggests. He and his compeers are poorer, by a hundred thousand
+dollars, than they deemed themselves a few short months ago."
+
+"Have they met with heavy losses?" I asked, not understanding the
+drift of his remark.
+
+"The estate in trust has been withdrawn."
+
+"How should that make them poorer?"
+
+"It makes them poorer, in the first place, as to the means for
+carrying on business. And it makes them poorer, in the second place,
+in the loss of an estate, which, I am sorry to believe, Mr. Dewey
+and a part of his New York associates regarded as virtually their
+own.
+
+"But the heir was approaching his majority," said I.
+
+"And growing up a weak, vicious, self-indulgent young man, who, in
+the hands of a shrewd, unscrupulous villain, might easily be robbed
+of his fortune. You may depend upon it, Doctor, that somebody has
+suffered a terrible disappointment, and one from which he is not
+likely soon to recover. No--no! We shall see nothing of this
+princely Italian villa."
+
+"I cannot believe," I replied, "that the executors who had the
+estate in trust were influenced by dishonorable motives. I know the
+men too well."
+
+"Nor do I, Doctor," he answered, promptly. "But, as I have before
+said, they were almost wholly under the influence of Dewey, and I
+think that he was leading them into mazes from which honorable
+extrication would have been impossible."
+
+"Have you given Dewey any notice of removal?" I inquired.
+
+"No--and shall not, for some time. I am in no hurry to leave this
+place, in which the happiest days of my life have passed. Any
+seeming eagerness to dispossess him, would only chafe a spirit in
+which I would not needlessly excite evil passions. His pride must, I
+think, lead him at a very early day to remove, and thus make a plain
+way before me."
+
+"How long will you wait?" I asked.
+
+"Almost any reasonable time."
+
+"You and he might not take the same view of what was reasonable,"
+said I.
+
+"Perhaps not. But, as I remarked just now, being in no hurry to
+leave our present home, I shall not disturb him for some months to
+come. No change will be made by us earlier than next spring. And if
+he wishes to spend the winter in his present abode, he is welcome to
+remain."
+
+There was no assumed virtuous forbearance in all this; but a sincere
+regard for the feelings and comfort of Dewey. This was so apparent,
+that I did not question for a moment his generous consideration of a
+man who would not have hesitated, if the power were given, to crush
+him to the very earth.
+
+Many thoughts passed in my mind, as I pondered the incidents and
+conversation of this evening. In looking back upon life, we see the
+sure progress of causes to effects; and in the effects, the quality
+of the causes. We no longer wonder at results--the only wonder is,
+that they were not foreseen. Wise maxims, some of the garnered
+grains of our fathers' experiences, are scattered through the books
+we read, and daily fall from the lips of teachers and friends;
+maxims which, if observed, would lead us to honor and happiness. But
+who gives them heed? Who makes them the rule of his conduct?
+
+We might wonder less at the blind infatuation with which so many
+press onward in a course that all the wisdom of the past, as well as
+all the reason of the present, condemns, if it were possible to rub
+out our actions, as a child rubs from his slate a wrong sum, and
+begin the work of life over again. But this cannot be. We weave
+hourly the web that is to bind us in the future. Our to-days hold
+the fate of our to-morrows. What we do is done for ever, and in some
+degree will affect us throughout infinite ages.
+
+"Poor Delia Floyd!" My thought had turned to her as I lay awake,
+long after the small hours of the morning, busy with incidents and
+reflections which had completely banished sleep from my eyes. In the
+strong pity of my heart, I spoke the words aloud.
+
+"What of her?" said Constance, in a tone of surprise. And so
+intruding thought had kept her awake also!
+
+"Nothing more than usual," I answered. "But I cannot sleep for
+thinking of her unhappy state, and what she might have been, if
+obeying her own heart's right impulses, and the reason God gave her,
+she had accepted a true man, instead of a specious villain for her
+husband. The scene in Ivy Cottage to-night stands in most remarkable
+contrast with some things I witnessed at the Allen House before she
+went out thence a wretched woman for life. She staked everything on
+a desperate venture, and has lost. God pity her! for there is no
+help in any human arm. To think of what she is, and what she might
+have been, is enough to veil her reason in midnight darkness."
+
+"Amen! God pity her!" said Constance. "For truly there is no help
+for her in mortal arm."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+
+
+
+
+The conduct of Mr. Wallingford, in regard to the estate which had
+fallen into his hands, rather puzzled Dewey. He had anticipated an
+early notification to remove, and, true to his character, had
+determined to annoy the new owner by vexatious delays. But after the
+passage of several weeks, in which came to him no intimation that he
+must give up the possession of his elegant home, he began to wonder
+what it could mean.
+
+One day, not long after the conversation with Wallingford, mentioned
+in the last chapter, I met Mr. Dewey in the street. He stopped me
+and said, in half-sneering way,
+
+"What of our honorable friend? Impatient, I suppose, to see the
+inside of the Allen House?"
+
+"No," I replied, "he has no wish to disturb you for the present."
+
+"Indeed! You expect me to believe all that, of course."
+
+There was a rudeness in his manner that was offensive; but I did not
+care to let him see that I noticed it.
+
+"Why should you not believe my remark?" said I. "Is it a new thing
+in your experience with men to find an individual considerate of
+another?"
+
+"What do you mean by considerate of another?"
+
+My form of speech touched his pride.
+
+"Mr. Wallingford has manifested towards you a considerate spirit,"
+said I, speaking slowly and distinctly. "It naturally occurs to him
+that, as you are so pleasantly situated at the Allen House, an early
+removal therefrom might be anything but desirable. And so he has
+rested quietly up to this time, leaving a decision as to the period
+with yourself."
+
+"Humph! Very unselfish, truly!"
+
+His lip curled in disdain.
+
+"If you feel restive under this concession in your favor," said I,
+putting on a serious manner, "I would suggest independence as a
+remedy."
+
+He looked at me curiously, yet with a scowling contraction of his
+brows.
+
+"Independence! What am I to understand by your remark?"
+
+"Simply this, Mr. Dewey. You are in the occupancy of property
+belonging to Mr. Wallingford, and by his favor. Now, if you cannot
+receive a kindness at his hands, in the name of all that is manly
+and independent, put yourself out of the range of obligation."
+
+I was not able to repress a sudden feeling of indignation, and so
+spoke with warmth and plainness.
+
+"Thank you for your plainness of speech, Doctor," he retorted,
+drawing himself up in a haughty manner.
+
+"As to removing from the Allen House, I will do that just when it
+suits my pleasure."
+
+"Mr. Wallingford, you may be assured," said I, will not show any
+unseemly impatience, if you do not find it convenient to make an
+early removal. He knows that it cannot be agreeable for you to give
+up the home of years, and he is too much of a Christian and a
+gentleman to do violence to another's feelings, if it can be in any
+way avoided."
+
+"Pah! I hate cant!"
+
+He threw his head aside in affected disgust.
+
+"We judge men by their actions, not their words," said I. "If a man
+acts with considerate kindness, is it cant to speak of him in terms
+of praise? Pardon me, Mr. Dewey, but I think you are letting passion
+blind you to another's good qualities."
+
+"The subject is disagreeable to me, Doctor. Let us waive it."
+
+"It was introduced by yourself, remember," I replied; "and all that
+I have said has been in response to your own remarks. This much good
+has grown from it. You know just how Mr. Wallingford stands towards
+you, and you can govern yourself according to your own views in the
+case. And now let me volunteer this piece of advice. Never wantonly
+give offence to another, for you cannot tell how soon you may find
+yourself in need of his good services."
+
+Dewey gave me a formal bow, and passed on his way.
+
+About a week afterwards, Judge Bigelow inquired of Wallingford as to
+when he wished to get possession of the Allen House.
+
+"Whenever Mr. Dewey finds it entirely convenient to remove," was the
+unhesitating reply.
+
+"Suppose it should not be convenient this fall or winter?"
+
+"Very well. The spring will suit me. I am in no hurry. We are too
+comfortable in Ivy Cottage to be in any wise impatient for change."
+
+"Then it is your pleasure that Mr. Dewey remain until spring?"
+
+"If such an arrangement is desirable on his part, Judge, it is
+altogether accordant with my feelings and convenience. Say to him
+that he has only to consult his own wishes in the case."
+
+"You are kind and considerate, Mr. Wallingford," said the Judge, his
+manner softening considerably, for there had been a coldness of some
+years' standing on the part of Judge Bigelow, which more recent
+events had increased.
+
+"And why should it be otherwise, Judge?" inquired his old student.
+
+"Mr. Dewey has not given you cause for either kindness or
+consideration."
+
+"It would hurt me more than it would him, were I to foster his
+unhappy spirit. It is always best, I find, Judge, to be right with
+myself."
+
+"All men would find it better for themselves, were they to let so
+fine a sentiment govern their lives," remarked Judge Bigelow, struck
+by the language of Wallingford.
+
+"It is the only true philosophy," was replied. "If a man is right
+with himself, he cannot be wrong towards others; though it is
+possible, as in my case, that other eyes, looking through a densely
+refracting medium, may see him out of his just position. But he
+would act very unwisely were he to change his position for all that.
+He will be seen right in the end."
+
+Judge Bigelow reached out his hand and grasped that of Mr.
+Wallingford.
+
+"Spoken like a man, Henry! Spoken like a man!" he said, warmly. "I
+only wish that Ralph had something of your spirit. I have seen you a
+little out of your right position, I believe; but a closer view is
+correcting the error."
+
+Wallingford returned the pressure as warmly as it was given, saying,
+as he did so--
+
+"I am aware, Judge, that you have suffered your mind to fall into a
+state of prejudice in regard to me. But I am not aware of any thing
+in my conduct towards you or others, to warrant the feeling. If in
+any thing I have been brought into opposition, faithfulness to the
+interests I represented has been the rule of my conduct. I have
+sought by no trick of law to gain an advantage. The right and the
+just I have endeavored to pursue, without fear and without favor.
+Can you give me a better rule for professional or private life?"
+
+"I cannot, Henry," was the earnest reply. "And if all men would so
+pursue the right and the just, how different would be the result for
+each, as the sure adjustment of advancing years gave them their true
+places in the world's observation!"
+
+The Judge spoke in a half--absent way, and with a shade of regret in
+his tones; Wallingford noted this with a feeling of concern.
+
+"Let us be friends in the future," he added, again offering his hand
+to Wallingford.
+
+"It will be your fault, not mine, if we are not fast fiends, Judge.
+I have never forgotten the obligations of my boyhood; and never
+ceased to regret the alienation you have shown. To have seemed in
+your eyes ungrateful, has been a source of pain whenever I saw or
+thought of you."
+
+The two men parted, each feeling better for the interview. A day or
+two afterwards Wallingford received a note from Judge Bigelow asking
+him, as a particular favor, to call at his office that evening. He
+went, of course. The Judge was alone, and received him cordially.
+But, his countenance soon fell into an expression of more than usual
+gravity.
+
+"Mr. Wallingford," he said, after the passage of a few casual
+observations, "I would like to consult you in strict confidence on
+some matters in which I have become involved. I can trust you, of
+course?"
+
+"As fully as if the business were my own," was the unhesitating
+answer.
+
+"So I have believed. The fact is, Henry, I have become so entangled
+in this cotton mill business with Squire Floyd, Dewey, and others,
+that I find myself in a maze of bewildering uncertainty. The Squire
+and Ralph are at loggerheads, and seem to me to be getting matters
+snarled up. There is no denying the fact that this summary footing
+of our accounts, as executors, has tended to cripple affairs. We
+were working up to the full extent of capital invested, and the
+absence of a hundred thousand dollars--or its representative
+security--has made financiering a thing of no easy consideration."
+
+"I am afraid, Judge Bigelow," said Wallingford, as the old man
+paused, "that you are in the hands of one who, to gain his own ends,
+would sacrifice you without a moment's hesitation."
+
+"Who?"
+
+"You will permit me to speak plainly, Judge."
+
+"Say on. The plain speech of a friend is better than the flatteries
+of an enemy."
+
+"I have no faith in Ralph Dewey."
+
+The two men looked steadily at each other for some moments.
+
+"Over fifteen years' observation of the man has satisfied me that he
+possesses neither honor nor humanity. He is your nephew. But that
+does not signify. We must look at men as they are."
+
+"His movements have not been to my satisfaction for some time," said
+the Judge; speaking as though conviction had to force itself upon
+his mind.
+
+"You should canvass all he does with the closest care; and if your
+property lies in any degree at his mercy, change the relation as
+quickly as possible."
+
+"Are you not prejudiced against him, Henry?" The Judge spoke in a
+deprecating tone.
+
+"I believe, sir, that I estimate him at his real value; and I do
+most earnestly conjure you to set to work at once to disentangle
+your affairs if seriously involved with his. If you do not, he will
+beggar you in your old age, which God forbid!"
+
+"I am far from sure that I can disentangle my affairs," said the
+Judge.
+
+"There is nothing like trying, you know." Wallingford spoke in a
+tone of encouragement. "And everything may depend on beginning in
+time. In what way are you involved with him?"
+
+It was some time before Judge Bigelow answered this direct question.
+He then replied,
+
+"Heavily in the way of endorsements."
+
+"Of his individual paper?"
+
+"Yes. Also of the paper of his firm."
+
+"To an extent beyond your ability to pay if there should be failure
+on their part?"
+
+"Yes; to three times my ability to pay."
+
+Wallingford dropped his eyes to the floor, and sat for some time. He
+then looked up into Judge Bigelow's face, and said,
+
+"If that be so, I can see only one way for you."
+
+"Say on."
+
+"Let no more endorsements be given from this day forth."
+
+"How can I suddenly refuse? The thing has been going on for years."
+
+"You can refuse to do wrong on the plea of wrong. If your name gives
+no real value to a piece of paper, yet accredits it in the eyes of
+others, it is wrong for you to place your endorsement thereon. Is
+not this so?"
+
+"I admit the proposition, Henry."
+
+"Very well. The only way to get right, is to start right. And my
+dear, dear sir! let me implore you to take immediately the first
+step in a right direction. Standing outside of the charmed circle of
+temptation as I do, I can see the right way for your feet to walk in
+better than you can. Oh, sir! Let me be eyes, and hand, and feet for
+you if need be; and if it is not too late, I will save you from
+impending ruin."
+
+Wallingford took the old man's hand, and grasped it warmly as he
+spoke. The Judge was moved by this earnest appeal, coming upon him
+so unexpectedly; and not only moved, but startled and alarmed by the
+tenor of what was said.
+
+"The first thing," he remarked, after taking time to get his
+thoughts clear, "if I accept of your friendly overtures, is for me
+to lay before you everything just as it is, so that you can see
+where I stand, and how I stand. Without this, your view of the case
+would be partial, and your conclusions might not be right."
+
+"That is unquestionably so," Wallingford replied. "And now, Judge,
+if you wish my friendly aid, confide in me as you would a son or
+brother. You will find me as true as steel."
+
+A revelation succeeded that filled Mr. Wallingford with painful
+astonishment. The endorsements of Judge Bigelow, on paper brought to
+him by Dewey, and of which he took no memorandums, covered, no
+doubt, from a hundred to a hundred and fifty thousand dollars! Then,
+as to the affairs of the Clinton Bank, of which Judge Bigelow was
+still the President, he felt a great deal of concern. The Cashier
+and Mr. Dewey knew far more about the business and condition of the
+institution than anybody else, and managed it pretty much in their
+own way. The directors, if not men of straw, might almost as well
+have been, for all the intelligent control they exercised. As for
+Judge, Bigelow, the principal duty required of him was to sign his
+name as President to great sheets of bank bills, the denomination
+running from one dollar to a thousand. Touching the extent to which
+these representatives of value were issued, he knew nothing certain.
+He was shown, at regular periods, a statement wherein the condition
+of the bank was set forth, and to which he appended his signature.
+But he had no certain knowledge that the figures were correct. Of
+the paper under discount over two-thirds was drawn or endorsed by
+Floyd, Lawson, Lee, & Co.
+
+At the time Judge Bigelow began investing in mill property, he was
+worth, in productive stocks and real estate, from thirty to forty
+thousand dollars. He now estimated his wealth at from sixty to
+eighty thousand dollars; but it was all locked up in the mills.
+
+The result of this first interview between the Judge and Mr.
+Wallingford was to set the former in a better position to see the
+character of his responsibilities, and the extreme danger in which
+he stood. The clear, honest, common sense way in which Wallingford
+looked at everything, and comprehended everything, surprised his old
+preceptor; and gave him so much confidence in his judgment and
+discretion, that he placed himself fully in his hands. And well for
+him was it that he did so in time.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+
+
+
+
+In accordance with the advice of Mr. Wallingford, the first
+reactionary movement on the part of Judge Bigelow, was his refusal
+to endorse any more paper for his nephew, or the firm of which he
+was a member, on the ground that such endorsements, on his part,
+were of no real value, considering the large amounts for which he
+was already responsible, and consequently little better than
+fraudulent engagements to pay.
+
+A storm between the uncle and nephew was the consequence, and the
+latter undertook to drive the old gentleman back again into the
+traces, by threats of terrible disasters to him and all concerned.
+If Judge Bigelow had stood alone, the nephew would have been too
+strong for him. But he had a clear-seeing, honest mind to throw
+light upon his way, and a young and vigorous arm to lean upon in his
+hour of weakness and trial. And so Ralph Dewey, to his surprise and
+alarm, found it impossible to bend the Judge from his resolution.
+
+Then followed several weeks, during which time Dewey was flying back
+and forth between New York and S----, trying to re-adjust the
+disturbed balance of things. The result was as Mr. Wallingford had
+anticipated. There was too much at stake for the house of Floyd,
+Lawson, Lee, & Co., to let matters fail for lack of Judge Bigelow's
+endorsements. Some other prop must be substituted for this one.
+
+The four months that followed were months of anxious suspense on the
+part of Judge Bigelow and his true friend, who was standing beside
+him, though invisible in this thing to all other eyes, firm as a
+rocky pillar. No more endorsements were given, and the paper bearing
+his name was by this time nearly all paid.
+
+"Right, so far," said Mr. Wallingford, at the expiration of the time
+in which most of the paper bearing Judge Bigelow's name reached its
+maturity. "And now for the next safe move in this difficult game,
+where the odds are still against us. You must get out of this Bank."
+
+The Judge looked gravely opposed.
+
+"It may awaken suspicion that something is wrong, and create a run
+upon the Bank, which would be ruin."
+
+"Can you exercise a controlling influence in the position you hold?
+Can you be true, as President of the Clinton Bank, to the public
+interest you represent?"
+
+"I cannot. They have made of me an automaton."
+
+"Very well. That settles the question. You cannot honorably hold
+your place a single day. There is only one safe step, and that is to
+resign."
+
+"But the loose way in which I held office will be exposed to my
+successor."
+
+"That is not the question to consider, Judge--but the right. Still,
+so far as this fear is concerned, don't let it trouble you. The
+choice of successor will fall upon some one quite as facile to the
+wishes of Ralph Dewey & Company as you have been."
+
+The good counsels of Mr. Wallingford prevailed. At the next meeting
+of the Board of Directors, the resignation of Judge Bigelow was
+presented. Dewey had been notified two days before of what was
+coming, and was prepared for it. He moved, promptly, that the
+resignation be accepted. As soon as the motion was carried, he
+offered the name of Joshua Kling, the present Cashier, for the
+consideration of the Board, and urged his remarkable fitness. Of
+course, Mr. Joshua Kling was elected; and his place filled by one of
+the tellers. To complete the work, strong complimentary resolutions,
+in which deep regret at the resignation of Judge Bigelow was
+expressed, were passed by the Board. In the next week's paper, the
+following notice of this change in the officers of the Bank
+appeared:
+
+"_Resignation of Judge Bigelow._--In consequence of the pressure of
+professional engagements, our highly esteemed citizen Judge Bigelow,
+has found it necessary to give up the office of President in the
+Clinton Bank, which he has held with so much honor to himself since
+the institution commenced business. He is succeeded by Joshua Kling,
+Esq., late Cashier; a gentleman peculiarly well-fitted for the
+position to which he has been elevated. Harvey Weems, the first
+Teller, takes the place of Cashier. A better selection, it would be
+impossible to make. From the beginning, the affairs of this Bank
+have been managed with great prudence, and it is justly regarded as
+one of the soundest in the State."
+
+"My dear friend," said the grateful Judge, grasping the hand of
+Wallingford, who called his attention to this notice, "what a world
+of responsibility you have helped me to cast from my shoulders! I am
+to-day a happier man than I have been for years. The new President
+is welcome to all the honor his higher position may reflect upon
+him."
+
+"The next work in order," remarked the Judge's clear-headed,
+resolute friend, "is to withdraw your investments from the cotton
+mills. That will be a slower and more difficult operation; but it
+must be done, even at a sacrifice. Better have fifty thousand
+dollars in solid real estate, than a hundred thousand in that
+concern."
+
+And so this further disentanglement was commenced.
+
+Winter having passed away, Mr. Dewey saw it expedient to retire from
+the Allen House. By this time nothing more was heard of his Italian
+Villa. He had something else to occupy his thoughts. As there was no
+house to be rented in S----, that in any way corresponded with his
+ideas, he stored his furniture, and took board at the new hotel
+which had lately been erected.
+
+Mr. Wallingford now made preparations for removing to the old
+mansion, which was still the handsomest place, by all odds, in our
+town.
+
+One day, early in the summer, I received a note from Mr.
+Wallingford, asking me to call around at Ivy Cottage in the evening.
+At the bottom of the note, was a pencilled line from his wife to
+Constance, asking the pleasure of seeing her also. We went after
+tea.
+
+"Come with me to the library, Doctor!" said my excellent friend,
+soon after our arrival. "I want to have a little talk with you."
+
+So we left the ladies and retired to the library.
+
+"My business with you to-night," said he, as we seated ourselves,
+facing each other, on opposite sides of the library-table, "is to
+get at some adjustment of affairs between us, as touching your
+executorship of the Allen estate. I have asked two or three times
+for your bills against the estate, but you have always put me off.
+Mr. Wilkinson, on the contrary, rendered an account for services,
+which has been allowed and settled."
+
+"The business required so little attention on my part," I replied to
+this, "that I have never felt that I could, in conscience, render an
+account. And besides, it was with me so much a labor of love, that I
+do not wish to mar the pleasure I felt by overlaying it with a
+compensation."
+
+"No man could possibly feel more deeply your generous good will
+toward me and mine--manifested from the beginning until now--than I
+do, Doctor. But I cannot permit the obligation to rest all on one
+side."
+
+He pulled out a drawer of the library-table, as he said this, and
+taking therefrom a broad parchment document, laid it down, and while
+his hand rested upon it continued--
+
+"Anticipating that, as heretofore, I might not be able to get your
+figures, I have taken the matter into my own hands, and fixed the
+amount of compensation--subject, of course, to objections on your
+part, if I have made the award too low. These papers are the title
+deeds of Ivy Cottage, executed in your favor. There are memories and
+associations connected with this dear spot, which must for ever be
+sacred in the hearts of myself and wife; and it would be pain to us
+to see it desecrated by strangers. In equity and love, then, we pass
+it over to you and yours; and may God give you as much happiness
+beneath its roof as we have known."
+
+Surprise kept me silent for some time. But as soon as my thoughts
+ran free, I answered--
+
+"No--no, Mr. Wallingford. This is fixing the sum entirely beyond a
+fair estimate. I cannot for a moment--"
+
+He stopped me before I could finish the sentence.
+
+"Doctor!" He spoke with earnestness and deep feeling. "There is no
+living man to whom I am so heavily indebted as I am to you. Not
+until after my marriage was I aware that your favorable word, given
+without qualification, bore me into the confidence of Mrs.
+Montgomery, and thus opened the way for me to happiness and fortune.
+My good Blanche has often repeated to me the language you once used
+in my favor, and which awakened in her mind an interest which
+gradually deepened into love. My heart moves towards you, Doctor,
+and you must let its impulses have way in this small matter. Do not
+feel it as an obligation. That is all on our side. We cannot let Ivy
+Cottage go entirely out of the family. We wish to have as much
+property in it as the pilgrim has in Mecca. We must visit it
+sometimes, and feel always that its chambers are the abodes of peace
+and love. A kind Providence has given us of this world's goods an
+abundance. We did not even have to lift our hands to the ripe
+clusters. They fell into our laps. And now, if, from our plenty, we
+take a small portion and discharge a debt, will you push aside the
+offering, and say, No? Doctor, this must not be!"
+
+Again I essayed objection; but all was in vain. Ivy Cottage was to
+be our pleasant home. When, on returning with Constance, I related
+to her what had passed between Mr. Wallingford and myself, she was
+affected to tears.
+
+"If I have ever had a covetous thought," she said, "it has been when
+I looked at Ivy Cottage. And to think it is to be mine! The
+sweetest, dearest spot in S----!"
+
+There was no putting aside this good fortune. It came in such a
+shape, that we could not refuse it without doing violence to the
+feelings of true-hearted friends. And so, when they removed to their
+new home, we passed to Ivy Cottage.
+
+The two years that followed were marked by no events of striking
+interest. The affairs of Judge Bigelow continued to assume a better
+shape, under the persistent direction of Mr. Wallingford, until
+every dollar which he had invested in the cotton mills was withdrawn
+and placed in real estate or sound securities. Long before this
+there had come an open rupture between the old man and his nephew;
+but the Judge had seen his real character in so clear a light that
+friendship was no longer desirable.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+
+
+
+
+And now we have come down to the memorable summer and fall of 1857.
+No gathering clouds, no far-distant, low-voiced thunder gave warning
+of an approaching storm. The sky was clear, and the sun of
+prosperity moving onward in his strength, when, suddenly, from the
+West came a quick flash and an ominous roll of thunder. Men paused,
+looked at each other, and asked what it meant. Here and there a note
+of warning was sounded; but, if heeded by any, it came too late.
+There followed a brief pause, in which people held their breaths.
+Then came another flash, and another rattling peal. Heavy clouds
+began to roll up from the horizon; and soon the whole sky was dark.
+Pale face looked into pale face, and tremulous voices asked as to
+what was coming. Fear and consternation were in all hearts. It was
+too late for any to seek refuge or shelter. Ere the startled
+multitudes had stirred from their first surprised position, the
+tempest came down in its fury, sweeping, tornado-like, from West to
+East, and then into one grand gyration circling the whole horizon.
+Men lost courage, confidence, and hope. They stood still while the
+storm beat down, and the fearful work of destruction went on.
+
+No commercial disaster like this had ever before visited our
+country. Houses that stood unmoved through many fierce convulsions
+went down like brittle reeds, and old Corporations which were
+thought to be as immovable as the hills tottered and fell, crushing
+hundreds amid their gigantic ruins.
+
+Among the first to yield was the greatly extended house of Floyd,
+Lawson, Lee, & Co. The news came up on the wires to S----, with
+orders to stop the mills and discharge all hands. This was the
+bursting of the tempest on our town. Mr. Dewey had gone to New York
+on the first sign of approaching trouble, and his return was looked
+for anxiously by all with whom he was deeply interested in business.
+But many days passed and none saw him, or heard from him. Failing to
+receive any communication, Squire Floyd, who had everything
+involved, went down to New York. I saw him on the morning of his
+return. He looked ten years older.
+
+It was soon whispered about that the failure of Floyd, Lawson, Lee,
+& Co. was a bad one. Then came intimations that Mr. Dewey was not in
+New York, and that his partners, when questioned about him, gave
+very unsatisfactory replies.
+
+"Have you any notes of the Clinton Bank, Doctor?" said a friend whom
+I met in the street. "Because, if you have, take my advice and get
+rid of them as quickly as possible. A run has commenced, and it's my
+opinion that the institution will not stand for forty-eight hours."
+
+It stood just forty-eight hours from the date of this prophecy, and
+then closed its doors, leaving our neighborhood poorer by the
+disaster over two hundred thousand dollars. There was scarcely a
+struggle in dying, for the institution had suffered such an
+exhausting depletion that when its extremity came it passed from
+existence without a throe. A Receiver was immediately appointed, and
+the assets examined. These consisted, mainly, of bills receivable
+under discount, not probably worth now ten cents on the dollar.
+Three-fourths of this paper was drawn or endorsed by New York firms
+or individuals, most of whom had already failed. The personal
+account of Ralph Dewey showed him to be a debtor to the Bank in the
+sum of nearly a hundred thousand dollars. The President, Joshua
+Kling, had not been seen since the evening of the day on which the
+doors of the Clinton Bank were shut, never to be opened for business
+again. His accounts were all in confusion. The Cashier, who had
+succeeded him on his elevation to the Presidency of the institution;
+was a mere creature in his hands; and from his revelations it was
+plain that robbery had been progressing for some time on a grand
+scale.
+
+As soon as these disastrous facts became known to the heaviest
+sufferers in S----, the proper affidavits were made out, and
+requisitions obtained for both Dewey and Kling, as defaulters and
+fugitives from justice. The Sheriff of our county, charged with the
+duty of arrest, proceeded forthwith to New York, and, engaging the
+services of detectives there, began the search for Dewey, who, it
+was believed, had not left that city. He was discovered, in a week,
+after having dexterously eluded pursuit, on the eve of departure for
+England, disguised, and under an assumed name. His next appearance
+in S----was as a prisoner in the hands of our Sheriff, who lodged
+him in jail. Very heavy bonds being required for his appearance at
+court, there was not found among us any one willing to take the
+risk, who was qualified to become his surety. And so the wretched
+man was compelled to lie in prison until the day of trial.
+
+Immediately on his incarceration, he sent for Mr. Wallingford, who
+visited him without delay. He found him a shrinking, cowed, and
+frightened culprit; not a man, conscious of rectitude, and therefore
+firm in bearing, though in a false and dangerous position.
+
+"This is a bad business, Mr. Wallingford," he said, on meeting the
+lawyer--"a very bad business; and I have sent for you as a
+professional gentleman of standing and ability, in order to have a
+consultation in regard to my position--in fact, to place myself
+wholly in your hands. I must have the best counsel, and therefore
+take the earliest opportunity to secure your valuable services. Will
+you undertake my case?"
+
+"That will depend, Mr. Dewey," was answered, "entirely upon how it
+stands. If you are falsely accused, and can demonstrate to me your
+innocence, I will defend you to the utmost of my ability, battling
+your accusers to the last. But if, on the contrary, you cannot show
+clean hands, I am not the one to undertake your case."
+
+Dewey looked at Mr. Wallingford strangely. He scarcely comprehended
+him.
+
+"I may have committed mistakes; all men are liable to error," he
+replied.
+
+"Mistake is one thing, Mr. Dewey, and may be explained; fraud is
+another thing, and cannot be explained to mean any thing else. What
+I want you to understand, distinctly, is this: If your connection
+with the Clinton Bank has been, from the beginning, just and
+honorable, however much it may now seem to be otherwise, I will
+undertake your case, and conduct it, I care not through how great
+difficulties, to a favorable issue. But if it has not been--and you
+know how it stands--do not commit your fate to me, for I will
+abandon you the moment I discover that you have been guilty of
+deliberate wrong to others."
+
+The countenance of Mr. Dewey fell, and he seemed to shudder back
+into himself. For some time he was silent.
+
+"If there is a foregone conclusion in your mind, that settles the
+matter," he said, at length, in a disappointed tone.
+
+"All I ask is clear evidence, Mr. Dewey. Foregone conclusions have
+nothing to do with the matter," replied Mr. Wallingford, "If you
+know yourself to be innocent, you may trust yourself in my hands; if
+not, I counsel you to look beyond me to some other man."
+
+"All men are liable to do wrong, Mr. Wallingford; and religion
+teaches that the door of repentance is open to every one."
+
+"True, but the just punishment of wrong is always needed for a
+salutary repentance. The contrition that springs from fear of
+consequences, is not genuine repentance. If you have done wrong, you
+must take the penalty in some shape, and I am not the man knowingly
+to stay the just progression of either moral or civil law."
+
+"Will you accept a retaining fee, even if not active in my case?"
+asked Mr. Dewey.
+
+"No," was the emphatic answer.
+
+A dark, despairing shadow fell over the miserable man's face, and he
+turned himself away from the only being towards whom he had looked
+with any hope in this great extremity of his life.
+
+Mr. Wallingford retired with pity in his heart. The spectacle was
+one of the most painful he had ever witnessed. How was the mighty
+fallen!--the proud brought low! As he walked from the prison, the
+Psalmist's striking words passed through his mind--"I have seen the
+wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree;
+yet he passed away, and lo, he was not."
+
+When the day of trial came, Mr. Wallingford appeared as counsel for
+the creditors of the Clinton Bank, on the side of the prosecution.
+He did not show any eagerness to gain his case against the prisoner;
+but the facts were so strong, and all the links in the chain of
+evidence so clear, that conviction was inevitable. A series of
+frauds and robberies was exposed, that filled the community with
+surprise and indignation; and when the jury, after a brief
+consultation, brought in a verdict of guilty, the expression of
+delight was general. Detestation of the man's crimes took away all
+pity from the common sentiment in regard to him. A sentence of five
+years' expiation in the State prison closed the career of Ralph
+Dewey in S-----, and all men said: "The retribution is just."
+
+Squire Floyd lost everything, and narrowly escaped the charge of
+complicity with Dewey. Nothing but the fact of their known
+antagonism for some two or three years, turned the public mind in
+his favor, and enabled him to show that what appeared collusion, was
+only, so far as he was concerned, fair business operations. With the
+wreck of his fortune he came very near making also a wreck of his
+good name. Even as it was, there were some in S----who thought the
+Squire had, in some things, gone far beyond the rule of strict
+integrity.
+
+Judge Bigelow, thanks to the timely and resolute intervention of Mr.
+Wallingford, stood far away from the crashing wrecks, when the storm
+swept down in fearful devastation. It raged around, but did not
+touch him; for he was safely sheltered, and beyond its reach.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+
+
+
+
+Two years have passed since these disastrous events; and twenty
+years since the opening of our story. The causes at work in the
+beginning, have wrought out their legitimate effects--the tree has
+ripened its fruits--the harvest has been gathered. The quiet of old
+times has fallen upon S----. It was only a week ago that steps were
+taken to set the long silent mills in motion. A company, formed in
+Boston, has purchased the lower mill, and rented from Mr.
+Wallingford the upper one, which was built on the Allen estate.
+Squire Floyd, I learn, is to be the manager here for the company. I
+am glad of this. Poor man! He was stripped of everything, and has
+been, for the past two years, in destitute circumstances. How he has
+contrived to live, is almost a mystery. The elegant house which he
+had built for himself was taken and sold by creditors, with the
+furniture, plate, and all things pertaining thereto, and,
+broken-spirited, he retired to a small tenement on the outskirts of
+the town, where he has since lived. His unhappy daughter, with her
+two children, are with him. Her son, old enough to be put to some
+business, she has placed in a store, where he is earning enough to
+pay his board; while she and her daughter take in what sewing they
+can obtain, in order to lessen, as far as possible, the burden of
+their maintenance. Alas for her that the father of those children
+should be a convicted felon!
+
+I move about through S----on my round of duties, and daily there
+comes to me some reminder of the events and changes of twenty years.
+I see, here and there, a stranded wreck, and think how proudly the
+vessel spread her white sails in the wind a few short years gone by,
+freighted with golden hopes. But where are those treasures now?
+Lost, lost forever in the fathomless sea!
+
+Twenty years ago, and now! As a man soweth, even so shall he reap.
+Spring time loses itself in luxuriant summer, and autumn follows
+with the sure result. If the seed has been good, the fruit will be
+good; but if a man have sown only tares in his fields, he must reap
+in sorrow and not in joy. There is no exception to the rule. A
+bramble bush can no more bear grapes, than a selfish and evil life
+can produce happiness. The one is a natural, and the other a
+spiritual, impossibility.
+
+A few days ago, as I was riding along on a visit to one of my
+patients, I met Mr. and Mrs. Wallingford, with two of their
+children, driving out in their carriage. They stopped, and we were
+passing a few pleasant words, when there came by two persons,
+plainly, almost coarsely dressed--a mother and her daughter. Both
+had bundles in their hands. Over the mother's face a veil was drawn,
+and as she passed, with evidently quickening steps, she turned
+herself partly away. The daughter looked at us steadily from her
+calm blue eyes, in which you saw a shade of sadness, as though
+already many hopes had failed. Her face was pale and placid, but
+touched you with its expression of half-concealed suffering, as if,
+young as she was, some lessons of pain and endurance had already
+been learned.
+
+"Who are they?" asked Mrs. Wallingford.
+
+"Delia Floyd and her daughter," said I.
+
+No remark was made. If my ears did not deceive me, I heard a faint
+sigh pass the lips of Mr. Wallingford.
+
+I spoke to my horse, and, bowing mutually, we passed on our ways.
+
+"Twenty years ago, and now!" said I to myself, falling into a sober
+mood, as thought went back to the sweet, fragrant morning of Delia's
+life, and I saw it in contrast with this dreary autumn. "If the
+young would only take a lesson like this to heart!"
+
+In the evening, Mr. Wallingford called to see me.
+
+"I have not been able, all day," said he, "to get the image of that
+poor woman and her daughter out of my mind. What are their
+circumstances, Doctor?"
+
+"They live with Squire Floyd," I answered, "and he is very poor. I
+think Delia and her daughter support themselves by their needles."
+
+"What a fall!" he said, with pity in his tones.
+
+"Yes, it was a sad fall--sad, but salutary, I trust."
+
+"How was she after her separation from Mr. Dewey?"
+
+"Very bitter and rebellious, for a time. His marriage seemed to
+arouse every evil passion of her nature. I almost shuddered to hear
+the maledictions she called down upon the head of his wife one day,
+when she rode by in the elegant equipage of which she had once been
+the proud owner. She fairly trembled with rage. Since then, the
+discipline of the inevitable in life has done its better work. She
+has grown subdued and patient, and is doing all a mother in such
+narrow circumstances can do for her children."
+
+"What of Dewey's second wife?" asked Mr. Wallingford.
+
+"She has applied for a divorce from him, on the ground that he is a
+convicted felon; and will get a decree in her favor, without doubt."
+
+"What a history!" he exclaimed. Then, after a pause, he asked--
+
+"Cannot something be done for Mr. Floyd?"
+
+"I have understood," said I, "that the company about to start the
+mills again have engaged him as manager."
+
+"Is that so? Just what I was thinking," he replied, with animation.
+"I must look after that matter, and see that it does not fall
+through."
+
+And he was in this, as in all things, as good as his word. It needed
+only a favorable intimation from him to decide the company to place
+their works in the hands of Squire Floyd, who was a man of skill and
+experience in manufacturing, and one in whose integrity the fullest
+confidence might be reposed.
+
+A month has passed; and Squire Floyd, engaged at a salary of two
+thousand dollars a year, is again at the mills, busy in
+superintending repairs, improvements, and additions. A few more
+weeks, and the rattle of industry will commence, and the old aspect
+of things show itself in S----. May the new mill owners be wiser
+than their predecessors!
+
+Squire Floyd has removed from the poor tenement lately the home of
+his depressed family, and is back in the pleasant homestead he
+abandoned years ago, when pride and ambition impelled him to put on
+a grander exterior. It is understood that the company have bought
+the house, and rent it to him at a very moderate price. My own
+impression is, that Mr. Wallingford has more to do in the matter
+than people imagine. I am strengthened in this view, from the fact
+of having seen Mrs. Wallingford call at the Squire's twice during
+the past week. They are in good hands, and I see a better future in
+store for them.
+
+And now, reader, you have the story I wished to tell. It is full of
+suggestion to all who are starting forth upon life's perilous
+journey. Let truth, honor, integrity, and humanity, govern all your
+actions. Do not make haste to be rich, lest you fall into divers
+temptations. Keep always close to the right; and always bear in mind
+that no wrong is ever done that does not, sooner or later, return
+upon the wrong-doer.
+
+And above all, gentle maiden, be not dazzled by the condition or
+prospect of any who seek your hand.
+
+Look away, down, deeply into the character, disposition, and
+quality; and if these are not of good seeming, shun the proffered
+alliance as you would death. Better, a thousand times, pass through
+life alone than wed yourself to inevitable misery. So heeding the
+moralist, you will not, in the harvest time which comes to all, look
+in despair over your barren fields, but find them golden with
+Autumn's treasures, that shall fill your granaries and crown your
+latter days with blessing.
+
+The End.
+The Project Gutenberg Etext of The Allen House, or Twenty Years Ago and Now
+by T. S. Arthur
+******This file should be named tahty10.txt or tahty10.zip******
+
+Corrected EDITIONS of our etexts get a new NUMBER, tahty11.txt
+VERSIONS based on separate sources get new LETTER, tahty10a.txt
+
+This etext was created by Charles Aldarondo (Aldarondo@yahoo.com)
+
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+End of The Project Gutenberg Etext of The Allen House, or Twenty Years Ago and Now
+by T. S. Arthur
+
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