nd
with patience what would have set most husbands frantic; and has
contented himself with remaining silent, when many would have been
tempted to positive acts of violence.

Toward his sick child Hiram Meeker's conduct has been exemplary--that is
the word. He considers the affliction a direct chastening of _him_ from
the Lord; and 'whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth.' He spends some
moments with his daughter daily, but he has no more sympathy for her
situation than if his heart were made of leather. Yet the best care is
provided, the best medical attendance, and everything done for the poor
girl which is proper. Hiram even overrules his wife in many things where
he thinks her severe toward the invalid, as in the instance of her
wishing to see her Uncle Frank, who is our old acquaintance 'Doctor
Frank,' as you no doubt understand--now one of the first medical men of
New York.

Although there has never been the least cordiality between the brothers
since the Doctor came to the city, still they have kept on visiting
terms. The Doctor has taken a deep interest in his invalid niece, and
she is never so happy as when he is talking with her. He has told her to
send for him at any time when she feels disposed to do so, and he is a
frequent visitor.

* * * * *

It was late before Mrs. Meeker returned. Something occurred to give her
excursion a very unpleasant direction. She was engaged in turning over
some new silks at Stewart's, while the young clerical gentleman stood
admiringly by, when a man of very coarse appearance and vulgar aspect
approached and placed a letter before her.

Mrs. Meeker was prepared to utter a faint shriek, but it occurred to her
that it would not appear well where she was. The young clerical
gentleman cast a look of disgust and indignation on the intruder, who
did not stop to resent it, but turned quickly on his heel and left the
place.

Mrs. Meeker, after waiting a moment to regain her composure, opened the
note, and read as follows:

'DEAR MA: Come to me directly, and bring all the money you
can. I am in a terrible fix! GUS.'

Mrs. Meeker pushed aside the rich purple silk she was examining, with so
much suddenness, that the young clerical gentleman could not but notice
it.

'My dear madam, are you ill?' he asked, with a show of devotion
distressing to witness.

'No, oh no; but this moment I recollect I have a commission to execute
for a friend, wh