112 A GOOD INVESTMENT.

 

thought of the sad reverses that awaited
them.

On entering his dwelling, Mr. Winslow
sought the partner of his life, and commu-
nicated to her without reserve the painful
intelligence of his approaching failure.

“Ts it indeed so hopeless?” she asked,
tears filling her eyes.

“T am utterly prostrate!” was the reply,
in a voice that was full of anguish. And
in the bitterness of the moment, the un-
fortunate merchant wrung his hands.

To Mrs. Winslow, the shock, so unex-
pected, was very severe; and it was some
time before her mind, after her husband’s
announcement, acquired any degree of calm-
ness.

About half an hour after Mr. Winslow’s
return home, and while both his own heart
and that of his wife were quivering with
pain, a servant came and said that a
gentleman had called and wished to see
him.

“Who is it?” asked the merchant.