a child. You can't tell who his parents are, and he may inherit all
their bad qualities."

The clergyman made no reply. He merely stroked his chin, and thought
of the sob he had heard at the door that dark night.

"Such a child," Mrs. Marden continued, in her most doleful voice, "is
sure to bring trouble upon you sooner or later. But, then, we all have
our troubles, and must expect them. Ever since poor Abner was taken
from me my life has been full of trials and tribulations. He was very
good to me, and we were so happy."

At this point the widow produced her handkerchief, and wiped away the
tears which were flowing down her cheeks. Parson Dan knew, and all the
neighbours knew, that if Mrs. Marden's life was "full of trials and
tribulations" after her husband's death, Mr. Marden had more than his
share of them before he died, due directly to his wife's incessant
nagging.

"Yes, I have my troubles," and the widow resumed her tale of woe.
"They never cease, for just as soon as one is removed another springs
up."

"Why, what's wrong now?" the parson queried.

"What! haven't you heard?" and the visitor looked sharply at the
clergyman.

"No, I can't say that I have, especially of late."