"I do not know," he said, doubtingly. "This circumstance will make
William sensible of his duty; he will, no doubt, restore her a part
of the property received from her hands. This is the least he can
do."

Florence differed with her brother. She did not believe that either
William or his wife would regard their mother in any way; both were
too selfish and too unforgiving. Much was said all around, but no
clear course of action was perceived.

"I'll tell you what you can do," spoke up Mrs. Linden, her eyes
sparkling. A thought had flashed over her mind.

"What is it, Ellen?" asked her husband.

"You can send her, under a blank envelope, a thousand dollars or
more, and thus keep her above the bitter feeling of dependence. More
can be sent when more is required."

"True! true!" was the husband's quick reply. "And I will do it."

When the news of the failure of the bank in which the little remnant
of her property was contained reached the ears of Mrs. Linden, her
spirits sank. Pride had kept her up before; but now her haughty
self-dependence, her indignation, her bitterness of feeling toward
her children, gave way, and, in conscious weakness, she bowed her
head and prayed for oblivion. She felt deserted by all; but
indignation at this desertion was not the feeling that ruled in her
heart; she felt weak, lonely, and powerless. From a high position,
which she had held with imperious pride, she had fallen almost