"All this is painful and deeply to be regretted, Sidney," said the
wife, speaking in as firm a voice as she could assume. "But as it is
a calamity that cannot now be avoided, and is not the result of any
wrong act of yours, let a clear conscience sustain you in this
severe trial. Let the public censure, let odium be attached to your
name--so long as your conscience is clear and your integrity
unsullied, these cannot really hurt you."

But this appeal had little or no effect. The mind of the unhappy man
could not take hold of it, nor feel its force. It was repeated again
and again, and with as little effect. Finally he begged to be left
to his own reflections. In tears his wife complied with his request.
That night she slept as little as her miserable husband.

On the next day the----Insurance Company was dishonoured, and "went
into liquidation." On the day following Sidney Lawrence suspended
payment. Trustees were appointed to take charge of the effects of
the company, who immediately commenced a rigid examination into its
affairs. Lawrence made an assignment at the same time for the
benefit of his creditors.

One evening, about a week after his failure, Mr. Lawrence came home
paler and more disturbed than ever. There was something wild in the
expression of his countenance.

"Florence," said he, as soon as he was alone with her, "I must leave
for Cincinnati in the morning."

"Why?" eagerly asked the wife, her face instantly blanching.