His daughter Jenny had been happy in her marriage, but the union never gave him much satisfaction.

She was to have been the wife of one more distinguished than a mere plodding money-making merchant.
Painful was the shock that accompanied the prostration of old Mr.
Lofton's ambitious hopes touching his grandson, of whom he had always been exceedingly fond.

To him he had intended leaving the bulk of his property when he died.

But now anger and resentment arose in his mind against him as unworthy such a preference, and in the warmth of a moment's impulse, he corrected his will and cut him off with a dollar.

This was no sooner done than better emotions stirred in the old man's bosom, and he regretted the hasty act; but pride of consistency prevented his recalling it.
From that time old Mr.Lofton broke down rapidly.