ABOUT this time a lady and gentleman, named Marion, called and engaged boarding for themselves and three children.

In Mrs.Marion there was something that won the heart at first sight, and her children were as lovely and attractive as herself; but towards her husband there was a feeling of instant repulsion.

Not that he was coarse or rude in his exterior--that was polished; but there were a sensualism and want of principle about him that could be felt.
They had been in the house only a week or two, when their oldest child, a beautiful boy, was taken ill.

He had fever, and complained of distress in his back and pain in his head.

The mother appeared anxious, but the father treated the matter lightly, and said he would be well again in a few hours.
"I think you'd better call in a doctor," Mrs.Darlington heard the mother say, as her husband stood at the chamber door ready to go away.
"Nonsense, Jane," he replied.