In this unhappy mood he retired at an earlier hour than usual, but could not sleep for a long time--his thoughts were too unquiet.

At last, however, he sunk into a deep slumber.
When again conscious, the sun was shining in at the window.

His wife had already risen.

He got up, dressed himself, and went down stairs.
Breakfast was already on the table, and his happy little household assembling.

But after all were seated, Mr.Bancroft noticed a vacant place.
"Where is Flora ?" he asked.
A shade passed over the brow of his wife.
"Flora has been quite ill all night," she replied; "I was up with her for two or three hours." "Indeed! what is the matter ?" Mr.Bancroft felt a sudden strange alarm take hold of his heart.
"I can't tell," returned the mother.