Even that would be better than treatment such as this.' That would have been Hester's reply could she have spoken her mind; but she could not speak it, and therefore she stood silent.

'I will not pretend.
You and your father have done this thing against my wishes and against my advice.' 'It is I that have done it, mamma.' 'You would not have persevered had he been firm,--as firm as I have been.

But he has vacillated, turning hither and thither, serving God and Mammon.

And he has allowed himself to be ruled by his own son.

I will never, never speak to Robert Bolton again.' 'Oh mamma, do not say that.' 'I do say it.