I do wonder if it's just missing those children upsets her so." Whether his advice were taken or not, Rivers did not learn directly, but Mrs.Crocker said things were better when next they met, and the clergyman asked no questions.
Penhallow had his own distracting troubles.

The financial condition which became serious in the spring and summer of 1857 was beginning to cause him alarm, and soon after the new year came in he felt obliged to talk over his affairs and to advise his wife to loan the mill company money not elsewhere to be had except at ruinous interest.

She wished simply to give him the sum needed, but he said no, and made clear to her why he required help.

She was pleased to be consulted, and showing, as usual, notable comprehension of the business situation, at once did as he desired.
Rivers not aware of what was so completely occupying Penhallow's mind, wondered later why he would not discuss the decision of the Supreme Court in the Dred Scott case and did not share his own indignation.

"But," he urged, "it declares the Missouri Compromise not warranted by the Constitution!" "I can't talk about it, Mark," said Penhallow, "I am too worried by my own affairs." Then Rivers asked no further questions; he hoped he would read the masterly dissenting opinion of Justices McLean and Curtis.