And are we any better off now than then, I ask?
Whoever heard of a woman running away from her husband before the war, and now here is poor Jane--" "But it isn't my fault, Uncle Meriweather!" cried Jane, in desperation at his obtuseness.

"I've tried to be the best wife I could--ask Charley if I haven't.

He neglected me long before I let any one know--even mother.

I forgave him again and again, and I'd go on forgiving him forever if he would let me.

I've told him over and over that I was going to be a faithful wife to him if he killed me." "Of course, my dear, I'm not meaning to reproach you," said Uncle Meriweather, overcome by the effect of his words.