From the middle of August to the end of October for him there was no whist, no society,--it may almost be said no dinner.

He had tried going to the seaside; he had tried going to Paris; he had endeavoured to enjoy Switzerland and the Italian lakes;--but all had failed, and he had acknowledged to himself that this sad period of the year must always be endured without relaxation, and without comfort.
Of his children he now took but little notice.

His daughter was married and in India.

His younger son had disappeared, and the father was perhaps thankful that he was thus saved from trouble.

With his elder son he did maintain some amicable intercourse, but it was very slight in its nature.