ematurely old and worn; but there was no help
for it. She must work now until all strength failed, for Richard's money
ceased altogether, and the children were wholly dependent upon her
exertions.

One day she went to a new place to which she had been recommended by one
of her constant employers. Whilst she was cleaning a window in the room
where the mistress of the house was seated at work, the lady commenced a
conversation. Usually reticent about her own affairs, Mrs. Martyn's
gentleness touched Jane's desolate spirit, and the story of her
wretchedness was soon told.

"Were you happy when you were first married?" Mrs. Martyn inquired, and
was startled by the vehement answer:

"Oh, yes, ma'am, as happy as the day was long! My husband was so good,
and always spent his evenings at home. Ah, we were happy!"

"What made the difference, my poor woman?" was the next question, and
Jane hung her head. She had long ceased to blame herself for her share
in the wrong which had blighted her life. It all came back to her now;
conscience spoke, and would not be silenced, and told her that but for
her wrong-doing, hers might still have been a happy home.

"It was my fault, ma'am," she faltered. "I was careless and neglectful
of his comforts, and spoke sharply to him for no earthly reason, and
he's that changed, I don't know him, and he gets worse. Look here,
ma'am," and opening her dress she revealed a bruise, inflicted by a
cruel hand, "that's the first time he's ever given me a real blow; but
he'll not stop at that."

"Poor thing," said Mrs. Martyn, shuddering at the revelation of a
sister's woe.

"Couldn't you try and win him back?"

"I tried years ago, and it was no use, and now he isn't worth it,
ma'am," answered Jane.

"But suppose he could be drawn from his evil companions, and strong
drink! Don't you think it would be worth while to have an affectionate
father for your children, and a tender husband for yourself, Mrs.
Watson?"

"Yes, ma'am, if it could be done; but I don't believe it could," replied
Jane, despondingly.

"Will you promise me to make one more effort if I help you, and ask Mr.
Martyn to look after your husband? He wouldn't be the first man whom my
husband has helped out of the mire."

A flash of hope lit up Jane's face, and she said: "You're very kind to
take any interest in a stranger, ma'am, I'm sure, and if it will please
you, I'll try once more."

"That's right; now go on with your work as