The Hero of Hill House

the supper-table. I say the family, but they were not all there. Father's place was vacant, for he had gone to town that afte

would be in no condition to be seen in the presence of his children, and that

g the vacant place at the head. There were eight children in all, the eldest a boy of sixteen, and the youngest little Doyle. The three older children were boys, George and Wilbur, sixteen and fif

autiful mother's feet. And her eyes, how lovingly they rested upon them! And how she seemed to be treasuring them in her heart! This was indeed her kingdom, and she was happy. But of course there was a sadness in her happiness, because her husband and the father of her children was choosing a path that took him o

, the little ones played, and Mother busied with her sewing. An atmosphere of peace rested upon

o be in bed. Harry, you have no lessons, you

May we not play

n, and run along withou

ng prayers. Soon the girls went sleepily off to bed with a good-night kiss. Just Mother and her boys were l

terward, if she this evening felt the other shadow which at this time was entirely hidden from their eyes, that she should talk to them so. Perhaps she did. We can not know. But deeper than this was her yearning for her sons j

their beds. Only one low light remained, and that

signs of poverty everywhere. The old table and worn chairs, bare floors scarred with the tread of little feet, the scant cupboard, the wo

his bed without a word or thought for those whom he should have loved and protected. And in the mo

re full from morning till night helping, lifting the heavy burdens, and direc

marred. Three men to bless the world or to curse it. And they had the blight upon them which their father was bringing. Every woman who is a real mother knows that Elizabeth Hill's face was often wet with tears as she contemplated what the future might bring. And happy

the veil was before their faces, and they did not know. Possibly that was best. If the veil were lifted and we knew our future, our hearts might faint within us. It is eno