The Continental Monthly, Vol. 4, No. 1, July, 1863, page 149 by Various Authors
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'Don't you care?' she exclaimed, looking up joyfully.
'To be sure I care, but only on your account, and'--
'Oh, never think of me. I shall be the most light-hearted creature in the world. I was only afraid--afraid'--
'Of what, pray?'
'I cannot tell. That--that--perhaps--perhaps--you would not--that--papa's losing everything might make a difference in your feelings. Now don't be angry. (Hiram was looking grave.) I did not really think it would; but--but the bare possibility has made me so very unhappy--so very, very unhappy!' and she began to cry again.
'Come, Emma, you must not be so foolish. Sit down now with me, and let me say a few words to you; for your father will want me in a few minutes, and I shall have to be with him all the evening.'
'Oh, I am so glad; you will be such a comfort to him. I know you will.'
Hiram made no reply; both took their seats, and then he spoke.
'Emma,' he said, in a tone so solemn and important that it struck terror to her soul, she knew not wherefore--'Emma, this is a momentous period of your life, and everything depends on the steps you take'--
'Why, Hiram, what do you mean--what can you mean?'
'Nothing to alarm you, but everything to impress you with the fact that no time is to be lost. Your father has made the foolish resolution to give up all his private property to his creditors'--
'So he told mamma and me. Is that not right?'
'No, it is not right. It is wrong,' replied Hiram, in a harsh tone. 'More than wrong--sinful--wicked, very wicked. Do you know who it is the Scripture says is worse than an infidel?'
'I do not,' she replied faintly.
Hiram intended to frighten her, and he had succeeded.
'You do not! Well, it is the man who fails to provide for his own household. Why, we had the text in our Sunday-school lesson only three weeks ago.'
Emma sat paralyzed.
'Now, Emma,' continued Hi