CHAPTER XVII.

ADVERSITY.

Mr. Hapley signs the pledge—Empties his liquors—A 280 desperate struggle—Opinions of the neighbors—Mr. Todd’s prediction—How it was treated—What Mr. Todd was supposed to be after—Uncharitableness—Difficulty of acquiring self-government in mature life—Mazeppa and the wild horse—Mr. Hapley’s relapse—Loss of self-confidence and self-respect—A visit to the rum-shop—His prolonged absence—A terrible snow storm—Henry despatched for Marcus—Marcus goes in search of Mr. Hapley—The search abandoned—Morning—The frozen horse and rider—The snow grave—Poverty—Jessie’s trials—The administrator’s advice—Jessie’s plans—Her self-sacrificing spirit—Words of comfort—Henry’s brave words—He finds a new home—Jessie provided for—Mrs. Hapley returns to her father’s,