In this arrangement, Hiram had unquestionably decided to forego the luxury of pleasant female society. Mrs. Eastman had a sour-looking countenance, which did not in the least belie her disposition. In fact, her husband had a hard time of it, and doubtless thought Hiram's presence might prove a distraction for him--or for his wife. In either case, he would be the gainer, even if Hiram suffered somewhat. The latter did not appear to be apprehensive, but made himself at home in short order. Then, and not before, he called on Mr. Bennett, and told him, ere the latter had time to inquire, that he had quit Burnsville, and was now clerk for Hendly, Layton & Gibb, ship chandlers. 'Well, that's a move, I declare! Did you suppose I was so full I could not make room for you?' 'Not that; but, you see, I am not going into your line,' said Hiram, blandly. Till that moment Mr. Bennett had himself no idea how much he was calculating on Hiram's assistance in his largely increasing business. He was greatly disappointed. He was too shrewd, however, to express much regret. He only said, 'I should have been glad to have had you with me, but you know your own business best, I dare say. You will _do_ anywhere, I guess. Now you are here, come and see us often, and let me know when I can be of use to you.' Keen men sympathize with keen; knaves with knaves; the good with the good. CHAPTER XVI When Sarah Burns, after Hiram's departure, sat down, quietly to think over the events of the past few days--for during the week he remained in the house she had no opportunity for reflection--she was sensible of a species of relief that she was no longer bound to him. It was not permitted in nature nor in God's providence that this fellow should have lasting power over one so true hearted. With such, his influence was not to become absolute or controlling. This was Sarah's first love affair, and she had no experience as to her own emotions, and possessed, therefore, no test by which to judge of their intensity. Now she could look back and see that her heart had not been satisfied. '_Not satisfied!_' How many a young girl has been forced bitterly to take up this burden--when too late. '_Disappointed!_' How many, when it is past help, whisper the terrible word in secret to their souls! How many are now dragging out a despairing existence, chained to some Hiram Meeker, with heart-wants never to be filled; with sympathies never to be responded to; with rich capacities for loving, which find in return neither tenderness nor appreciation; with affections, and no lawful object;--glowing, earnest natures companioned with calculation and selfishness and a remorseless subtlety; full, fresh, joyous vitality, yoked to a living corpse. Thank God! for Sarah Burns it was not too late.