It was not difficult to guess it. The boys, misguided by their father's example, had probably followed in the course which had brought ruin on him and them. And the daughter, he afterwards discovered, after having borne much suffering, and privation, and degradation also, the consequences of her father's evil habits, left home for service, and eventually married.
It is true that she did not often visit her parents' miserable home; but she often, though unknown to her father, relieved their pressing necessities.
It was some little time before Mr. Ekworth could approach the subject on which he had lightly touched when, earlier in the day, he had unexpectedly fallen in with poor Hallet.
It was plain that his had been a downward course, that intemperance had ruined him in his circumstances, had ruined his sons too, by evil example, had alienated his daughter, and even the wife of his bosom, from his affections, and was hastening him to the grave.
Cautiously, at length, the visitor endeavoured to rouse the conscience of the wretched man, by speaking of his present position and prospects for eternity.
In a low, but earnest voice, as he drew himself to the invalid's side, he reminded Hallet of the days when he professed to know something of the love of the Saviour, and the power of divine grace.
"It was all a delusion, all a delusion!" exclaimed the poor man, impatiently.
"I fear it was, indeed," said Mr. Ekworth, sadly; "but the gracious and omnipotent Saviour—"
"Don't talk about it, Mr. Ekworth," exclaimed the agitated man; "I told you this morning what my state is; and there's a voice that says about me, 'He is joined to idols; let him alone.' I know what the end will be; you need not tell me about that. Don't talk about religion, sir; anything but that."
"I must talk about it, my poor friend," said Mr. Ekworth, in some distress of mind. "I came on purpose to tell you that Jesus is willing, and waiting, and seeking to save the lost, and is able to save to the very uttermost. Think of Him, my friend; and the more you think of Him, the less reason will you find for despairing of His mercy."