"And others, that we have scarcely seen the beginning of the end," returned the neighbour.
And so, as they walked homeward, they discouraged each other, and made darker the clouds that obscured their whole horizon.
"Good evening," was at last said, hurriedly; and the two men passed into their homes.
Mr. Walcott entered the room, where his wife and children were gathered, and without speaking to any one, seated himself in a chair, and leaning his head back, closed his eyes. His countenance wore a sad, weary, exhausted look. He had been seated thus for only a few minutes, when his wife said, in a fretful voice,
"More trouble again."
"What's the matter now?" asked Mr. Walcott, almost starting.
"John has been sent home from school."
"What!" Mr. Walcott partly arose from his chair.
"He's been suspended for bad conduct."
"O dear!" groaned Mr. Walcott—"Where is he?"