The fact was, that Nicholas Forster, like many other husbands, although his wife had been a source of constant annoyance, had become so habituated to her, that he was miserable now that she was gone.  Habit is more powerful than even love; and many a married couple continue to live comfortably together long after love has departed, from this most binding of all human sensations.  Nicholas determined to quit Overton; and Newton, who perceived that his father’s happiness was at stake, immediately acquiesced in his wish.  When Nicholas Forster resolved to leave the town where he had so long resided, he had no settled plans for the future; the present idea to remove from the scene connected with such painful associations was all which occupied his thoughts.  Newton, who presumed that his father had some arranged plan, did not attempt to awaken him from his profound melancholy, to inquire into his intentions; and Nicholas had never given the subject one moment of his thought.  When all was ready, Newton inquired of his father, in what manner he intended they should travel?—­“Why, outside the coach will be the cheapest, Newton; and we have no money to spare.  You had better take our places to-night.”

“To what place, father?” inquired Newton.

“I’m sure I don’t know, Newton,” replied Nicholas, as if just awoke.

This answer produced a consultation; and after many pros and cons, it was resolved that Nicholas should proceed to Liverpool, and settle in that town.  The sloop commanded by Newton was found defective in the stern port; and, as it would take some little time to repair her, Newton had obtained leave for a few days to accompany his father on his journey.  The trunk picked up at sea, being too cumbrous, was deposited with the articles of least value, in the charge of Mr Dragwell; the remainder was taken away by Newton, until he could find a more secure place for their deposit.  On their arrival at Liverpool, with little money and no friends, Nicholas rented a small shop; and Newton having extended his leave of absence to the furthest, that he might contribute to his father’s comfort, returned to Overton, to resume the command of the sloop.  The first object was to call at the asylum, where he was informed that his mother was much less violent, but in so weak a state that he could not be admitted.  Doctor Beddington had not returned; but a medical gentleman, who had been called in during his absence, stated to Newton, that he had no doubt if his mother should recover from her present state of exhaustion, that her reason would be restored.  Newton returned to Overton with a lightened heart, and the next day sailed in the sloop for Bristol.  Contrary winds detained him more than a fortnight on his passage.  On his arrival, his cargo was not ready, and Newton amused himself by walking about the town and its environs.  At last his cargo was on board; and Newton, who was most anxious to ascertain the fate of his mother,