He is a
member of the Church; he performs certain rites and formulae of our holy
religion; he subscribes to charities: but it is to secure to himself
personally the benefit of heaven and whatever advantages may be
connected with it. So that, where he has acted wisely and well, the
action has been robbed of all merit, because there was no wise or right
intent, but simply a politic end in view.
Look at him, as he pushes along in the crowd! Notwithstanding his
millions, he is there a mere atom out of this world's creation. He has
not a sympathy beyond himself--not a hope which does not centre in
self--no connecting link with anything outside or beyond--no thought, no
emotion, no sense, no feeling, which are not produced by a desire to
advance the interests of "_H. Meeker_," here and hereafter.
* * * * *
We will go on in advance of Hiram, and enter his house before him.
It is one of the best in the city. Not showy, but large, ample, and well
constructed; indicating the abode of a solid man. It is situated in one
of the finest streets far 'up town.'
Before the door are two equipages. One is Mrs. Meeker's carriage, very
handsome and in exquisite taste. The other is a stylish single-seat
phaeton, with two horses tandem, and a rather flashy-looking servant in
gay livery.
Let us go into the house.
Mrs. Meeker is just preparing for a short shopping excursion before
dinner.
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