The Gilded Age, Part 2

The Gilded Age, Part 2.

Only two or three days had elapsed since the funeral, when something happened which was to change the drift of Laura's life somewhat, and influence in a greater or lesser degree the formation of her character. Major Lackland had once been a man of note in the Statea man of extraordinary natural ability and as extraordinary learning. He had been universally trusted and honored in his day, but had finally, fallen into misfortune; while serving his third term in Congress, and while upon the point of being elevated to the Senatewhich was considered the summit of earthly aggrandizement in those dayshe had yielded to temptation, when in distress for money wherewith to save his estate; and sold his vote. His crime was discovered, and his fall followed instantly. Nothing could reinstate him in the confidence of the people, his ruin was irretrievablehis disgrace complete. All doors were closed against him, all men avoided him. After years of skulking retirement and dissipation, death had relieved him of his troubles at last, and his funeral followed close upon that of Mr. Hawkins. He died as he had latterly livedwholly alone and friendless. He had no relativesor if he had they did not acknowledge him. The coroner's jury found certain memoranda upon his body and about the premises which revealed a fact not suspected by the villagers before-viz., that Laura was not the child of Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins. ......Buy Now (To Read More)

Product details

Ebook Number: 5819
Author: Twain, Mark
Release Date: Jun 20, 2004
Format: eBook
Language: English

Contributors

Contributor (Author): Warner, Charles Dudley, 1829-1900