The eyes of Rachel lingered upon each loved countenance, as if for the last time, and when these passed from before her bodily visions, love kept them as distinct as ever, but distinct in their tearful sadness.
If the wishes and feelings of Rachel Parker had been consulted--if she had been at all considered and her true feelings and character justly appreciated--a removal to the West would never have been determined upon.

But her husband's mind was all absorbed in ideas of worldly things.

Not possessing the habits and qualities of mind that ensure success in any calling, he was always oppressed with the consciousness that he was either standing still, or going behind-hand.

Instead of seeking to better his condition by greater activity, energy, and concentration of thought upon his business, he was ever looking to something beyond it, and to change of place and pursuit as the means of improving his fortunes.

This at last, as has been seen, led him off to the West in the ardent hope of becoming in time a wealthy farmer.