As he proceeded along the once-crowded but now utterly-deserted thoroughfare that opened upon him, he could scarcely believe he was in a spot which had once been the busiest of the busy haunts of men--so silent, so desolate did it appear! On reaching Cornhill, he found it equally deserted.

The Exchange was closed, and as Leonard looked at its barred gates, a saddening train of reflection passed through his mind.

His head declined upon his breast, and he continued lost in a mournful reverie until he was roused by a hand laid upon his shoulder, and starting--for such a salutation at this season was alarming--he looked round, and beheld Solomon Eagle.
"You are looking upon that structure," said the enthusiast, "and are thinking how much it is changed.

Men who possess boundless riches imagine their power above that of their Maker, and suppose they may neglect and defy him.

But they are mistaken.