"The poor child's one bit of property, her only stand-by in case of need! Oh, it can't be burned; and, if it is, it must be insured.

I 'm afraid a second blow would break her down completely just now, when she has not recovered from the first." Mr.Bird went out and telegraphed to Dr.George Edgerton;-- Is Oliver house burned?
What was the amount of insurance, if any?
Answer.
JOHN BIRD.
At four o'clock the reply came:-- House and outbuildings burned.

No insurance.

Have written particulars.

Nothing but piano and family portraits saved.
GEORGE EDGERTON.
In an hour another message, marked "Collect," followed the first one:-- House burned last night.