It seemed as if every joy I had was destined to crumble in my hand.

No sooner had I found my little lady in Paris than a cruel hand swept us asunder.

No sooner had I found my brother than I found him estranged from me in a hopeless cause.

No sooner had I heard of the safety of her I loved than I heard she was lifted further out of my reach than ever.

I could have wished I had never met Tim again.