Page:Francesca Carrara 2.pdf/239

236 Lord Stukeley had been for some time watching the small portion of the Thames which could be caught from the barred casement. There was but little to interest in the carpenter's yard opposite, or the few boats that were floating slowly down the river. He turned away listlessly, and at first, with the sole idea of its own enjoyment ever uppermost with a spoiled child, was about to rouse his father, when his natural kindliness of temper prevailed, and he desisted, though obviously not knowing what to do with himself. He then opened a drawer in the table, and took from it a pack of cards. "I can't play by myself," exclaimed he, discontentedly. Suddenly his face brightened, he drew his seat forwards, and began building houses. One after another the parti-coloured fragments of each fragile fabric were strewed over the table, till gradually his hand became accustomed and steady—wall and roofs were properly balanced, and the mimic Babels mounted high in air,—fittest symbols of all the graver plans and trials that agitate human existence. Scarcely is one scheme overthrown ere another is raised out of its ruins, but destined, like its predecessor, to destruction; and yet, it would seem, the more we know the chances against our efforts—how a breath may demolish,