“It was an awful death; but on the same night there was a very good death after a very good life. You have heard, Nanna?”
“I have heard nothing. For many days all has been still and tidingless. The fever is in every house, and no one comes near but the doctor, and he speaks only to the sick.”
“Well, then, the good minister has gone home. He was taken with the fever while giving the sacrament to Elder Somerlid. And he knew that he would die, for he said, ‘John Somerlid, we shall very soon drink this cup together in the house of our Father in heaven.’ So when he got back to the manse he sent for Elder Peterson, and gave him his last words.”
“And I know well that they would be good words.”
“They were like himself, full of hope. He spoke about his books, and the money in his desk to pay all his debts, and then he said:
“‘The days of my life are ended, but I have met the hand of God, Peter, and it is strong to lead and to comfort me. A word was brought to me even as I held the blessed cup in my hand. Read to me from the Book while I can listen to it.’ And Peterson asked, ‘What shall I read?’ And the minister said, ‘Take the Psalms. There is everything in the Psalms.’ So Peterson read the ones he called for, and after a little the minister said:
“‘That will do, Peter. I turn now from the sorrow and pain and darkness of earth to the celestial city, to infinite serenities, to love without limit, to perfect joy. And when I am dead, see you to my burying, Peter. Lay me in the grave with my face to the east, and put above me Jesus Christ’s own watchword, “Thy kingdom come.”’ After that he asked only for water, and so he died.”
“Blessed are such dead. There is no need to weep for them.”
“That is one thing sure; but I have seen this, Nanna: that the wicked is unbefriended in his death-pang.”
“And after it, David? O David, after it?”