“One ought not to wish it to go on, because there are other people and other duties,” said Meta, “but quietness is so peaceful. Do you know, Ethel, I shall always think of those two first days, before anybody came, with you and Dr. May, as something very—very—precious,” she said at last, with the tears rising.
“I am sure I shall,” said Ethel.
“I don’t know how it is, but there is something even in this affliction that makes it like—a strange sort of happiness,” said Meta musingly.
“I know what it is!” said Ethel.
“That He is so very good?” said Meta reverently.
“Yes,” said Ethel, almost rebuked for the first thought, namely, that it was because Meta was so very good.
“It does make one feel more confidence,” said Meta.
“‘It is good for me to have been in trouble,’” repeated Ethel.
“Yes,” said Meta. “I hope it is not wrong or unkind in me to feel it, for I think dear papa would wish it; but I do not feel as if—miss him always as I shall—the spring of life were gone from me. I don’t think it can, for I know no more pain or trouble can reach him, and there is—don’t you think, Ethel, that I may think so?—especial care for the orphan, like a compensation. And there is hope, and work here. And I am very thankful! How much worse it would have been, if George had not been married! Dear Flora! Will you tell her, Ethel, how really I do wish her to take the command of me? Tell her it will be the greatest kindness in the world to make me useful to her.”
“I will,” said Ethel.