"It is the cold sweat of death. I must yield up my spirit, for my sickness increaseth."
Then he prayed fervently, saying—
"Heavenly Father! everlasting and merciful God thou hast revealed to me thy dear Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Him have I taught; Him have I experienced; Him have I confessed; Him I love and adore as my beloved Saviour, Sacrifice, and Redeemer—Him whom the godless persecute, dishonour, and reproach. O heavenly Father, though I must resign my body, and be borne away from this life, I know that I shall be with Him for ever. Take my poor soul up to Thee!"
Afterwards he took a little medicine, and, assuring his friends that he was dying, said three times—
"Father, into thy hands do I commend my spirit. Thou hast redeemed me, thou faithful God. Truly God hath so loved the world!"
Then he lay quiet and motionless. Those around sought to rouse him, and began to rub his chest and limbs, and spoke to him, but he made no reply. Then Jonas and Cœlius, for the solace of the many who had received the truth from his lips, spoke aloud, and said—
"Venerable father, do you die trusting in Christ, and in the doctrine you have constantly preached?"
He answered by an audible and joyful "Yes!"
That was his last word on earth. Then turning on his right side, he seemed to fall peaceably asleep for a quarter of an hour. Once more hope awoke in the hearts of his children and his friends; but the physician told them it was no favourable symptom.
A light was brought near his face; a death-like paleness was creeping over it, and his hands and feet were becoming cold.