Justin’s great frame shook with the terrible storm of sorrow that he could not wholly repress.
For a few moments the venerable pastor held back in respect to the sacredness of the brother’s grief. Then he went slowly to the side of Justin, took his hand, and said:
“You know how much I feel with you. My grief and sense of loss is scarcely less than your own. But we know also where to look for strength to endure.”
Justin wrung the pastor’s hand in silence, and then sunk down in the chair that some friendly hand had placed for him.
Leaving the three faithful guardians by the bedside of the sinking girl, Elfie went down to have all manner of comforts and refreshments prepared for the newly arrived brother. And then, when she had made everything ready, she returned to the chamber of Erminie, and whispered to Justin that his dressing-room was prepared, and that his luncheon would be put upon the table as soon as he should be ready to eat it.
More for the purpose of getting away to indulge his sorrow in solitude than for any other reason, Justin arose and left the chamber.
CHAPTER XXXVII.
THE GHOSTLY VISITOR.
Hushed were his angel’s lips, but still their bland
And beautiful expression seemed to melt
With love that could not die.—Campbell.