I knelt down, and as well as I could for the tears that almost choked me, repeated that most simple, yet all-satisfying petition to the Throne of Grace.
Meanwhile the doctor held Joe's wrist, and my sister, at a sign from him, put a few drops of nourishment between the pale lips.
“My dear,” at length said the doctor, “did you say the boy's brother was in London?”
“Yes,” I replied, “but I have no address, as I expect him here this morning.”
“That is well; he may be in time.”
“In time?” I repeated; “in time for what? Is he dying? Can nothing be done?”
The good doctor looked again with moistened eyes on the little white face, and said sadly—
“I fear not, but the sight of this brother he seems to have such a strong love for may rouse him for a while. As it is, he is sinking fast. I can do no more, he is beyond human skill; but love and God's help may yet save him. Poor little fellow, he has done his duty nobly, and even to die doing that is an enviable fate; but we want such boys as this to live, and show others the way.”
There was a slight sound at the room door, and on turning round I saw Dick—Dick with wild, dumb entreaty in his eyes.
I pointed to the bed, and with a whispered “Hush!” beckoned him to enter.