"Duncan, can you bear the news?"
"Yes, yes, for the bitterness of death is past."
"But it is not death, dear lad, but--life."
"Life! I cannot believe it! Have you saved him?
"Then," he added, "my Father, who art in heaven, receive Thou the praise!
"And you, friend Talbot," he continued, pressing his captain's hand, "the thanks."
————
Conal was got safely back over the crevasse, and in his extempore hammock borne tenderly down the mountain-side until the plain below was reached.
But by this time he is able to raise his eyes and speak to his now joyful brother.
He even tries to smile.