“O Serenus! art thou here? I was dreaming of thy presence. I have prayed to see thee once more before my departure.”
These words were spoken in a low, sweet voice; the first above a whisper for three days. She continued,—
“My hours are numbered! I now can tell thee of my love. While I had life before me it was expedient that I should refrain. Blessed be these eyes which once more behold thee! Abiding peace be thine!”
Serenus lightly took her thin and almost transparent hand, and bending his head, touched it softly to his lips.
“Amabel! there is an abundance of life, and to spare. Behold the very breath of God is within you! His strength is freely and lovingly thine own.”
“How sayest thou so, Serenus? Behold it hath been told me that I must die. The physicians have so declared, and my parents mourn me as though already departed. Thinkest thou that there is life beyond the grave, and is it that of which thou speakest? And does love continue there?”
“O Amabel! there is no grave, save for worn-out dust. Thy fair form is yet youthful, and thou mayst command it as thou wilt, and enjoy its sweet ministry.”
“What is that thou sayest? Behold many of fewer years than mine are gathered unto their fathers!”
“Yea, the belief in the power of the grave hath passed upon the children of men. But they know not the power of God, and how it is given to his children to wield it if they will. As we open our souls, and confidently take hold of the Present Help, strength is ours. Be filled with the spirit of the Father, for he is thy dwelling-place.”
“O glorious tidings! I feel thrilled in soul and body!”