“Will you carry it for me?” he said, smiling.
“I will,” Gabriel said; “I'll take George's, too, and go with you, if you'll permit me.”
“It isn't necessary,” he replied, going towards his room.
“I think papa has taken to heart the death of Don Mariano more than any one sees,” said Caroline.
“I know he has; he has hardly slept or eaten enough to sustain life since that awful night,” Mrs. Mechlin said, “and constantly talks about soon joining his best friend.”
“I have observed how very sad he is. I wrote uncle to come; I think to see his brother will be great consolation to him,” said George.
The report of a gun was heard in Mr. Mechlin's room, and all jumped to their feet. Gabriel was the first to run and got to the room in advance of the others. He found Mr. Mechlin shot through the heart.
“Oh, God! Was it accidental?” Mrs. Mechlin exclaimed, clasping her husband to heart. The dying man smiled, whispering:
“Do not mourn for me; it is best so; I shall be happier.” He looked lovingly at the anxious faces surrounding him, and closed his eyes forever.