"Papa seemed so anxious that I proposed sending for you," said
Marguerite in her winning gentle way.
"I am glad that you did, Miss Verne; I was just leaving the house as the message arrived."
Mr. Lawson was soon seated beside his old friend.
The latter, within the last few moments, had become much excited and the young man felt uneasy.
Mr. Verne, having divined the latter's thoughts, exclaimed, "Don't be alarmed Phillip, I have much to say before we are through. This may be the last opportunity—the very last."
"Never mind sir, you're worth a dozen dead men yet," said Mr. Lawson in a cheerful voice.
But the effect was lost upon the dying man.
"Phillip Lawson," said he, his voice calm and distinct, "I have asked God to give me strength to-night and I have not asked in vain. He has been good and merciful to me through it all and on this bed of affliction I have made my peace with Him."
A tear shone in the listener's eye and fell upon the floor.
"God has indeed been good to me. He has revealed Himself in a number of ways. Not once has He withheld His hand. The plots of the wicked have been frustrated. When their hands were lifted against me He laid them low in the dust. Ah Phillip, I have much to be grateful for."