Released from the control of the will, the mind revealed the thought which had wrecked it. The name which had never passed his lips, since she who bore it ceased to be an inhabitant of earth, was now constantly repeated in tones which drew tears from eyes “unused to weep.”
He was removed by his friends to a lunatic asylum. After a long and dangerous illness, his brain began gradually to resume its proper functions. Several relapses, however, were experienced, and it was not till the spring and summer had passed, that his mind was fully restored.
He then returned, feeble and wasted, to his native village. With the consent of his father, he took up his abode with the parents of the lost one, and occupied the chamber in which she breathed her last. He passed the days sitting in her chair, looking out upon the landscape which she had loved to gaze upon, and in reading the New Testament which had lain in her bosom.
For a few days his strength seemed to increase; but there was little to justify the hope of his friends that he would be restored to health.
The aged pastor visited him, and kindly inquired respecting the state of his soul toward God.
“He is too strong for me. I cannot contend with Him,” replied the humbled sufferer.
“It is well for us to be convinced of that truth. It should lead us to acquaint ourselves with Him and be at peace.”
“I am devoting all my time to the attainment of that knowledge and peace.”
“He that seeketh findeth! What a blessed assurance!”
After some further inquiries and appropriate counsels, the pastor withdrew, strongly hoping that that chamber would be the scene of spiritual birth, and as strongly fearing that it was again to bear witness to the power of death.