This cheering prospect, however, was but a glimpse of sunshine, that soon disappeared in disappointment and darkness. A rapid journey to London, at an inclement season, induced a train of symptoms which, assuming a more and more decided character, continued their fatal progress until arrested by the hand of death, which took place in December, 1848.
He died in the prime of life, having survived his wife one brief twelvemonth, and left behind him an infant family, with “a father’s blessing for their patrimony,” for whom no better wish can be expressed by his friends than that they may inherit their father’s virtues, without his sorrows. These orphans were immediately transferred to the care of a near relative, under whose affectionate guardianship and devoted care they have already shown evidence of an intellectual capacity that expands by cultivation, and promises to bring forth good fruit in its season.
As far as the loss of parents could be supplied at their tender age, it has been supplied by this relative—whose delicacy must not be hurt by any commendation from a stranger, whose only object, in thus closing the volume, is to record his admiration of Genius that so often flourishes and fades in the shade; yet, strong in the faith that looks for a better country, feels that the trials of this life are all softened, if not disarmed, by the practice of virtue, and a humble reliance on the promises of God.
In the little churchyard of Tinterne-Parva—which he had so feelingly described—repose the remains of William Hearde Thomas, and the short-lived partner of his joys and sorrows.]
END OF THE SECOND SERIES.
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