"But I was so tired, and then I knew that the battle would have to be fought all over again." "I am not sure that I understand you, dear lad." "No, because I am not making things clear; but I will try to do so, and then you must help me.

I have been a coward, father--that's the truth--and have rebelled against my hard fate--God's will was not my will, and I wanted to live and marry Elizabeth." "Ay, David boy, I know." "Yes, you know," with a sad, yearning look at the gray head bent now upon the trembling hands.

"You know that was how my mother felt when she went so far away from us to die--she only consented to go because she wanted to live." "And it broke her heart to leave us," returned his father huskily.
"Dear heart, how she prayed that we might be spared that parting; but the Divine Will ordered otherwise." "I have prayed too," murmured David, "and then, thank God! the strength and help I needed so sorely came.

I have felt so peaceful lately, and now the struggle will begin again." "Oh no, surely not, David." "Yes, father, it must.

I shall get better for a time, and I shall have the sunshine, and Elizabeth's dear love, and life will grow too precious to me again, and I shall dishonour my Master, and put Him to shame, by wanting to lay down my cross." "No, David, I am not afraid of that," returned his father gravely.