But in this painful extremity I will be near them.

I come back to the post of duty, even at this late hour, and all that is left for me, that will I do." I was deeply touched by her words and manner.
The latter softened a little as she uttered the closing sentence.
"You look at the darkest side," I answered.

"With God are the issues of life.

He calls us, our children, or our friends, in His own good time.
We cannot tell how any sickness will terminate; and hope for the best is always our truest state." "I hope for the best," she replied; but with something equivocal in her voice.
"The best is life," I said, scarcely reflecting upon my words.
"Not always," she returned, still speaking calmly.

"Death is often the highest blessing that God can give.