15/16 And oh, if I dare pray for _him_--if the desire for his happiness springs from no wrong sentiment--let this petition find favor--as he asked that I might be kept spotless as the angels, so keep him; and after he has passed through the furnace, let not even the smell of fire be upon him. Send him a higher blessing than that which he has lost. Oh Lord, give strength to both--especially to her whose voice is now ascending, for she is weakest, and will have most to endure." For a long time after the murmur of prayer had died on her lips, Jessie remained prostrate. When she arose at last, it was with a slow, weary movement, dreary eyes, and absent manner. The shock of this meeting had been severe--disturbing her too profoundly for even the soothing influence of prayer. |