Why, indeed, had I come there?
What should I say in reply to his question?
I tried to think.
"Knaves! Knaves!" said my uncle, in a shrill voice, rushing toward me.
In a moment he had thrown his arms about my neck and was sobbing aloud.
My heart was full and I wept with him.
"Fortunate child of God," said he, after a moment; "you have the seed of life--immortal life.

But I beg you to go.

To one like you this house will seem an uncanny place; I can only think of it as beyond the grave." "Let me stay, uncle," said I."Don't send me away.

Perhaps I can help you or comfort you." "Poor soul! you shall stay if you will.

I am in great trouble and need help, but you are a boy--I cannot ask you to give your life to me." He sat down before the table, breathing heavily, and beckoned me to a chair beside him.