I had forgotten it for a moment, Oliver, but I hope I may be pardoned, for I am old, and have seen enough of illness and death to know the agony of separation from the objects of our love.

I have seen enough, too, to know that it is not always the youngest and best who are spared to those that love them; but this should give us comfort in our sorrow; for Heaven is just; and such things teach us, impressively, that there is a brighter world than this; and that the passage to it is speedy.
God's will be done! I love her; and He knows how well!' Oliver was surprised to see that as Mrs.Maylie said these words, she checked her lamentations as though by one effort; and drawing herself up as she spoke, became composed and firm.

He was still more astonished to find that this firmness lasted; and that, under all the care and watching which ensued, Mrs.Maylie was every ready and collected: performing all the duties which had devolved upon her, steadily, and, to all external appearances, even cheerfully.

But he was young, and did not know what strong minds are capable of, under trying circumstances.

How should he, when their possessors so seldom know themselves?
An anxious night ensued.