And so had I.But on their burning my soles with a red-hot iron, a merciful Providence took me out of their hands, by bringing me insensibility.

How long they pursued their barbarities after I fainted, I know not; but when I came to myself, it was in cold and darkness, lying in the open street, where I suppose they had cast me, thinking me dead.

How long a time must have passed! for the stars were shining above me.

Where were my parents, my brothers and sisters?
I tried to raise myself a little and look around, but was beaten and bruised so that I was in agonies of pain, and sank back on the ground.

The cold made my wounded feet smart indescribably; but while, with closed eyes, I was inwardly murmuring, "Lord, help thy poor servant, for I cannot help myself;" something that made me wince with pain, but the next moment gave exquisite relief, was applied to the soles of my feet, and the next instant I heard the hushed voices of those who were dearest to me on earth, my mother and Madeleine "Can it be that we are too late ?" said Madeleine.