And when Sophia and Charlotte each scattered a little salt upon the ground, and broke off a small spray of boxwood, he knew instinctively that they were silently expressing their faith in the preservation of the body, and in the life everlasting; and he imitated them in the simple rite.
Ducie met them with a grave and tender pleasure.

"Come, and see the empty soul-case," she said softly; "there is nothing to fear you." And she led them into the chamber where it lay.

The great bed was white as a drift of snow.

On the dark oak walls, there were branches of laurel and snowberry.

The floor was fragrant under the feet, with bits of rosemary, and bruised ears of lavender, and leaves of thyme.