'We know that all things work together for good to them that love God.' Blessed, comforting assurance! And how sweet are those words of Jesus, 'What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter!'" "Yes, dearest mother," he said, with emotion, "and for you it will be all joy, the beginning of an eternity of bliss, if it shall please him to take you to himself; but oh, how hard it will be for your children to learn to live without you! But I will hope and pray that the result may be for you restored health and a long and happy life." For some moments he held her in a close embrace, then, at the sound of approaching footsteps in the hall without, laid her gently down upon her pillows.
"Keep it from Zoe for to-night, if possible," she said softly.

"Dear little woman! I would not have her robbed of her night's rest." "I will try, mother dear," he said, pressing his lips again and again to hers.

"God grant you sweet and refreshing sleep, but oh, do not for a moment hesitate to summon me if there is anything I can do to relieve you, should you be in pain, or to add in any way to your comfort." She gave the desired promise and he stole softly from the room; but not to join his wife till some moments of solitude had enabled him so to conquer his emotion that he could appear before her with a calm and untroubled countenance.
Mr.and Mrs.Dinsmore passed into the boudoir as he left it.

Rose had just learned from her husband of his talk of that evening with Dr.
Conly, and what the physician had then told him of his daughter's condition and the trial awaiting her in the near future.
Rose was full of sympathy for Elsie, and so overcome at the thought of the trial she must so soon pass through that she could scarcely speak.
They clung to each other in a long, tender embrace, Rose shedding tears, Elsie calm and quiet.
"You will let me be with you, dear Elsie ?" she said at last.

"Oh, how willingly I would help you bear it if I could!" "Dear mamma, how kind you are and have always been to me!" exclaimed the low sweet voice.