212

LOSS AND SUBSTITUTION.

that lie nearest us," which inexorable hands hold toward us. Daily then must duty be performed, however stern, however distasteful. We must toil in the "sweat of the brow," in the broad sunlight, and also beneath blackened skies—in the sight of flowers, and also of graves-companioned by dear ones, and also with foes whispering near. Ever toiling on. But taking the inescapable lot, the unavoidable responsibility upon ourselves cheerfully, even at times with patient song, by reason of the tender eyes of divine and unutterable love, which has also suffered for us, shining downward out of heaven upon our pathway, at the dim end of which we see a tomb, but also rising out of it an angel's form, winging skyward.

CHAPTER XIII.

WILLOW BROOK.

"Life is full of sorrow,

Which no words can tell;

We may pine in loneliness

Though in crowds we dwell."

"All is yours," "

says the promise: "life, death, things

present, things to come.' In the face of such words can I say

I have lost all?"

AMABEL.

ID Mr. Poinsett go away immediately,
Lolotte?"

"Yes, Miss."

"And did you say that Mr. Walworth would be home at dinner?"

"Yes, indeed, Miss, and I told him you were at home, but he could not remain," he

"You may go now," Mildred said as Lolotte lingered. Tapping absently the window-pane with her fingers, Mildred's eyes sought the distant mountain-view. The sun had nearly set; indeed it was almost dusk in the room, although the clouds were purple and golden above the mountain-gap. I lay on a sofa near, and watched for some time the changing expression in my dear companion's face. Presently large tears fell down upon her dress. I roused myself and tried to find a safe subject to amuse and interest, and soon I had the comfort of success. Mildred came and sat beside me, holding my hand with caressing affection. My conversations with her at this time were never without a secret motive. Before my illness I had noticed that Dana Poinsett began to avoid her. The study of German was discontinued, and he seldom came now of an evening, unless Walworth could give him the attention he demanded for some scientific discussion. I had remarked also a gradual change in Mildred's manner towards him. She became shy and distant, and finally proud and cold, `but she never

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missed being present at Mr. Poinsett's interviews with her brother. I saw that his conduct pained her, but I knew that I might not attempt any consolation, for hers was a nature from which I might expect no confession on a subject like this. If a love that had made her life precious, failed her, what hope was there in store for her? Despite Mrs. Grey's teachings and example, I was aware that religion to Mildred was little more than a theory still. She had never put the faith it enjoined into practice. And now, with sorrow coming, for I saw its sure approach, I wished to point out to her a secure haven, where, when her bark was adrift on a desperate sea, she might anchor in safety.

When I grew stronger, and was able to take a short drive every day with Walworth and Mildred, there came letters for me from the West and from Mrs. Seytoun. My dear mother, to whom I had written just before my illness of what I knew and what I suspected concerning Lawrence Esterlyn's engagement, urged my coming immediately to the West.

Kate might remain at Madame Merillat's; my parents could make a sacrifice and keep her there; but I, because they knew my sorrow, guessed my suffering, must be sheltered by their love, soothed by their sympathy and care. "I must write immediately," my mother said, "saying that I had received her letter, and my father would then start for the East, as soon as my answer reached him." I did write at once, but refused utterly to relinquish my situation at Glen-Beck. I knew that my father's plans for my brothers' education would be broken by such a step, and what would it avail? If my duties were unperformed, a new ingredient of self-blame would be added to the already bitter cup it was ordained I should drink. I would remain and work, much as I needed my mother's consoling and pious words; such was my decision.

The letter from Mrs. Seytoun contained a most kind and urgent invitation to come to Willow Brook, her place of residence, as soon as I was able to endure the fatigue of travel. The children, accompanied by Kitty, must