ish to solace me. But this was ever her character; this was her
very nature; to live out of herself, as it might be, and in the existences
of those whom she esteemed or loved. During this scene, Lucy lost most of
the restraints which womanhood and more matured habits had placed on her
deportment; and she behaved towards me with the innocent familiarity that
marked our intercourse down to the time I sailed in the Crisis. It is
true, I was too dreadfully agitated at first to take heed of all that
passed; but, I well remember, that, before leaving me in obedience to a
summons from Grace, she laid her head affectionately on mine, and kissed
the curls with which nature had so profusely covered the last. I thought,
at the time, notwithstanding, that the salute would have been on the
forehead, or cheek, three years before, or previously to her acquaintance
with Drewett.

I was a long time in regaining entire self-command; but, when I did, I
opened my sister's letter to Rupert, agreeably to her request, and perused
it thrice without a pause, even to reflect. It was conceived in
these words:--

"My Dearest Rupert--

"God, in his infinite and inscrutable wisdom, when you read this letter,
will have seen fit to call me to himself. Let not this seeming loss, in
any manner, afflict you, my friend; for I feel the humble assurance that
I shall reap the full benefit of the Saviour's great sacrifice. I could
not have been happy in this life, Rupert; and it is a mercy that I am
taken, thus early, to a better. It grieves me to part from your
excellent father, from yourself, from our precious and rightfully
beloved Lucy, and from dear, dear Miles. This is the last tribute I pay
to nature, and I hope it will be pardoned for its character. There is a
strong hope within me, that my death will be sanctified to the benefit
of my friends. With this view, and this view only, beloved Rupert, I
wish you to remember it. In all other respects let it be forgotten. You
have found it impossible to command your affections, and worlds would
not have tempted me to become your wife without possessing all your
heart. I pray daily, almost hourly"--tears had evidently blotted this
portion of the letter--"for you and Emily. Live together, and make each
other happy. She is a sweet girl; has enjoyed advantages that Clawbonny
could not bestow, and which will contribute to your gratification. In
order that you may sometimes