; that, though one friend was unhappily estranged, new
and valuable supports were gained: and that valuable as these supports
were, there was One infinitely more precious, whose love no error can
overcloud, no repented sin alienate; who in sorrow draws yet nearer than
in gladness, and sheds his own peace over the hearts which humble
themselves under his chastening hand.

It had been arranged that Hannah should sit up with Isabella for the
first half of the night, and that Jane should take her place at three
o'clock in the morning: as by this means she might see Charles before
his departure at five o'clock.

Mr Everett had called again in the evening. He saw no signs of
improvement in his patient, and was sorry to observe the great reduction
of strength which had taken place within a few hours. He was now pretty
sure that the fever would prove a serious one. What he said had given
Jane no comfort; but she endeavoured to brace up her mind to meet her
cares, and she found, as most in her situation do find, that her
strength proved equal to her trial. In a melancholy, but not a restless
state of mind, she laid her head on her pillow, and having enjoyed the
relief of expressing her cares and fears to Him who alone could remove
them, she fell asleep, and continued so, till Hannah called her at four
o'clock, instead of three, as she had been desired. Jane afterwards
asked her the reason, and good Hannah declared that she could not find
in her heart to disturb so refreshing a repose, till it was time to call
Mr Charles also.

"Thank you, Hannah," said Jane; "but the next time we divide the night,
I must take the first half, and you the last."

Isabella had slept but little, and though not delirious, was restless
and uncomfortable. Her mind was full of Charles's departure, and of her
wish to see him again. She even wished to get up and meet him at the
room door, if Jane would not allow him to breathe the air of the sick
chamber. Jane was more prudent, however, than to expose Charles to the
risk of infection, and she brought Isabella to be content with a
cheerful message of love, which she knew Charles would send. Charles
was yet more grieved than his poor sister to depart without exchanging a
word or a kiss; for he could not keep off the thought that he might
perhaps see her no more. There was no knowing; she might perhaps be no
nearer death than the others; but it was a great grief to leave her so
ill, and without