ch we
passed was beautiful and romantic. It lay at the foot of a hill, which
occasionally re-echoed the voices of the singers, and seemed to give
faint replies to the notes of the mourners. The funeral knell was
distinctly heard from the church tower, and greatly increased the effect
which this simple and becoming service produced.

We went by several cottages: a respectful attention was universally
observed as we passed; and the countenances of many proclaimed their
regard for the departed young woman. The singing was regularly
continued, with occasional intervals of about five minutes during our
whole progress.

I cannot describe the state of my own mind as peculiarly connected with
this solemn singing. I was reminded of older times and ancient piety. I
wished the practice more frequent. It seems well calculated to excite
and cherish devotion and religious affections.

Music, when judiciously brought into the service of religion, is one of
the most delightful, and not least efficacious means of grace. I pretend
not too minutely to conjecture as to the actual nature of those pleasures
which, after the resurrection, the re-united body and soul will enjoy in
heaven; but I can hardly persuade myself that melody and harmony will be
wanting, when even the sense of hearing shall itself be glorified.

We at length arrived at the church. Looking upwards as I drew near the
church, I observed a dial on the wall. The sun's declining rays directed
the shadow to the evening hour. As I passed underneath this simple but
solemn monitor, I was reminded of the lapse of time, the uncertainty of
life, and sure approach of eternity. I thought with David, "We are
strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers; our days
on earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding."

"Lord, so teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto
wisdom."

The service was heard with deep and affectionate attention. When we came
to the grave, the hymn which Elizabeth had selected was sung. All was
devout, simple, animating. We committed our dear sister's body to the
earth, in full hope of a joyful resurrection from the dead.

Thus was the veil of separation drawn for a season. She is departed, and
no more seen. But she will be seen on the right hand of her Redeemer at
the last day, and will again appear to his glory, a miracle of grace and
monument of mercy.

My reader, rich or poor, shall you and I app