We shall see him
soon, at the opening by the dead beech; and it is there that I recommend
the Madam--"
"It was thoughtful in Heathcote, and like his usual kindness, to devise
this well-meant caution!" said Ruth, across whose countenance a smile so
radiant passed, that it imparted the expression which is believed to
characterize the peculiar benignancy of angels. "Still it was unnecessary;
for he should have known that we place our strength on the Rock of Ages.
Tell me, in what manner hath my precious one borne the exceeding weariness
of thy tangled route?"
The wandering glance of the messenger had gone from face to face, until it
became fastened on the countenance of his own wife, in a settled,
unmeaning gaze.
"Nay, Faith hath demeaned well, both as my assistant and as thy partner,
and thou mayest see that her comeliness is in no degree changed--And did
the babe falter in this weary passage, or did she retard thy movements by
her fretfulness? But I know thy nature, man; she hath been borne over many
long miles of mountain-side and treacherous swamp, in thine own vigorous
arms.
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