Nay, she almost wished there had been some
bitterness and anger against which to contend. Perhaps it may be so with
our souls in their judgment-day; God's mercy may outstrip the poor
conjectures we have formed about it. He may see palliation for our sins,
which we ourselves had not taken into account.
After a few moments, Sophie beckoned Cornelia to come near, and, as the
latter stood beside the bed, took her by the hand and smiled.
"I've been all this time with Bressant," were her first words, spoken
faintly, but with a quiet and serene assurance.
Cornelia made no answer; indeed, she could not speak. Strange and
incomprehensible as Sophie's assertion was, she did not think of
doubting but that in some way it must be true. Sophie continued:
"Before I went to sleep, I prayed God to send my spirit to him; and we
have been together. Neelie, he is coming back!"
"Coming back! Sophie, coming back! For what?"
"Don't look so frightened, my darling. He will tell you why when he gets
here. That will be to-morrow at noon."
"O Sophie! Sophie! the day and hour of your marriage!"
Cornelia sank upon her knees, and hid her face upon the edge of the bed.
But Sophie let her hand wander over her head, with a soothing motion.
"No, dear; that's all over, Neelie dear, you know.
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