no claim to infallibility; I may err in judgment, but I see no reason to
hope that your life on earth will be prolonged for more than three months
at the farthest, and I much fear the end may come in less than half that
time."

The doctor could not at first judge of the full effect of his words, for
Mr. Leland sat with his face half hidden in his hand.

For a moment a deathlike stillness reigned in the room; then Dr. Taylor
said, low and feelingly, "You are a Christian, my dear sir, and for you
dying will be but going home to a brighter and better world."

"Yes," was the reply, "and your tidings would have no terrors for me
were it not--for those who must be left behind; but oh, the parting
from helpless dear ones for whom my care and protection seems so
necessary!--that is the bitterness of death!"

"'Leave thy fatherless children, I will preserve them alive; and let thy
widows trust in Me,'" quoted the physician in sympathizing tones.

"Yes, yes; thank God for that precious promise!" exclaimed Mr. Leland.
"And you, doctor, for reminding me of it," he added, stretching out a
hand to his kind comforter.

It was taken in a warm grasp and held for a moment while other of the
many sweet and comforting promises of God's Word were recalled to the
mind of the sufferer, to his great consolation.

"I would it were in my power," the doctor said at length, "to hold out to
you any hope of restoration to health. I cannot do that, but will write