She parted with Elsie at the door of the sick-room, embracing her tenderly
and bidding her "'Be strong and of a good courage,' my darling, for 'the
eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.'"

"Dearest mamma, what sweet words!" said the weeping girl. "Oh, how glad I
am that God reigns! and that I know he will send to each of his children
just what is best."

She turned away as the door closed upon her mother, and found Violet close
at her side.

There was a silent affectionate embrace, and with their arms about each
other they sought Elsie's dressing-room.

"Grandpa and Edward have told me," Violet said, "and you will let me help
you, my poor dear sister? help in thinking and selecting what you will
want to carry with you."

"Gladly, thankfully, for oh, I seem scarcely able to collect my thoughts!
How can I leave mamma and all of you? and the darling little brother and
sister so ill! and yet how can I stay away from Lester when he is sick and
alone in a strange land, with not a friend to speak a cheering word,
smooth his pillow, give his medicine, or see that he has proper food? O
Vi, can I help going to him, even at the sacrifice of leaving all other
near and dear ones?"

"I think our mother would have done it for papa," Violet answered, kissing
Elsie's cheek.

Mr. Dinsmore having first seen Ben, and found him more than willing to go