Clouds of purple, gold, crimson, in some parts fading into pink, floated slowly along the azure heavens, and the perfect stillness that reigned around completed the enchantment of the scene.
"Look up, my Mary, and mark those clouds of light," said Herbert.

"See the splendour of their hues, the unstained blue beyond; beautiful as is earth, it shows not such exquisite beauty as yon heaven displays, even to our mortal sight, nor calls such feelings of adoration forth.

What then will it be when that blue arch is rent asunder, and the effulgent glory of the Maker of that heaven burst upon our view ?" "Blessed, oh, how blessed are those who, conducted by the Lamb of God, can share that glory," answered Mary, with sudden energy.

"Who can speak the unutterable love which, while the beauteous earth yet retains the traces of an awful curse, hath washed from man his sin, and takes from death its sting ?" "And is it this thought, this faith which supports you now, my Mary ?" demanded Herbert, with that deep tenderness of one so peculiarly his own.
"It is, it is," she answered, fervently, "My sins are washed away; my prayers are heard, for my Saviour pleads, and my home is prepared on high amid the redeemed and the saved.

Oh, blessed be the God of truth that hath granted me this faith"-- she paused a minute, then added--"and heard my prayer, my beloved Herbert, and permitted me thus to die in my native land, surrounded by those I love!" She leaned her head on Herbert's bosom, and for some time remained silent; then looking up, said cheerfully, "Do you remember, Emmeline, when we were together some few years ago, we always said such a scene and hour as this only wanted music to make it perfect?
I feel as if all those fresh delightful feelings of girlhood had come over me again.
Bring your harp and sing to me, dearest, those words you read to me the other day." "Nay, Mary, will it not disturb you ?" said Emmeline, kneeling by her couch, and kissing the thin hand extended to her.
"No, dearest, not your soft, sweet voice, it will soothe and give me pleasure.