For himself, he requested a further renewal of his furlough on the ground of his approaching marriage.

With that kindness and consideration which distinguished Gen.

Randolph, his applications were granted, and leaves of absence for Alfred and himself for sixty days longer were cordially granted.
With the furloughs, he arrived from Richmond the same evening that the conversation related above took place between the doctor and Alfred, and on the return of his friend from his wife's chamber, he presented him with his leave.
"You are indeed a friend," remarked Alfred, "and I can never sufficiently repay the kindness you have shown me.

But before this furlough expires I do not suppose I shall have any wife to be with." "Why do you speak so ?" inquired Harry.
"She cannot last much longer," he replied.

"Although unwillingly and with sorrow I am compelled to acknowledge that every day she sinks lower, and to-day her appearance denotes approaching dissolution too plain, even for me to persuade myself that such is not the case." "I cannot tell you I hope you are mistaken," observed his friend, "for I feel that such language can never lighten nor remove your sorrow.
But be assured that I deeply sympathize with you in your affliction." "I know it," he answered.