Page:Elizabeth, or, The exiles of Siberia (1).pdf/9

                                   9 promised to give her what information she wished, after a few days. Elizabeth now began to try her strength upon the heaths at Ischim ; in all weathers she sallied out, and accustomed herself, by degrees, to brave the opposing elements. The winters of Siberia are subject to sudden storms. One morning in January Elizabeth had the misfortune to be overtaken by a tempest of this description. She had reached the plain of Tombs, near a little chapel of wood, which she entered, and knelt before the altar, offering her prayers to heaven to spare her, that she might effect the deliverance of her parents. This very day Smoloff had returned from Tobolsk, and his first care was to visit the exiles, where he was authorised to communicate to Phedora the indulgence she had asked. On entering, young Smoloff looked in vain for Elizabeth. “Elizabeth!” exclaimed Phedorah, “what is become of my Elizabeth ?” This fond mother had thus disclosed what Smoloff was most anxious to learn. Springer in silence took his staff, and opened the door, to go in search of his daughter. Smoloff instantly followed. As they entered the forest, Smoloff inquired on which side they should go? “Towards the great heath,” answered Springer; “ it is thither she goes every day, and I hope she has taken refuge in the chapel.” They intrepidly proceeded on their way, bending and turning to avoid the falling branches and the rocky fragments which the tempest hurled round their heads. At length they arrived at the wooden chapel, where they found Elizabeth sweetly asleep at the foot of the altar. Springer bent over the face of his child—the young man modestly kissed her eyes, and then retired, as if not daring too nearly' to contemplate such divine innocence. Elizabeth awoke, and threw herself into her father’s arms, exclaiming, “Ah! I was convinced that you would watch over me.” “Unhappy child,” said Springer, “into what agonies have you plunged your poor mother and myself!  My father,” replied Elizabeth, “pardon me those tears, and let us hasten to efface them.” Rising up, she saw Smoloff, “Ah!” cried she, with sweet surprise, “ all my protectors, then, watch over me—God, my father, and you.” Smoloff was affected at these words; his heart was ready to escape. " You talked of returning to your mother,” observed Springer, “ but think for yourself if that be possible.” “ Let us try,” replied she ; “ I have greater strength than you would believe, and I am very glad you have an opportunity to ascertain it, and that you will see what I can do to console my mother.” Leaning on her father and Smoloff, she proceeded homeward. On their arrival, Phedora embraced all three, blessing God they were returned. Smoloff was much