Page:Elizabeth, or, The exiles of Siberia (2).pdf/24

24 James Rossi, where she recovered her senses, and where the first object she recognized was Smoloff, kneeling at her side. In a little time she uttered the names of her father and mother-"We shall behold them again," said she, "we shall enjoy their happiness." These words penetrated to the young man's soul. Several days passed before the pardon could be authenticated. One morning Smoloff visited Elizabeth earlier than usual, when he presented a parchment to her, sealed with the imperial seal. "Here," said he, "is the Emperor's order to my father to restore yours to liberty.” Elizabeth seized the parchment, pressed it to her lips, and covered it with tears. "But this is not all," added Smoloff," he also restores him to his rank and wealth; the courier who carries this order sets off tomorrow, and I have to accompany him." " And shall not I accompany him too?" "Doubtless," replied Smoloff, "what other mouth than thine has the right of telling your father that he is free? Certain of your intention, I mentioned it to the Emperor, and he said, to-morrow you might set off.” She looked at Smoloff, saying "Ever since I first saw you, you have been the author of all my benefits." Before she left Moscow, our heroine recompensed the hospitality of Rossi; nor did she, in passing the Volgn, forget the benevolent boatman, whom she rewarded with a hundred rubles. When she arrived at Sarapoul, she visited the grave of the venerable missionary; she now felt as if the poor monk, from the height of heaven, rejoiced to see her happy. Tobolsk being the next stage, Smoloff conducted her to his father, from whom she received a most kind reception, and high commendation for her magnanimity. She next went with Smoloff to visit her parents. O, how her heart throbbed as she crossed the forest: seeing her paternal cabin, she springs forward-she hears the voices which she knew-her heart beats-her head swims-she called her parents-the door opened, and she fell into their arms. "There she is," cried Smoloff, "she brings your pardon with her-she has triumphed over all-she has obtained all.” They were lost in a delirium of joy. Smoloff fell at the feet of the exiles and said, "Elizabeth has hitherto called me her brother, but, at your knees, perhaps, she will allow me to aspire to another name." Her parents readily consented to the union, pouring their blessings on the virtuous pair, while Smoloff leaned his face, bathed with tears, on the lap of Elizabeth, not thinking that, even in heaven, it was possible to be happier than he was; meanwhile the damsel felt equal felicity in her good fortune.