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Rh misery. It was a relief to change the cheerful meadow for the dark umbrage of the forest which they now entered. She could not but note what a deeper shade was flung round since last she passed. Then the verdure was tender, and many a bough wore only the promise of its future luxuriance; now every branch was heavy with the weight of foliage, and every leaf was at its utmost growth, and wore its darkest green. The narrow road, too, along which they wound, penetrated one of the most secluded glades; and the gloom and stillness accorded well with the silent and melancholy train. Again they emerged into the open country, and at a few paces down a rural lane were the steps that led to the churchyard; they went through the little gate, and Francesca's eye glanced rapidly around. Intuitively it rested on the object which it sought, yet dreaded to find, and caught in an instant, the fresh heap of earth which indicated the new-made home. Lucy felt her companion writhe in agony; but Francesca regained her composure, for the service commenced, and the clergyman led the way to the grave. Sublime and consoling are the blessed words with which earth is restored to earth; and Francesca heard them like soothing but indistinct music—she felt their influence, although unconsciously. VOL. II.