Page:Life in the Old World - Vol. I.djvu/305

Rh made my life richer. I especially remember amongst these one man—Professor Amiel—and one woman, whose name I will not mention—but this, however, I will say, that more refreshing to me than the song of the nightingale, was my intercourse with that spirit which glanced around with such freshness and freedom, with that heart which devoted itself so entirely, so fully, to the work of the joy-giver and the comforter. It is this heart, rich in love, this soul with its clear power of organized activity, that Geneva has to thank for the new impulse which has been given of late years to her youthful female population of all classes, in the good work of progress and Christian activity.

We read aloud in the evenings,—Louise's and Mary's fresh, youthful voices, making the reading doubly agreeable. The two young sisters had each their own peculiar gifts, with which they beautified life for themselves and others. I read much with Louise, and we made long excursions together. I made acquaintance with the great Swiss naturalists, Haller and Bo u n net, through their writings and correspondence; for these two scientific men were friends, and were united, not merely by science, but by religious convictions. It is very interesting to notice, in their letters, during Haller's long, last sickness, the observations which both of them make on the power of prayer. They analyse it as it were a natural production.

“It allays my sufferings,” writes Haller; “it gives me rest during my sleepless nights, and peace in the bosom of an infinitely loving Father.”