Page:Some account of Lucy Cardwell, a woman of colour.djvu/3

 and address herself, but brought up her children in the constant use of both. In the early part of the illness, which proved to be her last, she became impressed with a belief that she should not recover .She was not, however, considered dangerously ill, until about ten days before her death,—about which time she sent for me. I found her very weak in body, but strong in mind. She looked at me very expressively, and said, "I wanted to talk with thee, but I fear it is too late." After laying quiet a little while, she began with expressions of concern about her children. My husband being present, with a view to abate the anxiety of her feelings on their account, told her they would be provided for. She said, "then I believe I have not much more to do. I have looked all over, (meaning I supposed her, past conduct,) and I do not find that there is any thing in my way. Does thee think my ways have been such as to entitle me to a place of rest?" I informed her I knew of nothing that I thought was in her way. She said, "I have tried to serve the Lord from my early years."

Here a solemn pause ensued, as if she was in deep meditation. Watching her countenance, I observed it was presently animated with such an evidence of joy as I had rarely witnessed—when she said, "Come, Lord ! — why should I wish to tarry?"—repeating the words of our Saviour, Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Mat. xi. 28. At intervals, as her strength would admit, she addressed her husband, and the rest of the family individually, in a feeling and sensible manner, and with matter well suited to their several states,