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Yet he had no misgiving at the sight; And wherefore should he? he had acted well, And deeming of the ways of God aright, Knew that to such as these, whate'er befell Must needs for them be best. But who could dwell Unmoved upon the fate of one so young, So blithesome late? What marvel if tears fell, From that good man as over her he hung, And that the prayers he said came faltering from his tongue!

She saw him weep, and she could understand The cause thus tremulously that made him speak. By his emotion moved she took his hand; A gleam of pleasure o'er her pallid cheek Past, while she look'd at him with meaning meek, And for a little while, as loth to part, Detaining him, her fingers lank and weak, Play'd with their hold; then letting him depart She gave him a slow smile that touch'd him to the heart.