Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/282

 the staff of life—the manna in the wilderness—God's unfailing gift to men, bread in abundance!

Dr. Chenoweth was the only one able to leave his home and represent his household at this impressive service. He quickly returned, bearing the precious loaves of bread, and better yet, he was accompanied by his son and Reynold Van Straalen.

Conrad took his beloved wife in his arms, but not a word did either of them speak. There is a kind of joy which expresses itself either by an eloquent silence or by tears.

"Where is Katharine?" asked Colonel Van Straalen.

Dr. Chenoweth led the way into the chamber where the young wife still lay battling for life. The fever flush had faded from her cheek, but her pulse was failing, and she had lain for hours in a stupor.

"Speak to her!" said Dr. Chenoweth, as the anguished husband knelt by the bedside, and with rigid, stony face gazed at the sick girl.

"Katharine! My love!" he cried, in tones piercing and tremulous with agony.

The sound of that voice roused the sleeper. She uttered a deep sigh, and the blue-veined eyelids quivered for an instant.

"Katharine! Speak to me!" The large, wistful eyes opened.

"Reynold!" she whispered, with a look full of