ill. It is not the first time that our people have been called upon to

suffer, my child. But your aunt--"

"Pray, dearest, not now--not now," whispered Louise, laying her brow against his cheek.

"I will say no more," he said tenderly. "Yes, to be my help and comfort in all this trouble and distress. You are right, it is no time for thinking of such things as that."