vulsion passed his features, which, in the next instant, became fixed in the marble stillness of death.
The distracted mother, uttering a piercing shriek, fell senseless into the arms of the doctor, whilst the father, perhaps a greater object of commiseration, threw himself upon the lifeless body of his son,—his first-born child! his darling boy! his Aubrey! wildly clasping him in his arms, and bedewing him with his tears.
Deep were the wanderings, the language of despair, resounding in that miserable chamber. The sorrow of this unfortunate couple seemed then to have attained its climax. Hearkening to the voice only of their inconsolable feelings, they remained deaf to the intreaties of the doctor, as he endeavoured to call their attention to the disease of which their son had fallen the victim, and consequently the precaution to be taken to avoid fresh communication of infection;—but how vain his exhortations! whither go? Whether the spirit had forsaken its earthly habitation or not, the same chamber must contain them.
It was to Robert alone, as capable of comprehending a distinct idea, he could address himself. His indeed was a sympathizing heart, and had well nigh overwhelmed him; yet grieving, as he
