Chetwynd Calverley by William H. Ainsworth

Meanwhile, Chetwynd had been summoned by Rose, and a very touching spectacle met his gaze as he entered his sister's chamber.

Near the couch on which Mildred was lying, looking the very image of death, sat Mr. Massey. Before him, on a small table, was the sacred volume from which he had been reading, and he was offering up a prayer for the preservation of the sick girl. Kneeling by the bedside, and joining fervently in the prayer, was Emmeline.

With the appearance of the venerable divine -- his silver locks and benignant aspect -- the reader is already familiar; but his features now wore a saddened and anxious expression. He was really alarmed by Mildred's state, and scarcely thought it possible she could survive.

Chetwynd and Rose had entered so noiselessly that they did not disturb the others, and good Mr. Massey continued his prayer, quiet unconscious he had other hearers except those close at hand.

At length he ceased, and Chetwynd advanced, and bending reverently to the good chaplain, took his sister's hand.

Hitherto, she had not perceived him, but a smile now lighted up her pallid features, and she murmured his name.

On hearing his approach, Emmeline rose from her kneeling posture.

"I am glad you are come, dear Chetwynd," said Mildred. "I was afraid I might not behold you again."

"I would have come before, had I thought you desired to see me, dearest sister," he replied. "But how do you feel?"

"Somewhat better," she replied. "Mr. Massey's consolatory words have done me as much good as the medicines I have taken -- more, perhaps! Doctor Spencer tells me I shall recover, and I have great faith in him."

"Trust only in Heaven, dear daughter," observed Mr. Massey, who did not wish her to delude herself.

"I hope I am now prepared," she said, in a tone of perfect resignation. "I shall quit this world without regret."

"A frame of mind attained by few -- but the best," said the chaplain.

Here Emmeline could not restrain her tears, and Rose sobbed audibly.

"I will retire for awhile, dear daughter," said the good chaplain, rising. "You may have something to say to your brother."

And he moved to a little distance with Rose.

"What would you with me, dearest sister? " asked Chetwynd, "Any injunctions you may give me shall be strictly fulfilled."

"I wish to see Mrs. Calverley," she said.

"Better not," he replied.

"I think so, too," added Emmeline. "Her presence will only disturb you."