Page 410 of 483

Great God! Why did I not then expire! Why am I here to relate the

destruction of the best hope and the purest creature on earth?

She was there, lifeless and inanimate, thrown across the bed, her

head hanging down and her pale and distorted features half

covered by her hair. Everywhere I turn I see the same figure-her

bloodless arms and relaxed form flung by the murderer on its

bridal bier. Could I behold this and live? Alas! Life is

obstinate and clings closest where it is most hated. For a moment

only did I lose recollection; I fell senseless on the ground.