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"It is long since," replied the old man with a serious and gentle

tone, "I asked a great favour from Heaven; that of ending my days

in the service of my fellow-men. If God grants it to me now, all

those who love me should help me to return him thanks. And now

give Renzo your commissions for your mother."

"Tell her all," said Lucy to her betrothed; "tell her I have

found here another mother, and that we will come to her as soon

as we possibly can."

"If you have need of money," said Renzo, "I have here all that

you sent--"

"No, no," said the widow, "I have more than sufficient."

"Farewell, Lucy, and you, too, good signora, till we meet again,"

said Renzo, not having words to express his feelings at this

moment.

"Who knows whether we shall all meet again?" cried Lucy.

"May God ever watch over you and bless you!" said the friar, as

he quitted the cabin with Renzo.