CHAPTER IX 102
" You are sure, then, Helen, that there is such a place as heaven, and that our souls can get to it when we die?"
" I am sure there is a future state; I believe God is good; I can resign my immortal part to Him without any misgiving. God is my father; God is my friend: I love Him; I believe He loves me."
" And shall I see you again, Helen, when I die?"
" You will come to the same region of happiness: be received by the same mighty, universal Parent, no doubt, dear Jane."
Again I questioned, but this time only in thought. " Where is that region? Does it exist?" And I clasped my arms closer round Helen; she seemed dearer to me than ever; I felt as if I could not let her go; I lay with my face hidden on her neck. Presently she said, in the sweetest tone-
" How comfortable I am! That last fit of coughing has tired me a little; I feel as if I could sleep: but don ' t leave me, Jane; I like to have you near me."
" I ' ll stay with you, DEAR Helen: no one shall take me away." " Are you warm, darling?" " Yes." " Good-night, Jane." " Good-night, Helen." She kissed me, and I her, and we both soon slumbered.
When I awoke it was day: an unusual movement roused me; I looked up; I was in somebody ' s arms; the nurse held me; she was carrying me through the passage back to the dormitory. I was not reprimanded for leaving my bed; people had something else to think about; no explanation was afforded