She did not answer him; she was insensible. "Do not agitate yourself, Mr. Cohen," said a voice; it was that of the physician who had been attending to her. "Be thankful that she lives." "O Lord, I thank thee," murmured the stricken man. "My Rachel lives!" What mattered all the rest? What mattered worldly ruin and destruction? The beloved of his heart was spared to him. "You are a sensible man, Mr. Cohen," said the physician, "and you must be calm for her sake. In her condition there will be danger if she witnesses your agitation when she recovers." "I will be calm, sir," said Aaron humbly. "She is all I have in the world." He made no inquiries as to the cause of the fire; he did not stir from Rachel's side, but sat with his eyes fixed upon her pallid face. The physician remained with them an hour, and then took his departure, saying he would return early in the morning, and leaving instructions to Aaron what to do. At sunrise Rachel awoke. Passing one hand over her eyes, she held out the other in a groping, uncertain way. Aaron took it in his, and held it fondly; the pallor left her cheeks. "It is you, my dear?" she murmured. "Yes, it is I, my life!" he said in a low and gentle tone. "You are well--you are safe?" "I am well--I am safe," he replied. "And you, Rachel--how do you feel?" "I have a slight headache. It will soon pass away. Oh, my dear husband, how thankful I am! When did you return?" "Not till you were taken from the house. Do not talk now. Rest, rest, my beloved!" The endearing words brought a glad smile to her lips. "I will sleep presently, Aaron. Is the doctor here?" "No, but he will come soon. Shall I go for him?" "I can wait, dear; when he comes I should like to speak to him alone." "You are hurt!" he said, alarmed. "Tell me!" "I am not hurt, dear; it is only that my head aches a little. He will give me something to relieve me. Have no fear for me, Aaron; I am in no danger; indeed, indeed, I am not!" "God be praised!" She drew his head to her breast, and they lay in silence a while, fondly embracing. "Let me tell you, dear, and then I will go to sleep again. I went to bed at ten, as you bade me, and though I had it in my mind to keep awake for you, I could not do so. I do not know how long I slept, but I awoke in confusion, and there was a strong glare in my eyes. I hardly remember what followed. I heard voices calling to me--Prissy's voice was the loudest, I think--and then I felt that strong arms were around me, and I was being carried from the house. That is all, my dear, till I heard your voice, here. Where am I?" He informed her, and then, holding him close to her, she fell asleep again. As the clock struck nine the physician entered the room, and Aaron told him what had passed. "I can spare half an hour," said the physician. "Go and see after your affairs. I will not leave her till you return."