"Perhaps they do; but then one does not expect that they should, you know." "But since it does often happen, is it not wise to be prepared at any time for that which must come some time?" "I dare say you are quite right, but it is so melancholy to be thinking about death; and while we are well I don't think it can be necessary: there is no need to meet trouble half way, is there?" "It is only melancholy to those who do not know of a Friend in heaven, with whom to be present is far better than any earthly pleasure." "My father and mother and two little brothers are in heaven," said Jane, "but that does not make me wish to go there yet." "But have you a Saviour in heaven an advocate with the Father, who has 'washed you from your sins in his own blood,' who represents you, pleads for you, loves you with an everlasting love, for whose sake you will be welcome to all the happiness and honor of his presence and kingdom?" "Ah, Mrs. Davis, who can tell that?" "All who walk and live by faith in the Son of God, dear Jane, can tell that." "Then I have no faith, for I know nothing about such things; and if they make one wish to die, I don't want to know them yet." "It is not necessary to wish to die; but it is most comforting to know and feel that which would take away the sting of death, if it pleased God to cut short our term of life. But the very same faith and love which would rejoice to depart and be with Christ, also enables God's people to live in content and happiness on earth as long as he sees good to spare them." "Do you wish to die?" asked Jane, abruptly. "Not now, dear. But I did wish it once when I had some severe trials; I used to say with David, 'Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest . . . I would hasten my escape from the windy storm and tempest.' But it was wrong, and I know now that in heaven, where there is no sorrow, or sighing, or sin, we cannot glorify God in the way that we may here amid the trials and temptations of life." "But," exclaimed Jane, with the perversity of the natural heart, "I should not wish to live if I thought I must have trials and miseries in this world." "Then, dear girl, do you not perceive how desirable is that divine grace which so overcomes the self-will and the selfishness of our sinful nature, as to make us submissive and patient under all God's dealings? You know you must submit after all, for who can successfully resist his will? But to trust his love, like an affectionate, obedient child who knows that he 'doth not willingly afflict,' is peace, most precious peace, and the secret of true happiness." "Ah," thought Jane, "I am afraid Ellen would say I am getting the lecture now." "But," said she, "if I wished to feel as you say, Mrs. Davis, how can I be made to do so? Is it not very hard and difficult, and should I not be obliged to give up a great many things that I like?"