'Tis not for us to adjudge the displeasure of Heaven
upon slight testimonies. He trieth our faith, when the dark cloud
overshadoweth His mercy. But let us not dishonour this good cause, and
weaken our hands by indulging in such gloomy anticipations. The night
showeth little token of a change, and when I was last abroad, the river
passed on, shallow and murmuring, over the ford."
The guests were fully occupied to a late hour in discussing the plan of
attack, the occupation of the town, together with subsequent
arrangements; after which, with mutual anticipations of success, the
company departed.
Paslew, on retiring to his chamber, though much fatigued, found himself
unable to sleep. The dark chaos of events brooded heavily upon his
brain. Feverish and excited, the dread to-morrow seemed already pressing
on the past, mingling its deep and unseen flood with the full tide of
existence. The whirl and eddy, created by the conflict, lashed his
thoughts almost to madness. He grew appalled. The billows blackened as
they rose. He seemed sinking, overwhelmed in the struggle, and the
spirit quivered as they passed. He arose, darting an anxious glance
through the low casement.
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