trailing, dripping clouds settled like a pall.

The bustle and stir of camp increased as preparations were made to follow
the foe, who had again taken up the line of retreat; but within the tent
unbroken silence reigned. It was apparent that Russell was sinking fast,
and at eight o'clock he awoke, looked uneasily around him, and said
feebly--

"What is going on in front?"

"McClellan has evacuated Malvern Hill, and is in full retreat toward his
gunboats," answered the doctor.

"Then there will be no more fighting. My shattered regiment will rest for a
season. Poor fellows! they did their duty nobly yesterday."

He lifted his eyes toward heaven, and for some moments his lips moved
inaudibly in prayer. Gradually a tranquil expression settled on his
features, and as his eyes closed again he murmured faintly--

"Irene--darling--raise me a little."

They lifted him, and rested his head against her shoulder.

"Irene!"

"I am here, Russell; my arms are around you."

She laid her cheek on his, and listened to catch the words, but none came.
The lips parted once, and a soft, fluttering breath swept across them. Dr.
Arnold put his hand over the heart--no pulsation greeted him; and, turning
away, the old man covered his face with his handkerchief.

"Russell, speak to me once more."

There was no sound, no motion. She knew that the soldier's spirit had
soared to the shores of Everlasting Peace, and that not until she joined
him there would the loved tones again make music in her heart. She
tightened her arms around the still form, and nestled her cheek closer to
his, now growing cold. No burst of grief escaped her, to tell of agony and
despair.

* * * * *

Electra's speedy convalescence repaid the care bestowed upon her, and one
afternoon, ten days after quiet had again settled around the Confederate
capital, she insisted on being allowed to sit up later than usual,
protesting that she would no longer be regarded as an invalid.

"Irene, stand in the light where I can see you fully. How worn and weary
you look! I suspect I am regaining my health at the expense of yours."

"No; I am as well in body as I could desire. But no doubt my anxiety has
left its traces on my countenance."

She leaned over Electra's chair, and stroked back the artist's shining
hair.

"I wish you would let me see the papers. My eyes are strong enough now, and
I want to know exactly what has taken place ever