despair. We are neither cowards nor fatalists; but, believing that God has

placed the means for our preservation in our own hands, we will use those

means to our utmost. Remember that cleanliness, sobriety, and even

good-humour and benevolence, are our best medicines."

There was little I could add to this general exhortation; for the plague,

though in London, was not among us. I dismissed the guests therefore; and

they went thoughtful, more than sad, to await the events in store for

them.

I now sought Adrian, anxious to hear the result of his discussion with

Ryland. He had in part prevailed; the Lord Protector consented to return to

London for a few weeks; during which time things should be so arranged, as

to occasion less consternation at his departure. Adrian and Idris were

together. The sadness with which the former had first heard that the plague

was in London had vanished; the energy of his purpose informed his body

with strength, the solemn joy of enthusiasm and self-devotion illuminated

his countenance; and the weakness of his physical nature seemed to pass

from him, as the cloud of humanity did, in the ancient fable, from the

divine lover of Semele. He was endeavouring to encourage his sister, and to

bring her to look on his intent in a less tragic light than she was

prepared to do; and with passionate eloquence he unfolded his designs to

her.

Let me, at the first word," he said, "relieve your mind from all fear on

my account. I will not task myself beyond my powers, nor will I needlessly

The Last Man