138 THE SHIPWRECK,

diminish the indefatigable assiduity of Charles’s friendship.
His only thought was to relieve, console and restore him
to health.

Philip, notwithstanding the excessive torments of his
fever, thought himself happy in possessing such a friend.
The gratitude he felt could be but faintly expressed by his
countenance ; and in the presence of death, as he believed
himself to be, the reflection that he would be supported
and encouraged at that terrible moment by the sight and
the exhortations of the friend in whose arms he was about
‘to expire, filled his heart with consolation.

But it was the will of Providence that he should reco-
ver. The earnest supplications of the count were not un-
heeded. Philip gradually regained his health and vigour,
and soon relieved his friend from the cares, anxieties and
labours he had for more than a month singly sustained.