288 MARTIN RATTLER.

It was evident that as the strength infused by the
wine abated her faculties became confused. At length
she whispered,—

“It is good of you to come to see me, darling
boy. You have often come to me in my dreams.
But do not leave me so soon; stay a very little
longer.”

« This is no dream, dearest aunt,” whispered Martin,
while his tears flowed faster ; “I am really here.”

“ Ay, so you always say, my darling child; but
you always go away and leave me. This is a dream,
no doubt, like all the rest; but oh, it seems very,
very real! You never wept before, although you often
smiled. Surely this is the best and brightest dream
I ever had!”

Continuing to murmur his name while she clasped
him tightly to her bosom, Aunt Dorothy gently fell
asleep.