the half of her substance for Philostratus had died and left her rich-into the treasury of the brethren. Then, like her Master, she went about doing good. The poor, the sick, the ignorant, the vicious, became her care. She went veiled and unknown among them, but many believed that an angel's wings were hidden beneath her dark robe; and they pressed around her to gather healing from the touch of her garments. But, in her still soul, she heeded not this new applause. Only one thought mingled with her love of God, and of the Son of Man, and that was so pure, so true, it did not profane it: it was the love of him she had despised and rejected. Silver threads were already among her dark hair, and her step less light than of old; but those who were privileged to look upon her unveiled face, said there was a light and beauty in it no mortal had ever seen before. It was rumored among the Christians that John, the beloved apostle of Jesus, would pay a last farewell visit at Antioch before his death, and many went thither to meet him. Helena felt that she, too, must receive the seal of his blessing. She filled a ship with loving disciples, and they went to look upon him whom Jesus loved. Who shall describe the meeting of this faithful band? Every heart burned as he spoke to them, and when he closed with his simple benediction, "My children, love one another," the tearful eyes and quivering lips spoke the low Amen. Helena's veil fell back from her face as she listened, and she heeded nothing till he closed. Then, as the intense excitement passed, she raised her eyes, and saw beside him one at whose sight her heart stopped beating. He had not changed: it was Laon, and his eyes were fixed upon her with wonder and delight. The apostle, who had watched her changing face, and who read the soul within, called her to him. She knelt at his feet, and he blessed her. Laon could not pause: he knelt beside her, extending his hand to her as he said, "Bless me also, O my father!" She placed her hand in his, and that hour the angels of heaven rejoiced over the purest, highest joy of earth,— the union of two purified and immortal souls. |
