31 THE LAST SUMMERS AND WINTERS. 



supervened. In a single night he sank to rise no more, 

 dying on Sunday forenoon, our Communion Sabbath, to 

 the inexpressible grief of all who knew him. We consign 



him to-morrow to the narrow house. My niece H has 



been with Mrs Sym ever since her husband's death, and 

 with the exception of sleeping here, I have passed most of 

 my time with the bereaved family in George Square, 

 lending a hand as I best can towards the required ar- 

 rangements. Of course, other things must go on and be 

 attended to, in spite of private griefs ; and the best thing 

 for all of us, under all circumstances, is occupation. I hope 

 in another clay or two, though it may be with a heavy heart, 

 to proceed with whatever I may have in hand, or may be 

 called upon to do ; and I therefore desire you to under- 

 stand that this calamity, which is really great, need make 

 no difference in your plans as regards coining here. Next 

 week I understand you to be looked for, and we shall 

 expect you to come to us, with any of your family whom 

 it suits to bear you company. Of course, our usually quiet 

 home will, under the circumstances, be even quieter than 

 usual ; but I know you have generally quite enough of 

 occupation of your own to prevent time hanging heavy, 

 and you will kindly excuse our own depression, which we 

 shall do our utmost to subdue." 



In attending Mr Sym's funeral, Mr Wilson caught a 



