126 
THOMAS J. COMBER. 
wrote to Mrs. Hartland : — You will have heard how 
good God has been to us, especially in the matter of 
the steamer — ^how dear old Grenfell has alone accom- 
plished the gigantic task of reconstructing her. I can 
tell you we are proud of Grenfell, and thankful to 
God for him.’* 
But, during the period between the unloading of the 
Peace at Underhill (Tunduwa), in January, 1883, and 
its reconstruction and launch at Stanley Pool in June, 
1884, heavy trials overtook the Congo Mission. In 
three weeks after his arrival, Mr. Doke was smitten 
down by fever ; and in three months after Mr. Doke*s 
early death, Mr. Hartland was called away, his 
decease taking place at Bayneston (Vunda). Mr. 
Comber, who was on a visitation of the stations, heard 
at Manyanga of his friend’s serious illness, and at once 
hastened down to be with him. He found all that 
could be done was being done, but with no success. 
The dying missionary was, however, except at short 
intervals, perfectly conscious, and the intercourse 
between the two friends who were so closely attached 
was as wrapt as it was solemn. The pathetic account 
sent by Mr. Comber to Mrs. Hartland has appeared 
in the Missionary Herald^ but must not be omitted 
here : — 
'' During all day, Friday, and during half of the 
following night, I was constantly talking to him and 
sitting by his side. And, oh, what talks we had ! 
What glorious words he spoke ! His reluctance 
entirely disappeared, and he was only anxious to 
depart. What words of faith, trustfulness, and peace 
did he speak. ^Whether He wants you to serve Him 
here longer, or wishes you to go to His service in 
heaven, you’re satisfied and willing, aren’t you, John?’ 
‘ Oh, yes ; it ’s all right now ; I ’m so glad, and to be 
with Christ is far better. I do want to see Him and 
be with Him. I ’m so glad.’ And then towards 
mid-day, as every hour I thought would be his last, 
with'my hands clasped in his, we seemed to go so 
