Paula the Waldensian - Eva Lecomte

Chapter 16
Saved!
That night on our return we poured into Teresa's sympathetic ears all
that had occurred during our eventful visit that afternoon at Celestina's
house. Then somewhat later as I was helping her with the dishes in the
kitchen, Teresa said, "Do you know, Lisita, it wouldn't surprise me in the
least to see the Breton converted and changed by God's power into a decent,
respectable man. No one seems to be able to resist Paula when she begins to
speak of God's love. She seems truly inspired by His Holy Spirit. Child
though she is, she surely is His messenger to all with whom she comes in
contact But there's just one thing,"--and Teresa seemed to hesitate to express
herself, then finally she continued, "I cannot seem to shake off the feeling
that she will not be with us much longer. I believe somehow--I know it
sounds absurd in one way, but I have a feeling that God will call her to His
side some day soon."
"Oh, Teresa!" I cried, "how can you say such a thing! Why, she's never
sick! She's much bigger and stronger and more vigorous than even I am. And
besides, I never, never could bear it to have Paula taken from me!"
"Hush! Hush, child! Don't shout that way, Paula will hear you! Besides
it's just a foolish idea of mine, maybe. But if God should wish it--But there,
as you say, what would we do without the dear girl?"
Later when we were alone in our bedroom I said to Paula in an anxious
tone,
"You don't feel sick; do you, Paula?"
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