Third Period Chapter 52 The Dead Man's Photograph

"He is quite dead," said the doctor, with one finger on the man's pulse
and another lifting his eyelid. "He is dead. I did not look for so
speedy an end. It is not half an hour since I left him breathing
peacefully. Did he show signs of consciousness?"

"No, sir; I found him dead."

"This morning he was cheerful. It is not unusual in these complaints. I
have observed it in many cases of my own experience. On the last
morning of life, at the very moment when Death is standing on the
threshold with uplifted dart, the patient is cheerful and even joyous:
he is more hopeful than he has felt for many months: he thinks--nay, he
is sure--that he is recovering: he says he shall be up and about before
long: he has not felt so strong since the beginning of his illness.
Then Death strikes him, and he falls." He made this remark in a most
impressive manner.

"Nothing remains," he said, "but to certify the cause of death and to
satisfy the proper forms and authorities. I charge myself with this
duty. The unfortunate young man belonged to a highly distinguished
family. I will communicate with his friends and forward his papers. One
last office I can do for him. For the sake of his family, nurse, I will
take a last photograph of him as he lies upon his death-bed." Lord
Harry stood in the doorway, listening with an aching and a fearful
heart. He dared not enter the chamber. It was the Chamber of Death.
What was his own part in calling the Destroying Angel who is at the
beck and summons of every man--even the meanest? Call him and he comes.
Order him to strike--and he obeys. But under penalties.