Seite:Marsh Hallig 1856.djvu/292

292THE HALLIG.

the soil of their beloved home, and in what God would
do for them. His words were to the poor sufferers
like manna in the desert ; and he was reminded of the
flickering wick which does not go out, and the bent
reed that does not break. He rebuked the despairing
with earnest words : "Humble yourselves therefore un-
der the mighty hand of God." Who has been brought
to shame that has hoped in God ! Who has ever been
forsaken that has remained steadfast in the fear of the
Lord! Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and
shall we not receive evil ?" Therefore be patient in
your tribulation." "And above all," cried he, "if I
have but thee, Almighty Father, I will ask neither for
heaven nor earth. If soul and body languish, still thou,
O God, art at all times the confidence of my heart and
my salvation." By degrees his consolation found en-
trance into the hearts of his. afflicted congregation.
They gathered more and more closely about him, grad-
ually assenting to the truth of his remarks ; their com-
plaints ceased, their tears flowed more gently, and their
sighs were turned to silent prayers.
  Hunger and cold now warned them to prepare some
refreshment. Even if it were possible to kindle a fire,
they had no provisions except such as were thoroughly
wet by the sea, and most of all, they lacked fresh
water, as the inundation had filled every well. Hold
now remembered the cask of wine by means of which
his life had been preserved, and some young men went
to his wharf to fetch it.
  On their way they discovered the corpse of Godber,
which had found its resting-place by the washed grave
of his former captain and the two sailors, as if in sign