And Philostratus agreed, and assured her that in any case he expected good results for Melissa, for she was one of those who were the elect of the gods and whom they chose to be their instruments.  And then he related what wonderful influence she had over Caesar’s sufferings, and praised her with his usual enthusiastic warmth.

When Melissa returned, Philostratus had left the matron.  She was again alone with Euryale, who reminded her of the lesson conveyed in the Christian words that she had explained to her yesterday.  Every deed, every thought, had some influence on the way in which the fulfillment of time would come for each one; and when the hour of death was over, no regrets, repentance, or efforts could then alter the past.  A single moment, as her own young experience had taught her, was often sufficient to brand the name of an estimable man.  Till now, her way through life had led along level paths, through meadows and gardens, and others had kept their eyes open for her; now she was drawing near to the edge of a precipice, and at every turning, even at the smallest step, she must never forget the threatening danger.  The best will and the greatest prudence could not save her if she did not trust to a higher guidance; and then she asked the girl to whom she raised her heart when she prayed; and Melissa named Isis and other gods, and lastly the manes of her dead mother.

During this confession, old Adventus appeared, to summon the girl to his sovereign.  Melissa promised to follow him immediately; and, when the old man had gone, the matron said: 

“Few here pray to the same gods, and he whose worship my husband leads is not mine.  I, with several others, know that there is a Father in heaven who loves us men, his creatures, and guards us as his children.  You do not yet know him, and therefore you can not hope for anything from him; but if you will follow the advice of a friend, who was also once young, think in the future that your right hand is held firmly by the invisible, beloved hand of your mother.  Persuade yourself that she is by you, and take care that every word, yes, every glance, meets with her approval.  Then she will be there, and will protect you whenever you require her aid.”

Melissa sank on the breast of her kind friend, embracing her as closely and kissing her as sincerely as if she had been the beloved mother to whose care Euryale had commended her,

The counsels of this true friend agreed with those of her own heart, and so they must be right.  When at last they had to part, Euryale wished to send for one of the gentlemen of the court, whom she knew, that he might escort her through the troops of Caesar’s attendants and friends who were waiting, and of the visitors and petitioners; but Melissa felt so happy and so well protected by Adventus, that she followed him without further delay.  In fact, the old man had a friendly feeling for her, since she had covered his feet so carefully the day before; she knew it by the tone of his voice and by the troubled look in his dim eyes.