I had
something to live for; a new desire for life seemed suddenly to spring
up; the universal boundary of human sympathy included even my wretched
self in its cheering circle. All these sensations were generated by a
few kind words at the right time. Yes, now I can fight; and I did
fight--six days and six nights--encouraged and helped by a few words of
sympathy. He said, "Come in and see me." I will. He said he would be
pleased to make my acquaintance. He shall. He said, "Keep up a brave
heart!" By God's help I will. And so encouraged I fought on with not
one hour of healthy sleep, not one particle of food passing my lips,
for six days and six nights.
On the evening of the day following that on which I signed the pledge I
went straight home from my workshop, with a dreadful feeling of some
impending calamity haunting me. In spite of the encouragement I had
received, the presentiment of coming evil was so strong that it bowed
me almost to the dust with apprehension. The slakeless thirst still
clung to me; and water, instead of allaying it, seemed only to increase
its intensity.
I was fated to encounter one struggle more with my enemy before I
became free.
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