"Ah," said Charles, "you once saved my body; you have
now saved my soul." Then the monk gave him his benediction, and
departed as quietly as he had come.
Then those waiting without were once more admitted to the room,
when Charles nerved himself to take a sad farewell of those
around him. He first publicly thanked his brother for the
services and affection he had ever rendered him through life, and
extolled his obedience and submission to his commands. Giving
him his keys, he said he had left him all he possessed, and
prayed God would bless him with a happy and prosperous reign.
Finally, he recommended all his children to him by name,
excepting only the Duke of Monmouth then in Holland, and
suffering from the king's displeasure; and besought him to extend
his kindness towards the Duchesses of Portsmouth and Cleveland;
"and do not," said he, "let poor Nelly starve." Whilst these
commands were addressed him, the duke had flung himself on his
knees by the bedside, and, bursting into tears, kissed his
brother's hand.
The queen, who had scarce left his majesty since the beginning of
his illness, was at this time absent, her love and grief not
permitting her to endure this afflicting scene. He spoke most
tenderly of her; and when presently she sent a message praying he
would pardon her absence in regard to her excessive grief, and
forgive her withal if at any time she had offended him, he
replied, "Alas, poor woman! She beg my pardon?--I beg hers, with
all my heart.
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