The Miller's Boy

Screwing up every ounce of courage that I could muster I approached the Miller he was in a dreadful state. In his death agonies he had bled profusely from his nose and mouth. I could not in all conscience leave him in that state. Collecting a bucket of water and some rags I first closed his sightless staring eyes then tenderly I began to wash his face. As I washed I talked to him.How now Master Joseph this a pretty pass broken on a wheel a fitting end for a Saint but not a Miller. You drank like a Lord lived like a beggar to what purpose? As you told me so often the Lord moves in mysterious ways his wonders to perform. So it is with your demise which I would have not compassed for a King's ransom. Thy death hath restored freedom to my family and lifted the burden of debt from their shoulders. Rest assured Master Joseph from this day forward until my last breath I will pray for your immortal soul as you have neither chick nor child to intercede on your behalf. I pray you Master take this my blessing rest in peace unhappy perturbed soul. I blessed him and placed my fingers on his cold lips. Then with light feet and a heavy heart began preparations for my escape from bondage. This book was previously published under the title 'Human Bondage'.