The order to "close up her school and return home" did not disguise the
anger of the father over the radical change in Elizabeth's religious
condition and associations. But she had ever yielded unquestioning
obedience to that father's commands; and so with all practicable dispatch
she now prepared to comply with the stern and precipitant demand.

It was painful to be suddenly torn from her agreeable relatives in
Pittsfield; for, although she had departed far from their notions of
doctrine, dress, and usage, and fully adopted the principles and spirit of
a new and despised people, they had never reproached her for her religion,
but, deeply impressed with the genuineness of her experience and sweetness
of her Christian spirit, had regarded and treated her with tenderness and
respect.

It was not easy to bid adieu to her pupils who clung to her with much
affection. But it was the hardest parting from the church which had led her
to the Saviour. But here, too, grace triumphed, and she spoke rapturously
of meeting that dear people "where parting will be no more;" and, catching,
as if by divine suggestion, a strong presentiment, she declared her
impression that even in this life they should enjoy each other's society
again--"even in this blessed place, where my sins were forgiven and I
have received such valuable lessons and enjoyed such glorious seasons of
communion with God and His people. Pray for me!"

"We will continue to pray for you, dear sister; and we too hope that our
heavenly Father may so order your lot that you may meet with us again in
the place of your espousal to Christ; but let us so live that we may all
meet in glory." And then they broke forth into song: