Mrs. Elizabeth Hervey was the wife of Rev William Hervey. They were both American missionaries in Bombay. This godly woman had not long arrived at the missionary station there when she took sick. The sickness was unto death. She died as one triumphant in Christ, and passed away in great peace on the 2nd May 1831. A friend quoted Psalm 23:4 as she lay dying. In quoting the text she referred to “the dark valley.” Mrs. Hervey replied, "If this is the dark valley, it has not a dark spot in it; all is light." How true! Death is not so dark a valley, at least not for that saint who has Christ “the light of the world.”

What is Death?

'Tis but a walk through the dark vale

Which circles this poor world of strife!

'Tis but a peaceful pilgrimage

From mortal to immortal life!

'Tis but a valley, dark perhaps;

But we may enter without fear.

For in the darkest hour, unseen.

The Saviour of mankind is near!

’Tis but a shadow which precedes

The dawn of an eternal day;

Soon shall the morning star arise

And mists and shadows flee away