her with such words as these: "Trust always in
the grace and lovingkindness of God. He hath not abandoned
thee until now, and He will not forsake thee henceforth.
Thy husband will be restored to health, and will be
able to provide for his family as heretofore. But if--which
may God forefend--thy husband should die, I call Heaven
to witness that I shall provide sustenance for thee and thy
children." Having spoken thus, he would send for a notary,
and have him draw up a document, which he signed in the
presence of witnesses, binding himself to care for the family,
should it be bereaved of its head. Thus he earned for himself
the blessing of the sick man and the gratitude of the
sorrowing wife.[11]

Sometimes, in case of necessity, Job could be severe, too,