"What they mean? Why those are true histories, child, of things that really happened."
"Oh yes, they happened, but they have a meaning, too, like a—what is it, Clarice?—the sower, you know, and the vineyard; what is the word?"
"A parable."
"Yes, like a parable—that's it."
"But, Clarice, what do you mean by that? How have the Bible stories a meaning?" Lizzie asked.
"I don't know that I can tell you, Liz. When I am teaching Agnes, I try to make those stories into pictures of the Lord Jesus."
"But how? I cannot think how you do it. Samson, now—I don't see how Samson could be made into a picture of Him."
"Not of Him, but of something about Him. Samson overcame his enemies by dying. His great strength, too—Jesus is strong to save."
"And Joseph, Liz! He was sold, and then saved his bad brothers—just like Him!" cried Agnes.
"It is a great thing to have a turn for reading," said Lizzie, with grave admiration. "At least, it is a great thing for you, Clarice, for you must find the day very long sometimes. I must make Donald get books from E— when you are at our place."