"Yes, my dear, I hope so—I think so. You know, Murray, the eye has to be trained; but Haller mentions a case of a nobleman who saw distinctly at various distances, immediately after the cataract was removed from the axis of vision. Now, my little girl, hold just as still as possible. I, shall not hurt you."
Skilfully he cut through the membrane and drew it down, then held his hat between her eyes and the light streaming through the window.
Some seconds elapsed and suddenly a cry broke from the child's lips.
"Oh! something shines! there is a light, I believe!"
Mr. Murray threw his handkerchief over her head, caught her in his arms and placed her on the side of the cot.
"The first face her eyes ever look upon shall be that which she loves best—her father's."
As he withdrew the handkerchief Mr. Reed feebly raised his arms toward his child, and whispered:
"My little Huldah—my daughter, can you see me?"
She stooped, put her face close to his, swept her small fingers repeatedly over the emaciated features, to convince herself of the identity of the new sensation of sight with the old and reliable sense of touch; then she threw her head back with a wild laugh, a scream of delight.
"Oh! I see! Thank God I see my father's face! My dear pa! my own dear pa!"