"'This is the love of God, that we keep his commandments, and his commandments are not grievous.' There is the test, Ella; by your fruits you are to be known. God commands you to honour and obey your aunt, and if that command is grievous to you, does it not show that you are not one of his children?"
"I know I'm not, Miss Layton," said Ella, sadly. "I'm afraid I never shall be a Christian, for I'm so very, very wicked, and I can't make myself any better, for I've tried so hard, and I only seem to grow more and more wicked, the more I try to be good."
"I am glad to hear you say so, Ella. I had much rather hear you talk in that way, than as you did last night, because I know that a sense of your own helplessness, of your own utter inability to make yourself any better, is the first step towards feeling your need of the Saviour; for as long as you think that there is any hope that you can heal yourself, you will not apply to the Great Physician. 'Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light!' That invitation is addressed to you, Ella, if you do, as I hope, feel your sins to be a burden."
"I'm afraid it doesn't mean me, Miss Layton, for I'm afraid I don't want to be good. I feel just like giving it up and not trying any more."
"Then, Ella, pray to God to give you the desire; to make you want to be good. Jesus said, 'Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled.'"
"Won't you pray for me, Miss Layton?"
"I do, dear child, and will," said Miss Layton, kissing her; "but you must pray for yourself; I cannot do the work for you—no one can; you must pray and repent and believe for yourself."
"O Miss Layton, I wish I could live with you!" exclaimed Ella, "for then I think I could be good."