'I beg a thousand pardons, sir, for what I cannot but feel is an intrusion; but the fact is, these foolish people have got it into their heads that they have only to ask you, and you will restore them to health. Am I to understand, and to give them to understand, that in so thinking they are under an entire delusion?'
'I will speak to them.'
The Stranger stood upon the doorstep. When they saw Him they began to press against each other, crying:
'Heal us! Heal us!'
'Why should I heal you?'
There was a momentary silence. Then someone said:
'Because you healed those others.'
'What they have you desire. It is so with you always. You cry to Me continually, Give! give! What is it you have given Me?'
The same voice replied:
'We have nothing to give.'