“Nothing gives me greater joy than to learn.”
“But did you not get taught such simple truths as this in school?” asked Bramber.
“Mr. Puddicombe did not tell us much,” answered Kate. “We learned our letters and to cypher--nothing more.”
“I am glad you can read,” said Bramber.
“I can read, but I have no books. It is like having thirst and no water. I have learned how to walk, but may not use my feet. I am always like one who is hungry; I want to know about this, and about that, and I get no answer. Why are there tides? Why are some higher than others? What becomes of the stars by day?”
“The matter of the tides is beyond you. The stars are in the sky still, but, owing to the blaze of the sun by day, you cannot discern their lesser glories. If, however, you were at the bottom of a well, you would be able, on looking up, to see the stars, pale, indeed, but distinctly visible, in the heavens.”
“I should love to go down a well, and see that with my own eyes.”
“I wish--oh, I wish you were coming to school!”
Kate heaved a sigh.
“But as you cannot come to me,” said Walter, “I shall have to come to you.”