'I didn't want it, or I didn't know that I wanted it, while he was here.'
'People that don't know they need comfort, do not need it, I fancy. You draw fine distinctions. Well, go on, Esther. You have found it, your letter says.'
'Oh yes, papa.'
'My dear, I do not understand you; and I should like to understand. Can you tell me what you mean?'
As he raised his eyes to her, he saw a look come over her face that he could as little comprehend as he could comprehend her letter; a look of surprise at him, mingled with a sudden shine of some inner light. She was moving about the tea-table; she came round and stood in front of her father, full in view.
'Papa, I thought my letter explained it. I mean, that now I have come to know the Lord Jesus.'
'Now? My dear, I was under the impression that you had been taught and had known the truths of the gospel all your life?'
'Oh, yes, papa; so I was. The difference'—
'Well?'
'The difference, papa, is, that now I know Him.'