"It is a pity ladies didn't know that," said Ellen, laughing; "they would be very careful."
"It wouldn't mend the matter, Ellie. That is one of the things in which people are obliged to speak truth. As the mind is, so it will show itself."
"But we have got a great way from the flowers," said Ellen.
"You shall bring me some to-morrow, Ellie, and we will read them together."
"There are plenty over there now," said Ellen, looking towards the little flower-stand, which was as full and flourishing as ever; "but we can't see them well by this light."
"A bunch of flowers seems to bring me very near the hand that made them. They are the work of His fingers; and I cannot consider them without being joyfully assured of the glory and loveliness of their Creator. It is written as plainly to me in their delicate painting, and sweet breath, and curious structure, as in the very pages of the Bible; though, no doubt, without the Bible I could not read the flowers."
"I never thought much of that," said Ellen. "And then, you find particular lessons in particular flowers?"
"Sometimes."
"Oh, come here!" said Ellen, pulling him towards the flower- stand, "and tell me what this daphne is like, you need not see that, only smell it, that's enough; do, John, and tell me what it is like!"
He smiled as he complied with her request, and walked away again.