Christian fiction; Wingfold, Thomas (Fictitious character) -- Fiction
“‘I stood in the midst, and my guide stood by me in silence; for all the
time I was in the country, he seldom spoke to me save when first I asked
of him, and yet he never showed any weariness, and often a half-smile
would dwell for a moment upon his countenance.
“‘And first I watched the faces of them that sold; and I could read
therein--for be it understood that, according to the degree of his own
capacity, a man there could perfectly read the countenance of every
neighbour, that is, unless it expressed something that was not in
himself--and I could read in them nothing of eagerness, only the calm of
a concentrated ministration. There was no seeking there, but a strength
of giving, a business-like earnestness to supply lack, enlivened by
no haste, and dulled by no weariness, brightened ever by the reflected
content of those who found their wants supplied. As soon as one buyer
was contented they turned graciously to another, and gave ear until they
perfectly understood with what object he had come to seek their aid. Nor
did their countenances change utterly as they turned away, for upon
them lingered the satisfaction as of one who hath had a success, and by
degrees melted into the supervening content.
“‘Then I turned to watch the countenances of them that bought.--And
there in like manner I saw no cupidity and no meanness. They spake
humbly, yet not because they sought a favour, but because they were
humble, for with their humility was mingled the confidence of receiving
that they sought. And truly it was a pleasure to see how everyone knew
what his desire was, making his choice readily and with decision.
I perceived also that everyone spoke not merely respectfully, but
gratefully, to him who served him. And at meeting and parting such
kindly though brief greetings passed as made me wonder whether every
inhabitant of such a mighty city could know every other that dwelt
therein. But I soon saw that it came not of individual knowledge, but of
universal faith and all-embracing love.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account