And after her habit of bringing all things to the one test and the one teaching, she reminded him of the parable of the talents: "I think," she added, "that you will be one of those whom, in requital for having made the most of all his gifts here, He will make 'ruler over ten cities' at least, if he is a just God." "He is a just God.

In my worst trials I have never doubted that," replied Lord Cairnforth, solemnly.

And then he repeated those words of St.Paul, to which many an agonized doubter has clung, as being the last refuge of sorrow--the only key to mysteries which sometime shake the firmest faith--"'For now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then shall I know even as also I am known.'" When Helen rose to retire, which was not till midnight--for the earl seemed unwilling to let her go, saying it was so long since they had had a quiet talk together--he asked her earnestly if she were content about her son.
"Perfectly content.

Not merely content, but happy--happier than I once thought it possible to be in this world.

And it is you who have done it all--you who have made my boy what he is.