"He was very strict,
it is true, but none too strict in the matter of requiring prompt and
implicit obedience, and oh, so kind, so loving, so tender, so
sympathizing. I could, and did go to him with every little childish joy
and sorrow, every trouble, vexation, and perplexity; always sure of
sympathy, and help, too, if needed. Never once did he repulse me, or show
himself an uninterested listener.
"He would take me on his knee, hear all I had to say, clasp me close to
his heart, caress me, call me pet names, joy, sorrow with, or counsel me
as the case required, and bid me always come freely to him so, assuring me
that nothing which concerned me, one way or another, was too trivial to
interest him, and he would be glad to know I had not a thought or feeling
concealed from him. I doubt if even you, my friend, have ever known all
that papa has been and is to me: father, mother, everything--but
husband," she added with a blush and smile, as her eyes met the kindly,
tender look in his.
"Ah, that is my blessed privilege," he whispered, drawing her closer to
him. "My wife, my own precious little wife! God keep me from ever being
less tender, loving, sympathizing to you than your father has been."
"I do not fear it, my husband. Oh, was ever woman so blessed with love as
I! Daughter, and wife! they are the sweetest of all names when addressed
to me by papa's lips and yours.
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